Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce

Get ready for a flavor-packed experience that combines the smoky, juicy goodness of grilled chicken with the tangy richness of Alabama White Sauce. This dish is a real crowd-pleaser, with the spicy kick from Cajun seasoning and the creamy, zesty tang from the white sauce. Trust me, this is one you’ll want to add to your regular recipe rotation!

The best part? This recipe is super simple and quick to make, but it delivers big on flavor. It’s perfect for everything from a casual weeknight dinner to a weekend BBQ with friends. The smoky char from the grill, paired with that creamy, peppery Alabama sauce, makes this chicken irresistible. Get ready to fall in love!

Why You’ll Love Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce

Bold Flavor: The Cajun seasoning adds a beautiful depth of heat and spice, while the Alabama White Sauce balances it all out with its tangy, creamy base. It’s a flavor match made in heaven!

Juicy & Tender: Grilling the chicken locks in the juiciness, while the seasoning creates a flavorful crust. The result? Perfectly tender, juicy chicken with every bite.

Easy & Quick: You don’t need to be a grill master to pull this one off. With just a few steps, you’ll have a dish that looks and tastes like it came from a restaurant.

Versatile: This dish works with nearly any side, from a fresh green salad to classic grilled veggies or even cornbread. It’s a guaranteed hit for any occasion.

Impressive: Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or hosting a BBQ, this recipe will definitely turn heads and have people coming back for seconds.

Ingredients

Here’s what you need to make Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce:

For the Chicken:

• Chicken Breasts (or Thighs): The star of the dish! Chicken breasts are lean and juicy when grilled, but thighs will provide extra juiciness. Either cut will work perfectly with the Cajun seasoning.
• Cajun Seasoning: A flavorful blend of spices that brings bold, smoky heat to the chicken. If you prefer, you can use store-bought or make your own!
• Olive Oil: Helps the seasoning stick and adds a touch of richness to the chicken.
• Garlic Powder: For that wonderful savory flavor that complements the Cajun spices.
• Onion Powder: Adds a mild, aromatic sweetness to balance the spiciness.
• Paprika: For depth of flavor and a smoky undertone.
• Salt and Pepper: Simple, but essential for rounding out the flavor of the seasoning.

For the Alabama White Sauce:

• Mayonnaise: The creamy base of the sauce, giving it a rich and smooth texture.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: Provides the tanginess that makes the sauce so unique and perfectly complements the spiced chicken.
• Dijon Mustard: A subtle yet sharp kick of flavor that enhances the sauce’s overall depth.
• Lemon Juice: For a fresh, citrusy note that brightens up the creamy sauce.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper: A simple but necessary addition to add a little extra flavor.
• Garlic Powder: Enhances the savory undertones of the sauce and ties everything together.
• Salt: Essential for bringing out the best in all the flavors.
• Cayenne Pepper (optional): If you like extra heat, this is the perfect addition for some spicy kick.

(Note: The full ingredient list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)

Instructions

Here’s how to make this delicious Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce:

Step 1: Season the Chicken
Start by prepping your chicken. If you’re using chicken breasts, you can pound them out to an even thickness for more uniform cooking. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil, then season generously with Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Make sure each piece of chicken is evenly coated.

Step 2: Prepare the Alabama White Sauce
In a bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, black pepper, garlic powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Mix until smooth and creamy. Taste and adjust the seasoning if you want more tang or heat. Set the sauce aside.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Fire up your grill to medium-high heat. You want it hot enough to create a nice sear on the chicken but not so hot that it burns the spices. If you’re using a grill pan, heat it on medium-high on the stovetop.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You should see beautiful grill marks on each side, and the chicken should be juicy and tender. Avoid moving the chicken around too much—let it cook undisturbed to get those perfect grill marks.

Step 5: Serve and Drizzle
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes. Drizzle with the creamy Alabama White Sauce before serving. You can even serve the sauce on the side for dipping.

Nutrition Facts

Servings: 4
Calories per serving: 350
Fat: 22g
Carbs: 2g
Protein: 37g
Fiber: 0g
Sugar: 1g

Preparation Time

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes

How to Serve Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce

This flavorful grilled chicken is perfect on its own or paired with a variety of delicious sides. Here are some great ideas to round out your meal:

Grilled Veggies: Serve the chicken alongside some grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or corn on the cob. The smoky flavor pairs perfectly with the spiciness of the chicken.

Rice or Quinoa: A simple side of rice or quinoa will soak up any extra Alabama White Sauce and complement the bold flavors of the chicken.

Fresh Salad: A crisp green salad with a tangy vinaigrette makes a great refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken and sauce.

Cornbread: For a true Southern-style meal, serve the chicken with warm cornbread. The sweetness of the cornbread balances out the spicy Cajun seasoning beautifully.

Additional Tips

Make It Spicier: If you love heat, you can increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add extra cayenne pepper to the Alabama White Sauce for an extra kick.

Use Bone-In Chicken: Bone-in chicken, like thighs or drumsticks, can be used if you prefer. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in pieces take a little longer to cook.

Grill Marks: For the perfect grill marks, don’t move the chicken around too much while cooking. Let it rest in one spot for a few minutes before flipping it.

Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat on the grill or in a skillet to keep the chicken juicy.

Make It Ahead: If you want to save time, you can marinate the chicken with the Cajun seasoning and oil for up to 24 hours before grilling. This will help the flavors penetrate even deeper.

FAQ Section

Q1: Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?
A1: Absolutely! Chicken thighs will be even juicier and are a great choice for this recipe. Just keep in mind that they might take a bit longer to cook than breasts.

Q2: Can I use the Alabama White Sauce on other meats?
A2: Definitely! This sauce is delicious on grilled pork, turkey, or even seafood. It’s a versatile sauce that complements many different proteins.

Q3: Can I make the Alabama White Sauce ahead of time?
A3: Yes! You can prepare the sauce up to 2 days ahead of time and store it in the fridge. The flavors may even improve as they meld together.

Q4: Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling it?
A4: Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. While it won’t have the grill marks, it will still be juicy and flavorful.

Q5: Can I use a store-bought Cajun seasoning?
A5: Absolutely! Using store-bought Cajun seasoning will save you some time. Just make sure to check the spice level if you’re sensitive to heat.

Q6: Can I freeze the cooked chicken?
A6: Yes, the cooked chicken can be frozen for up to 3 months. Just be sure to wrap it tightly in plastic wrap and store it in a freezer-safe bag or container.

Q7: How can I make the sauce vegan-friendly?
A7: To make a vegan version, substitute the mayonnaise with a vegan mayo and use a plant-based Dijon mustard.

Q8: How do I get the chicken perfectly cooked?
A8: A meat thermometer is your best friend! The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. This ensures it’s juicy and fully cooked.

Q9: Can I double the recipe?
A9: Absolutely! Just make sure you have enough space on your grill or in your pan to cook the chicken in batches if needed.

Q10: What’s a good drink pairing with this meal?
A10: A cold beer or a refreshing iced tea pairs perfectly with the bold flavors of this dish. If you prefer wine, a crisp white wine or a light rosé works beautifully.

Conclusion

Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce is a true flavor explosion that will make your taste buds sing! The juicy, spicy chicken perfectly complemented by the creamy, tangy sauce is a match made in heaven. Whether you’re grilling for family, hosting a BBQ, or just craving something full of flavor, this dish won’t disappoint. Grab your ingredients, fire up the grill, and get ready to indulge in this unforgettable meal. Happy cooking!

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