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This spicy Cajun grilled chicken paired with creamy Alabama white sauce creates the perfect balance of heat and coolness. The juicy grilled chicken with bold spices contrasts beautifully with the tangy mayonnaise based sauce for an unforgettable meal.
I first made this recipe for a summer barbecue when I wanted something beyond the usual burgers and hot dogs. My friends were so impressed with the flavor combination they now request it every time we get together for outdoor grilling.
Ingredients
- For the Cajun Grilled Chicken
- Boneless skinless chicken breasts: The perfect canvas for bold Cajun flavors and quick cooking
- Olive oil: Helps the spices adhere to the chicken and prevents sticking to the grill
- Cajun seasoning: Provides the signature spicy Louisiana flavor profile
- Smoked paprika: Adds a beautiful color and smoky depth
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Offer savory notes without the need for fresh ingredients
- Cayenne pepper: Brings the heat; adjust according to your spice tolerance
- Lemon juice: Adds brightness and helps tenderize the chicken
- For the Alabama White Sauce
- Mayonnaise: Forms the creamy base ideal for cooling down spicy dishes
- Apple cider vinegar: Provides tanginess that balances the richness
- Dijon mustard: Adds complexity and subtle heat
- Lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with fresh acidity
- Garlic powder and onion powder: Create depth without overpowering
- Fresh parsley: Optional but adds a pop of color and herbaceous notes
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Prepare the Cajun Chicken:
- Combine your spice blend by mixing Cajun seasoning, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and salt and pepper in a small bowl. The key is to mix thoroughly so no single spice dominates. Rub each chicken breast with olive oil, which helps the spices adhere and promotes caramelization. Apply the spice mixture generously on all sides ensuring even coverage for consistent flavor. Finish with fresh lemon juice, which not only adds brightness but helps tenderize the meat slightly.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Allow the chicken to rest with the spices for at least 10–15 minutes at room temperature. This short marination time allows the flavors to begin penetrating the meat while letting the chicken come closer to room temperature, which promotes even cooking. For deeper flavor, refrigerate and marinate for several hours or overnight.
- Grill the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 400°F) ensuring it's clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking. Place chicken breasts directly over the heat and avoid moving them for the first few minutes; this helps develop those coveted grill marks. Cook for 6–7 minutes per side, monitoring carefully as the sugar in the Cajun seasoning can burn if the heat is too high. Check for doneness using an instant-read thermometer; chicken should reach 165°F internally.
- Rest the Chicken:
- Transfer the grilled chicken to a clean plate and tent loosely with foil for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, resulting in juicier chicken. Resist the urge to cut into it immediately or you'll lose those precious juices.
- Make the Alabama White Sauce:
- While the chicken cooks or rests, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, Dijon mustard, lemon juice, and seasonings in a bowl. Start with the base ingredients then gradually add the seasonings, tasting as you go. The sauce should be tangy, creamy, and have a mild heat that complements rather than competes with the Cajun chicken.
- Serve and Garnish:
- Plate the rested chicken and drizzle generously with the Alabama white sauce. Alternatively, serve the sauce on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh chopped parsley adds color and a hint of freshness to the finished dish.
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Alabama White Sauce is my secret weapon in this recipe. Unlike traditional tomato-based barbecue sauces, this mayonnaise-based creation cuts through the spiciness of Cajun seasoning with its cooling creaminess. I discovered it during a road trip through the South and have been pairing it with spicy dishes ever since.
Make Ahead Tips
The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility for preparation. You can season the chicken up to 24 hours in advance and keep it covered in the refrigerator. This extended marination actually improves the flavor profile, giving the spices time to penetrate deeper into the meat. The Alabama white sauce actually tastes better when made ahead, giving the flavors time to meld. Prepare it up to three days before serving and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
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Perfect Pairings
This Cajun grilled chicken with Alabama white sauce pairs beautifully with sides that complement its bold flavors. Consider serving it with cooling coleslaw, which provides textural contrast and helps balance the heat from the Cajun spices. Grilled corn on the cob brushed with butter and a touch of the same Cajun seasoning creates a cohesive flavor theme across your meal. For a complete Southern-inspired feast, add some creamy mac and cheese; the rich cheesiness works wonderfully against the spicy chicken and tangy sauce.
Ingredient Substitutions
No need to worry if you are missing some ingredients, as this recipe offers plenty of flexibility. Chicken thighs can replace breasts for a juicier, more forgiving option, especially for grill beginners. If you don’t have Cajun seasoning, make your own with equal parts paprika, garlic powder, salt, pepper, onion powder, dried oregano, and dried thyme, plus cayenne to taste. Greek yogurt can substitute for half or all of the mayonnaise in the Alabama white sauce for a lighter, tangy version with added protein. For a dairy-free option, consider using vegan mayonnaise, which works perfectly in the sauce.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → What makes Cajun grilled chicken unique?
It’s the bold Cajun seasoning blend that gives the chicken its smoky, spicy flavor, perfectly caramelized on the grill.
- → What is Alabama white sauce?
It’s a tangy mayonnaise-based barbecue sauce with hints of vinegar, lemon, and mustard, great for chicken and grilling.
- → Can I marinate the chicken overnight?
Yes, marinating the chicken overnight enhances the flavors by allowing the spices to deeply infuse the meat.
- → Can I make this dish without a grill?
Absolutely! You can cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or bake it in the oven for similar results.
- → What are good side dishes for this meal?
Grilled vegetables, mashed potatoes, fresh salad, or rice are excellent pairings for this Cajun chicken dish.