If you’re craving bold Southern flavors with a zesty kick, you’re going to fall in love with Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce. This dish brings together juicy grilled chicken breasts coated in smoky Cajun spices and a creamy, tangy sauce that’s truly addictive. Whether you’re planning a weekend cookout or simply jazzing up your weeknight dinner routine, this recipe delivers maximum flavor with minimal fuss. Get ready to create a meal that’s sure to be a new favorite in your home!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce is all about the quality and freshness of a few key ingredients. Every spice, condiment, and protein plays a starring role, so don’t be afraid to choose the best you can find for the most mouthwatering results!
- Chicken Breasts: Opt for boneless, skinless chicken breasts for quick cooking and juicy texture.
- Olive Oil: This keeps the chicken moist on the grill while helping the spices stick for maximum flavor.
- Cajun Seasoning: The heart of the dish—brings heat, color, and smoky depth you’ll crave bite after bite.
- Garlic Powder: Adds a subtle aromatic base to both the chicken and the sauce.
- Smoked Paprika: Lends a gentle smokiness that enhances the grilled effect, even indoors.
- Salt: Essential for bringing out every layer of flavor.
- Black Pepper: Provides a grounding warmth and just the right amount of bite.
- Mayonnaise (for sauce): The creamy base that gives Alabama White Sauce its signature richness.
- Apple Cider Vinegar (for sauce): Offers acidity and brightness, balancing the richness of the mayo.
- Lemon Juice (for sauce): Freshens up the sauce with citrusy zing.
- Prepared Horseradish (for sauce): Brings a pleasant heat and complexity that’s never overpowering.
- Dijon Mustard (for sauce): Adds tang and a touch of sharpness that rounds out the sauce.
- Garlic Powder (for sauce): Reinforces those savory notes and ties the dish together.
- Salt (for sauce): A pinch enhances every other ingredient in the sauce.
- Black Pepper (for sauce): A final touch for subtle heat and flavor.
How to Make Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce
Step 1: Prepare Your Grill
Start by preheating your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Giving the grill enough time to get hot ensures your chicken gets those great sear marks and cooks evenly. If you don’t have a grill, a stovetop grill pan works beautifully—just make sure it’s nice and hot before adding the chicken.
Step 2: Mix the Cajun Spice Rub
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This aromatic mixture not only infuses the chicken with signature Southern flavor, but helps protect it from drying out on the grill. Mix until you have a gorgeous, deep red paste.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then rub the Cajun spice mixture evenly over each piece. Don’t be shy—get into every nook and cranny for maximum coverage. Let the chicken sit at room temperature while your grill finishes heating up for even juicier results.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill and cook for 5–6 minutes per side. You’re aiming for gorgeous grill marks and an internal temperature of 165°F. Resist the urge to flip too early—letting the first side cook undisturbed helps seal in juices and flavor.
Step 5: Make the Alabama White Sauce
While the chicken is on the grill, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, prepared horseradish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper in a small bowl. Pop the sauce in the fridge for at least 10 minutes so the flavors meld into that irresistible tangy-creamy goodness.
Step 6: Rest, Slice, and Serve
When the chicken comes off the grill, let it rest for 5 minutes. This is crucial for juicy, tender chicken! Slice and arrange on a platter, then drizzle generously with the chilled Alabama White Sauce. Dive in and savor every bite—the smoky, spicy chicken paired with that zingy sauce is pure magic.
How to Serve Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce
Garnishes
A little garnish goes a long way! Top your Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce with chopped fresh parsley, thinly sliced green onions, or even a sprinkle of extra smoked paprika for a vibrant pop of color and freshness that complements the bold flavors.
Side Dishes
This showstopper is gorgeous alongside grilled vegetables, a bright coleslaw, or classic skillet cornbread. The tangy sauce also doubles as an amazing dip for crispy fries or roasted potatoes, making your plate complete and full of Southern charm.
Creative Ways to Present
Think beyond the plate—turn leftovers into the star of a sandwich with toasted buns, pile onto a leafy green salad, or wrap in tortillas for Cajun-inspired chicken tacos. The combination of saucy, spicy, and smoky makes this recipe a fantastic foundation for countless meals.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftover chicken in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator for up to three days. Store the Alabama White Sauce separately in its own covered container or small jar. This helps maintain the texture and taste of both the chicken and the sauce.
Freezing
The Cajun Grilled Chicken can be frozen once cooled. Wrap individual pieces tightly to prevent freezer burn, and store for up to two months. Alabama White Sauce is best enjoyed fresh—its creamy base can separate if frozen, so make just what you’ll use within a few days.
Reheating
For the best results, gently reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium-low heat or in the oven at 325°F until warmed through. Avoid microwaving if possible to preserve the chicken’s juicy texture. Give the Alabama White Sauce a good stir and serve cold or at room temperature.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work beautifully in Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce. They offer even more juiciness and flavor—just adjust the grilling time, as thighs may need a couple extra minutes per side depending on thickness.
Is there a substitute for Cajun seasoning if I don’t have it?
If Cajun seasoning isn’t in your spice cabinet, try mixing paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, oregano, thyme, and a pinch of salt and pepper. You’ll get a similar spicy, earthy blend perfect for this recipe.
Can I make the Alabama White Sauce ahead of time?
Yes, the sauce can be made up to two days in advance. Letting it chill actually enhances its flavor. Just give it a stir before serving with your Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce for best texture.
How can I tell when the chicken is done?
The safest and surest method is to use an instant-read thermometer—the chicken is ready when it hits 165°F at the thickest part. If you don’t have a thermometer, cut into the center: juices should run clear and the meat should be opaque.
Is this dish spicy?
The heat level is moderate and incredibly flavorful rather than fiery. If you love spice, add a pinch of cayenne to the rub or a dash of hot sauce to the Alabama White Sauce. For milder palates, look for a mild Cajun blend or reduce the amount used in the rub.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a recipe that’s sure to impress, Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce brings big flavors and Southern hospitality to your table. Each bite delivers the perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy, making it the kind of meal you’ll want to make again and again. Fire up the grill and treat yourself and your loved ones to this unforgettable dish—you’ll be hooked from the very first taste!
Print
Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 12 minutes
- Total Time: 22 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southern
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce recipe brings together spicy Cajun flavors with a creamy, tangy sauce for a delicious Southern barbecue experience. The grilled chicken is seasoned to perfection and served with a zesty white sauce that adds a unique twist to a classic dish.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Main ingredients:
For Alabama White Sauce:
Instructions
- Preheat the grill: Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
- Season the chicken: In a small bowl, mix olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub the mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Grill the chicken: Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Prepare the Alabama White Sauce: While the chicken grills, whisk together all Alabama White Sauce ingredients in a small bowl until smooth. Let sauce chill in the fridge for at least 10 minutes.
- Serve: Once the chicken is cooked, let rest for 5 minutes, then slice and serve with a generous drizzle of the Alabama White Sauce.
Notes
- This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or cornbread.
- The Alabama White Sauce also makes a great dipping sauce for fries or roasted potatoes.
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