This Cajun grilled chicken is packed with bold flavors and has a nice spicy kick. It’s grilled to perfection and paired with a rich Alabama white sauce that adds a creamy touch!
You won’t want to miss this combo! I love how the tangy sauce cools down the spices perfectly. It’s great for summer BBQs or any night when you want something tasty and easy.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. You can use thighs for extra juiciness or even swap for shrimp if you want something lighter.
Cajun Seasoning: The spice blend is key! If you don’t have all the spices, you can use a pre-made Cajun seasoning or make it milder for kids by cutting back on the cayenne.
Mayonnaise: It’s essential for the white sauce but Greek yogurt makes a lighter, tangy substitute if you’re looking to reduce calories. Just mix it well to keep the creaminess.
Horseradish: If you can’t find prepared horseradish, try using a bit of mustard for a different kick, though it’s not quite the same flavor!
How Do I Grill Chicken Without It Drying Out?
Grilling chicken can sometimes lead to dryness, but there are some tricks to keep it juicy. Start by marinating the chicken; this not only adds flavor but helps retain moisture.
- Let the chicken sit on the grill for 6-7 minutes before flipping, this helps achieve that great grill mark and keeps it juicy.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness at 165°F. This prevents overcooking!
- Let the chicken rest after grilling for about 5 minutes before cutting, which allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat.
Easy Cajun Grilled Chicken with Creamy Alabama White Sauce
Ingredients:
For the Cajun Grilled Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp paprika
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp cayenne pepper (adjust to heat preference)
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
For the Creamy Alabama White Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp prepared horseradish
- 1 tbsp sugar
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
Time Estimate:
This delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15-20 minutes to grill, plus additional resting time for the chicken. Overall, you can have this delicious meal ready in about 35-40 minutes!
Instructions:
1. Prepare the Cajun Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. This blend will give your chicken its tasty kick!
2. Season the Chicken:
Rub each chicken breast with olive oil to help the seasoning stick. Then, coat the chicken evenly with the Cajun seasoning mix. For the best flavor, let it marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours if you have time.
3. Preheat the Grill:
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken gets those beautiful grill marks!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once your grill is ready, place the seasoned chicken breasts on it. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). You’re looking for those delicious grill marks!
5. Make the Alabama White Sauce:
While your chicken is grilling, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, horseradish, sugar, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and cayenne pepper in a bowl until the sauce is nice and creamy. This sauce adds a fantastic flavor contrast to the spicy chicken!
6. Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked through, let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle. You can slice the chicken if you like, then drizzle the creamy Alabama white sauce generously over the top. If you want, sprinkle some freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color!
Enjoy your flavorful Cajun grilled chicken with the tangy, creamy Alabama white sauce!
FAQ About Easy Cajun Grilled Chicken with Creamy Alabama White Sauce
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken may require a longer cooking time. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
What Can I Substitute for Mayonnaise in the Alabama White Sauce?
If you’re looking for a lighter option, Greek yogurt is a great substitute for mayonnaise. It maintains a creamy texture while adding a tangy flavor. You can also use sour cream if you prefer!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and sauce in separate airtight containers in the fridge. The chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days, while the sauce can last about a week. To reheat, warm the chicken gently on the stove or in the microwave.
Can I Make the Alabama White Sauce Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can prepare the Alabama white sauce a day or two in advance. Just store it in the refrigerator in a sealed container. Give it a good stir before serving, as it may thicken slightly in the fridge.
