This Cajun Grilled Chicken is bursting with spicy flavors and is super juicy! The creamy Alabama white sauce adds a delicious twist, making each bite special.
I always love how easy this dish is to whip up on the grill. Pair it with some veggies or a simple salad, and you’ve got a tasty meal that’ll impress everyone!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for grilling. For a twist, try using thighs for more flavor and juiciness. If you’re looking for a lighter option, turkey cutlets work well too!
Cajun Seasoning: Store-bought Cajun seasoning is convenient, but you can make your own mix with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, and a pinch of thyme. This is a great way to control the spice level.
Mayonnaise: This is a key ingredient in the Alabama white sauce, making it creamy. If you’re looking for a healthier option, you can use Greek yogurt instead. It adds a nice tang, too!
Horseradish: For the white sauce, horseradish gives a nice kick. You can skip it if you prefer mild flavors. Adding a bit of sriracha can also add some heat while keeping it creamy.
How Do I Grill Chicken Breasts Perfectly Without Drying Them Out?
Grilling chicken breasts can be tricky since they can dry out quickly. Here’s how to ensure they stay moist and flavorful:
- Marinate for at least 15 minutes. This not only adds flavor but also helps to tenderize the meat.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This helps sear the chicken quickly, keeping the juices inside.
- Use a meat thermometer! Cook chicken until it reaches 165°F (75°C). This ensures it’s perfectly done without being overcooked.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken nice and juicy.
With these tips and ingredient suggestions, you’ll have a delicious Cajun Grilled Chicken meal ready to impress!
Cajun Grilled Chicken with Creamy Alabama White Sauce
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Cajun Grilled Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for extra heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
For the Creamy Alabama White Sauce:
- 1/2 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup sour cream
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
- Optional: 1-2 tablespoons buttermilk (to thin the sauce if desired)
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 15 minutes to prep and about 15-20 minutes to cook on the grill, depending on the size of the chicken breasts. So, in total, set aside around 30-40 minutes for a delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and black pepper. Rub the olive oil over all sides of the chicken breasts. Then, coat them evenly with the Cajun seasoning mixture. Set the chicken aside to marinate for at least 15 minutes, or if you have more time, up to 1 hour in the refrigerator. This will help deepen the flavor!
2. Make the Alabama White Sauce:
In a medium bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, horseradish, Dijon mustard, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black pepper until smooth. If you prefer a thinner sauce, gradually whisk in buttermilk, one tablespoon at a time, until you reach your desired consistency. Cover and refrigerate the sauce until you’re ready to serve—it’ll taste even better after the flavors meld together!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once preheated, place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s safe to eat!
4. Serve:
Once grilled, transfer the chicken to a serving platter. Drizzle the creamy Alabama white sauce generously over the chicken, allowing some to pool on the plate for dipping. Garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color. Serve immediately with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, coleslaw, or corn on the cob for a complete meal.
Enjoy your flavorful Cajun Grilled Chicken with that tangy, creamy Alabama White Sauce!
FAQ: Cajun Grilled Chicken with Creamy Alabama White Sauce
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they’re more flavorful and tend to stay juicier on the grill. Just adjust the cooking time since thighs may need a few extra minutes to cook through.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, increase the amount of cayenne pepper in the seasoning. You can also add some hot sauce to the Alabama white sauce or serve it on the side for those who like it extra spicy!
Can I Make the Alabama White Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors will develop even more, making it even tastier when you’re ready to serve!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and white sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will stay good for about 3 days, while the sauce can last up to a week. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or milk to the sauce if it thickens too much.
This FAQ should help address some common questions while preparing and enjoying your Cajun Grilled Chicken!
