If you’re craving a dish that bursts with bold flavors and a creamy, tangy finish, look no further than this Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce Recipe. It masterfully combines spicy, smoky grilled chicken with a uniquely zesty white sauce that’s creamy yet bright with hints of horseradish and apple cider vinegar. This recipe is a perfect balance of southern charm and fiery Cajun flair that’s sure to impress at your next cookout or simple family dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a novice in the kitchen, this dish invites you to enjoy a sensational, finger-licking meal packed with personality and warmth.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce Recipe is how straightforward and accessible the ingredients are. Each component plays a key role: the Cajun seasoning builds smoky heat, olive oil ensures juicy grilling, and the Alabama White Sauce lends a tangy creaminess that brings everything together in beautiful harmony.
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts: A lean and tender canvas that soaks up flavors beautifully.
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning: The bold spice blend that brings the signature kick to the chicken.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps the seasoning stick and keeps the chicken juicy on the grill.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances all the other flavors without overpowering them.
- 1 cup mayonnaise: The creamy base of the Alabama White Sauce, providing richness and body.
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar: Adds the essential tang that makes the white sauce stand out.
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice: Brightens the sauce with fresh citrus notes.
- 1 tablespoon horseradish: Gives the white sauce a subtle, spicy heat that’s uniquely delicious.
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard: Adds a mild sharpness and depth to the sauce.
- 1 clove garlic, minced: Boosts flavor complexity and savory warmth.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper: Provides earthy heat to both the sauce and chicken.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Balances the tangy and spicy elements in the sauce.
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper: Elevates the sauce with a gentle fiery touch.
- 1 teaspoon sugar: Softens acidity and rounds out the sauce’s flavor.
How to Make Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce Recipe
Step 1: Prepare the Grill
Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This temperature is perfect for achieving those beautiful grill marks on the chicken that add both texture and flavor. A hot grill melts the spices into the meat, locking in moisture and creating a deliciously smoky crust.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
In a bowl, lightly coat the chicken breasts with olive oil to help the spices adhere evenly. Then, generously sprinkle the Cajun seasoning along with a pinch of salt and pepper. This step is crucial because the seasoning mix is where the exciting Cajun flavors develop, preparing the chicken for the smoky, flavorful sizzle on the grill.
Step 3: Marinate Briefly
Allow the seasoned chicken to rest for a short while, about 10 minutes, as you prepare the Alabama White Sauce. This brief marination lets the spices penetrate slightly and ensures your chicken will be juicy and flavorful once grilled.
Step 4: Whip up the Alabama White Sauce
In a fresh bowl, combine mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, horseradish, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and sugar. Whisk these ingredients together vigorously until the sauce is smooth and creamy. This sauce is the star complement to the spicy grilled chicken, offering a refreshing tang and a hint of heat that contrasts beautifully with the cajun spices.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts directly over the preheated grill grates and cook for 6 to 7 minutes per side. The goal is to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption while maintaining juicy tenderness. The grill infuses the chicken with that quintessential smoky flavor you’re aiming for in this dish.
Step 6: Rest the Chicken
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This resting period is critical because it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, guaranteeing each bite is moist and flavorful.
Step 7: Serve with Alabama White Sauce
Finally, drizzle generous amounts of the creamy Alabama White Sauce over your perfectly grilled Cajun chicken breasts. This finishing touch softens the heat and adds a lovely zesty creaminess that will keep everyone coming back for seconds.
How to Serve Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce Recipe
Garnishes
To elevate your presentation and add an extra burst of freshness, consider garnishing with finely chopped parsley or green onions. A sprinkle of smoked paprika can also enhance the visual appeal and tie in with the smoky flavors. These little touches make the dish feel restaurant-worthy and inviting.
Side Dishes
This dish pairs wonderfully with classic southern sides like creamy coleslaw, buttery cornbread, or grilled vegetables. For a lighter option, a crisp garden salad or a refreshing cucumber and tomato salad balances the richness of the chicken and sauce perfectly.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve the Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce Recipe as sliders using soft buns and extra sauce on the side. Alternatively, slice the chicken and arrange it atop a bed of rice or quinoa, drizzled with additional white sauce, making for a colorful and hearty plate that’s full of flavor and texture.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Keep the Alabama White Sauce in a separate container to preserve its creamy texture and tangy brightness.
Freezing
If you want to keep leftovers longer, you can freeze the cooked chicken breasts in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. The white sauce is best kept fresh and should not be frozen, as the texture may break down upon thawing.
Reheating
Reheat chicken gently in the oven or on the stovetop to avoid drying out the meat. Once warmed, add fresh Alabama White Sauce on top to restore that delicious creamy element and serve immediately for the best taste experience.
FAQs
Can I use bone-in chicken for this Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce Recipe?
Yes! Bone-in pieces like thighs or drumsticks will work well but require longer grill time to cook through. Adjust your grilling time accordingly and always check for an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe.
Is Alabama White Sauce spicy?
The sauce has a gentle heat from horseradish and cayenne pepper but is mostly tangy and creamy. It balances the spiciness of the Cajun seasoning rather than overpowering, making it approachable even for those who prefer milder flavors.
Can I make the Alabama White Sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! In fact, making the sauce a day ahead allows the flavors to meld and intensify. Just give it a good stir before serving to recombine any separated ingredients.
What if I don’t have a grill? Can I cook the chicken some other way?
Definitely! You can use a grill pan on the stove or bake the chicken in the oven at 400°F for about 20-25 minutes. Just be sure to watch for doneness to keep the chicken juicy and tender.
What type of Cajun seasoning works best?
Choose a high-quality store-bought Cajun blend or make your own with paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, thyme, and oregano. Freshly ground spices always give the best flavor punch.
Final Thoughts
This Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce Recipe is a true celebration of southern flavors with a vibrant twist. It’s simple enough to whip up any night but impressive enough for special occasions. The combination of smoky, spicy grilled chicken and creamy, tangy white sauce is pure magic on the plate. I encourage you to try it, gather your favorite people around, and savor every bite of this delightful dish that feels like a warm hug from the south.
Print
Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce Recipe
- Prep Time: 0h 15m
- Cook Time: 0h 14m
- Total Time: 0h 29m
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Southern American
Description
A flavorful Cajun Grilled Chicken recipe paired with tangy and creamy Alabama White Sauce. The chicken is seasoned with a spicy Cajun blend and grilled to juicy perfection, then topped with a zesty, mayonnaise-based sauce featuring apple cider vinegar, horseradish, and a hint of cayenne pepper. This dish offers a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors, ideal for a quick and delicious summer meal.
Ingredients
Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Alabama White Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon horseradish
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- 1 clove garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
- 1 teaspoon sugar
Instructions
- Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure it is hot enough for perfect searing and cooking of the chicken breasts.
- Season Chicken: In a bowl, coat the chicken breasts evenly with olive oil, then sprinkle with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Mix well to ensure all sides are covered.
- Marinate Chicken: Let the chicken rest to absorb the Cajun seasoning flavors while you prepare the sauce, allowing the spices to penetrate the meat.
- Prepare Alabama White Sauce: In a separate bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, horseradish, Dijon mustard, minced garlic, black pepper, salt, cayenne pepper, and sugar until the mixture is smooth and fully combined. Set aside.
- Grill Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C), indicating it is fully cooked.
- Rest Chicken: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Resting helps the juices redistribute, resulting in tender and juicy meat.
- Serve: Serve the grilled Cajun chicken breasts drizzled generously with the Alabama White Sauce for a delicious, tangy finish.
Notes
- For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is perfectly cooked to 165°F (75°C).
- Adjust cayenne pepper in the sauce according to your preferred spice level.
- This recipe is great for outdoor grilling but can be adapted to stovetop grilling pans if a grill is not available.
- Leftover Alabama White Sauce can be refrigerated in an airtight container for up to one week.
- Pair this dish with grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
