Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce is the perfect dish for those who crave bold flavors with a creamy, tangy twist. The Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a spicy, savory kick, while the rich and zesty Alabama white sauce adds a cool contrast that perfectly complements the heat. This easy-to-make meal is packed with flavor and can be served for a weeknight dinner, weekend cookout, or even as part of a larger BBQ spread.

This dish combines the smoky char from grilling with the creamy, slightly tangy sauce that Alabama is famous for. The chicken breasts are seasoned generously with Cajun spices, offering a flavorful base, and the sauce made from mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, horseradish, and garlic powder brings a unique taste that’s both creamy and spicy. It’s a simple yet incredibly satisfying meal that will become a new favorite for any grilling enthusiast.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce is a perfect blend of spice and creaminess. The Cajun seasoning adds an irresistible depth of flavor to the grilled chicken, while the Alabama white sauce provides a refreshing balance with its tangy and slightly sweet taste. It’s a versatile dish that can be served with various sides, from grilled vegetables to creamy mashed potatoes or a light salad. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for both casual weeknight dinners and weekend get-togethers. Plus, the smoky, grilled chicken paired with the cool sauce makes each bite a delightful experience.

Ingredients

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Cajun seasoning
Mayonnaise
Apple cider vinegar
Lemon juice
Horseradish
Garlic powder
Salt and pepper

Variations

Spicy Version: Add extra hot sauce or cayenne pepper to the Alabama white sauce for an extra kick.
Grill Alternative: If you don’t have a grill, this recipe works wonderfully on a grill pan or even in the oven. Just bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for about 20-25 minutes.
Vegetarian Option: Swap the chicken for tofu or tempeh, seasoned with Cajun spices, and grill until crispy for a plant-based alternative.
Herbed Sauce: Add fresh herbs such as dill or parsley to the Alabama white sauce for a fresh, aromatic twist.

How to Make the Recipe

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

Step 2: Season the Chicken

Season the chicken breasts with Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Be sure to coat them evenly for full flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and is fully cooked through. The chicken should be nicely browned with grill marks.

Step 4: Prepare the Alabama White Sauce

While the chicken is grilling, mix together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, horseradish, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir until smooth and well combined. Adjust seasoning to taste if needed.

Step 5: Serve the Chicken

Once the chicken is grilled, remove it from the grill and allow it to rest for a few minutes. Serve the grilled chicken breasts with the Alabama white sauce on the side for dipping.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Even Cooking: To ensure even cooking, flatten the chicken breasts slightly with a meat mallet before grilling, especially if they are uneven in thickness.
Marinate the Chicken: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in Cajun seasoning, salt, pepper, and a little oil for about 30 minutes before grilling.
Grill Temperature: Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high to avoid undercooking or overcooking the chicken.
Sauce Variations: Feel free to add other ingredients like mustard or smoked paprika to the Alabama white sauce to customize the flavor profile to your liking.

How to Serve

Serve the Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama white sauce as a main dish, paired with sides like roasted vegetables, coleslaw, or a refreshing cucumber salad. You can also serve it alongside grilled corn on the cob, or make it into a sandwich with toasted buns. The combination of smoky grilled chicken and creamy, tangy sauce makes it a perfect dish for BBQs, picnics, or casual family dinners.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store leftover grilled chicken and Alabama white sauce separately in airtight containers in the refrigerator. The grilled chicken will stay fresh for up to 3 days, while the sauce can be kept for up to a week.

Freezing

For best results, freeze the grilled chicken without the sauce. Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap and aluminum foil, or place it in a freezer-safe bag. It will last up to 3 months in the freezer. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Reheating

To reheat, you can warm the chicken in the microwave or on the grill. If using the microwave, cover the chicken with a damp paper towel to retain moisture. Reheat the Alabama white sauce in a small saucepan over low heat until warmed through.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken?

Yes, bone-in chicken works great with this recipe. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time, as bone-in chicken typically takes longer to cook.

2. How can I make this recipe spicier?

To add more heat, increase the amount of Cajun seasoning or add cayenne pepper to the chicken or the sauce.

3. Can I make the Alabama white sauce in advance?

Yes, the sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just stir it before serving.

4. What if I don’t have horseradish?

If you don’t have horseradish, you can substitute it with Dijon mustard or a little hot sauce for a similar flavor profile.

5. Can I cook this chicken on a stovetop grill pan?

Yes, a stovetop grill pan works well if you don’t have access to an outdoor grill. Just heat the pan over medium-high heat and cook the chicken as directed.

6. Can I use store-bought Alabama white sauce?

If you’re in a rush, store-bought Alabama white sauce can be used, but homemade offers a much fresher and more flavorful taste.

7. Can I grill vegetables with this recipe?

Absolutely! Grilled vegetables like bell peppers, onions, or zucchini pair wonderfully with Cajun grilled chicken.

8. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) when checked with a meat thermometer. If you don’t have a thermometer, ensure the juices run clear and not pink.

9. Can I make this recipe in the oven?

Yes, you can bake the chicken at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes or until fully cooked through.

10. Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is gluten-free as long as the Cajun seasoning and mayonnaise do not contain gluten. Check the labels to be sure.

Conclusion

Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce is a flavorful, easy-to-make dish that will spice up your next meal. The smoky grilled chicken paired with the creamy, tangy white sauce makes for a balanced and delicious combination. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or preparing a simple weeknight dinner, this recipe is sure to impress. It’s a versatile dish that can be served with a variety of sides and enjoyed by all!