There’s nothing quite like the smoky aroma of Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce sizzling on the grill on a warm evening. The bold, spicy flavors of the Cajun seasoning combined with the creamy, tangy white sauce create an irresistible balance that makes this dish unforgettable.

I first discovered this magical combination during a summer barbecue at a friend’s house. Ever since, it has become a staple in my backyard grilling rotation, requested by friends and family every time the grill fires up. It’s quick, easy, and always delivers big flavor.

Let’s dive into what makes this recipe so special.

Why You'll Love This Cajun Grilled Chicken With Alabama White Sauce

Get ready to add a new favorite to your summer grilling lineup. This Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce isn’t just packed with flavor — it’s a perfect balance of heat, smoke, and creamy tang that keeps everyone coming back for seconds.

First, it's incredibly easy to prepare. With just a few simple steps and minimal ingredients, you’ll have restaurant-quality grilled chicken right at home. Even beginner grillers can master this recipe without breaking a sweat.

Next, it’s budget-friendly. Using bone-in or boneless chicken thighs or breasts means you can feed a crowd without spending a fortune. Most of the seasoning ingredients are pantry staples, making this dish as economical as it is delicious.

The bold Cajun flavors pair perfectly with the cool, creamy Alabama White Sauce. This contrast of heat and tangy richness elevates the dish, turning simple grilled chicken into something extraordinary.

Finally, it's versatile enough for any occasion. Serve it at casual family dinners, backyard barbecues, or summer parties. The recipe scales beautifully whether you’re cooking for two or twenty.

Now, let’s take a closer look at what you’ll need to bring this dish to life.

Ingredients Notes

The magic of Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce lies in its carefully balanced combination of spices and sauces. Each ingredient plays a crucial role in building layers of flavor that make this dish so irresistible.

Chicken is the star of this recipe. You can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for a leaner option, or opt for chicken thighs for extra juiciness and flavor. I often choose thighs because they stay moist on the grill and absorb the seasoning beautifully.

Cajun seasoning brings the heat and depth to the chicken. You can use a store-bought blend or make your own by combining smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, oregano, thyme, and black pepper. The smoky notes from the paprika and the kick from the cayenne create that signature Cajun profile.

Olive oil helps the seasoning adhere to the chicken and promotes even browning on the grill. It also adds a hint of richness that complements the bold spices.

Alabama White Sauce is the secret weapon that sets this dish apart. Made with mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, horseradish, lemon juice, and a touch of black pepper, this creamy, tangy sauce is perfect for drizzling or dipping. Its cool acidity perfectly balances the spice of the Cajun seasoning.

For equipment, you’ll need a reliable grill, whether gas or charcoal, and a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to the perfect internal temperature. A small whisk and bowl are helpful for mixing the white sauce.

How To Make This Cajun Grilled Chicken With Alabama White Sauce

Making this flavorful dish is simpler than you might expect. Follow these steps for perfectly grilled chicken every time.

Start by preparing the chicken. If you’re using breasts, consider pounding them to an even thickness for uniform cooking. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to help the seasoning stick better.

In a small bowl, combine your Cajun seasoning blend if you're making it from scratch. Generously coat each piece of chicken with the seasoning mixture, making sure all surfaces are covered. Drizzle the chicken with olive oil, rubbing it in to help the spices adhere and promote a beautiful sear on the grill.

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F. Once hot, place the chicken on the grill grates. Close the lid and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of your chicken. Avoid constantly flipping to allow a nice char to develop.

While the chicken is grilling, prepare the Alabama White Sauce. In a medium bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, prepared horseradish, lemon juice, and black pepper until smooth. Taste and adjust the seasoning if needed — some like it a bit tangier or spicier.

Once the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute and keeps the meat tender and moist.

Drizzle the Alabama White Sauce generously over the grilled chicken or serve it on the side for dipping. The whole process takes about 30-40 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend cookouts.

Storage Options

If you have leftovers, this chicken stores beautifully for future meals. Allow the grilled chicken to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days without losing its flavor or texture.

For longer storage, place the cooled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date for easy tracking.

The Alabama White Sauce should be stored separately in a sealed container in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for about a week. Always give it a quick stir before serving, as some separation may occur.

When reheating the chicken, warm it gently in the microwave or in a covered skillet over low heat to retain moisture. If frozen, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Variations and Substitutions

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility, allowing you to tailor it to your taste and dietary needs.

For a milder version, reduce the amount of cayenne pepper in the Cajun seasoning or use a store-bought mild blend. This makes the dish more kid-friendly without sacrificing flavor.

If you’re looking to lighten it up, you can substitute Greek yogurt for some or all of the mayonnaise in the Alabama White Sauce. It adds a pleasant tang and cuts down on calories while still providing a creamy texture.

Don’t have a grill? No problem. You can prepare the chicken in a grill pan on the stovetop or bake it in the oven at 400°F until it reaches the proper internal temperature. A quick broil at the end can mimic the charred grill marks.

For an extra smoky flavor, try using a smoker or adding wood chips to your charcoal grill. Hickory or applewood pairs wonderfully with the Cajun spices and white sauce.

Feel free to experiment with different proteins as well. This seasoning and sauce work beautifully with grilled shrimp, pork chops, or even tofu for a vegetarian twist.

No matter how you customize it, Cajun Grilled Chicken with Alabama White Sauce delivers bold, mouthwatering flavors that are sure to impress.