Savory Cajun Grilled Chicken Breasts
Take your taste buds on a journey to Louisiana with this Savory Cajun Grilled Chicken recipe! Infused with an aromatic blend of traditional Cajun spices, this dish is a delight for any chicken lover. Perfect for weeknight dinners, the marinade can easily be prepared ahead of time—simply mix the spices with lemon juice and oil, and let your chicken soak up those bold flavors in the fridge. Once you’re ready to eat, fire up the grill and enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken that will transport you straight to the bayou. Ideal for serving alongside grilled vegetables or as a filling for tacos, it's a versatile and satisfying dish that the whole family will love.
N/A
Servings
165
Calories
11
Ingredients
Ingredients
salt
1 teaspoon (none)
cayenne pepper
1 teaspoon (none)
paprika
1 teaspoon (none)
white pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
black pepper
1/2 teaspoon (none)
oregano
1/2 teaspoon (dried)
garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon (none)
onion powder
1/4 teaspoon (none)
lemon juice
1/2 cup (fresh squeezed or bottled)
vegetable oil
1/4 cup (none)
boneless skinless chicken breast halves
4 (trimmed)
Instructions
1
In a small bowl, combine all of the dry spices: salt, cayenne pepper, paprika, white pepper, black pepper, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder.
2
In a shallow glass dish or a gallon-sized ziplock bag, combine the lemon juice and vegetable oil. Stir in half of the spice mixture until well blended.
3
Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated on both sides. Cover the dish or seal the bag, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours or overnight for the best flavor. If short on time, marinating for 30 to 60 minutes at room temperature will work, too.
4
When ready to grill, remove the chicken from the marinade and drain well. Sprinkle both sides of each chicken breast with the remaining spice mixture, making sure to coat evenly.
5
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the chicken breasts on the grill, positioning the thinner ends away from direct flames to prevent uneven cooking.
6
Grill each breast for 3 to 8 minutes per side, turning only once, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
7
Remove from the grill and allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Nutrition Information
7.5g
Fat
1.5g
Carbs
20.5
Protein
0g
Fiber
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Savory Cajun Grilled Chicken?
Savory Cajun Grilled Chicken is a flavorful dish inspired by Louisiana cuisine, featuring a bold spice rub and a tangy lemon marinade grilled to perfection.
What spices are included in the Cajun seasoning?
The seasoning consists of salt, cayenne pepper, paprika, white pepper, black pepper, oregano, garlic powder, and onion powder.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
For the best flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator.
Can I marinate the chicken if I am short on time?
Yes, if you are in a hurry, marinating for 30 to 60 minutes at room temperature will still add good flavor.
What temperature should the chicken reach to be fully cooked?
The chicken is safely cooked when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
What heat setting should I use for the grill?
You should preheat your grill to medium-high heat for the best results.
How long does the chicken take to grill?
Grill each breast for 3 to 8 minutes per side, depending on the thickness of the meat.
How many calories are in this Cajun grilled chicken?
There are approximately 165 calories per serving.
Is this recipe low in carbohydrates?
Yes, this recipe is very low-carb, containing only 1.5g of carbohydrates per serving.
How much protein is in one serving?
Each serving provides approximately 20.5g of protein.
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts with boneless skinless chicken thighs, though cooking times may vary slightly.
What can I serve with Cajun grilled chicken?
It pairs perfectly with grilled vegetables, rice, corn on the cob, or can be used as a filling for spicy tacos.
Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling it?
Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken in an oven at 400°F (200°C) until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
How do I prevent the chicken from cooking unevenly?
Position the thinner ends of the chicken breasts away from the direct flames or the hottest part of the grill.
Why should I let the chicken rest after grilling?
Resting allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, ensuring the chicken stays juicy and tender when sliced.
Can I substitute lime juice for lemon juice?
Yes, lime juice is an excellent substitute and will provide a similar acidic brightness to the marinade.
Is this recipe very spicy?
It has a moderate kick due to the cayenne and various peppers. You can reduce the cayenne pepper to make it milder.
Can I use olive oil instead of vegetable oil?
Yes, olive oil works well for the marinade, though vegetable oil is often used for its neutral flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days.
Can I freeze the chicken in the marinade?
Yes, you can place the chicken and marinade in a freezer-safe bag and freeze for up to 3 months.
What type of paprika is best for this recipe?
Standard sweet paprika works great, but you can use smoked paprika for a deeper, smokier flavor profile.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Based on the ingredients listed, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.
Can I use fresh oregano instead of dried?
Yes, if using fresh oregano, use about 1.5 teaspoons as fresh herbs are less concentrated than dried.
Should I wash the marinade off before grilling?
No, just drain the excess liquid. The remaining marinade on the chicken helps build the flavor crust.
How many chicken breasts does this recipe serve?
This recipe is designed for 4 boneless skinless chicken breast halves.
Can I use this recipe for meal prep?
Absolutely, this chicken is great sliced over salads or in grain bowls for meals throughout the week.
Does this recipe contain any fiber?
No, this specific recipe contains 0g of fiber.
What if I don't have white pepper?
You can substitute it with an equal amount of additional black pepper or a pinch of ground mustard.
Can I make the spice blend in advance?
Yes, you can mix the dry spices ahead of time and store them in an airtight container for future use.
How much fat is in this recipe?
There is approximately 7.5g of fat per serving.