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Spicy Cajun Grilled Chicken

Spicy Cajun Grilled Chicken

Spicy Cajun Grilled Chicken is a bold and flavorful dish featuring tender boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs coated in a vibrant Cajun seasoning blend. Grilled to perfection and finished with fresh herbs and lemon juice, this recipe offers a smoky, spicy meal that’s quick to prepare, versatile, and perfect for any occasion – from busy weeknights to weekend cookouts.

Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Spice Mix

  • 2 tablespoons paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon salt

Other Ingredients

  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice
  • Optional fresh herbs (parsley or cilantro) for garnish

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chicken: Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels for better spice adhesion. Drizzle olive oil evenly over the chicken, then rub the Cajun seasoning mix generously to coat each piece thoroughly.
  2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high to ensure beautiful sear marks and seal in the chicken’s juices for tender, flavorful results.
  3. Grill the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken on the grill and cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Avoid flipping frequently to develop an ideal crust.
  4. Rest the Chicken: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and tender meat.
  5. Serve and Enjoy: Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice if desired. Serve with your choice of sides and enjoy your spicy, flavorful meal.

Notes

  • Pound chicken to even thickness for consistent cooking.
  • Use a meat thermometer to check doneness and prevent overcooking.
  • Resting after grilling keeps the chicken juicy and tender.
  • Marinating overnight with olive oil, lemon juice, and spices enhances flavor and tenderness.
  • Clean and oil grill grates before cooking to prevent sticking and achieve perfect char marks.

Nutrition

Keywords: Spicy Cajun Grilled Chicken, Cajun chicken recipe, grilled chicken, spicy chicken, gluten free chicken, easy Cajun chicken