Back in the day, Alabama introduced the world to a BBQ sauce like no other—creamy, tangy, and downright addictive. Today, we’re bringing that magic to your kitchen with this Alabama White Sauce Chicken recipe. Perfect for grilling season or whenever you crave something uniquely delicious.
Why This Recipe Works
- The sauce’s creamy base with a vinegar kick cuts through the richness of the chicken, offering a perfect balance of flavors.
- Marinating the chicken in the sauce ensures every bite is packed with flavor, from the first to the last.
- Grilling the chicken adds a smoky depth that complements the tangy sauce beautifully.
- This recipe is versatile, allowing for adjustments in heat and tang to suit your taste.
- It’s a crowd-pleaser, guaranteed to spark conversations at your next BBQ.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp prepared horseradish
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
Equipment Needed
- Grill
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Tongs
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Alabama White Sauce
In a large mixing bowl, whisk together the mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, lemon juice, horseradish, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and cayenne pepper until smooth. This will be your marinade and sauce, so taste and adjust the seasonings as needed. Tip: For a smoother sauce, you can blend the ingredients in a food processor.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts in a shallow dish and pour half of the Alabama white sauce over them, ensuring they’re fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for deeper flavor. Reserve the remaining sauce for serving. Tip: Always marinate chicken in the refrigerator to keep it safe from bacteria.
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, about 375°F to 400°F. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly without burning. Tip: Clean your grill grates well before heating to prevent sticking.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid flipping the chicken more than once to get those perfect grill marks.
Step 5: Serve with Extra Sauce
Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Serve with the reserved Alabama white sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling. Enjoy the tangy, creamy, and slightly spicy flavors that make this dish unforgettable.
Tips and Tricks
For those looking to elevate their Alabama White Sauce Chicken, consider these advanced tips. First, if you’re short on time, you can use a vacuum sealer to marinate the chicken in just 30 minutes. Second, experimenting with different types of vinegar, like white wine vinegar, can add a new dimension to the sauce. Third, for a smokier flavor, try adding a dash of liquid smoke to the marinade. Lastly, if you’re not a fan of mayo, Greek yogurt can be a healthier substitute, though it will alter the taste slightly.
Recipe Variations
- Spicy Version: Add more cayenne pepper or a diced jalapeño to the sauce for an extra kick.
- Sweet Version: Mix in a tablespoon of honey or brown sugar to balance the tanginess with sweetness.
- Herb-Infused: Stir in fresh herbs like dill or parsley for a fresh twist.
- Smoky Version: Incorporate smoked paprika or chipotle powder for a deeper smoke flavor.
- Low-Carb Version: Serve the chicken over a bed of greens instead of bread for a lighter meal.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I bake the chicken instead of grilling?
Absolutely! Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake the marinated chicken on a lined baking sheet for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The result will be just as delicious, though you’ll miss the smoky grill marks.
How long can I store the Alabama white sauce?
The sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week. Just give it a good stir before using, as it may separate slightly over time.
Can I use this sauce on other meats?
Definitely! This sauce is fantastic on pork, turkey, or even as a dressing for potato salad. Its versatility is one of its greatest strengths.
Summary
This Alabama White Sauce Chicken recipe brings a tangy, creamy twist to your BBQ repertoire. With its simple ingredients and straightforward steps, it’s a dish that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re grilling for a crowd or just spicing up weeknight dinners, this recipe is a winner.