Cajun Spiced Grilled Chicken (Print View)

Tender chicken thighs marinated in Cajun spices and grilled with smoky, zesty flavor.

# What You Need:

→ Chicken

01 - 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (approximately 1.5 pounds)

→ Cajun Marinade

02 - 2 tablespoons olive oil
03 - 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
04 - 2 teaspoons garlic powder
05 - 1½ teaspoons onion powder
06 - 1 teaspoon dried oregano
07 - 1 teaspoon dried thyme
08 - 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper, adjust to preferred heat level
09 - 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
10 - 1½ teaspoons salt
11 - 1 teaspoon brown sugar, optional for flavor balance
12 - Juice of ½ lemon

→ Garnish

13 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
14 - Lemon wedges for serving

# How to Make It:

01 - Whisk together olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, cayenne pepper, black pepper, salt, brown sugar if using, and lemon juice in a large bowl until thoroughly combined.
02 - Add chicken thighs to the bowl and toss to coat completely. Cover and refrigerate for minimum 30 minutes or up to 8 hours for enhanced flavor penetration.
03 - Heat grill or grill pan to medium-high temperature. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
04 - Cook chicken thighs for 6 to 8 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and exterior displays attractive char marks.
05 - Remove chicken from heat and allow to rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and accompany with lemon wedges.

# Expert Tips:

01 -
  • The spice blend hits every note on your palate without overwhelming your senses
  • Chicken thighs stay impossibly juicy even after aggressive grilling
  • One batch of marinade teaches you ratios you will use forever
02 -
  • Pat the chicken dry before marinating or the spices will slide right off instead of sticking to the meat
  • Letting the meat rest after grilling is the difference between juicy chicken and chicken that leaks all its flavor onto your plate
03 -
  • Make a triple batch of the dry spice blend and keep it in a jar for instant weeknight meals
  • The chicken reheats beautifully so grill extra for tomorrow lunch

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