Cajun-spiced grilled chicken with charred edges

Easy

Cajun BBQ Chicken

Name: Cajun BBQ Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Cajun-Canadian
Ingredients: 8 bone-in chicken pieces (thighs and drumsticks); 2 tbsp paprika; 1 tsp cayenne pepper; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp onion powder; 1 tsp dried oregano; 1 tsp dried thyme; 1 tsp salt; 0.5 tsp black pepper; 2 tbsp olive oil

(623)

35 min4310 cal

By Chef Marco Deluca·Red Seal Certified Chef|June 15, 2025

Bold, spicy Cajun-seasoned chicken grilled to perfection. The homemade Cajun spice blend — paprika, cayenne, garlic, oregano, and thyme — creates an incredibly flavourful crust on the outside while the meat stays juicy inside. A BBQ favourite that brings the heat of Louisiana to Canadian backyards.

grilled-broiledcajunspicybbq

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Ingredients

Servings:

Instructions

👨‍🍳Chef's Notes

The Two-Zone Setup

“I always set up my grill with a hot zone and a cooler zone. Start chicken skin-side down over direct heat to get that char, then move to indirect heat to finish cooking through without burning.”

Bring to Room Temperature

“Take chicken out of the fridge 20-30 minutes before cooking. Cold chicken straight from the fridge cooks unevenly — the outside overcooks while the centre stays underdone.”

Rest Before Saucing

“Apply BBQ sauce only in the last 5-10 minutes. Sugar in the sauce burns quickly over direct heat. Let the meat develop its own crust first, then glaze at the end.”

About This Recipe

Cajun BBQ Chicken is more than just a dish; it's a celebration of bold flavors that brings the essence of Louisiana right into Canadian backyards. The combination of paprika, cayenne, garlic, and herbs creates a vibrant spice blend that envelops the juicy chicken pieces, creating a tantalizing crust that crackles on the grill. This dish is perfect for summer gatherings, where the smoky aroma wafts through the air, inviting friends and family to sit down and enjoy a hearty meal together.

Canadians adore this recipe not only for its ease but also for its versatility. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this Cajun BBQ Chicken is sure to impress. The juicy thighs and drumsticks are infused with a kick that dances on your palate, making every bite a delightful experience. It's a perfect way to embrace the warm weather while enjoying the rich culinary heritage of Cajun cuisine.

Tips for the Best Cajun BBQ Chicken

To ensure your Cajun BBQ Chicken turns out perfectly, aim for an internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) for doneness. Marinade the chicken in the spice blend and olive oil for at least 30 minutes before grilling to enhance the flavor and moisture. Avoid dryness by monitoring the grilling time closely, turning the chicken occasionally to create even cooking and a lovely char without burning the spices.

What to Serve With It

This Cajun BBQ Chicken pairs beautifully with traditional sides like creamy coleslaw or a fresh garden salad tossed with a zesty vinaigrette. For a true Canadian twist, serve it alongside buttery corn on the cob or roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs. Don’t forget to have some homemade biscuits on the side to soak up all those delicious juices!

Storage & Reheating

Leftover Cajun BBQ Chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat without drying it out, use the oven at 180°C (350°F) until warmed through, or cover it with a damp paper towel in the microwave. If you want to freeze it, wrap the chicken tightly in foil or plastic wrap and store it for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge before reheating for best results.

Nutrition Per Serving

310

Calories

34g

Protein

16g

Fat

Carbs

Fiber1g

Sugar1g

Sodium640mg

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs and drumsticks?+

Yes, you can certainly use chicken breasts. However, keep in mind that they may cook faster and can dry out if overcooked. Adjust the cooking time accordingly and aim for that same internal temperature of 75°C (165°F) for juiciness.

What can I do if I can’t find Cajun seasoning?+

If you can’t find pre-made Cajun seasoning, you can easily make your own with common spices you may have at home. Combine paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, onion powder, oregano, thyme, salt, and black pepper to replicate that bold flavor.

Can I marinate the chicken overnight?+

Absolutely! Marinating the chicken overnight will deepen the flavors and make it even more delicious. Just be sure to keep it covered and refrigerated during this time.

What is the best grilling method for this chicken?+

For the best results, use a two-zone grilling method. Start with direct heat to sear the chicken, then move it to indirect heat to finish cooking through. This helps achieve a crispy exterior while keeping the inside juicy.

Can I cook this chicken in the oven instead of grilling?+

Yes, you can bake the Cajun BBQ Chicken in the oven. Preheat to 200°C (400°F) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 35-40 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 75°C (165°F).

Reviews

4.7 / 5 (623 reviews)

Daniel R.

Jan 13, 2025

Great recipe! Even my picky kids loved it.

Tyler Q.

Jun 27, 2025

Made this for a dinner party and everyone asked for the recipe.

Jessica A.

Dec 26, 2025

The flavours are incredible. Restaurant quality at home!

Sarah L.

Nov 23, 2025

Absolutely delicious! The whole family devoured it.

Recipe at a Glance

Prep:

10 min

Cook:

25 min

Total:

35 min

Servings:

Difficulty:

Easy

Pro Tips

1Adjust cayenne to your heat preference.
2Let chicken come to room temperature before grilling.
3The spice rub works on any protein.

Variations

Blackened: cook in a cast iron skillet over very high heat.
Oven: bake at 220°C (425°F) for 35 minutes.
Use the spice blend on shrimp for a surf version.
Add lime and honey for a sweet-spicy glaze.

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Chef Marco Deluca

Head Chef & Recipe Developer

Marco is a Red Seal certified chef with over 15 years of professional kitchen experience across Canada. After training at George Brown College in Toronto and working in acclaimed restaurants from Vancouver to Montreal, he founded ChickenRecipes.ca to share his expertise with home cooks. Marco specializes in making restaurant-quality chicken dishes accessible for everyday Canadian kitchens.

Red Seal Certified ChefGeorge Brown College Culinary Arts Graduate15+ years professional kitchen experience