Fire up your grill and tantalize your taste buds with this bold and flavorful Cajun Spiced BBQ Chicken recipe. Perfectly seasoned with a homemade Cajun spice blend, featuring smoky paprika, aromatic garlic and onion powder, earthy oregano, a hint of heat from cayenne, and a touch of sweetness from brown sugar, this dish is a symphony of flavors that brings southern-inspired cooking to your backyard. Whether grilled to perfection for a crisp, smoky finish or baked for juicy tenderness, these bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs deliver a punch of spice in every bite. Optional BBQ sauce adds a sticky, caramelized layer of smoky sweetness, while a garnish of fresh parsley and zesty lemon wedges ties it all together. Ready in just 45 minutes, this easy-to-make recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners, summer cookouts, or any time you crave the irresistible combination of Cajun heat and barbecue goodness.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (approximately 375°F to 400°F). If using an oven, preheat to 400°F.
In a small bowl, combine the Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, dried oregano, cayenne pepper, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper to create your spice mix.
Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the spice mix adheres properly. Place the chicken on a large plate or tray.
Rub each chicken thigh evenly with olive oil, then generously coat with the spice mix on all sides. Massage the spices into the chicken for maximum flavor.
If grilling, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. If baking, arrange the chicken on a foil-lined baking sheet with a wire rack.
Cook the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side on the grill, or 25-30 minutes in the oven, flipping halfway through. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F using a meat thermometer.
During the last 5 minutes of cooking, optionally baste the chicken with BBQ sauce for a sticky, caramelized glaze.
Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes to retain its juices.
Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges for a zesty touch. Pair with your favorite sides like coleslaw, cornbread, or grilled vegetables.
Calories |
1832 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 122.1 g | 157% | |
| Saturated Fat | 30.9 g | 154% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 2.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 486 mg | 162% | |
| Sodium | 7951 mg | 346% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 81.2 g | 30% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.5 g | 23% | |
| Total Sugars | 60.9 g | ||
| Protein | 110.5 g | 221% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.0 mcg | 0% | |
| Calcium | 149 mg | 11% | |
| Iron | 8.0 mg | 44% | |
| Potassium | 1499 mg | 32% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.