Char-Grilled Cajun Chicken with Zesty Creole Mustard Sauce

By , Test Kitchen Director · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Juicy chicken breasts marinated in bold Cajun spices and grilled to perfection, served with a tangy Creole mustard dipping sauce. This louisiana creole-inspired mardi gras ready in about 55 minutes blends olive oil, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 320 calories and feeds 4, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 40 min Cook: 15 min Serves 4 Louisiana Creole cuisine 320 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a large bowl, whisk together 3 tbsp olive oil, 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1 tsp salt, and 1/2 tsp black pepper. Add 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly. Marinate for at least 30 minutes at room temperature.
  2. Step 2: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Lightly oil the grates.
  3. Step 3: Grill chicken breasts for 6-7 minutes per side until internal temperature reaches 165°F and chicken is nicely charred and juicy.
  4. Step 4: While chicken cooks, combine 1/4 cup Creole mustard, 2 tbsp mayonnaise, 1 tbsp lemon juice, and 1 tsp hot sauce in a small bowl. Whisk until smooth and tangy.
  5. Step 5: Remove chicken from grill and let rest for 5 minutes. Slice if desired and serve topped with the zesty Creole mustard sauce and a sprinkle of 1 tbsp chopped fresh parsley.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Char-Grilled Cajun Chicken with Zesty Creole Mustard Sauce take to make?

Total time is about 55 minutes (40 min prep + 15 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Char-Grilled Cajun Chicken with Zesty Creole Mustard Sauce?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Char-Grilled Cajun Chicken with Zesty Creole Mustard Sauce?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Char-Grilled Cajun Chicken with Zesty Creole Mustard Sauce for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 4 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 4). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Char-Grilled Cajun Chicken with Zesty Creole Mustard Sauce?

Louisiana Creole mardi gras like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.

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