Introduction
This Cajun Sticky Chicken is packed with bold, spicy flavors and has that irresistible sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully over the heat of the Arteflame grill. The combination of Cajun spices with sweet and savory sauce creates a mouthwatering chicken dish that’s perfect for your next backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sticky Sauce:
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup hot sauce (Cajun-style or Louisiana hot sauce)
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons Worcestershire sauce
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon butter (for grilling)
- 1 tablespoon sriracha (optional for extra heat)
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, sliced (for garnish)
Instructions:
Step 1: Prepare the Arteflame Grill
Light the Arteflame grill by placing three vegetable oil-soaked napkins in the center, stacking firewood on top, and lighting it. Let the grill heat up for about 20 minutes. While the grill heats, prepare the chicken and sauce.
Step 2: Season the Chicken
Rub the chicken thighs with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Make sure the seasoning is evenly coated over all sides of the chicken.
Step 3: Make the Sticky Sauce
In a small bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, honey, hot sauce, brown sugar, Worcestershire sauce, apple cider vinegar, and minced garlic. This will form the sticky, spicy glaze that will caramelize on the chicken as it cooks.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Once the grill is hot, sear the chicken on the center grate for about 3-4 minutes per side to create a nice char and lock in the juices. Move the chicken to the flat cooktop to finish cooking through. Baste the chicken frequently with the sticky sauce, turning and basting for another 10-12 minutes until the sauce thickens and caramelizes, and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Garnish and Serve
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Garnish with sesame seeds and sliced green onions before serving.
Tips:
- Extra Sticky Sauce: If you prefer an even thicker sauce, reduce the remaining sticky sauce on the flat top until it becomes thicker and stickier before basting.
- Heat Management: Use the cooler outer areas of the flat cooktop if the chicken starts to caramelize too quickly to prevent burning.
- Add Heat: Add extra sriracha or cayenne pepper to the sauce for more spice if you like it extra hot.
Conclusion:
Cajun Sticky Chicken brings the bold, spicy flavors of Cajun cuisine together with a sweet, sticky glaze that caramelizes perfectly on the Arteflame grill. This chicken is spicy, sweet, and packed with flavor, making it a must-try for BBQ lovers.
Variations:
- Sticky Cajun BBQ Chicken: Add BBQ sauce to the sticky glaze for a smoky twist.
- Lemon Cajun Sticky Chicken: Add lemon zest and juice for a zesty citrus flavor.
- Cajun Sticky Chicken Wings: Use chicken wings instead of thighs for bite-sized, sticky goodness.
- Honey Garlic Cajun Sticky Chicken: Add more garlic and honey to the glaze for a sweeter, garlicky twist.
- Cajun Sticky Drumsticks: Use drumsticks instead of thighs for a more rustic, finger-licking experience.
Best Pairings:
- Grilled corn on the cob with Cajun butter
- Coleslaw with a vinegar-based dressing
- Roasted sweet potatoes or fries
- Cold beer or a citrusy iced tea
