By Serena Franklin(a Southern Mama Who Knows Her Way Around a Saucepot) – Guest Post
If there’s one thing I’ve learned raising a teenager, it’s this: you have to pick your battles. And in my house, one of those battles is dinner. My daughter, bless her heart, will eat chicken seven days a week — but don’t you dare let a vegetable touch her plate.
So what’s a mama to do? You get creative. You go bold. You pull out a secret weapon from the heart of North Alabama — Alabama White Sauce.
I grew up in Huntsville, where this tangy, creamy barbecue sauce is as common at cookouts as sweet tea and gospel music on Sunday mornings. It was invented by Big Bob Gibson back in the day, and let me tell you — it’ll turn a plain piece of grilled chicken into something heavenly. Even my picky teenage daughter licks her plate clean. And that’s a win in my book.
What’s Alabama White Sauce?
Unlike your usual thick, sweet red barbecue sauce, Alabama White Sauce is:
- Mayo-based
- Tangy with vinegar and lemon
- Punched up with black pepper, garlic, and a little heat
- Creamy, smoky, and perfect for grilled or smoked chicken
It clings to the meat, soaks into every bite, and keeps even lean cuts of chicken juicy and flavorful.
Why I Love It as a Mom
- It’s quick — I can whip it up while the chicken’s on the grill.
- It doubles as a marinade, baste, and dipping sauce.
- It makes dry chicken taste like it came from a smokehouse.
- And best of all — my daughter actually asks for seconds.
Ingredients (Serves 4)
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts if preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: smoked paprika or Cajun seasoning for extra flavor
For the Alabama White Sauce:
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ¼ cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon prepared horseradish (not creamy style)
- 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper (go heavy if you like it spicy)
- ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
- Salt to taste
Step-by-Step Recipe
Step 1: Prep and Season the Chicken
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- Rub with olive oil, then season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of paprika or Cajun seasoning if using.
- Let it rest at room temp while you fire up the grill or oven.
Mama Tip: If you’ve got time, marinate the chicken in a bit of the white sauce for 1–2 hours beforehand. Just don’t reuse that sauce later!
Step 2: Make the Alabama White Sauce
- In a medium bowl, whisk together all sauce ingredients.
- Taste and adjust — want more tang? Add vinegar. Want more bite? Add horseradish or pepper.
- Chill for at least 15–30 minutes to let the flavors come together.
Mama Tip: This sauce gets better overnight, so I always make a double batch. Great on sandwiches, fries, and even potato salad.
Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Grill Method (best flavor):
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken 5–6 minutes per side until cooked through (internal temp 165°F).
- In the last 2 minutes, baste lightly with white sauce — let it sizzle and stick to the meat.
- Remove and let rest for 5 minutes.
Oven Method (if it’s raining or just too hot outside):
- Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Bake chicken on a lined sheet pan for 20–25 minutes.
- Broil for 2–3 minutes at the end to get a little char.
- Brush with white sauce before and after broiling.
🍽️ Step 4: Serve It Up
Plate the chicken, drizzle generously with more Alabama White Sauce, and serve with:
- Toasted buns or Texas toast
- Mac and cheese (my daughter’s favorite)
- Baked beans or roasted potatoes (if your kid will eat them — mine won’t!)
Mama Tip: I cut her chicken into strips and serve it as “chicken dippers” with a side of sauce. Somehow, if it looks like fast food, it gets devoured.
From My Kitchen to Yours
I may not be able to get greens on her plate (yet), but I know I can get protein in her belly — and make her smile while I’m at it. That’s why Alabama White Sauce Chicken is one of my go-tos.
It’s got soul, it’s got sass, and it’s got enough flavor to convert even the pickiest eaters. Whether you’re feeding family, friends, or just trying to get through a weeknight with no complaints, give this one a try.
From one tired but determined mama to another — you got this. And if all else fails? Put the sauce on the side and call it “Southern ranch.” Works every time.
