Add butter and olive oil to a saucepan over medium-low heat and melt slowly

Add chopped onion and cook until soft and translucent

Stir in minced garlic and cook briefly until fragrant

Add paprika, smoked paprika, Cajun seasoning, Old Bay, onion powder, garlic powder, black pepper, white pepper, and cayenne

Stir constantly to bloom the spices without burning

Add brown sugar and stir until dissolved

Pour in lemon juice and Worcestershire sauce

Stir in chicken bouillon powder if using

Reduce heat to low and let the sauce simmer gently, stirring often

Add red pepper flakes or hot sauce if using

Simmer until slightly thickened and deeply flavored

Taste and adjust salt, heat, or acidity as needed