15 Grilled Chicken Recipes Perfect for Summer BBQs

Looking to elevate your meals with something both delicious and easy to prepare? Grilled chicken is your go-to option!

These recipes highlight the best of chicken, delivering juicy, flavorful results with a delightful smoky finish. Perfect for family barbecues, casual get-togethers, or a quick weeknight dinner, grilled chicken never disappoints.

Ready to light up the grill and impress your guests? Explore these fantastic grilled chicken recipes that are sure to become your new favorites!

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

This Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is like a summer breeze on your plate! Marinated with zesty lemon juice, fragrant herbs, and a touch of garlic, this chicken is bursting with fresh flavors. The grilling gives it a smoky char that’s just irresistible.

Perfect for a quick and easy dinner, it pairs beautifully with a crisp salad or roasted vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a BBQ or looking for a weeknight meal, this dish is sure to impress.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon slices for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them well with the marinade. Let sit for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and charred.
5. Serve with lemon slices on top for garnish.

Serve With: A fresh Greek salad or roasted vegetables.

Drink With: A chilled glass of Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea.

2. BBQ Grilled Chicken

Nothing says summer like the smoky, tangy goodness of BBQ Grilled Chicken. This dish is all about that rich, smoky flavor that comes from a perfect BBQ sauce glaze.

Each bite is a delightful mix of sweet, savory, and a hint of spice. Perfect for any cookout, this chicken is sure to be the star of your meal. Pair it with some classic sides and enjoy the ultimate BBQ experience.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the chicken drumsticks with the olive oil mixture.
4. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes on each side.
5. Brush BBQ sauce over the chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve With: Coleslaw and corn on the cob.

Drink With: A cold beer or a glass of iced lemonade.

3. Grilled Chicken Tacos

Turn your ordinary taco night into a fiesta with these Grilled Chicken Tacos! Marinated in a blend of spices and lime juice, the chicken is grilled to perfection, then tucked into warm tortillas and topped with fresh, vibrant salsa. Each bite is a burst of flavor, making these tacos a fun and delicious meal that everyone will love.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small flour or corn tortillas
• 1 cup chopped tomatoes
• 1/2 cup chopped red onion
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken breasts and coat well with the marinade. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 5 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
5. Slice the chicken into thin strips.
6. Warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
7. Assemble the tacos by adding chicken strips, tomatoes, red onion, and cilantro to each tortilla.

Serve With: Mexican rice and refried beans.

Drink With: A cold margarita or a Mexican soda.

4. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Elevate your salad game with this Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad. Juicy, grilled chicken breast sits atop crisp romaine lettuce, tossed with creamy Caesar dressing, crunchy croutons, and a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.

It’s a hearty and satisfying salad that’s perfect for a light lunch or dinner, combining the smokiness of grilled chicken with the classic flavors of Caesar salad.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 head of romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 cup croutons
• Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
4. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing it.
5. In a large bowl, toss the chopped romaine lettuce with Caesar dressing.
6. Top with sliced chicken, Parmesan cheese, and croutons.
7. Serve with lemon wedges on the side.

Serve With: Garlic bread or a side of fresh fruit.

Drink With: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or iced green tea.

5. Spicy Grilled Chicken

Kick up the heat with this Spicy Grilled Chicken! Marinated in a fiery blend of spices, this chicken packs a punch of flavor and heat.

Perfect for spice lovers, it’s grilled to juicy perfection, making it a great choice for a sizzling summer BBQ. Pair it with cooling sides to balance the heat, and you’ve got a meal that’s sure to impress.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon hot sauce
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, hot sauce, cayenne pepper, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs and coat well with the marinade. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serve With: Cooling coleslaw and a side of cornbread.

Drink With: A refreshing mojito or a cold lager.

6. Mediterranean Grilled Chicken

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this delicious Grilled Chicken. Marinated in olive oil, lemon, garlic, and a blend of Mediterranean herbs, this chicken is full of vibrant and fresh flavors. Grilling adds a delightful char, making it a perfect centerpiece for a Mediterranean-inspired meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon dried thyme
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a mixing bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts and coat well with the marinade. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve With: Tabbouleh and pita bread.

Drink With: A glass of chilled Rosé or sparkling water with lemon.

7. Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa

Brighten up your meal with Grilled Chicken topped with fresh Mango Salsa. This dish is a delightful combination of savory grilled chicken and a sweet, tangy salsa made from ripe mangoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime. It’s a refreshing and colorful dish that’s perfect for summer.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
4. In a bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to make the salsa.
5. Serve the grilled chicken topped with mango salsa.

Serve With: Jasmine rice and a side salad.

Drink With: A tropical smoothie or a glass of iced tea.

8. Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Skewers

Grilled Chicken and Vegetable Skewers are a fun and colorful way to enjoy a healthy meal. The chicken is marinated in a savory blend of spices, then skewered with an assortment of fresh vegetables and grilled to perfection. It’s a complete meal on a stick that’s great for parties or a casual dinner.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken chunks and coat well with the marinade. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Thread the chicken and vegetables onto skewers.
5. Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve With: Couscous or a fresh garden salad.

Drink With: Lemonade or a light beer.

9. Grilled Teriyaki Chicken

Enjoy the savory and sweet flavors of Grilled Teriyaki Chicken. Marinated in a homemade teriyaki sauce, the chicken is grilled to perfection, resulting in a deliciously glazed and tender dish. This Japanese-inspired chicken is perfect for a quick and tasty dinner.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup mirin
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 1 tablespoon grated ginger
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, mirin, honey, ginger, garlic, and sesame oil.
2. Add the chicken thighs and coat well with the marinade. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
5. In a small pot, combine cornstarch and water, then add the remaining marinade. Cook until thickened.
6. Brush the cooked chicken with the thickened sauce before serving.

Serve With: Steamed rice and sautéed vegetables.

Drink With: Green tea or a cold sake.

10. Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa

This Grilled Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a delightful blend of smoky and creamy flavors. The grilled chicken is juicy and flavorful, while the avocado salsa adds a fresh and creamy touch. It’s a healthy and delicious option that’s perfect for a summer meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 ripe avocados, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
• Juice of 1 lime
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
4. In a bowl, combine diced avocados, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and salt to make the salsa.
5. Serve the grilled chicken topped with avocado salsa.

Serve With: Quinoa salad or grilled corn.

Drink With: A refreshing iced tea or a light beer.

11. Grilled Chicken Caprese

Indulge in the classic flavors of Caprese with this Grilled Chicken Caprese. Juicy grilled chicken breasts are topped with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and fragrant basil, then drizzled with a balsamic reduction. It’s a simple yet elegant dish that’s perfect for any occasion.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 slices fresh mozzarella
• 2 ripe tomatoes, sliced
• Fresh basil leaves
• Balsamic glaze for drizzling

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
4. Top each chicken breast with a slice of mozzarella and tomato, and a few basil leaves.
5. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Serve With: A side of mixed greens or garlic bread.

Drink With: A glass of Pinot Grigio or sparkling water.

12. Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce

Experience a burst of fresh and tangy flavors with Grilled Chicken and Chimichurri Sauce. This Argentinian-inspired dish features juicy grilled chicken topped with a vibrant green sauce made from parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. It’s a refreshing and zesty dish that’s perfect for summer.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
4. In a bowl, combine parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, and salt to make the chimichurri sauce.
5. Serve the grilled chicken topped with chimichurri sauce.

Serve With: Roasted potatoes or a side of grilled vegetables.

Drink With: A glass of Malbec or a cold beer.

13. Grilled Chicken Shawarma

Take your taste buds on a journey with Grilled Chicken Shawarma. Marinated in a blend of Middle Eastern spices, this chicken is full of rich and exotic flavors. Grilled to perfection, it’s juicy and flavorful, making it perfect for serving in pita bread with fresh veggies and a tangy yogurt sauce.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon ground coriander
• 1 teaspoon ground paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, cumin, coriander, paprika, turmeric, cinnamon, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs and coat well with the marinade. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
5. Slice the chicken and serve in pita bread with fresh vegetables and yogurt sauce.

Serve With: Pita bread and a side of hummus.

Drink With: Mint tea or a cold lager.

14. Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken

Sweet and tangy, Grilled Honey Mustard Chicken is a delightful dish that’s sure to please. Marinated in a honey mustard sauce, the chicken is grilled to juicy perfection. It’s a simple yet flavorful meal that’s perfect for any night of the week.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, whisk together Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts and coat well with the marinade. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Serve With: Roasted sweet potatoes or a fresh green salad.

Drink With: A glass of Chardonnay or iced tea.

15. Grilled Chicken Fajitas

Bring the flavors of Tex-Mex to your table with Grilled Chicken Fajitas. Marinated chicken is grilled and served with sautéed peppers and onions, wrapped in warm tortillas. It’s a fun and flavorful meal that’s perfect for any occasion.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced
• 1 yellow onion, sliced
• 8 small flour tortillas
• Lime wedges for garnish

Instructions:

1. In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts and coat well with the marinade. Let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
5. In a skillet, sauté the bell peppers and onions until tender.
6. Slice the grilled chicken and serve with sautéed peppers and onions in warm tortillas.
7. Garnish with lime wedges.

Serve With: Mexican rice and refried beans.

Drink With: A classic margarita or a cold Mexican beer.

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