15 Summer Chicken Recipes for Light and Tasty Meals

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As the days get longer and the weather warms up, it’s the perfect time to enjoy some light, flavorful, and refreshing chicken dishes.

Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick and easy dinner after a day at the beach, these summer chicken recipes are just what you need.

Packed with seasonal ingredients and vibrant flavors, they’re sure to become your go-to favorites for sunny days and warm nights. Let’s explore these delicious chicken recipes that are perfect for summer!

1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken

Juicy, tender chicken marinated in a zesty lemon herb blend is the perfect dish for a summer cookout. The citrusy lemon pairs beautifully with aromatic herbs, creating a delightful burst of flavor with every bite. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also guaranteed to impress your guests. Grill up this tasty chicken, and let the compliments roll in!

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1 tsp dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper.
  2. Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Serve With: Grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad.
Drink With: A crisp, chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing iced tea.

2. BBQ Chicken Skewers

Bring the taste of a summer barbecue to your table with these delicious BBQ chicken skewers. Tender chicken chunks are coated in a sweet and tangy BBQ sauce, then grilled to perfection. These skewers are perfect for parties, family gatherings, or just a fun weeknight dinner.

Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Skewers, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken breasts, cut into cubes
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 red onion, cut into chunks
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
  2. Thread chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto skewers, alternating ingredients.
  3. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. Brush BBQ sauce generously over the skewers.
  5. Grill for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
  6. Serve hot with extra BBQ sauce on the side.

Serve With: Corn on the cob and a simple coleslaw.
Drink With: A cold beer or lemonade.

3. Lemon Garlic Chicken Thighs

Experience the perfect balance of tangy and savory with these lemon garlic chicken thighs. The succulent chicken thighs are marinated in a zesty lemon and garlic mixture, then baked to golden perfection. This dish is sure to become a family favorite with its mouthwatering flavor.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 35 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Equipment: Baking dish, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 6 chicken thighs, skin-on
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 2 lemons
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  3. Toss the chicken thighs in the marinade until well coated.
  4. Place chicken thighs in a baking dish and pour the remaining marinade over them.
  5. Bake for 35-40 minutes, or until chicken is golden and cooked through.
  6. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve.

Serve With: Roasted potatoes and steamed green beans.
Drink With: A glass of Chardonnay or sparkling water with lemon.

4. Chicken Caprese

Indulge in the flavors of Italy with this Chicken Caprese. Juicy chicken breasts are topped with ripe tomatoes, fresh basil, and creamy mozzarella, then drizzled with a balsamic glaze. This dish is both elegant and easy, making it perfect for any occasion.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Skillet, Baking dish
No. of Ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 large tomatoes, sliced
  • 8 oz fresh mozzarella, sliced
  • Fresh basil leaves
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Balsamic glaze

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C).
  2. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
  3. Sear the chicken breasts for 2-3 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. Transfer chicken to a baking dish. Top each piece with tomato slices, mozzarella, and basil leaves.
  5. Bake for 15-20 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and cheese is melted.
  6. Drizzle with balsamic glaze before serving.

Serve With: A side of pasta with olive oil and garlic, or a mixed green salad.
Drink With: A glass of Pinot Grigio or iced tea.

5. Spicy Grilled Chicken Tacos

Spice up your taco night with these flavorful spicy grilled chicken tacos. Marinated in a spicy blend and grilled to perfection, these tacos are bursting with bold flavors. Top with fresh salsa, creamy avocado, and a squeeze of lime for a delicious meal.

Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Equipment: Grill, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, cut into strips
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tbsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • 1 tsp garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Corn tortillas
  • Fresh salsa
  • Avocado slices

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, cumin, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
  2. Toss the chicken strips in the marinade until well coated. Let marinate for 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill chicken strips for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
  5. Warm corn tortillas on the grill.
  6. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken, fresh salsa, and avocado slices.

Serve With: Mexican rice and black beans.
Drink With: A cold margarita or a refreshing agua fresca.

6. Pineapple Chicken Kabobs

Take your taste buds on a tropical journey with these pineapple chicken kabobs. Juicy chicken chunks are skewered with sweet pineapple and colorful bell peppers, then grilled to perfection. This dish is a fun and tasty way to enjoy a summer meal.

Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Hawaiian
Equipment: Grill, Skewers, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken breasts, cut into cubes
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 1/4 cup pineapple juice
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
  2. Thread chicken, pineapple, and bell peppers onto skewers, alternating ingredients.
  3. Season with salt and pepper.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine soy sauce and pineapple juice. Brush over the skewers.
  5. Grill for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
  6. Serve hot with extra marinade on the side.

Serve With: Coconut rice and a mixed fruit salad.
Drink With: A piña colada or tropical smoothie.

7. Cilantro Lime Chicken

Brighten up your meal with this cilantro lime chicken. Marinated in a zesty cilantro lime mixture, the chicken is grilled to perfection, resulting in a fresh and flavorful dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Equipment: Grill, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 7

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, cilantro, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
  5. Serve with lime wedges and garnish with extra cilantro.

Serve With: Mexican corn salad and rice.
Drink With: A mojito or limeade.

8. Mediterranean Chicken Salad

This Mediterranean chicken salad is a light, fresh, and satisfying meal. Packed with juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and a tangy dressing, it’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean in every bite!

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Equipment: Skillet, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
  • 1/4 red onion, thinly sliced
  • 1/4 cup kalamata olives, pitted
  • 1/4 cup feta cheese, crumbled
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

  1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Season chicken with salt and pepper, then cook in the skillet for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let cool and slice.
  3. In a mixing bowl, combine cucumber, tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
  4. Add sliced chicken and toss with lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
  5. Serve immediately.

Serve With: Pita bread and hummus.
Drink With: A glass of rosé or sparkling water with lemon.

9. Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

Sweet and tangy, this honey mustard grilled chicken is sure to be a hit. The juicy chicken is marinated in a delightful honey mustard sauce and grilled to perfection. It’s an easy and delicious option for any weeknight dinner or summer cookout.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients:

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

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
  5. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve hot.

Serve With: Potato salad and grilled corn.
Drink With: A glass of chilled white wine or lemonade.

10. Chicken and Vegetable Skewers

These chicken and vegetable skewers are a colorful and healthy option for your next barbecue. Juicy chicken pieces are paired with a variety of vibrant vegetables, making this dish as visually appealing as it is delicious.

Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Grill, Skewers, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken breasts, cut into cubes
  • 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1 zucchini, sliced
  • 1 red onion, cut into chunks
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh herbs for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium heat.
  2. Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers, alternating ingredients.
  3. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
  4. Grill for 12-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through.
  5. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve.

Serve With: Quinoa salad and tzatziki sauce.
Drink With: A light beer or iced tea.

11. Greek Chicken Gyros

Transport your taste buds to Greece with these delicious chicken gyros. Marinated chicken is grilled to perfection and served in warm pita bread with fresh vegetables and a creamy tzatziki sauce. It’s a fun and flavorful meal that’s easy to make.

Recipe

Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Greek
Equipment: Grill, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 10

Ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken breasts, sliced
  • 1/4 cup olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Pita bread
  • Sliced tomatoes
  • Sliced cucumbers
  • Tzatziki sauce

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the chicken slices in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the chicken slices for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
  5. Serve the chicken in warm pita bread with tomatoes, cucumbers, and tzatziki sauce.

Serve With: Greek salad and olives.
Drink With: A glass of chilled white wine or sparkling water.

12. Avocado Chicken Salad

This creamy avocado chicken salad is a delicious and healthy meal option. Tender chicken is combined with creamy avocado, crisp vegetables, and a light dressing, making it perfect for a quick lunch or dinner. It’s fresh, flavorful, and incredibly satisfying.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: American
Equipment: Skillet, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 avocado, diced
  • 1 cucumber, diced
  • 1/2 red onion, diced
  • 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then cook in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked. Let cool and slice.
  2. In a mixing bowl, combine avocado, cucumber, red onion, cherry tomatoes, lime juice, salt, and pepper.
  3. Add sliced chicken and toss gently.
  4. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.

Serve With: Whole grain crackers or a side of mixed greens.
Drink With: A glass of sparkling water with lime or a light, fruity white wine.

13. Mango Chicken Salsa

Bring a taste of the tropics to your table with this mango chicken salsa. Juicy grilled chicken is paired with a fresh and fruity mango salsa, creating a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors. It’s a perfect dish for summer dining.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Caribbean
Equipment: Grill, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 9

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 mango, diced
  • 1/2 red bell pepper, diced
  • 1/4 red onion, diced
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh lime wedges for serving

Instructions:

  1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  2. Season the chicken with salt, pepper, and olive oil.
  3. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
  4. In a mixing bowl, combine mango, red bell pepper, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper.
  5. Serve the grilled chicken with the mango salsa on top and lime wedges on the side.

Serve With: Coconut rice and a mixed green salad.
Drink With: A tropical fruit smoothie or a chilled Riesling.

14. Balsamic Grilled Chicken

Enjoy the rich, tangy flavor of balsamic grilled chicken. Marinated in a delicious balsamic vinegar mixture, this chicken is grilled to perfection, making it juicy and flavorful. It’s an elegant yet easy dish that’s perfect for any meal.

Recipe

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Italian
Equipment: Grill, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 6

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh basil for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
  5. Garnish with fresh basil and serve.

Serve With: Roasted vegetables and a side of pasta.
Drink With: A glass of red wine, such as Chianti, or sparkling water with a splash of balsamic.

15. Coconut Lime Chicken

Savor the exotic flavors of coconut lime chicken. This dish features tender chicken marinated in a creamy coconut milk and zesty lime mixture, then grilled to perfection. It’s a tropical delight that’s perfect for a refreshing and flavorful meal.

Recipe

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Asian
Equipment: Grill, Mixing bowl
No. of Ingredients: 8

Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup coconut milk
  • Juice of 2 limes
  • 1 tbsp soy sauce
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ginger, grated
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions:

  1. In a mixing bowl, combine coconut milk, lime juice, soy sauce, garlic, ginger, salt, and pepper.
  2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 1 hour.
  3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked.
  5. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve.

Serve With: Jasmine rice and a side of grilled vegetables.
Drink With: A coconut water or a refreshing mojito.

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