16 Grilled Chicken Recipes for Summer BBQs

Summer is here, and that means it’s time to fire up the grill! The sizzle of marinated chicken on the barbecue sparks joy and creates memories that last a lifetime. I’ve been craving those smoky, charred flavors that only summer grilling can bring. So, I put together this post to share delicious grilled chicken recipes that will not only tantalize your taste buds but also keep your BBQ healthy and low-calorie.

If you love hosting summer gatherings or simply enjoy a good meal outdoors, this one’s for you. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or just starting out, these recipes will inspire you to make the most of your summer cookouts. You’ll find a variety of ideas, from easy chicken marinades to flavorful rubs, ensuring that your grilled chicken is anything but boring. Say goodbye to bland BBQs and hello to mouthwatering dishes that your family and friends will rave about!

In this post, you’ll discover 16 grilled chicken recipes that are packed with flavor and perfect for summer. Each recipe is designed to be easy to follow and maintain a healthy balance, so you can enjoy your outdoor meals without the guilt. With these recipes in hand, you’ll be ready to impress your guests and indulge in the essence of summer cooking.

Key Takeaways

– Discover 16 unique grilled chicken recipes that are flavorful and low-calorie, perfect for your summer BBQs.

– Find easy-to-make chicken marinades and rubs that enhance the taste of your grilled dishes.

– Enjoy a variety of styles, from Mediterranean to Asian-inspired flavors, catering to diverse palates.

– Get tips for outdoor cooking that ensure your chicken is juicy, tender, and full of flavor every time.

– Embrace healthy BBQ recipes that let you enjoy delicious meals while sticking to your dietary goals.

1. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Craving something bright and zesty for your next BBQ? This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is just what you need! With a marinade that combines olive oil, fresh lemon juice, garlic, and fragrant herbs, you’ll enjoy a juicy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for those warm evenings. Pair it with a crisp side salad for a refreshing meal.

Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 2 lemons
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1 teaspoon dried rosemary
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Place chicken breasts in a sealable bag, pour marinade over, and let it sit for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off, and grill for about 7-8 minutes on each side until cooked through.
5. Serve with fresh salad and enjoy!

– For extra flavor, let chicken marinate overnight.
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F.

FAQs:
– Can I use bone-in chicken? Yes, just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

2. Spicy Tandoori Chicken

Looking to spice things up at your BBQ? This Spicy Tandoori Chicken will do the trick! With a vibrant marinade crafted from yogurt and a blend of spices like cumin and paprika, your taste buds are in for a treat. Not only is it low in calories, but it’s also rich in protein, making it a great choice for health-conscious grillers.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken thighs, skinless
– 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons tandoori spice mix
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt, tandoori spice mix, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat chicken thighs in the marinade and let them sit in the fridge for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
3. Preheat grill to medium heat.
4. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side or until juices run clear.
5. Serve with cucumber raita for a cooling effect.

– Pair with whole wheat pita bread for a complete meal.
– Adjust spice levels by adding more or less tandoori mix.

FAQs:
– Is this recipe suitable for meal prep? Absolutely, it holds well in the fridge for up to 3 days.

3. Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

If you’re in the mood for something sweet and tangy, this Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is a must-try! The blend of honey and Dijon mustard creates a sticky glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, making it a favorite for family gatherings. This dish is not just delicious but also easy to prepare, ensuring you spend more time enjoying your BBQ.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix honey, mustard, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate chicken breasts in the mixture for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat grill to medium heat.
4. Grill chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, brushing with extra marinade until cooked through.
5. Serve with a side of grilled veggies or corn on the cob.

– Use leftover marinade to brush on the chicken during grilling for extra flavor.
– For a smokier taste, add wood chips to the grill.

FAQs:
– Can I use this marinade on other proteins? Yes, it works great with pork and fish too!

4. Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Skewers

Craving the flavors of the Mediterranean? These Grilled Chicken Skewers are the perfect solution! Marinated in olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano, these skewers are packed with flavor and are a healthy choice for any outdoor gathering. They can be easily served with a yogurt dip or a fresh salad for a complete meal.

Ingredients:
– 1.5 lbs chicken breast, cubed
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Juice of 1 lemon
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers

Instructions:
1. Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes to prevent burning.
2. In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken cubes to the marinade and let sit for at least 30 minutes.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers.
5. Preheat grill to medium-high heat and grill skewers for 4-5 minutes on each side until cooked through.
6. Serve with tzatziki sauce or fresh pita.

– Add veggies like bell peppers and onions to the skewers for more variety.
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken is fully cooked.

FAQs:
– Can I bake these skewers instead of grilling? Yes, bake at 400°F for about 20 minutes.

5. Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken

Indulge in the rich and savory flavors of Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken at your next BBQ. This recipe features a buttery marinade infused with garlic, grated parmesan, and fresh parsley. When grilled, the chicken develops a crispy exterior while staying juicy inside, making it a hearty yet healthy option.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup grated parmesan cheese
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, parmesan, garlic, parsley, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat the chicken breasts with the mixture and let marinate for at least 20 minutes.
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until nicely charred and cooked through.
5. Serve hot with a sprinkle of extra parmesan and fresh herbs.

– Use freshly grated parmesan for better flavor.
– Serve alongside steamed vegetables for a complete meal.

FAQs:
– What can I substitute for parmesan? You can use nutritional yeast for a dairy-free option.

6. BBQ Pulled Chicken

Looking for a fun BBQ dish? This BBQ Pulled Chicken is perfect for summer get-togethers! Slow-cooked on the grill, the chicken becomes tender and shreds easily, making it ideal for sandwiches or tacos. The homemade BBQ sauce adds a tangy sweetness that everyone will love. It’s an effortless way to feed a crowd!

Ingredients:
– 2 lbs chicken breasts
– 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Preheat grill to low/medium heat.
3. Grill chicken for about 30-40 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked.
4. Remove chicken from grill and let it rest for 10 minutes.
5. Shred the chicken using two forks and mix with BBQ sauce.
6. Serve on buns or in tacos with coleslaw.

– For added flavor, marinate chicken in BBQ sauce overnight.
– Use a slow cooker for easy preparation; cook on low for 6 hours.

FAQs:
– Can I use chicken thighs instead? Yes, thighs work well too and stay juicy.

7. Teriyaki Grilled Chicken

Want to impress your guests with something sweet and savory? Teriyaki Grilled Chicken is a delightful Asian-inspired addition to your summer BBQ. The marinade made with soy sauce, brown sugar, and ginger creates a caramelized flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled veggies or rice. This dish not only satisfies cravings but also fits nicely into a low-calorie meal plan.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons grated ginger
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Green onions for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic.
2. Marinate the chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes in the fridge.
3. Preheat grill to medium heat.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked.
5. Garnish with chopped green onions and serve with steamed rice.

– For intensely rich flavors, allow chicken to marinate overnight.
– Serve with grilled pineapple for a tropical twist.

FAQs:
– Can I use this on other meats? Yes, it works well with pork and salmon too!

8. Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken

Searching for a bright and zesty dish this summer? Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken is just what you need! The marinade features cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and a hint of chili powder, resulting in a flavor-packed treat that pairs beautifully with grilled corn or a fresh salad. It’s perfect for those hot days when you want something light yet satisfying.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup lime juice
– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix lime juice, cilantro, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate chicken breasts in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through.
5. Serve with fresh avocado slices or in tacos.

– Adjust lime juice according to your taste; it adds a great pop!
– Pair with a light mango salsa for extra flavor.

FAQs:
– Can I use this marinade for fish? Yes, it’s fantastic with white fish as well!

9. Pesto Grilled Chicken

Elevate your grilled chicken experience with this Pesto Grilled Chicken. The vibrant flavors of fresh basil pesto infuse the chicken with a delightful herby taste, making it a perfect match for grilled veggies or a summer pasta salad. Not only is this recipe easy to make, but it also adds a gourmet touch to your BBQ.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup basil pesto
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Coat chicken breasts with pesto and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
3. Grill chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until cooked through.
4. Serve with a side of grilled veggies or on a bed of pasta.

– Use homemade pesto for the best flavor.
– Pair with grilled artichokes for a lovely side dish.

FAQs:
– Can I use store-bought pesto? Yes, store-bought works well but homemade is more flavorful.

10. Salsa Verde Grilled Chicken

If you’re looking for a zingy and flavorful dish, Salsa Verde Grilled Chicken is the way to go. The vibrant green salsa made with tomatillos, cilantro, and jalapeños adds a delicious punch to the grilled chicken, making it a hit for any summer gathering. Pair it with rice or tortillas to bring the taste of the Mexican countryside to your backyard.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1 cup salsa verde
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Season chicken with salt and pepper.
2. Coat chicken in salsa verde and let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat grill to medium heat.
4. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
5. Serve with extra salsa verde and your favorite sides.

– Use leftover salsa to drizzle over tacos or rice dishes.
– Serve with a fresh corn salad for a refreshing twist.

FAQs:
– What if I can’t find tomatillos? You can substitute with green tomatoes.

Grilling chicken with salsa verde isn’t just tasty—it’s a quick win in healthy grilled chicken recipes for weeknight dinners. The tomatillos, cilantro, and jalapeños boost flavor without loading calories, so you can feed a crowd and still keep it healthy.

11. Maple Dijon Grilled Chicken

Sweet and savory, this Maple Dijon Grilled Chicken is a delightful addition to your summer BBQ menu. The marinade, combining maple syrup and Dijon mustard, creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. It’s a fantastic option for those seeking a unique flavor profile that’s still healthy and filling.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix maple syrup, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate chicken breasts in the mixture for at least 20 minutes.
3. Preheat grill to medium heat.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through, brushing with leftover marinade.
5. Serve with grilled veggies or a fresh green salad.

– To enhance sweetness, add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the marinade.
– Use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.

FAQs:
– Can I use chicken thighs instead? Yes, thighs will be just as delicious!

12. Cajun Grilled Chicken

For those who love a little kick, Cajun Grilled Chicken is a must-try recipe. The spicy Cajun seasoning brings out a bold flavor that pairs well with a cooling cucumber salad. It’s an easy, flavorful dish that will elevate your BBQ experience without piling on the calories.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Rub chicken breasts with olive oil, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper.
2. Preheat grill to medium heat.
3. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through.
4. Serve with a refreshing cucumber salad to cool down the spice.

– Adjust the spice level by adding more or less seasoning.
– Pair with a creamy dressing for extra contrast.

FAQs:
– Can I use this seasoning on vegetables? Absolutely, it works great on grilled veggies too!

Fun fact: Cajun grilled chicken delivers bold, spicy flavor with fewer calories than you might expect — about 200–250 per serving. Pair it with a cucumber salad and your grilled chicken recipes suddenly feel light, refreshing, and totally summer-ready.

13. Savory Italian Grilled Chicken

Transport your taste buds to Italy with this Savory Italian Grilled Chicken. This recipe uses a lovely marinade of balsamic vinegar, garlic, and Italian herbs, creating a dish that bursts with flavor. Serve it on a bed of arugula with cherry tomatoes for a light yet satisfying meal.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Mix balsamic vinegar, garlic, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Marinate chicken in the mixture for at least 30 minutes.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through.
5. Serve on a bed of arugula with cherry tomatoes.

– For added depth, roast cherry tomatoes before serving.
– Use a cast-iron skillet on the grill for extra flavor.

FAQs:
– Can I use this marinade for fish? Yes, it works well with salmon or tilapia.

14. Smoky Chipotle Grilled Chicken

Take your BBQ to the next level with Smoky Chipotle Grilled Chicken. The chipotle peppers in adobo sauce add a smoky heat that tantalizes the palate. This dish is perfect for those who love bold flavors and can be paired with a refreshing slaw for balance.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. Mix minced chipotle peppers, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
2. Rub the mixture onto chicken breasts and let marinate for 30 minutes.
3. Preheat grill to medium heat.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through.
5. Serve with a crunchy slaw to balance the heat.

– Adjust chipotle quantity according to your spice preference.
– A drizzle of lime juice enhances the flavors beautifully.

FAQs:
– Can I bake this chicken instead? Yes, bake at 400°F for 25-30 minutes.

15. Asian Sesame Grilled Chicken

This Asian Sesame Grilled Chicken is a delightful fusion of flavors that’s sure to impress. The marinade made with sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey will add a nutty sweetness to the chicken. Serve it with a side of steamed broccoli or over a bed of rice for a healthy and satisfying meal.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup sesame oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon minced ginger
– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, whisk together sesame oil, soy sauce, honey, and ginger.
2. Marinate chicken breasts in the mixture for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side until cooked through.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

– Serve with a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.
– Leftover chicken makes great additions to salads or wraps.

FAQs:
– Can I use this marinade for tofu? Yes, it works wonderfully for grilled tofu!

16. Herb and Spice Grilled Chicken

Wrap up your grilling journey with this Herb and Spice Grilled Chicken. This classic recipe uses a mix of your favorite herbs and spices for a simple yet flavorful dish that can be easily tailored to your taste. Perfect for a low-calorie meal, this chicken pairs well with almost anything, making it a versatile choice for your summer BBQ.

Ingredients:
– 4 chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons mixed dried herbs (thyme, oregano, basil)
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:
1. In a bowl, mix olive oil, dried herbs, salt, and pepper.
2. Coat chicken breasts in the mixture and let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Preheat grill to medium heat.
4. Grill chicken for 6-8 minutes on each side until cooked through.
5. Serve with your favorite side dishes.

– Experiment with different herbs to find your favorite combination.
– A squeeze of lemon right before serving adds a nice brightness.

FAQs:
– Can I use fresh herbs? Yes, fresh herbs can enhance the flavor even more.

Fun fact: a simple herb-and-spice rub can boost flavor in grilled chicken recipes by 100% without extra calories. Just 2 teaspoons dried herbs and a light olive oil drizzle add bold taste to your chicken—perfect for a low-calorie summer BBQ.

Conclusion

Grilled chicken is a versatile and healthy option for summer BBQs that never goes out of style. With these 16 recipes, you’ve got a treasure trove of flavor and nutrition at your fingertips. Whether you prefer zesty, spicy, or sweet marinades, there’s something here for everyone. Try them out, share with friends, and make your summer gatherings delicious and memorable!

Each recipe shines on its own, but when combined, they create a bursting menu perfect for any outdoor occasion. And remember, grilling isn’t just about cooking; it’s about gathering, sharing, and making memories.