There’s nothing quite like the smell of chicken sizzling on the grill, the smoky char mingling with sweet, sticky barbecue sauce as the flames work their magic. Summer dinners should be easy, flavorful, and packed with that unmistakable backyard-cookout vibe—and nothing delivers that better than perfectly grilled BBQ chicken. Whether you’re hosting a laid-back family gathering, a festive holiday cookout, or just craving a no-fuss weeknight meal that tastes like sunshine, these 12 recipes will take your grilling game to the next level.
From classic sticky-sweet Kansas City-style ribs to spicy jerk chicken with a Caribbean kick, tangy Alabama white sauce slathered over juicy thighs, or even a honey-mustard glaze with a hint of bourbon smokiness, this lineup has something for every taste. Imagine tender, smoky drumsticks caramelized with a maple-chipotle glaze, crispy-skinned thighs basted in a bourbon-peach BBQ sauce, or even a whole beer-can chicken dripping with garlic-herb butter. We’ve included foolproof marinades, slow-smoked masterpieces, and even a few unexpected twists (like grilled chicken pizza with BBQ drizzle!) to keep your summer meals exciting.
But great BBQ chicken isn’t just about the recipe—it’s about the experience. The laughter as friends gather around the grill, the cold drink in your hand while you flip the chicken just right, and the satisfied silence that follows the first bite of smoky, saucy perfection. We’ve packed in pro tips for keeping chicken juicy, avoiding flare-ups, and pairing these dishes with the best sides (think grilled corn, tangy slaw, and buttery biscuits). So fire up the coals, grab your tongs, and get ready to make this summer’s dinners truly unforgettable—one delicious bite at a time.
Garlic Herb Marinated Chicken Thighs
Garlic Herb Marinated Chicken Thighs are a delightful summer dish that combines juicy chicken with aromatic herbs and the rich taste of garlic. The marinated chicken turns out tender and bursting with flavor, making it a perfect choice for outdoor grilling or a cozy dinner at home.
This recipe is simple to follow, meaning you’ll spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal with loved ones. The marinade works its magic in just a few hours, infusing the chicken with a delicious garlic and herb profile that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Breasts
Honey mustard glazed chicken breasts bring a delightful blend of sweetness and tang to your summer dinners. This simple recipe is perfect for weeknight meals or weekend barbecues, offering a tasty alternative to standard grilled chicken.
The glaze, made from honey and mustard, caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a mouthwatering finish. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is not only easy to make but also incredibly satisfying for family and friends alike.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or bowl, pouring the marinade over them. Let it sit for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle with any leftover glaze and enjoy!
Smoky Chipotle Chicken Drumsticks
Smoky Chipotle Chicken Drumsticks are a perfect choice for summer grilling. These drumsticks bring a great smoky flavor balanced with a spicy kick from chipotle. They’re simple to make, making them ideal for both seasoned grillers and newbies alike.
Marinated in a smoky chipotle sauce, these chicken legs become juicy and tender while grilling. Serve them at your next barbecue, and watch them disappear quickly!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons chipotle sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, chipotle sauce, honey, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the drumsticks in a resealable bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or ideally overnight.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Drumsticks: Remove the drumsticks from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your smoky, spicy drumsticks hot off the grill!
Thai Sweet Chili Grilled Chicken
Thai Sweet Chili Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that balances sweet and spicy flavors, making it a standout choice for summer dinners. This recipe is not only tasty but also incredibly easy to prepare. The chicken is marinated in a sweet chili sauce that infuses it with a savory heat while keeping it juicy on the grill.
The grilling process gives the chicken a smoky flavor that complements the sweetness of the marinade perfectly. It’s a great option for barbecues, family gatherings, or a simple weeknight dinner. Serve it with fresh vegetables for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup Thai sweet chili sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 teaspoon sesame oil
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the sweet chili sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, garlic, ginger, and sesame oil. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess sauce drip off. Grill each piece for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Transfer the grilled chicken to a plate and garnish with chopped green onions. Serve with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables or rice.
Spicy Mango BBQ Chicken Skewers
These Spicy Mango BBQ Chicken Skewers are a delightful combination of sweet and heat, perfect for summer grilling. The juicy chicken pieces are marinated in a zesty mango sauce that packs a punch of flavor, making each bite a treat. Not only are they easy to prepare, but they also bring a vibrant, tropical twist to your typical BBQ fare.
Grilling these skewers over an open flame caramelizes the mango marinade, creating a delicious char that enhances the overall taste. They’re great for gatherings or a casual dinner, and the combination of chicken and fresh fruit is sure to impress everyone at the table. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 ripe mango, peeled and diced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 1 tablespoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a blender, combine diced mango, soy sauce, honey, chili powder, garlic powder, and ginger. Blend until smooth.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in a bowl, pour the mango marinade over, and mix well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving some space between each piece.
- Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove from the grill, season with salt and pepper, and serve hot with extra diced mango or your favorite dipping sauce.
Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
Cilantro Lime Chicken is a bright and refreshing dish that’s perfect for summer. The zesty lime marinade infuses the chicken with a tangy flavor, while fresh cilantro adds a delightful herbaceous note. Pair it with a simple avocado salsa, and you have a meal that’s not only delicious but also easy to prepare.
This recipe is quick to whip up, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The combination of grilled chicken and creamy avocado salsa complements each other beautifully, creating a dish that will surely impress your family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 cup diced avocados
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together lime juice, olive oil, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through and juices run clear.
- Make the Avocado Salsa: In a separate bowl, combine diced avocados, tomatoes, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Mix gently to combine.
- Serve: Serve the grilled chicken topped with the fresh avocado salsa. Enjoy this vibrant dish with your favorite sides!
Herbed Lemon Grilled Chicken Wings
Herbed lemon grilled chicken wings are a delightful addition to any summer cookout. They bring a zesty twist to the classic wing, combining the freshness of lemon with aromatic herbs. The result is a dish that’s both tangy and savory, making your taste buds dance with joy. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, perfect for a casual dinner or a crowd-pleasing party snack.
Marinating the wings allows them to soak up all those vibrant flavors, ensuring every bite is packed with deliciousness. Whether you’re grilling them to perfection or baking them in the oven, these wings are sure to impress everyone around the table.
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Add the Chicken Wings: Toss the chicken wings in the marinade until well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, make sure the coals are evenly hot.
- Grill the Wings: Remove the wings from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are crispy and golden brown.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve with your favorite dipping sauce and enjoy!
BBQ Chicken with Pineapple Salsa
This BBQ Chicken with Pineapple Salsa is a delightful twist on a classic summer dish. The juicy chicken is grilled to perfection, offering a smoky flavor that pairs wonderfully with the bright and refreshing pineapple salsa. It’s simple enough for a weeknight dinner yet impressive enough for summer gatherings with friends and family.
The sweetness of the pineapple combined with zesty lime and fresh herbs creates a vibrant contrast to the savory chicken. This dish not only excites the taste buds but also brings a splash of color to your table. Plus, it’s quick to make, making it ideal for those busy summer evenings!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce (your choice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh pineapple, diced
- 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 jalapeño, finely diced (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and BBQ sauce. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Salsa: In another bowl, combine diced pineapple, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño (if using). Mix well and set aside.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Cook the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and grill marks appear.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Top with the pineapple salsa before serving.
Teriyaki Glazed Chicken Thighs
Teriyaki glazed chicken thighs are a fantastic choice for summer dinners. The sweet and savory glaze pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken, resulting in a dish that’s packed with flavor. Plus, it’s simple to make, making it great for both weeknight meals and weekend barbecues.
This recipe is all about the marinade, which infuses the chicken with wonderful taste and caramelizes beautifully on the grill. The result is mouthwatering chicken with a glossy finish that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag, ensuring the chicken is well coated. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove from the grill. Sprinkle with sesame seeds before serving. Enjoy your delicious teriyaki glazed chicken thighs!
BBQ Chicken Flatbreads with Fresh Toppings
BBQ chicken flatbreads are a fun and tasty way to enjoy summer flavors. Grilled chicken tossed in barbecue sauce sits atop warm flatbreads, creating a satisfying base for fresh toppings. The sweet and tangy BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with crisp vegetables and aromatic herbs, making each bite a delightful experience. This recipe is easy to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
The combination of grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty toppings not only makes it delicious but also visually appealing. You can customize the flatbreads based on what you have on hand, so feel free to get creative!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 flatbreads or naan
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 cup bell peppers, diced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions
- Mix the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the shredded chicken with BBQ sauce, ensuring all pieces are evenly coated.
- Prepare the Flatbreads: Preheat the grill or a grill pan. Lightly toast the flatbreads on the grill for about 1-2 minutes on each side until warm.
- Assemble the Flatbreads: Spread the BBQ chicken mixture evenly over each flatbread. Top with cherry tomatoes, bell peppers, red onion, lettuce, and cilantro. Add cheese if desired.
- Serve: Slice the flatbreads into wedges and serve immediately while warm. Enjoy your delightful summer dish!
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Tzatziki
This Mediterranean grilled chicken is a flavorful and healthy option for summer dinners. Marinated in a blend of herbs and spices, it brings a burst of freshness with every bite. The addition of tzatziki, a creamy yogurt sauce, complements the grilled chicken perfectly, making it a simple yet satisfying dish.
Not only is this recipe easy to prepare, but it also highlights the vibrant flavors of Mediterranean cuisine. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables or a crisp salad, and you have a complete meal that feels special without requiring too much effort.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon dried thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated
- 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Tzatziki: In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, lemon juice, and salt. Mix well and refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and juices run clear.
- Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and serve alongside tzatziki, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Buffalo BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Buffalo BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are a spicy, tangy treat that’s perfect for summer gatherings! These sandwiches are packed with flavor, balancing the heat of buffalo sauce with the sweetness of BBQ. They’re easy to whip up, making them a go-to for a casual dinner or a backyard barbecue.
These sandwiches are not only delicious but also customizable. You can add your favorite toppings like pickles, onions, or cheese to enhance the experience. Plus, they come together quickly, so you can spend more time enjoying the sunshine and less time in the kitchen!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup shredded lettuce
- 1/2 cup sliced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or mozzarella)
- Pickles (optional)
Instructions
- Mix the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce and BBQ sauce in a bowl until well coated.
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and warm the chicken mixture for about 5 minutes.
- Toast the hamburger buns lightly on the skillet or grill.
- Assemble the sandwiches by placing a generous portion of the buffalo chicken on the bottom half of each bun.
- Add shredded lettuce, sliced tomatoes, and cheese on top of the chicken.
- Top with pickles if desired, then close the sandwich with the other half of the bun.
- Serve immediately with fries or your favorite side!
Final Thoughts
Grilled BBQ chicken is the ultimate summer comfort food—simple enough for a Tuesday night but special enough for a weekend feast. With these 12 recipes, you’ll never run out of ways to keep your meals exciting, flavorful, and full of that smoky, charred goodness we all crave. Whether you stick to a tried-and-true favorite or experiment with bold new flavors, each dish here promises juicy, tender chicken that’ll have everyone coming back for seconds. So light the grill, pour yourself a cold drink, and get ready to make this summer your tastiest one yet. Happy grilling!