Summer and barbecue are a match made in heaven, and nothing satisfies a crowd quite like juicy, flavorful chicken hot off the grill. Whether you’re hosting a laid-back backyard bash, planning a weeknight family dinner, or organizing a weekend get-together with friends, chicken BBQ is a versatile and crowd-pleasing favorite. Its ability to absorb marinades, pair well with smoky flavors, and cook up quickly makes it the ultimate star of any summer gathering.
In this handpicked collection of 13 summer chicken BBQ recipes, you’ll find a variety of mouthwatering ideas that go beyond the basics. From smoky grilled drumsticks with bold spice rubs to tangy barbecue-glazed thighs, citrus-marinated skewers, and even unexpected global-inspired flavors, each recipe is designed to bring bold taste and easy preparation to your warm-weather menus. These dishes are perfect for serving alongside fresh summer salads, grilled vegetables, and classic sides like corn on the cob or coleslaw.
Whether you prefer bone-in or boneless, spicy or sweet, simple or saucy, these chicken recipes offer something for every type of cook and every kind of eater. Most importantly, they’re built for sharing—ideal for sitting around the picnic table, enjoying long summer evenings, and making memories with the people you love.
Fire up the grill, grab your tongs, and dive into these recipes that are sure to keep the good vibes—and the delicious chicken—coming all summer long.
Spicy Honey BBQ Chicken Skewers
Spicy Honey BBQ Chicken Skewers are a delicious way to enjoy summer grilling! The combination of sweet honey and spicy seasoning creates a mouthwatering flavor that will have everyone reaching for seconds. They’re easy to prepare, making them perfect for casual family dinners or lively backyard parties.
These skewers are great for satisfying your cravings for something sweet and spicy. Grilling the chicken and colorful vegetables brings out their natural flavors, and the addition of a tangy BBQ sauce ties everything together. Serve them with your favorite sides for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 onion, cut into wedges
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine honey, BBQ sauce, soy sauce, garlic powder, and chili powder. Mix well.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the cubed chicken to the marinade and let it sit for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
- Prepare Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, bell pepper, and onion onto the soaked skewers, alternating between them.
- Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove from the grill and brush with additional BBQ sauce if desired. Enjoy hot!
Peach BBQ Glazed Chicken
This Peach BBQ Glazed Chicken brings together the sweetness of ripe peaches with the smoky flavors of barbecue sauce, creating a dish that’s perfect for summer family dinners or backyard gatherings. The juicy chicken is coated in a delightful glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving it a mouthwatering finish. Plus, it’s simple to prepare, making it a great choice for both novice cooks and seasoned grill masters.
Simply marinate the chicken in a mixture of peach preserves, barbecue sauce, and a hint of Dijon mustard. Grill it to perfection, and enjoy the burst of flavors that will have everyone coming back for seconds. It’s a fun and tasty way to celebrate summer!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 cup peach preserves
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh rosemary or thyme (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together peach preserves, barbecue sauce, and Dijon mustard until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Season the chicken thighs with salt and pepper. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using charcoal, ensure the coals are evenly distributed to create a hot cooking surface.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Brush with leftover marinade during the last few minutes of cooking for added flavor.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes, and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve with grilled peach slices for a delightful summer meal!
Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Sandwiches
Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Sandwiches are the perfect blend of tender chicken, smoky flavors, and a spicy kick. This recipe is simple to make, making it a great choice for family dinners or backyard gatherings.
With juicy chicken coated in a rich chipotle BBQ sauce and topped with a crunchy slaw, these sandwiches are sure to please everyone at your table. Plus, they come together quickly, leaving you more time to enjoy your summer day with family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup chipotle BBQ sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 hamburger buns
- 1 cup coleslaw mix
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Pickles for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your grill or stovetop grill pan over medium-high heat. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. During the last few minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with the chipotle BBQ sauce.
- Make the Slaw: In a bowl, combine coleslaw mix, mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix until all ingredients are well combined.
- Assemble the Sandwiches: Toast the hamburger buns if desired. Place grilled chicken on the bottom bun, top with coleslaw, and add pickles if you like. Finish with the top bun.
- Serve: Enjoy your smoky chipotle BBQ chicken sandwiches hot off the grill!
Teriyaki BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Teriyaki BBQ chicken drumsticks are a delicious way to bring a tropical twist to your summer gatherings. These drumsticks are marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, which caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving them a sticky glaze that’s hard to resist. The unique flavor profile combines the richness of soy sauce with hints of garlic and ginger, making each bite a delightful experience.
This recipe is not only tasty but also super easy to make. Perfect for family dinners or backyard parties, you can marinate the chicken ahead of time, allowing the flavors to meld. When it’s time to cook, just fire up the grill and let the magic happen!
Ingredients
- 10 chicken drumsticks
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger. Place the drumsticks in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the 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.
- Garnish and Serve: Once done, remove the drumsticks from the grill. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving. Enjoy your flavorful teriyaki BBQ chicken drumsticks!
Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Salad
This Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Salad is a refreshing and zesty dish perfect for summer gatherings. With juicy grilled chicken, crisp vegetables, and a vibrant cilantro lime dressing, it’s a delightful mix of flavors that everyone will love. Not only is it easy to prepare, but it also makes a healthy and filling option for family dinners or backyard barbecues.
The combination of tangy lime and fresh cilantro brings a bright taste that complements the grilled chicken beautifully. Serve it up as a main course or as a side dish; this salad is sure to impress. Get your grill ready and dive into this tasty recipe!
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 cups mixed salad greens
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1 avocado, sliced
- 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 2 limes
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts in the mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine the salad greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cilantro.
- Make the Dressing: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the salad and toss gently to combine.
- Assemble: Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken and serve immediately.
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Tzatziki
Grilled to perfection, Mediterranean Grilled Chicken with Tzatziki is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your table. The juicy marinated chicken is infused with fresh herbs and spices, making each bite aromatic and satisfying. Paired with a creamy, refreshing tzatziki sauce, it’s a perfect match that will impress your family and friends.
This recipe is simple to prepare, ideal for a summer BBQ or a cozy family dinner. With just a few ingredients and a grill, you can create a meal that is both healthy and packed with flavor. Serve it alongside some fresh veggies for a complete and colorful plate!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup Greek yogurt
- 1 cucumber, grated and drained
- 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh mint, chopped
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Prepare the Tzatziki: In another bowl, combine Greek yogurt, grated cucumber, dill, mint, and lemon juice. Mix well and season with salt to taste. Refrigerate until ready to serve.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with tzatziki sauce on the side and enjoy your Mediterranean feast!
Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Breasts
Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Breasts are a fantastic choice for any summer meal. This dish combines juicy chicken breasts with a zesty garlic and Parmesan coating that delivers a delightful flavor in every bite. It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues with family and friends.
The savory blend of garlic and cheese creates a mouthwatering aroma as the chicken grills, and the result is juicy, flavorful meat that pairs beautifully with fresh salads or grilled vegetables. Whether you’re hosting a backyard party or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe is sure to satisfy everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon dried Italian herbs
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, Italian herbs, and parsley.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs are a summer favorite that packs a punch of flavor with every bite. This recipe is simple and requires minimal prep time, making it perfect for family dinners and backyard gatherings. The combination of fresh lemon juice and aromatic herbs adds a refreshing zing, ensuring that your chicken is juicy and succulent.
The bright citrus notes pair beautifully with the savory elements of the dish, creating a delightful balance that everyone will enjoy. Plus, grilling the chicken thighs gives them a smoky char that enhances the overall taste. Let’s get cooking!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken thighs in a resealable bag or a dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and well-oiled.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill, skin-side down. Grill for about 6-7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.
Buttermilk Brined BBQ Chicken
This buttermilk brined BBQ chicken is a fantastic choice for summer gatherings. The brining process keeps the chicken juicy and tender while infusing it with a wonderful flavor. The tanginess from the buttermilk complements the smokiness of the BBQ sauce, making each bite a delight.
Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also delivers impressive results. Perfect for family dinners or backyard parties, this chicken is sure to be a hit with everyone around the table.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs and drumsticks
- 2 cups buttermilk
- 2 teaspoons salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Brine the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the buttermilk, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight.
- Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the brine and let the excess liquid drip off. Grill the chicken for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally until cooked through and juices run clear.
- Glaze with BBQ Sauce: In the last 5 minutes of cooking, brush the chicken with BBQ sauce, allowing it to caramelize slightly.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove from the grill, garnish with chopped parsley, and serve hot.
Herb and Lemon Grilled Chicken Wings
Herb and lemon grilled chicken wings are a perfect summer dish that combines zesty flavors with a hint of freshness. These wings are marinated in a delightful blend of herbs and lemon juice, making them both simple to prepare and incredibly tasty. They are ideal for family dinners or backyard parties, ensuring that everyone goes home happy.
Grilling these wings gives a satisfying char while keeping the meat juicy and tender. The bright lemon flavor pairs perfectly with the herbs, creating a mouthwatering experience that will make your taste buds sing. Whether served as an appetizer or a main dish, these chicken wings are sure to be a hit!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken wings
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes.
- Marinate the Wings: Place the chicken wings in a large resealable bag or bowl and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for best flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- 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 golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve: Remove the wings from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with extra lemon wedges on the side.
Barbecue Chicken Flatbreads
Barbecue chicken flatbreads are a fun and tasty way to enjoy summer flavors. These flatbreads combine tender chicken tossed in zesty barbecue sauce, fresh toppings, and melted cheese all on a perfectly baked flatbread. The result is a delightful dish that’s sure to impress at family dinners or backyard parties.
Making these flatbreads is simple and quick, perfect for a weeknight meal or a casual get-together. They can be customized with your favorite toppings, making them a versatile option for everyone to enjoy!
Ingredients
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1 cup barbecue sauce
- 4 flatbreads or naan
- 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
- 1/2 cup diced red onion
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with barbecue sauce, adjusting to taste.
- Place the flatbreads on a baking sheet and spread an even layer of the barbecue chicken mixture on top.
- Sprinkle shredded mozzarella over each flatbread, followed by diced red onion.
- Bake in the oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro. Slice and serve warm.
Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Foil Packets
Garlic Butter BBQ Chicken Foil Packets are a fantastic way to enjoy summer flavors without much hassle. The combination of juicy chicken, rich garlic butter, and fresh veggies makes for a delicious meal that’s perfect for family dinners or backyard get-togethers. These packets are super easy to prepare and require minimal cleanup, making them a go-to choice for busy nights.
The savory aroma of garlic blended with smoky barbecue creates a mouthwatering experience that everyone will love. Plus, they are customizable; you can mix and match your favorite vegetables. Simply toss the ingredients into the foil, seal them up, and let the grill or oven do the work!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- 1 bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, chopped
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes
- 2 tablespoons barbecue sauce
- Fresh herbs (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat or your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Cut large pieces of aluminum foil, about 12 inches long, and place chicken in the center of each piece.
- Drizzle the garlic butter mixture over the chicken, then top with sliced bell pepper, zucchini, and cherry tomatoes.
- Add a splash of barbecue sauce on top of the veggies and chicken.
- Fold the foil tightly to seal in the ingredients, making sure there are no leaks.
- Grill for about 25-30 minutes or bake in the oven for the same time until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Carefully open the packets (watch out for steam!) and garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Asian Sesame Grilled Chicken Thighs
Asian Sesame Grilled Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of sweet and savory flavors, making them perfect for a summer barbecue or a family dinner. The marinade brings a touch of umami with sesame oil, soy sauce, and honey, resulting in tender and juicy chicken that’s easy to prepare.
This recipe is simple, requiring minimal preparation and cooking time. Just marinate the thighs for a few hours, then grill them to perfection. Serve with some fluffy rice and steamed vegetables for a well-rounded meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tablespoons sesame oil
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
- Sesame seeds, for garnish
- Sliced green onions, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, ginger, and rice vinegar.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken thighs for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove from the grill, let rest for a few minutes, then slice and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions before serving.
Final Thoughts
Great BBQ starts with great recipes, and these 13 chicken dishes deliver flavor, flexibility, and fun. Whether you’re grilling for a hungry family or a backyard full of friends, these recipes will help you serve up summer on a plate—every time.