Grilled chicken breast is the ultimate summer staple—lean, versatile, and ready to soak up all the smoky, charred flavors of the grill. But let’s be honest, plain grilled chicken can get boring fast. That’s where these 12 mouthwatering recipes come in, turning simple chicken breasts into juicy, flavor-packed meals that are anything but basic.
Whether you’re firing up the grill for a weeknight dinner, a backyard BBQ, or a last-minute meal prep session, these recipes are designed to keep things quick, easy, and delicious. Imagine tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon-herb dressing, glazed with sticky-sweet barbecue sauce, or rubbed with smoky spices that make every bite irresistible. From Mediterranean-inspired skewers to spicy chipotle-lime chicken, there’s a recipe here for every craving.
And the best part? These dishes pair perfectly with summer sides—think crisp salads, buttery corn on the cob, or a pile of grilled veggies. No more stressing over dinner when you’ve got these go-to recipes in your back pocket. So grab your tongs, light the grill, and get ready to make chicken the star of your summer table.
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Skewers
These Mediterranean grilled chicken skewers are a tasty and vibrant option perfect for summer meals. Juicy chicken marinated in a mix of herbs and spices, paired with colorful bell peppers and onions, makes for a delightful bite. They’re easy to prepare and cook quickly on the grill, making them ideal for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues.
The flavor profile is fresh and zesty, offering a blend of garlic, lemon, and oregano that transports your taste buds to the Mediterranean. Serve them with a side of tzatziki sauce for an extra burst of flavor. Enjoy these skewers with pita bread or a crisp salad for a complete meal.
BBQ Grilled Chicken with Pineapple
This BBQ grilled chicken with pineapple is a delightful dish perfect for summer meals. The sweet and tangy flavor of the grilled pineapple complements the juicy, smoky chicken beautifully. It’s simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.
The combination of BBQ sauce and pineapple adds a tropical twist that will transport your taste buds to a sunny paradise. Cooked on the grill, this dish is not only quick but also brings a vibrant color to your plate. Serve it with a fresh side salad or coleslaw for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 can sliced pineapple (in juice)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- In a small bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this mixture over the chicken breasts.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
- During the last few minutes of cooking, place the pineapple slices on the grill. Cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until grill marks appear.
- Brush BBQ sauce over the chicken in the last minute of grilling.
- Serve the grilled chicken with pineapple slices on top, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Spicy Chipotle Grilled Chicken
Spicy Chipotle Grilled Chicken is a perfect dish for summer grilling. The combination of smoky chipotle peppers and zesty lime creates a flavor explosion that pairs beautifully with juicy chicken breasts. This recipe is not only flavorful but also straightforward, making it a go-to for quick meals.
The marinade is simple to whip up, allowing you to have dinner on the table in no time. Serve it with fresh veggies or your favorite sides for a satisfying meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine olive oil, minced chipotle peppers, lime juice, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk until well blended.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with fresh salad or your choice of sides.
Teriyaki Grilled Chicken
Teriyaki grilled chicken is a fantastic dish that combines savory and sweet flavors in a simple and quick recipe. The glaze made from soy sauce, honey, and ginger adds a delicious twist to the chicken, making it perfect for summer meals. Kids and adults alike will love this tasty treat!
This recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues. Marinate the chicken, grill it to perfection, and serve it alongside rice and vegetables for a well-rounded meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame seeds
- Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger until well combined.
- 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 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.
- Grill the Chicken: Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Brush with marinade during grilling for extra flavor.
- Serve: Once done, sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving with rice and vegetables.
Garlic and Rosemary Grilled Chicken
This Garlic and Rosemary Grilled Chicken is perfect for those warm summer evenings when you want something tasty yet simple. The marinade infuses the chicken with robust flavors, making each bite juicy and aromatic. With just a few ingredients, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
The combination of garlic and rosemary creates a delightful balance that complements the chicken beautifully. Plus, grilling gives it that wonderful smoky flavor. Whether you’re serving it up for a family dinner or a backyard BBQ, this recipe is sure to impress!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix garlic, rosemary, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grates with oil to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with your favorite sides.
Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken
Cilantro lime grilled chicken is a refreshing and zesty dish perfect for summer meals. With its bright flavors from fresh lime and aromatic cilantro, this recipe is simple to make and brings a burst of sunshine to your plate.
Ideal for quick dinners or meal prep, this dish is sure to satisfy. Paired with a colorful salad or served in tacos, it offers versatility and taste that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 lime, sliced (for garnish)
- Fresh cilantro leaves (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix lime juice, olive oil, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Once cooked, remove from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with lime slices and fresh cilantro before serving.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a delightful summer dish that bursts with bright, zesty flavors. This recipe combines the freshness of lemon juice and fragrant herbs, creating a simple yet delicious meal that’s perfect for any occasion. It’s easy to prepare and can be on your table in no time, making it ideal for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.
The tangy lemon pairs wonderfully with the savory herbs, enhancing the natural taste of the chicken. The result is tender, juicy chicken breasts that are full of flavor and sure to impress family and friends.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from 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) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
- Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with your favorite sides, garnished with additional herbs if desired.
Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken
Honey mustard grilled chicken is a tasty and easy recipe that shines during summer cookouts. The combination of sweet honey and tangy mustard creates a delicious glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving the chicken a fantastic flavor. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also quick to cook, making it a perfect choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend meals.
Pair this grilled chicken with a fresh salad or some grilled veggies for a light and satisfying meal. It’s a dish that everyone will love, from kids to adults, and it can easily be customized with your favorite sides. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the excess. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and 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 and serve with your favorite sides.
Buffalo Grilled Chicken Tenders
Buffalo Grilled Chicken Tenders are a fantastic choice for a quick and tasty summer meal. These tenders are juicy, spicy, and perfect for anyone who loves a little heat. They are easy to prepare, making them ideal for busy weeknights or weekend get-togethers.
The combination of grilled chicken and zesty buffalo sauce creates a mouthwatering flavor that will impress everyone at your table. Serve them with some crunchy celery and your favorite dipping sauce for a complete dish that’s both satisfying and delicious.
Ingredients
- 1 lb chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Celery sticks for serving
- Your favorite dipping sauce (ranch or blue cheese)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the olive oil, buffalo sauce, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenders and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, preheat it on the stovetop.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken tenders on the grill. Cook for about 4-5 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve it hot with celery sticks and your favorite dipping sauce.
Tandoori Grilled Chicken
Tandoori Grilled Chicken is a vibrant dish that brings warmth and spice to your summer meals. The marinade, made with yogurt and a blend of aromatic spices, infuses the chicken with deep flavors while keeping it juicy and tender. It’s incredibly simple to make, requiring minimal effort yet delivering a dish that feels special.
This grilled chicken is perfect for outdoor gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner. The smoky flavor from the grill complements the spices beautifully, making every bite a delightful experience. Serve it with a side of rice, naan, or fresh salad for a complete meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 1 cup plain yogurt
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix yogurt, lemon juice, tandoori masala, garlic powder, ginger powder, paprika, cumin, and salt.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, or overnight for deeper flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove from the grill, let rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
Savory Balsamic Grilled Chicken
This savory balsamic grilled chicken is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of balsamic vinegar with perfectly grilled chicken. The tangy sweetness of the balsamic marinade enhances the chicken’s natural flavors, making it both satisfying and healthy. Whether you’re having a backyard barbecue or a cozy dinner at home, this recipe is simple and quick to whip up.
The marinade is easy to prepare and infuses the chicken with a delicious taste. Once grilled, the chicken is juicy and tender, making it a hit for summer meals. Serve it alongside grilled vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs (like rosemary or thyme) for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and grill marks appear.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh herbs and enjoy!
Italian Herb Grilled Chicken
This Italian Herb Grilled Chicken is a delightful summer dish, bursting with flavors from fresh herbs and spices. It’s simple to prepare, making it perfect for quick weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. The combination of grilled chicken with aromatic herbs gives it a juicy, savory taste that everyone will love.
Marinating the chicken in a blend of olive oil, garlic, and Italian herbs brings out the best flavors. Serve it alongside pasta or a fresh salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon dried oregano
- 1 tablespoon dried basil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, basil, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve with your favorite side, garnished with fresh parsley.
Final Thoughts
Grilled chicken breast doesn’t have to be bland or predictable. With the right marinades, rubs, and techniques, it can be the most exciting part of your summer menu. These 12 recipes prove that even on busy nights, you can whip up something fresh, flavorful, and satisfying—without spending hours in the kitchen. So pick a recipe, fire up the grill, and enjoy juicy, delicious chicken all season long!