Grilled chicken is a staple for many weeknight dinners, offering a healthy, protein-packed foundation for a meal that’s both satisfying and versatile. Whether you’re craving something smoky, savory, or light and zesty, grilled chicken can be adapted to suit any flavor profile. When paired with a crisp, refreshing salad, it transforms into the perfect balance of textures and tastes—making it a go-to option for those looking for a wholesome, flavorful meal.
This roundup of 12 grilled chicken dinner recipes is designed to complement fresh salads, bringing you a variety of mouthwatering options that are sure to delight your taste buds. From juicy, marinated chicken with smoky char to tender, spiced cuts with citrusy twists, these recipes bring out the best in both the chicken and the greens. Each dish is crafted to be quick and easy to prepare, ideal for busy evenings or for impressing guests at a casual dinner party.
As you explore these recipes, you’ll find ways to enhance your grilled chicken with a wide range of seasonings and marinades, allowing you to tailor each dish to your preferences. The accompanying salad recipes are equally diverse, offering everything from light and tangy to hearty and filling, so you can mix and match to create the perfect pairing every time.
Get ready to fire up the grill and create delicious, wholesome meals that are as nutritious as they are flavorful. With these 12 grilled chicken dinner recipes paired with fresh salads, you’ll have everything you need to create satisfying dinners that everyone will enjoy.
Spicy Cajun Grilled Chicken
Spicy Cajun Grilled Chicken is a vibrant dish that packs a punch of flavor while remaining simple to prepare. The combination of Cajun spices brings a warm, zesty kick, making it perfect for those who enjoy a bit of heat in their meals. It pairs beautifully with fresh salads, offering a well-balanced dinner that’s sure to impress.
This recipe is great for busy weekdays or casual gatherings, as it can be ready in no time. Just marinate the chicken, grill it to perfection, and serve with your favorite greens for a deliciously satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and let them sit for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Make sure it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve alongside your favorite salad.
Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken
This Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the rich flavors of garlic and cheese with tender, juicy chicken. It’s simple to prepare and perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. The marinade infuses the chicken with flavor while keeping it moist on the grill.
You’ll love how easy it is to whip up this recipe. Just marinate the chicken, grill it to perfection, and serve alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal. It’s a crowd-pleaser that will have everyone asking for seconds!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Juice of 1 lemon
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, oregano, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and 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 and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken for about 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. Serve with your favorite fresh salad for a delicious meal.
Teriyaki Grilled Chicken
Teriyaki grilled chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the savory flavors of soy sauce and ginger with a hint of sweetness. It’s simple to prepare, making it a great option for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends and family. The marinade infuses the chicken with a rich taste, while grilling adds a smoky char that enhances the overall flavor.
Pair this delicious chicken with a fresh salad for a perfect meal. The contrast of the grilled chicken with crisp greens creates a satisfying balance. Here’s how to make it:
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup brown sugar
- 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Sesame seeds (for garnish)
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, rice vinegar, garlic, ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over the top. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Get your grill hot and ready over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Garnish and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. Slice and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds. Serve alongside your favorite fresh salad.
Barbecue Grilled Chicken Thighs
Barbecue grilled chicken thighs are a delicious and easy option for dinner, perfect for any occasion. The rich, smoky flavors from the grill combined with a sticky barbecue sauce create a mouthwatering dish that pairs beautifully with fresh salads. Plus, chicken thighs are juicy and forgiving, making them ideal for grilling.
This recipe is straightforward and requires minimal prep time, making it a great choice for weeknight meals or weekend get-togethers. You can easily customize the seasoning and sauce to suit your taste, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture all over the chicken thighs.
- Marinate: Let the chicken sit for at least 30 minutes to absorb the flavors. For best results, marinate in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Once hot, place the chicken thighs on the grill, skin side down.
- Grill the Chicken: Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side, brushing with barbecue sauce during the last few minutes of cooking. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your barbecue grilled chicken thighs with a fresh salad on the side!
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Skewers
Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Skewers are a delightful blend of juicy chicken marinated in zesty herbs and spices, making them a fantastic choice for a quick and easy dinner. The vibrant flavors of garlic, lemon, and oregano infuse the chicken with a fresh and savory taste that pairs beautifully with a crisp salad.
This dish is not only easy to make but also perfect for summer gatherings or weeknight meals. Grilling the skewers gives them a lovely char while keeping the chicken moist and tender. Serve these skewers on a bed of fresh greens, tomatoes, and olives for a complete Mediterranean experience!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into cubes
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 3 tablespoons lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken cubes and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using wooden skewers, ensure they have been soaked in water to prevent burning.
- Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto the skewers, leaving a little 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 and let rest for a few minutes. Serve the skewers warm on a platter with a fresh salad on the side.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
This Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a simple yet delicious recipe that bursts with fresh flavors. The zesty lemon and aromatic herbs create a light and refreshing dish, perfect for a warm evening. Plus, it pairs wonderfully with a fresh salad, making it a great choice for a healthy dinner.
The marinade is quick to prepare, and the grilling adds a smoky touch that elevates the overall taste. You’ll love how easy it is to make this dish, and it’s sure to impress family and friends!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, parsley, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or dish and pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, preferably a few hours.
- Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates 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).
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken
Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is a tasty and simple dish that brings together the sweetness of honey and the tang of mustard to create a flavorful marinade. This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or weekend gatherings, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.
The chicken gets a delightful glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, resulting in a juicy and tender bite. Pair it with a fresh salad, and you’ve got a meal that’s not only delicious but also wholesome!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped fresh parsley for garnish
Instructions
- Make the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve alongside a fresh salad.
Balsamic Glazed Grilled Chicken
This Balsamic Glazed Grilled Chicken is a tasty and easy dish that pairs wonderfully with fresh salads. The sweet and tangy balsamic glaze elevates the chicken, making every bite delightful. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Grilling the chicken adds a nice smoky flavor, while the glaze caramelizes beautifully, creating a mouthwatering exterior. Plus, it’s simple to make and requires just a few ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for any night!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together balsamic vinegar, honey, olive oil, minced garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish, then pour the marinade over the chicken. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 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: Place the chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature should reach 165°F/75°C).
- Serve: Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with a fresh salad for a balanced meal!
Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken
Chipotle lime grilled chicken is a delightful dish that balances smoky heat with zesty brightness. This recipe is not just about flavor; it’s also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. The marinated chicken is grilled to perfection, resulting in tender, juicy meat that pairs beautifully with a fresh salad.
The combination of chipotle peppers and fresh lime juice gives this chicken an exciting kick. Serve it alongside a vibrant salad for a complete meal that’s both satisfying and refreshing. The warmth of the grilled chicken contrasts wonderfully with the crispness of the veggies, creating a dish that is sure to please everyone at the table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lime juice, minced chipotle peppers, garlic, cumin, 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 all pieces are coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and serve garnished with fresh cilantro, alongside your favorite salad.
Italian Herb Grilled Chicken
This Italian Herb Grilled Chicken is a delicious and easy way to enjoy a flavorful meal. The blend of herbs infuses the chicken with a fresh, aromatic taste that pairs perfectly with a crisp salad. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also brings a touch of the Mediterranean right to your dinner table.
The marinated chicken, grilled to perfection, captures the essence of Italian cooking while keeping things light and healthy. Serve it alongside a refreshing salad for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh basil, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic, rosemary, basil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high temperature.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with your favorite salad for a refreshing meal.
Coconut Curry Grilled Chicken
This Coconut Curry Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that brings a tropical twist to your dinner table. The marinade combines creamy coconut milk with fragrant spices, creating a tender and flavorful chicken that is simply irresistible.
Not only is it packed with flavor, but this recipe is also easy to whip up. Just marinate the chicken, grill it to perfection, and serve alongside a fresh salad for a light, satisfying meal.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup coconut milk
- 2 tablespoons red curry paste
- 1 tablespoon fish sauce
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 teaspoons brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, lime juice, brown sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken breasts to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for best results.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill, let rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. This pairs wonderfully with a light salad to balance the richness of the coconut curry.
Mustard and Thyme Grilled Chicken
This Mustard and Thyme Grilled Chicken is a deliciously simple recipe, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering. The tangy flavor of mustard combined with fresh thyme elevates the chicken, making it tender and juicy. You won’t need hours in the kitchen to impress your guests with this dish!
The marinade is straightforward and comes together quickly, allowing the chicken to soak up all those lovely flavors. Serve this grilled delight alongside your favorite fresh salad for a balanced meal that’s as pleasing to the eye as it is to the palate.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon honey
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine Dijon mustard, olive oil, fresh thyme, minced garlic, honey, salt, and pepper to create the marinade.
- Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal or cover, then refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off.
- Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving with a fresh salad.
Final Thoughts
Grilled chicken paired with a fresh salad is a timeless combination that never goes out of style. Whether you’re looking to switch up your weeknight routine or need a crowd-pleasing dish for a summer gathering, this collection of recipes will give you plenty of options to explore. These meals strike the perfect balance between lightness and satisfaction, proving that healthy eating doesn’t have to be boring or bland. Enjoy the flavors, experiment with different combinations, and let each meal be a celebration of great food and good company!