There’s something truly magical about summer evenings spent outdoors, the air filled with the smoky aroma of a sizzling grill and the refreshing chill of a cold lemonade in hand. Nothing captures that perfect balance better than grilled chicken — juicy, flavorful, and versatile enough to suit every craving. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, enjoying a casual picnic, or simply craving an easy weeknight dinner, these 14 summer grilled chicken recipes will become your go-to favorites for sunny days and warm nights.
From zesty marinades packed with citrus and herbs to bold, spicy rubs that add a fiery kick, this collection offers a variety of ways to elevate your grilled chicken game. Each recipe is crafted to deliver maximum flavor with minimal fuss, letting you spend more time relaxing and less time prepping. You’ll find everything from classic BBQ styles and tangy lemon-garlic options to exotic global flavors that turn your grill into a culinary passport.
Perfectly paired with a glass of ice-cold lemonade, these dishes celebrate the essence of summer — fresh, vibrant, and irresistibly delicious. Whether you like your chicken smoky and charred or tender and juicy, these recipes will inspire your next cookout and have your guests asking for seconds.
Teriyaki Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Teriyaki Pineapple Grilled Chicken is a delicious summer dish that perfectly balances sweet and savory flavors. The juicy chicken is marinated in a rich teriyaki sauce and paired with caramelized pineapple, making it a delightful addition to any summer BBQ. This recipe is straightforward, so even novice cooks can impress their friends and family!
Grilling brings out the best in both the chicken and the pineapple, creating a smoky, charred flavor that enhances the sweetness. Serve it alongside cold lemonade for a refreshing meal on a hot day. Here’s how to make it!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tablespoon sesame oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ginger powder
- 1 fresh pineapple, sliced into rings
- 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix teriyaki sauce, sesame oil, garlic powder, and ginger powder. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated, and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While the grill heats up, slice the fresh pineapple into rings.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and season with salt and pepper. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Grill the Pineapple: During the last few minutes of cooking, add the pineapple rings to the grill. Grill until caramelized and grill marks appear, about 2-3 minutes per side.
- Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken and pineapple from the grill. Serve the chicken topped with grilled pineapple and garnish with chopped green onions.
Garlic Butter Grilled Chicken Thighs
Garlic Butter Grilled Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy summer dish that packs a flavorful punch. The combination of garlic and butter creates a rich marinade that keeps the chicken juicy and tender while giving it a mouthwatering aroma. It’s perfect for those laid-back evenings spent outdoors with family and friends.
This recipe is simple to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. You’ll have a satisfying meal ready to go in no time, making it an ideal choice for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix melted butter, minced garlic, parsley, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and smoked paprika.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes before flipping. Grill for another 6-7 minutes on the other 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 serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides and a cold glass of lemonade!
Zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Get ready to enjoy a burst of flavor with this Zesty Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken. It’s a simple recipe that combines the brightness of fresh lemon with fragrant herbs, making it perfect for summer cookouts. The chicken is juicy and tender, infused with a tangy marinade that brings a delightful taste to every bite.
This recipe is easy to follow, making it great for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. Serve it alongside a glass of cold lemonade for a refreshing meal that everyone will love!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- Juice of 2 lemons
- Zest of 1 lemon
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, thyme, 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 each piece is well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with extra lemon wedges and a sprinkle of fresh herbs if desired.
Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa
Cilantro Lime Chicken with Avocado Salsa is a delightful dish bursting with fresh flavors. The chicken is marinated in a zesty cilantro lime mixture, grilled to perfection, and paired with a creamy avocado salsa that adds a refreshing touch. It’s simple to prepare, making it a great choice for summer gatherings or a casual weeknight dinner.
This dish combines the bright notes of lime and cilantro with the smooth richness of avocado, creating a deliciously satisfying meal. It’s a perfect complement to a glass of cold lemonade, adding that quintessential summer vibe to your table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup fresh lime juice
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 avocado, diced
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/2 cup diced cucumber
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine lime juice, cilantro, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until cooked through and juices run clear.
- Prepare the Avocado Salsa: In a separate bowl, mix diced avocado, tomatoes, cucumber, olive oil, and lime juice. Season with salt to taste.
- Serve: Slice the grilled chicken and top with the avocado salsa. Enjoy with a side of cold lemonade for a refreshing meal!
Spicy Chipotle Lime Chicken Skewers
These Spicy Chipotle Lime Chicken Skewers pack a punch with bold flavors and a deliciously smoky heat. The combination of zesty lime juice and rich chipotle peppers creates a marinade that perfectly complements juicy chicken, making it a fantastic dish for summer grilling. Plus, they’re super easy to whip up, ensuring you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying the warm weather.
Ideal for barbecue gatherings or a casual weeknight dinner, these skewers are sure to impress. Serve them alongside a refreshing drink, like cold lemonade, for a wonderful summer meal. Grab your skewers and get ready to enjoy a delightful flavor experience!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken breast, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 tablespoon chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1 onion, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Combine olive oil, lime juice, chipotle pepper, garlic, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well to create the marinade.
- Add chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Soak wooden skewers in water for 15 minutes if using them.
- Thread marinated chicken, bell pepper, and onion onto skewers, alternating as desired.
- Grill skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve hot with your favorite sides and enjoy!
Honey Mustard Glazed Chicken Breasts
Honey mustard glazed chicken breasts are a delightful dish that combines sweet and tangy flavors, making it perfect for summer grilling. The marinade is simple, requiring just a few ingredients, which means you can whip this up in no time. This recipe offers a delicious way to elevate your chicken while keeping it juicy and tender.
The honey mustard glaze adds a wonderful shine and flavor, making every bite a treat. Serve it with a side of fresh salad or grilled veggies, and you have a meal that pairs wonderfully with cold lemonade on a hot day!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the marinade: In a bowl, mix together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
- Marinate the chicken: Place 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 overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat your grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Grill the chicken: Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving. Brush with any remaining glaze if desired, and enjoy!
Smoky Paprika Chicken Drumsticks
Smoky Paprika Chicken Drumsticks are a summertime favorite that brings a burst of flavor to your grill. The combination of smoky paprika, garlic, and a hint of sweetness creates a mouthwatering glaze that perfectly coats the tender chicken. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for both novice and experienced grillers alike.
These drumsticks are not just tasty; they are also simple to prepare, making them an ideal choice for any summer gathering. Serve them with a cold lemonade, and you have a fantastic meal that everyone will enjoy!
Ingredients
- 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, brown sugar, salt, and black pepper. Add olive oil and apple cider vinegar to create a paste. Coat the chicken drumsticks thoroughly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Drumsticks: Place the marinated drumsticks on the grill. Cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve: Remove the drumsticks from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve warm with your favorite sides and, of course, a refreshing glass of lemonade!
Mediterranean Chicken with Feta
This Mediterranean Chicken with Feta is a delightful summer dish bursting with flavor. Grilled to perfection, the chicken is marinated in a blend of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and Mediterranean herbs, giving it a fresh and zesty taste. The addition of creamy feta cheese and briny olives makes it even more appealing, balancing the savory notes with a touch of tang.
This recipe is simple to prepare, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal effort on your part. Perfect for a backyard barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner, it pairs beautifully with a glass of cold lemonade.
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 feta cheese, crumbled
- 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and halved
- Fresh parsley or dill, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, oregano, thyme, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts, ensuring they are well-coated. Cover and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
- 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 place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken has nice grill marks.
- Add Toppings: Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and top with crumbled feta cheese and halved olives. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Garnish and Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley or dill, if desired. Serve with a side of salad or grilled vegetables, and enjoy with a refreshing lemonade!
Sweet and Tangy Peach Glazed Chicken
This Sweet and Tangy Peach Glazed Chicken is the perfect addition to your summer grilling lineup. The combination of juicy grilled chicken with a luscious peach glaze creates a delightful balance of sweetness and tanginess, making every bite a burst of flavor. Not only is it delicious, but it’s also simple to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and weekend barbecues.
The peach glaze, made from fresh peaches and a dash of soy sauce, adds a fruity twist to classic grilled chicken. Serve it alongside cold lemonade for a refreshing summer meal that will leave your taste buds dancing. Here’s how to make it!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 ripe peaches, diced
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup honey
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh herbs for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix diced peaches, soy sauce, honey, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for basting.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, basting with the reserved marinade, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your Sweet and Tangy Peach Glazed Chicken with a cold glass of lemonade!
Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Sandwich
This Lemon Rosemary Grilled Chicken Sandwich is a refreshing delight perfect for summer. The combination of zesty lemon and fragrant rosemary gives the chicken a vibrant taste that pairs wonderfully with fresh greens and crispy bread. It’s simple enough for a weeknight meal yet elegant enough to impress guests at a summer gathering.
With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, you can have a delicious and satisfying sandwich ready in no time. The juicy grilled chicken, combined with the bright flavors of lemon and rosemary, creates a mouthwatering experience that will have you coming back for seconds.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon lemon zest
- 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices of hearty bread
- Fresh lettuce leaves
- Tomato slices
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, chopped rosemary, salt, and pepper. Add the 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 about 6-8 minutes on each side, until fully cooked and juices run clear. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Assemble the Sandwich: Toast the slices of bread lightly. Layer fresh lettuce, sliced grilled chicken, and tomatoes between the bread slices.
- Serve: Slice the sandwich in half and serve immediately. Enjoy with a refreshing glass of lemonade!
BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken Tenders
BBQ Ranch Grilled Chicken Tenders are a fantastic way to enjoy tender, juicy chicken with a tangy twist. This recipe combines the smoky flavors of barbecue sauce with the creamy goodness of ranch dressing, making it a hit for both kids and adults. Plus, they’re quick and easy to whip up, perfect for those busy summer evenings.
These grilled tenders are incredibly versatile. Serve them as a main dish or slice them up for salads and wraps. The flavor is bold yet simple, giving your summer meals a fun kick. Get your grill ready because these tenders will have everyone coming back for more!
Ingredients
- 1 pound chicken tenders
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1/4 cup ranch dressing
- 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, combine BBQ sauce, ranch dressing, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken tenders, ensuring they are well coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the Tenders: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place them on the grill. Cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and have nice grill marks.
- Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the tenders from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with extra ranch dressing for dipping.
Sriracha Lime Grilled Chicken with Slaw
Sriracha Lime Grilled Chicken is a perfect summer dish that packs a punch with every bite. The combination of spicy Sriracha and zesty lime creates a mouthwatering marinade that tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with vibrant flavors. Paired with a refreshing slaw, this recipe is not only simple but also a delightful addition to any summer gathering.
This dish is great for outdoor barbecues or a cozy family dinner. The grilling process adds a beautiful char, while the slaw provides a crunchy contrast and a hint of sweetness. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned cook, this recipe will impress everyone at your table.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Sriracha sauce
- Juice of 2 limes
- 2 tablespoons honey
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 cups shredded cabbage (green and purple)
- 1 cup shredded carrots
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1/4 cup mayonnaise
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix Sriracha sauce, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts, coating them well. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
- Prepare the Slaw: In a large bowl, combine shredded cabbage, carrots, and cilantro. In a separate small bowl, whisk together mayonnaise and apple cider vinegar. Pour the dressing over the slaw and mix until evenly coated.
- 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 no longer pink in the center.
- Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve it alongside the slaw for a refreshing meal.
Tandoori Spiced Grilled Chicken Wings
These Tandoori spiced grilled chicken wings are a flavorful twist on a summer classic. Marinated in a blend of spices, yogurt, and lemon juice, they deliver a touch of heat and a rich, smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with cold lemonade. Simple to prepare, these wings are perfect for outdoor gatherings or weeknight dinners.
With a crispy exterior and juicy meat, they are sure to be a hit with friends and family. The marinade not only enhances the taste but also ensures the wings stay tender while grilling. Enjoy them hot off the grill with your favorite dipping sauce or as a delightful addition to a summer feast.
Herbed Dijon Grilled Chicken Breast
Herbed Dijon Grilled Chicken Breast is a delightful dish that combines the tang of Dijon mustard and the freshness of herbs. This chicken is not just tasty but also super easy to whip up, making it perfect for summer cookouts. The marinade infuses the chicken with flavor, ensuring every bite is juicy and satisfying.
With its zesty profile and gorgeous grill marks, this recipe will impress your guests without requiring hours in the kitchen. Pair it with refreshing lemonade, and you’ve got a winning meal for those warm summer nights.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
- 2 teaspoons dried thyme
- 2 teaspoons dried rosemary
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, olive oil, lemon juice, thyme, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, 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, ensuring the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Rest and Serve: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling. Slice and serve with a drizzle of any remaining marinade or a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.
Final Thoughts
These 14 summer grilled chicken recipes are made to bring people together around good food and great vibes. Easy to prepare yet packed with flavor, they embody everything you want in a summertime meal. So fire up the grill, pour that lemonade, and enjoy a season full of tasty, memorable moments.