11 Chicken BBQ Grill Recipes That Sizzle With Summer Flavor

11 Chicken BBQ Grill Recipes That Sizzle With Summer Flavor – fire up your grill for these mouthwatering dishes that capture the essence of summer. When the days grow longer and the air fills with the scent of charcoal, there’s nothing quite like the juicy perfection of BBQ chicken hot off the grill. These 11 recipes transform humble chicken into spectacular summer fare, from sticky-sweet glazed drumsticks to smoky spatchcocked birds with perfectly crisp skin. Whether you’re hosting a backyard bash or just craving that irresistible charred flavor, these grilled chicken dishes deliver big, bold taste in every bite.

Our collection covers all the BBQ essentials – classic American barbecue with rich, tangy sauces; vibrant Jamaican jerk chicken bursting with spice; Korean-style wings with their addictive sweet-heat glaze; and even unexpected twists like grilled chicken with fresh peach salsa. Each recipe comes packed with pro tips for achieving juicy, flavorful results every time, whether you’re using a gas grill, charcoal, or even a smoker. These aren’t just meals – they’re the taste of summer itself, best enjoyed with cold drinks, good company, and maybe some extra napkins.

Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Kebabs

These Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Kebabs are a perfect summer dish that combines juicy grilled chicken with vibrant vegetables. The marinade is packed with flavors from olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs, giving each bite a refreshing taste that’s hard to resist. Not only are they delicious, but they’re also easy to prepare! You can have them marinating in no time and grilling shortly after, making them ideal for a quick weeknight meal or a weekend gathering.

The combination of tender chicken and colorful bell peppers creates a visually appealing dish that’s sure to impress. Plus, they are versatile; you can serve them with rice, in wraps, or alongside a fresh salad. Enjoying these kebabs is like taking a mini-vacation to the Mediterranean!

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs are a perfect way to celebrate summer grilling season. Marinated in a zesty blend of lemon juice, fresh herbs, and a touch of garlic, these chicken thighs are juicy and bursting with flavor. The simplicity of this recipe makes it ideal for both beginners and seasoned grillers alike.

With a balance of tangy and savory notes, this dish pairs wonderfully with fresh salads or grilled vegetables. Plus, the char from the grill adds an irresistible smokiness that elevates the overall taste. Gather your ingredients and get ready for a delightful meal!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, minced garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade, making sure they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours for more flavor).
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off.
4. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes before flipping.
5. Grill for an additional 6-8 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy your zesty lemon herb grilled chicken thighs!

Barbecue Peach Glazed Chicken Drumsticks

Get ready for a flavor explosion with barbecue peach glazed chicken drumsticks! This recipe combines the smoky goodness of grilled chicken with a sweet and tangy peach glaze that will have everyone coming back for seconds. The juicy drumsticks soak up the fruity flavors, making each bite a delightful blend of sweet and savory.

Not only is this dish incredibly tasty, but it’s also simple to make. Perfect for summer grilling, these drumsticks will impress your friends and family without requiring hours in the kitchen. Let’s fire up that grill!

Ingredients

• 10 chicken drumsticks
• 1 cup peach preserves
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh peach slices for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together peach preserves, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the drumsticks in a large resealable bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the drumsticks from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
4. Grill the Drumsticks: Place the drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are cooked through and have a nice char. Brush with leftover marinade during the last 5 minutes of cooking for extra glaze.
5. Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh peach slices if desired, and enjoy!

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken Wings

Garlic Parmesan grilled chicken wings are a must-try for any summer barbecue. These wings are packed with flavor from the garlic and Parmesan, making them a delicious treat that everyone will love. They are simple to prepare and require minimal ingredients, so they’re perfect for a last-minute addition to your grilling lineup.

The combination of savory garlic and nutty Parmesan creates a delightful coating that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. Plus, they’re a hit with both kids and adults alike, making them a great choice for any gathering. Serve them with your favorite dipping sauce for an extra layer of enjoyment!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken wings
• 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 Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, Parmesan cheese, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. Marinate the Wings: Add the chicken wings to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, let the coals burn until they are covered with white ash.
4. Grill the Wings: Place the marinated wings on the grill. Cook for about 20-25 minutes, turning occasionally, until they are crispy and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
5. Serve: Remove the wings from the grill and garnish with chopped parsley. Serve hot with your favorite dipping sauce.

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Drumsticks

Smoky Chipotle BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are the perfect way to bring some heat and flavor to your summer cookouts. These drumsticks are marinated in a rich chipotle sauce, giving them a smoky taste that’s hard to resist. The combination of sweet, spicy, and tangy flavors makes each bite a delightful experience.

This recipe is simple enough for beginners, yet impressive enough to wow your guests. Just a few ingredients and some grilling time result in juicy, tender chicken that’s bursting with flavor. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or just enjoying a family dinner, these drumsticks are sure to be a hit!

Ingredients

• 2 pounds chicken drumsticks
• 1/4 cup chipotle sauce
• 1/4 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, mix together the chipotle sauce, barbecue sauce, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken drumsticks to the bowl, ensuring they are well coated with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably overnight for deeper flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat. Make sure the grates are clean and well-oiled to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Drumsticks: Place the marinated drumsticks on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is fully cooked and has a nice char on the outside.
5. Serve: Once cooked, remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken Salad

Bright and refreshing, cilantro lime grilled chicken salad is a perfect dish for summer days. The combination of grilled chicken, zesty lime, and fresh cilantro creates a lively flavor that is both light and satisfying. It’s easy to make, making it a great option for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ.

This salad is not just delicious; it’s also packed with nutrients. The vibrant colors of the veggies, along with the tender chicken, create a visually appealing meal that’s sure to impress. Serve it as a main dish or a side, and enjoy the delightful flavors of summer!

Ingredients

• 2 chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
• 1 teaspoon lime zest
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup sliced bell peppers
• 1/4 cup red onion, thinly sliced

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine olive oil, lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill over medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before slicing.
3. Prepare the Salad: In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, avocado, bell peppers, and red onion.
4. Assemble: Add the sliced grilled chicken on top of the salad. Drizzle with additional lime juice and sprinkle with more cilantro if desired.
5. Serve: Enjoy the salad fresh, paired with your favorite dressing or enjoy it as is!

Tropical Mango BBQ Chicken Breasts

This Tropical Mango BBQ Chicken recipe brings a burst of sweetness and tang to your summer grilling. The juicy chicken breasts are marinated in a zesty mango sauce, making them tender and flavorful. It’s super easy to prepare, perfect for a quick weeknight meal or an outdoor barbecue with friends.

With the bright flavors of mango, lime, and a hint of spice, this dish is a must-try for anyone looking to add a tropical twist to their chicken. Serve it alongside fresh greens or simple rice to soak up all the deliciousness!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine the diced mango, BBQ sauce, lime juice, olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the mango marinade over the chicken, ensuring they are well coated. Seal and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. 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 fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your Tropical Mango BBQ Chicken!

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers

Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers are a delightful twist on traditional barbecue chicken. The sweet and spicy marinade brings together the rich flavors of honey and garlic with a kick of heat, making every bite burst with summer vibes. Perfect for grilling season, these skewers are simple to prepare and promise to impress your friends at any backyard gathering!

Marinating the chicken not only infuses it with flavor but also keeps it juicy during cooking. These skewers can be served as an appetizer or as a main course, and they pair wonderfully with a side of grilled vegetables or rice. Get your grill ready for a tasty and vibrant dish that everyone will love!

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sriracha (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, sriracha, ground ginger, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, coating them well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly oil the grates.
4. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.
5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
6. Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy your spicy honey garlic chicken skewers hot!

Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Sandwiches

Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Sandwiches bring together a delightful mix of sweet and savory flavors. The juicy chicken, marinated in a rich teriyaki sauce, pairs beautifully with fresh lettuce and grilled pineapple, creating a taste that’s both refreshing and satisfying.

This recipe is straightforward, making it perfect for summer cookouts or a quick weekday meal. You’ll love how easy it is to whip up these mouthwatering sandwiches that everyone will enjoy!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 4 hamburger buns
• 4 slices of grilled pineapple
• 1 cup lettuce, shredded
• Ketchup for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken breasts and teriyaki sauce. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.
3. Grill the Pineapple: During the last few minutes of grilling, place pineapple slices on the grill and cook until grill marks appear.
4. Assemble the Sandwiches: On each bun, layer shredded lettuce, grilled chicken, grilled pineapple, and a drizzle of ketchup.
5. Serve: Enjoy your delicious Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Sandwiches while they’re warm!

Buffalo BBQ Chicken Pizza

Buffalo BBQ Chicken Pizza is a delicious and zesty twist on a classic favorite. It’s perfect for summer gatherings or casual weeknight dinners. The combination of spicy buffalo sauce, tender chicken, and gooey cheese creates an explosion of flavors that everyone will love.

This recipe is easy to make, requiring just a few ingredients and minimal prep time. Whether you’re hosting a backyard BBQ or just craving something fun, this pizza will surely satisfy your taste buds!

Ingredients

• 1 pre-made pizza crust
• 1 cup cooked chicken, shredded
• 1/2 cup buffalo sauce
• 1 cup mozzarella cheese, shredded
• 1/2 cup cheddar cheese, shredded
• 1/2 red bell pepper, sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Olive oil for brushing

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven according to the pizza crust instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with the buffalo sauce until well coated.
3. Spread the buffalo chicken evenly over the pizza crust.
4. Sprinkle mozzarella and cheddar cheese generously on top.
5. Add the sliced red bell pepper for a fresh crunch.
6. Brush the crust with a little olive oil for a golden finish.
7. Bake in the oven for 12-15 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and the crust is golden.
8. Remove from the oven and sprinkle chopped cilantro over the top before slicing.
9. Serve hot and enjoy your Buffalo BBQ Chicken Pizza!

Grilled Chicken with Zesty Chimichurri

This grilled chicken recipe is a delicious way to elevate your summer BBQs. The zesty chimichurri sauce adds a burst of vibrant flavor, perfectly complementing the juicy grilled chicken. Simple and quick to prepare, it’s an ideal choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering with friends.

The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of spice in the chimichurri sauce takes the dish to another level. Each bite is packed with flavor that’s sure to impress. Plus, grilling the chicken gives it a smoky char that’s simply irresistible.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh oregano, finely chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/2 cup olive oil (for chimichurri)
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• Juice of 1 lemon

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the 2 tablespoons of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken breasts with this mixture and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Chimichurri: In another bowl, combine the parsley, oregano, garlic, red pepper flakes, olive oil, red wine vinegar, and lemon juice. Stir well and set aside.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Serve: Once grilled, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Drizzle the zesty chimichurri sauce over the top and enjoy!

Final Thoughts

Great BBQ chicken is all about balance – that perfect harmony between smoky char and tender juiciness, between bold seasoning and the chicken’s natural flavor. As you try these recipes, don’t be afraid to make them your own: adjust the heat levels, play with different wood chips for smoking, or experiment with basting sauces. Remember, the best summer memories often happen around the grill, where the food is hot, the drinks are cold, and the laughter flows as freely as the barbecue sauce. Here’s to sunny days, sizzling grills, and chicken so good you’ll want to make it all season long!