13 Grilled Chicken Recipes Packed With Bold, Smoky Flavor

13 Grilled Chicken Recipes Packed With Bold, Smoky Flavor – your ticket to transforming ordinary chicken into extraordinary meals. When that first whiff of charcoal hits the air and the grill grates start sizzling, you know it’s time to take chicken from bland to brilliant. These 13 fire-kissed recipes deliver the deep, complex flavors that make grilled chicken the undisputed champion of backyard cooking, from sticky-sweet glazes with a fiery kick to dry rubs that create the perfect crusty bark.

We’ve crafted each recipe to maximize that irresistible smoky char while keeping the meat incredibly juicy. You’ll discover global-inspired marinades that transport your taste buds, clever techniques for perfect grill marks every time, and bold flavor combinations that will make this your go-to collection all season long. Whether you’re feeding a crowd at your next cookout or just want to elevate weeknight dinners, these grilled chicken recipes promise to deliver serious wow-factor with every bite.

Smoked Maple Mustard Chicken

Smoked Maple Mustard Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the sweet richness of maple syrup with the tangy kick of mustard. This recipe is simple to prepare, making it a fantastic choice for a weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. The smoky flavor from the grill enhances the overall taste, creating a meal that is both satisfying and delicious.

This chicken dish is sure to please everyone at the table. The glaze gives it a beautiful caramelized finish, and the juicy chicken remains tender throughout the cooking process. Pair it with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 2 tablespoons Dijon mustard
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh thyme for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours) in the refrigerator.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Ensure it’s clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Glaze and Serve: In the last minute of cooking, brush additional marinade onto the chicken for extra flavor. Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then garnish with fresh thyme before serving.

Lemon Herb Marinade Delight

This Lemon Herb Marinade is a game-changer for grilled chicken lovers. It combines fresh herbs and zesty lemon to create a bright, flavorful experience. The marinade is simple to whip up and adds a delightful tang that perfectly complements the smoky char from the grill.

Get your chicken marinating for a couple of hours, and you’ll be rewarded with juicy, tender meat bursting with flavor. It’s an easy recipe that fits seamlessly into weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup fresh lemon juice
• 2 tablespoons lemon zest
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic, parsley, thyme, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or a shallow dish, and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1-2 hours.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off.
4. Grill the Chicken: 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).
5. Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with fresh lemon wedges and enjoy!

Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken

This Honey Garlic Glazed Chicken is a perfect blend of sweet and savory flavors, making it a delightful dish for any occasion. The sticky honey glaze combined with garlic creates a mouthwatering coating that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving the chicken a rich, smoky flavor.

Easy to prepare, this recipe is great for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues. You can whip it up in no time, making it perfect for those busy days when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, salt, and pepper until well combined.
2. 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 it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, sprinkle sesame seeds on top for a nice crunch. Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful dish!

Smoky Paprika and Citrus Chicken

This smoky paprika and citrus chicken recipe brings a delightful blend of flavors to your table. The vibrant mix of smoky spices and zesty citrus creates an irresistible marinade that infuses the chicken with bold taste. It’s a simple dish to whip up, perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend grilling session.

As the chicken cooks, the smokiness from the paprika mingles with the bright notes of lemon and orange, resulting in a juicy and flavorful meal that everyone will love. Serve it alongside grilled veggies or a fresh salad for a complete and satisfying dish.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Juice of 1 orange
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, lemon juice, orange juice, and olive oil. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Heat 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 place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Spicy Chipotle Grilled Chicken

This Spicy Chipotle Grilled Chicken brings a kick to your dinner table with its bold, smoky flavors. Marinated in a zesty chipotle sauce, each bite is juicy and packed with heat that’s balanced by a hint of sweetness. Perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight meal, this recipe is simple enough for anyone to master.

With just a few ingredients, you can whip up a dish that’s sure to impress family and friends. The marinade is not only easy to make but also versatile, allowing you to adjust the spice level to your liking. Let’s get grilling!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the minced chipotle peppers, olive oil, honey, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper until combined.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the 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.
3. Preheat the Grill: When ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
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 the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Serve with fresh cilantro and lime wedges for added flavor.

Tandoori Spiced Grilled Chicken

Tandoori spiced grilled chicken is a vibrant dish that brings bold flavors to your table. The marinade, made with yogurt and a mix of spices, infuses the chicken with a smoky, tangy taste that’s simply irresistible. This recipe is straightforward and perfect for both beginners and grilling enthusiasts.

Grilling the chicken gives it a beautiful char, while the spices ensure every bite is packed with flavor. Serve it with naan or a fresh salad for a delightful meal that everyone will enjoy.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken legs or thighs
• 1 cup plain yogurt
• 2 tablespoons tandoori spice mix
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• Salt to taste
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Make the Marinade: In a bowl, combine yogurt, tandoori spice mix, lemon juice, garlic, ginger, vegetable oil, and salt. Mix well until smooth.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat the grill to medium-high. Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting the excess drip off. Place on the grill and cook for about 25-30 minutes, flipping occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with naan or your favorite sides.

Cajun Blackened Chicken

Cajun Blackened Chicken is a delightful dish bursting with smoky, spicy flavors that will take your taste buds on a journey. This recipe is simple to follow, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings.

The chicken is coated in a mix of bold Cajun spices that create a delicious crust when blackened on the grill or in a skillet. The result is juicy chicken with a beautiful char and a kick of flavor in every bite.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons paprika
• 1 tablespoon onion powder
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 tablespoon cayenne pepper
• 1 tablespoon dried thyme
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Spice Mix: In a small bowl, combine paprika, onion powder, garlic powder, cayenne, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Rub olive oil over each piece, then generously coat with the spice mix on both sides.
3. Heat Your Grill or Skillet: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat or heat a cast-iron skillet over high heat.
4. Cook the Chicken: Place the chicken on the grill or in the skillet. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the outside is blackened.
5. Serve: Remove the chicken from heat, let it rest for a few minutes, and then garnish with lime wedges and chopped parsley before serving.

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Skewers

BBQ Pineapple Chicken Skewers are a fun and flavorful dish that’s perfect for summer grilling. Combining juicy chicken with sweet pineapple and colorful bell peppers, these skewers are bursting with taste and a hint of smokiness. Easy to prepare and even easier to enjoy, they make a fantastic addition to any backyard barbecue or family dinner.

Coated in a tangy barbecue sauce, these skewers are not just eye-catching but also pack a punch of flavor. The caramelized edges of the chicken and pineapple provide a delightful texture contrast, making each bite satisfying. Whether you’re hosting a gathering or just cooking for yourself, these skewers are sure to impress.

Ingredients

• 1 pound chicken breast, cubed
• 1 cup fresh pineapple, cubed
• 1 red bell pepper, chopped
• 1 yellow bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Skewers (wooden or metal)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for about 30 minutes to prevent burning on the grill.
2. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the cubed chicken with barbecue sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let it marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
3. Assemble the Skewers: Thread the marinated chicken, pineapple, and bell peppers onto the skewers, alternating between ingredients for a colorful presentation.
4. Grill the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the skewers for about 10-15 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve and Enjoy: Once done, remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy these tasty skewers hot off the grill!

Smoky Lemon Dill Chicken Thighs

Smoky Lemon Dill Chicken Thighs are a delightful dish that combines the bright acidity of lemon with the fresh taste of dill. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home. The smoky flavor from the grill adds a fantastic depth that pairs wonderfully with the juicy chicken thighs.

This recipe is simple to follow, making it ideal for both novice cooks and seasoned chefs. With a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you’ll have a flavorful meal that’s sure to impress family and friends.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 2 tablespoons fresh dill, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lemon slices for serving

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, mix the olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, dill, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken thighs and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and oiled to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill skin-side down. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the skin is crispy and golden.
4. Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve with lemon slices and your favorite sides.

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken

This Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a rich blend of garlic and Parmesan flavors. It’s packed with a delicious smoky taste, making it perfect for summer barbecues or weeknight dinners. Plus, it’s super simple to whip up, so you can spend more time enjoying the meal and less time in the kitchen.

The marinade is a mix of olive oil, garlic, Parmesan cheese, and a squeeze of lemon, which keeps the chicken tender and full of flavor. Once grilled to perfection, it’s a dish that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together olive oil, Parmesan cheese, minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and Italian seasoning.
2. 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 fully coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for best flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, prepare the coals accordingly.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any 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: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before slicing and serving.

Zesty Chimichurri Chicken

Chimichurri chicken is a fantastic way to bring some zesty flair to your backyard grill. This dish features juicy chicken marinated in a vibrant chimichurri sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of spice. It’s packed with flavors that are bright and bold, making every bite a delight.

Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it also requires minimal cooking skills. The marinade does most of the work, infusing the chicken with a refreshing taste that pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or rice. Perfect for a weekend cookout or a quick weeknight dinner!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish. Pour the chimichurri marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the leftover marinade.
4. Grill the Chicken: Cook the chicken on the grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes.
5. Serve: Slice the chicken and drizzle with extra chimichurri sauce if desired. Enjoy alongside your favorite sides!

Savory Italian Herb Grilled Chicken

This Savory Italian Herb Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that’s both simple and packed with flavor. The aromatic blend of herbs creates a mouthwatering experience, bringing a taste of Italy right to your grill. Perfect for weeknight dinners or summer barbecues, this recipe is sure to impress your family and friends.

The chicken is marinated in a mixture of classic Italian herbs, creating a juicy and tender result every time. With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that bursts with bold flavors and pairs excellently with pasta or fresh salads. Get ready to fire up the grill!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
• 2 teaspoons dried oregano
• 2 teaspoons dried basil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, balsamic vinegar, oregano, basil, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more intense 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 marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
5. Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Slice and garnish with fresh basil leaves before serving.

Teriyaki Ginger Glazed Chicken

This Teriyaki Ginger Glazed Chicken is a delightful dish that brings together the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with a zesty ginger kick. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s simple to prepare and bursting with smoky flavors and beautiful colors.

Marinating the chicken in the teriyaki mixture infuses it with a rich, savory essence, making every bite enjoyable. Serve it over a bed of fluffy rice and add some steamed veggies for a complete meal that’s as satisfying as it is delicious.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
• 2 tablespoons fresh ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (for garnish)
• Chopped green onions (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, ginger, soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, and garlic. Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag, pour the marinade over, and let it sit in the fridge for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the remaining marinade.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill. Sprinkle sesame seeds and chopped green onions on top before serving over rice with your favorite veggies.

Final Thoughts

Grilled chicken doesn’t have to mean dry, boring cuts of meat – when done right, it’s one of the most versatile and satisfying proteins you can cook outdoors. The secret lies in bold seasoning, proper heat control, and letting that smoky grill flavor shine through. From quick-cooking skewers perfect for busy nights to whole spatchcocked birds that impress guests, these recipes prove chicken’s incredible potential when met with fire and creativity. Keep this collection handy all summer long – your grill (and your family) will thank you.