12 BBQ Chicken Breast Recipes That Make Weeknight Grilling A Breeze

12 BBQ Chicken Breast Recipes That Make Weeknight Grilling A Breeze – because juicy, flavorful chicken shouldn’t be limited to weekends. When the clock is ticking and hunger strikes, these foolproof recipes transform ordinary chicken breasts into smoky, saucy masterpieces with minimal effort. From 15-minute honey mustard glazes to overnight marinades that do all the work for you, we’ve got every quick-cooking solution to make your weeknight dinners sizzle with excitement.

Say goodbye to dry, boring chicken with our collection of smart techniques that guarantee perfect results every time. Discover how a simple brine keeps meat succulent, learn the secret to caramelized grill marks without charring, and explore global flavors from tangy Carolina-style to spicy Korean gochujang. These aren’t just recipes – they’re your new arsenal for turning Tuesday night into a backyard barbecue worth savoring.

Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Breasts

Honey Garlic BBQ Chicken Breasts are a delightful combination of sweet and savory flavors that make for a simple weeknight meal. The honey adds a touch of sweetness, while the garlic brings a savory depth to the dish, making it a favorite among families.

This recipe is easy to prepare, perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Grilling these chicken breasts not only enhances their flavor but also gives them a beautiful char that adds to the overall appeal of the dish.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix honey, minced garlic, soy sauce, olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
4. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place on the hot grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Garnish and Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Spicy Chipotle BBQ Chicken

Spicy Chipotle BBQ Chicken is a bold and flavorful dish that brings a kick to your weeknight grilling. The smoky heat of chipotle peppers pairs perfectly with a sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, making each bite a delightful experience. Plus, it’s super easy to whip up, perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without too much fuss.

This recipe is great for grilling aficionados and beginners alike. Just marinate the chicken, fire up the grill, and in no time, you’ll have juicy, spicy chicken ready to serve. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s sure to liven up your dinner table!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Fresh cilantro, for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix the chipotle peppers, barbecue sauce, olive oil, honey, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and black 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 or cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for stronger 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, letting excess drip off. Grill for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
5. Serve: Once done, let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with additional barbecue sauce on the side.

Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken

Teriyaki Pineapple Chicken is a delightful dish that combines savory chicken with sweet, juicy pineapple. This recipe is not only simple to whip up but also full of vibrant flavors that make it perfect for a weeknight meal. The teriyaki sauce adds a rich depth while the grilled pineapple brings a refreshing sweetness, creating a delicious balance.

This dish is a real treat for the taste buds and is sure to impress your family or guests. Plus, with minimal prep time, you’ll be enjoying a tasty meal in no time!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup teriyaki sauce
• 1 fresh pineapple, cut into rings
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)
• 2 green onions, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken breasts and teriyaki sauce. Let sit for at least 30 minutes, or overnight for more flavor.
2. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Brush the grill grates with olive oil to prevent sticking.
3. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill each piece for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Grill the Pineapple: During the last few minutes of grilling, place the pineapple rings on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until grill marks appear.
5. Serve: Plate the grilled chicken and top with grilled pineapple. Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.

Smoky BBQ Chicken with Coleslaw

This Smoky BBQ Chicken recipe is a weeknight winner. It’s packed with flavors from the smoky barbecue sauce that caramelizes beautifully on the chicken, giving it a deliciously sticky texture. Paired with a crunchy coleslaw, it creates a refreshing contrast that balances the richness of the chicken.

Simple to make, this dish is perfect for any busy evening. Just marinate the chicken, grill it to perfection, and serve it up with a side of coleslaw. You’ll have a satisfying meal that feels like a treat!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup smoky barbecue sauce
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 cups green cabbage, finely shredded
• 1 cup carrots, shredded
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1 tablespoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken breasts with olive oil, salt, pepper, and smoky barbecue sauce. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Coleslaw: In a separate bowl, mix shredded cabbage and carrots. In another bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, apple cider vinegar, honey, salt, and pepper. Pour the dressing over the cabbage mixture and toss well.
3. Grill the Chicken: Preheat the grill to medium-high. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Serve: Plate the grilled chicken with a side of coleslaw and enjoy your smoky BBQ chicken dinner!

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a bright and zesty dish that brings a burst of flavor to your weeknight meals. The combination of fresh lemon juice, herbs, and garlic creates a marinade that tenderizes the chicken and adds a refreshing taste, making it a family favorite. Plus, it’s super simple to prepare—perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

This grilled chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, such as grilled vegetables or a light salad. The citrus notes combined with the savory herbs really elevate the dish, leaving everyone wanting more. Get ready to fire up the grill and enjoy this easy, tasty recipe!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup lemon juice (about 2 lemons)
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, parsley, thyme, garlic, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place chicken breasts in a resealable plastic 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, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, lightly oil the grill grates.
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 the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
5. Serve: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Enjoy with your favorite sides!

Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken

This Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken recipe is a delightful mix of savory flavors that will make your weeknight grilling effortless and enjoyable. The combination of garlic and Parmesan cheese creates a mouthwatering crust, while the juicy chicken keeps it tender and satisfying. You’ll love how simple it is to prepare, making it perfect for those busy evenings when you want something tasty without a lot of fuss.

Grilled to perfection, this dish stands out with its zesty notes, thanks to a hint of lemon and fresh herbs. It pairs wonderfully with a side of grilled veggies or a light salad, making it a versatile choice for any meal. Your family will be 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 Italian herbs
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, mix olive oil, minced garlic, grated Parmesan cheese, Italian herbs, salt, pepper, and lemon juice.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a zip-top 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 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours for extra flavor).
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the 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 on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Garnish and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill. Let it rest for a few minutes, then sprinkle with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Sweet and Sour BBQ Chicken

Sweet and sour BBQ chicken is a delightful mix of tangy and smoky flavors that makes weeknight grilling a breeze. This dish is not only simple to prepare but also a hit with both kids and adults. The combination of succulent chicken and a sweet, zesty barbecue sauce creates a mouthwatering experience that will keep everyone coming back for more.

The beauty of this recipe lies in its versatility. You can pair it with a variety of sides, from grilled veggies to fluffy rice. Plus, it’s quick enough to whip up on a busy evening, making it the perfect go-to for any weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 bell pepper, sliced
• 1 onion, sliced

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, pineapple juice, soy sauce, honey, garlic powder, ground ginger, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Prepare the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. While it’s heating, toss the sliced bell pepper and onion in a little olive oil, salt, and pepper.
3. 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 fully cooked and juices run clear. Use the leftover marinade to baste the chicken during grilling for extra flavor.
4. Grill the Veggies: In the last few minutes of cooking, add the bell pepper and onion to the grill. Cook until they are tender and slightly charred.
5. Serve: Once everything is cooked, serve the chicken with the grilled veggies. Drizzle some extra BBQ sauce over the top for added flavor.

Mediterranean Grilled Chicken

This Mediterranean Grilled Chicken recipe is a delicious and simple way to elevate weeknight dinners. Infused with flavors of olives, feta cheese, and fresh herbs, it brings a taste of the Mediterranean right to your backyard. Perfectly grilled, the chicken remains juicy and tender, making it a hit for both family meals and gatherings with friends.

Not only is this dish quick to prepare, but it also requires minimal ingredients, allowing you to whip it up without any hassle. Serve it alongside a fresh salad or some grilled vegetables for a complete meal that everyone will love.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/2 cup feta cheese, crumbled
• 1/2 cup black olives, pitted and sliced
• Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add chicken breasts and coat evenly. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure it’s well-oiled to prevent sticking.
3. 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).
4. Add Toppings: Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and top with crumbled feta cheese and sliced olives.
5. Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken and serve with your choice of sides.

Cajun Spice Grilled Chicken

Cajun Spice Grilled Chicken is a flavor-packed dish that brings a bit of the South right to your backyard. The bold spices create a delightful seasoning that perfectly complements the juicy chicken breast, making it a great choice for busy weeknights.

This recipe is not only simple but also quick, making it ideal for those evenings when you want something tasty without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few ingredients and a grill, you can whip up a meal that’s sure to impress everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 2 tablespoons Cajun seasoning
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, paprika, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high. This ensures a good sear on the chicken, locking in the juices.
3. Grill the Chicken: Place the seasoned chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
4. Rest and Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley and serve with your favorite sides.

Barbecue Ranch Chicken

Barbecue Ranch Chicken is a tasty and easy-to-make dish that will quickly become a weeknight favorite. The combination of zesty ranch seasoning and smoky barbecue sauce gives the chicken a delightful flavor that’s both savory and satisfying.

This recipe is perfect for those busy evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Just marinate the chicken, grill it, and you’re ready to enjoy a meal the whole family will love!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
• 1/2 cup ranch dressing
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix the barbecue sauce, ranch dressing, olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat well. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.
2. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, preheat it on the stovetop.
3. Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and has nice grill marks.
4. Serve: Once cooked, let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice and serve. Garnish with fresh parsley for an added touch of flavor.

Mustard Glazed BBQ Chicken

This mustard glazed BBQ chicken is a delightful twist on your classic grilled chicken. The tangy mustard creates a rich glaze that clings beautifully to the chicken, infusing it with a zesty flavor. It’s simple to make, perfect for weeknight dinners, and sure to impress your family or friends.

With just a few ingredients, you can create a dish that’s both savory and slightly sweet. The grilling process gives the chicken a lovely char while keeping it juicy and tender. You’ll find this recipe easy to whip up, making it a go-to for those busy evenings.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup mustard (your choice of style)
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. In a bowl, whisk together the mustard, honey, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the marinade over them. Seal the bag or cover the dish and let marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any leftover marinade.
4. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is golden brown.
5. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Enjoy your deliciously tangy mustard glazed BBQ chicken!

Maple Mustard BBQ Chicken

This Maple Mustard BBQ Chicken is a delightful mix of sweet and tangy flavors that will have your family coming back for seconds. The simplicity of this recipe makes it perfect for weeknight grilling, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal without much fuss.

The marinade combines the warmth of maple syrup with the zing of mustard, creating a glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy juicy chicken breasts bursting with flavor. Serve it with fresh veggies for a complete meal!

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup maple syrup
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. In a small bowl, mix together the maple syrup, Dijon mustard, apple cider vinegar, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish and pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off.
4. Grill the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. Garnish with fresh parsley if desired and serve with your favorite sides.

Final Thoughts

Great BBQ chicken proves that weeknight meals don’t need to sacrifice flavor for convenience. With these 12 approaches in your repertoire, you’ll never stare blankly at chicken breasts again. Each method offers its own shortcut to deliciousness, whether it’s a 3-ingredient sauce that transforms in minutes or a clever cooking hack that locks in moisture. Keep this guide handy all grilling season long – because when chicken tastes this good this fast, every night can feel like a summer celebration. Fire up those coals and get ready to make ordinary evenings extraordinary!