When the sun is out and the grill is fired up, there’s nothing quite like the aroma of sizzling chicken. Grilled chicken is a classic crowd-pleaser, whether you’re planning a summer barbecue, a casual weeknight dinner, or a special gathering with friends. From smoky and spicy to sweet and savory, these chicken on the grill recipes offer a little something for everyone.
In this roundup, you’ll find tried-and-true favorites, quick marinades, bold flavors, and tips for grilling the juiciest chicken every time.
Why Grilled Chicken Is Always a Good Idea
Grilled chicken isn’t just delicious—it’s also versatile, healthy, and easy to prepare. Here’s why you’ll keep coming back to these recipes:
- High in protein and low in fat (especially skinless cuts)
- Pairs well with almost any side dish
- Customizable marinades and rubs for endless flavor profiles
- Perfect for meal prep and leftovers
Now let’s get grilling!
1. Classic BBQ Grilled Chicken
There’s nothing more iconic than chicken slathered in tangy BBQ sauce, sizzling over hot grates.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in chicken thighs
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- Salt and pepper
- Olive oil
Instructions:
- Preheat grill to medium heat.
- Rub chicken with oil, salt, and pepper.
- Grill for 5–6 minutes per side, then brush with BBQ sauce.
- Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F, basting occasionally.
Tip: For a smoky twist, add soaked wood chips to your grill.
2. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Breasts
Light, bright, and perfect for summer. This recipe pairs well with grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- Juice of 2 lemons
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Marinate chicken in lemon, oil, garlic, and herbs for 30 minutes.
- Grill on medium-high for 6–8 minutes per side.
- Rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
3. Spicy Chipotle Grilled Chicken
Turn up the heat with smoky chipotle flavor and bold spices.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thighs
- 2 chipotle peppers in adobo
- 2 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 tsp cumin
- Salt to taste
Instructions:
- Blend marinade ingredients.
- Marinate chicken for 2 hours.
- Grill until nicely charred and cooked through.
4. Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken
Sweet, tangy, and always a hit with kids and adults alike.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Mix marinade and coat chicken. Marinate for at least 1 hour.
- Grill over medium heat, 6–7 minutes per side.
- Brush with extra marinade during the last few minutes of grilling.
5. Greek-Style Grilled Chicken Skewers
Perfect for parties and backyard gatherings.
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken breast, cubed
- 1/2 cup Greek yogurt
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp oregano
- 1 garlic clove, minced
Instructions:
- Marinate chicken for at least 2 hours.
- Thread onto skewers.
- Grill 3–4 minutes per side.
Serve with: Tzatziki sauce and pita bread.
6. Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Thighs
Asian-inspired and irresistibly flavorful.
Ingredients:
- 6 boneless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 garlic clove, grated
Instructions:
- Combine marinade ingredients and marinate chicken for 1 hour.
- Grill over medium-high heat, basting with sauce.
- Sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped scallions before serving.
7. Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken
Bold, cheesy flavor with a garlicky punch.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 3 tbsp olive oil
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
Instructions:
- Combine all ingredients and marinate for 30 minutes.
- Grill until golden and cooked through.
- Sprinkle with extra Parmesan before serving.
8. Caribbean Jerk Chicken
A flavorful escape to the islands!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb chicken thighs
- 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions:
- Rub chicken with seasoning, oil, and lime juice.
- Let sit for 1 hour.
- Grill over medium-high heat for 5–6 minutes per side.
Tip: Serve with pineapple salsa for a tropical twist.
9. Cajun Grilled Chicken
Spicy and packed with flavor, this one’s for heat lovers.
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
- Coat chicken in oil and seasoning.
- Grill 6–7 minutes per side.
- Let rest before serving.
10. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Turn your grilled chicken into a full meal.
Instructions:
- Grill seasoned chicken breasts.
- Slice and serve over crisp romaine, croutons, and shaved Parmesan.
- Drizzle with creamy Caesar dressing.
11. BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Fun to eat and perfect for casual cookouts.
Instructions:
- Season drumsticks with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
- Grill over indirect heat for 30–35 minutes, brushing with BBQ sauce in the final 10 minutes.
12. Balsamic Glazed Chicken
Sweet, tangy, and slightly caramelized.
Instructions:
- Marinate chicken in balsamic vinegar, olive oil, garlic, and rosemary.
- Grill and brush with reduced balsamic glaze.
13. Tandoori Grilled Chicken
A bold, Indian-inspired dish with rich spices.
Ingredients:
- Chicken thighs
- Yogurt, turmeric, paprika, cumin, and garam masala
Instructions:
- Marinate for at least 6 hours.
- Grill until charred and juicy.
14. Grilled Chicken with Peach Glaze
Sweet summer flavor in every bite.
Instructions:
- Brush chicken with a glaze made of pureed peaches, honey, and a touch of chili flakes.
- Grill and baste until golden.
15. Pesto Grilled Chicken
Fresh and herby, this is perfect for pasta or salads.
Instructions:
- Coat chicken in basil pesto.
- Grill until cooked through and serve with grilled veggies or pasta.
Tips for the Best Grilled Chicken
Want juicy, tender, and flavorful results every time? Keep these pro tips in mind:
- Don’t skip the marinade—it adds flavor and moisture.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F safely.
- Let it rest for 5 minutes after grilling to retain juices.
- Oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Use indirect heat for bone-in cuts for even cooking.
Delicious Sides to Serve with Grilled Chicken
- Grilled corn on the cob
- Roasted sweet potatoes
- Fresh garden salad
- Garlic bread
- Grilled pineapple slices
Final Thoughts: Chicken on the Grill Recipes for Every Occasion
Whether you’re craving something smoky, spicy, sweet, or savory, these chicken on the grill recipes have you covered. From weekday dinners to weekend barbecues, grilled chicken is always a winning dish. Try one (or all!) of these flavorful options and watch them become staples in your cooking rotation.
Pro Tip: Make extra for leftovers—grilled chicken is just as delicious cold or sliced into salads, wraps, or sandwiches.