Summer BBQ Favorites: Grilled Chicken For Fancy Feasts And Special Occasions: Chicken Recipes For Every Occasion: From Weeknight To Feast
When the sun shines bright and the grill heats up, nothing brings family and friends together like the irresistible aroma of sizzling chicken on the barbecue. Whether it’s a casual backyard gathering or a festive summer soirée, grilled chicken is the star of any outdoor feast. This chapter is dedicated to capturing the smoky, charred perfection of grilled chicken recipes that will elevate your summer BBQ game.
1. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs
Juicy, tender chicken thighs are marinated in a zesty blend of fresh lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, and a medley of herbs like rosemary, thyme, and parsley. Grilled to golden perfection, these thighs are bursting with bright, summery flavors. Serve with a side of grilled zucchini or a crisp garden salad for a complete meal.
2. Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Sticky, sweet, and smoky, these drumsticks are a BBQ favorite. A marinade of honey, soy sauce, garlic, and a touch of ginger caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a glossy, flavorful coating. These are perfect for casual gatherings and are a big hit with kids and adults alike.
3. Smoky Paprika Grilled Chicken Breasts
Boneless chicken breasts get a bold makeover with a dry rub featuring smoked paprika, cayenne, garlic powder, and a hint of brown sugar. The result? A smoky, slightly spicy, and perfectly charred dish that pairs wonderfully with coleslaw or grilled corn on the cob.
4. Pomegranate Glazed Grilled Chicken Skewers
These vibrant skewers combine the tangy sweetness of pomegranate molasses with the smokiness of the grill. Thread chicken pieces onto skewers with colorful bell peppers, red onions, and cherry tomatoes for a visually stunning dish that’s as tasty as it is festive.
5. Mediterranean Grilled Chicken Kebabs
Transport your guests to the shores of the Mediterranean with these flavorful kebabs. Chicken pieces are marinated in olive oil, lemon, garlic, oregano, and a touch of sumac, then grilled alongside chunks of red onion and zucchini. Serve with a side of tzatziki or a light couscous salad.
6. Spicy Peri-Peri Grilled Chicken Wings
Turn up the heat with these fiery wings! Marinated in a blend of peri-peri sauce, garlic, lime juice, and smoked paprika, they deliver a bold punch of flavor. Grill until crispy and serve with cooling cucumber sticks or a creamy dip to balance the spice.
7. Pineapple Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Thighs
A tropical twist on a classic, these thighs are marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce with fresh pineapple juice. Grill alongside pineapple rings for a sweet and smoky pairing that’s perfect for summer luaus or tropical-themed parties.
8. Citrus and Cilantro Grilled Chicken Breasts
Brighten up your BBQ spread with these citrus-infused chicken breasts. A marinade of orange and lime juice, cilantro, garlic, and cumin creates a fresh and tangy flavor profile. This dish is ideal for pairing with a light quinoa salad or grilled asparagus.
9. Korean-Style Grilled Chicken Thighs
These thighs are marinated in a savory-sweet blend of soy sauce, sesame oil, honey, garlic, and gochujang (Korean chili paste) for a bold, umami-packed flavor. Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and thinly sliced green onions for an authentic touch.
10. Moroccan Spiced Grilled Chicken Breasts
Exotic and aromatic, these chicken breasts are rubbed with a blend of cinnamon, cumin, coriander, and turmeric before grilling. Serve with a side of couscous or a simple cucumber and mint salad for a refreshing complement.
11. Caribbean Jerk Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
Infused with the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean, these drumsticks feature a jerk marinade of Scotch bonnet peppers, allspice, thyme, and lime juice. Perfectly grilled, they’re a fiery and flavorful centerpiece for any BBQ spread.
12. Garlic Butter Grilled Chicken Breasts
Simple yet luxurious, these chicken breasts are brushed with a mixture of melted garlic butter and herbs like parsley and thyme during grilling. The butter seeps into the chicken, keeping it juicy and infusing it with rich, savory flavor.
Tips for Grilling Success
Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
Marinate for Flavor: Let your chicken marinate for at least 2-4 hours, or overnight if possible, to allow the flavors to fully penetrate.
Preheat the Grill: Always start with a hot grill to achieve those signature grill marks and prevent sticking.
Indirect Heat for Larger Cuts: For bone-in thighs or whole chickens, use indirect heat to cook evenly without burning the exterior.
Closing Thoughts
These grilled chicken recipes are perfect for making the most of sunny summer days. With flavors ranging from smoky and spicy to sweet and tropical, there’s something to delight every palate. Gather your loved ones, fire up the grill, and enjoy these BBQ favorites under the open sky!
