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Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill, and what better way to make the most of those long, sunny days than with a collection of mouthwatering summer chicken BBQ recipes?
Whether you’re hosting a backyard cookout or enjoying a family meal, these recipes bring out the best in tender chicken, paired with smoky, tangy, and savory BBQ flavors.
From succulent chicken wings to zesty chicken kabobs, we’ve rounded up over 28 recipes that will satisfy your craving for bold, grilled goodness.
These dishes are easy to prepare, packed with flavor, and guaranteed to make your summer gatherings unforgettable.
28+ Delicious Summer Chicken BBQ Recipes for Your Next Cookout
With these 28+ summer chicken BBQ recipes, you can turn any backyard gathering into a celebration of smoky, flavorful chicken.
From the tangy sweetness of BBQ chicken wings to the bold spice of grilled chicken skewers, there’s something for every palate.
Each recipe brings a unique twist to your grilling repertoire, ensuring your summer BBQs are filled with variety and excitement.
So gather your friends, fire up the grill, and get ready to enjoy a delicious summer filled with unforgettable meals and great memories.
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Nothing captures the spirit of summer quite like the bright, zesty flavors of Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken sizzling on the grill.
The blend of fresh lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, and thyme infuses each bite with a light, citrusy aroma that perfectly complements the smoky char from the BBQ.
The chicken turns irresistibly tender and juicy, making it the perfect centerpiece for a garden party or a casual backyard gathering.
Pair it with a crisp green salad or enjoy it solo for a refreshing and satisfying meal under the sun.
Honey BBQ Chicken Skewers
Sweet, sticky, and just a little smoky, Honey BBQ Chicken Skewers are pure magic on a summer afternoon.
The marinated chicken cubes soak up a luscious glaze of honey, tomato, and spices, caramelizing beautifully over an open flame.
Each juicy bite bursts with bold, tangy flavors, while the charred edges offer an addictive crunch.
Perfect for outdoor parties or simple family dinners, these skewers bring fun and flavor to any sunny day.
Spicy Grilled Chicken Thighs
If you crave a little heat, Spicy Grilled Chicken Thighs will turn up the temperature at your next BBQ.
Coated in a fiery marinade of smoked paprika, cayenne, and brown sugar, these thighs deliver an irresistible balance of smoky, spicy, and sweet.
The crispy skin locks in all the juicy tenderness inside, creating a bite that’s both crispy and succulent.
Serve them with a cooling cucumber salad or tuck them into a pita for a fiery, flavorful meal.
Pineapple BBQ Chicken
Tropical vibes meet backyard BBQ in the mouthwatering Pineapple BBQ Chicken.
Succulent chicken is basted in a tangy homemade pineapple BBQ sauce that’s both sweet and savory, filling the air with an intoxicating fruity aroma as it grills.
The caramelized pineapple bits stick to the skin, offering bursts of juicy sweetness in every tender mouthful.
This dish is a natural match for coconut rice, grilled corn, or simply enjoyed with a cool drink in hand.
Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken
Bright, bold, and irresistibly fresh, Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken is a summer classic you’ll crave all season long.
A vibrant marinade of fresh cilantro, lime zest, and garlic soaks into the chicken, delivering herbaceous, citrusy notes with every bite.
As it grills, the chicken develops a gorgeous char that contrasts beautifully with its moist, flavorful interior.
Enjoy it alongside avocado salsa, tuck it into tacos, or savor it on its own for a simple, refreshing feast.
Bourbon BBQ Chicken
Rich, smoky, and unapologetically bold, Bourbon BBQ Chicken is the star of any summer BBQ spread.
The chicken is slathered in a luscious sauce made with bourbon, brown sugar, and a hint of smoked paprika, giving it a deep, caramelized finish on the grill.
Each tender bite is a complex medley of sweet, smoky, and savory flavors that dance across the palate.
Pair it with grilled vegetables or a hearty slaw for an unforgettable summer meal.
BBQ Chicken Wings
These BBQ Chicken Wings are the ultimate summer snack, offering a perfect combination of crispy skin and smoky, tender meat.
Coated in a rich BBQ sauce, the wings are grilled to perfection, with each bite bringing a delightful balance of tangy, sweet, and smoky flavors.
The charred edges add an irresistible crunch, making them ideal for snacking or sharing with friends on a warm afternoon.
Serve them with a side of creamy ranch or a tangy coleslaw for a perfect BBQ treat.
Cajun BBQ Chicken
Turn up the heat with Cajun BBQ Chicken, a bold and spicy dish that will ignite your taste buds this summer.
The smoky, aromatic Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a fiery kick, while the BBQ glaze adds a touch of sweetness.
As the chicken grills, the spices form a crispy, flavorful crust, locking in all the juicy tenderness inside.
This dish is perfect for pairing with a cool, creamy potato salad or grilled corn on the cob.
BBQ Chicken Salad
For a lighter, yet equally satisfying option, try BBQ Chicken Salad, a refreshing summer meal that combines smoky grilled chicken with crisp, fresh greens.
The BBQ chicken adds a rich, smoky flavor, while the crunchy vegetables and tangy dressing balance out the heat.
The combination of textures—from tender chicken to crunchy veggies—makes each bite a mouthwatering experience.
Serve it as a standalone dish or as a side to complement your BBQ spread.
Sweet and Sour BBQ Chicken
Experience the perfect balance of sweet and tangy with Sweet and Sour BBQ Chicken.
The BBQ sauce is combined with a burst of pineapple juice and vinegar, creating a deliciously sweet, tangy glaze that coats the juicy chicken.
Grilled until golden and caramelized, the chicken offers a beautiful contrast of sweet, smoky, and sour flavors in every bite.
This dish pairs perfectly with jasmine rice or a simple green salad to create a complete summer meal.
Teriyaki BBQ Chicken
For a fusion of flavors, try Teriyaki BBQ Chicken, where the sweet, savory notes of teriyaki sauce blend perfectly with the smoky BBQ glaze.
The chicken marinates in a rich teriyaki sauce, absorbing all its sweet umami flavor before being grilled to perfection.
Each bite delivers a delicious combination of caramelized sweetness with a smoky finish, leaving you craving more.
Pair it with grilled vegetables or serve it over a bed of rice for a flavorful and satisfying meal.
Smoky BBQ Chicken Breasts
Smoky BBQ Chicken Breasts are the perfect way to enjoy juicy, flavorful chicken with just the right amount of smoky goodness.
The chicken breasts are seasoned with a smoky rub and then grilled with a rich BBQ glaze that caramelizes beautifully.
Tender on the inside with a smoky char on the outside, these chicken breasts are packed with flavor in every bite.
Enjoy them with mashed potatoes, corn on the cob, or your favorite summer sides for a complete meal.
BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
BBQ Chicken Drumsticks are a timeless favorite, perfect for summer BBQs and casual gatherings.
The tender chicken is coated in a smoky, tangy BBQ sauce that caramelizes on the grill, creating a beautiful glaze.
Each bite is packed with juicy flavor, balanced by the crispy skin and the deep smoky notes from the grill.
Serve them with baked beans or coleslaw for a classic BBQ experience.
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Bring fresh, zesty flavors to your BBQ with Lemon Garlic Chicken.
A marinade of tangy lemon, savory garlic, and fresh herbs infuses the chicken with a bright, aromatic flavor that complements the smoky grilled finish.
The juicy, tender meat paired with the aromatic citrus notes makes this dish light, refreshing, and flavorful.
It’s perfect for serving with grilled vegetables or a light summer salad.
BBQ Chicken Sliders
BBQ Chicken Sliders are the perfect bite-sized treat, packed with all the smoky, savory goodness of summer BBQ.
Shredded chicken is tossed in a rich BBQ sauce and served on soft slider buns, making them a fun and flavorful addition to any gathering.
With a crunchy pickle topping and smoky flavor, these sliders are a crowd-pleasing favorite for both kids and adults.
Serve them with chips or a side of grilled corn for a complete meal.
Chipotle BBQ Chicken
For a smoky, spicy kick, try Chipotle BBQ Chicken.
The smoky chipotle peppers add a layer of heat and depth to the traditional BBQ sauce, creating a fiery and flavorful glaze for the chicken.
Each bite offers a balanced blend of sweet, smoky, and spicy flavors that linger on your palate.
This dish is perfect for pairing with a cool, creamy dip or a tangy coleslaw to balance the heat.
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas bring together two summer favorites into one delicious dish.
Shredded BBQ chicken is combined with melted cheese and grilled to crispy perfection, offering a delicious contrast of textures.
The rich smoky flavor from the BBQ sauce pairs beautifully with the gooey melted cheese, creating a savory bite that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
Serve with a side of salsa and sour cream for a flavorful meal.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken
For a simple yet flavorful option, Garlic Parmesan Chicken offers a deliciously savory BBQ dish.
The chicken is marinated in a garlic-infused olive oil and grilled until golden brown, then topped with a generous sprinkle of parmesan cheese.
The garlic aroma fills the air as the chicken grills, offering a mouthwatering bite of tender, juicy chicken with each mouthful.
Pair it with roasted potatoes or a fresh green salad for a well-rounded meal.
BBQ Chicken Tenders
BBQ Chicken Tenders are the perfect combination of crispy, tender chicken and smoky, tangy barbecue sauce.
These juicy chicken strips are marinated in a rich BBQ sauce, then grilled to perfection, offering a crispy exterior and a juicy interior.
The smoky aroma fills the air, making them irresistible to anyone nearby.
Serve them with a side of sweet potato fries or a refreshing cucumber salad for a complete meal.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
BBQ Chicken Pizza is a fun twist on traditional pizza, combining smoky BBQ chicken with melty cheese and a crispy crust.
Topped with red onions, cilantro, and a rich BBQ sauce, every bite is a delightful mix of savory, sweet, and smoky flavors.
The caramelized edges of the BBQ chicken add a satisfying crunch, while the gooey cheese melts perfectly into the crust.
Enjoy this pizza as a light lunch or dinner with a side of tangy coleslaw for a refreshing contrast.
Jerk BBQ Chicken
Jerk BBQ Chicken brings bold, tropical flavors to your grill with a spicy, flavorful jerk seasoning combined with a smoky BBQ sauce.
The jerk seasoning adds an exciting kick, while the BBQ sauce offers a sweet balance, creating an irresistible combination of heat and flavor.
Each bite is packed with vibrant spices and a smoky finish, making it the perfect choice for spice lovers.
Pair it with a mango salsa or grilled vegetables for a complete tropical BBQ meal.
BBQ Chicken Nachos
BBQ Chicken Nachos are a fun, shareable dish that’s perfect for any summer gathering.
Tortilla chips are topped with smoky BBQ chicken, melted cheese, jalapeños, and a drizzle of rich BBQ sauce, creating a deliciously indulgent snack.
Each bite is packed with layers of flavor and texture, from the crispy chips to the gooey cheese and tender chicken.
Serve them as an appetizer or a main dish, perfect for a casual BBQ or game day.
Herb Grilled Chicken
Herb Grilled Chicken is a light, fresh option that brings the bright flavors of summer to your plate.
The chicken is marinated in a fragrant mix of fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil, then grilled to juicy perfection.
The result is a tender, flavorful chicken with a beautiful char and a light, herby aroma.
Pair it with a quinoa salad or grilled vegetables for a healthy and delicious meal.
BBQ Chicken Burritos
BBQ Chicken Burritos are a hearty, flavorful option for a satisfying meal.
Tender BBQ chicken is wrapped in a soft tortilla with rice, beans, and fresh veggies, creating a delicious combination of smoky, savory, and fresh flavors.
The warm, gooey cheese and the smoky chicken work beautifully together, offering a comforting and filling bite.
Serve with a side of guacamole or a tangy salsa for an extra burst of flavor.
BBQ Chicken Kabobs
BBQ Chicken Kabobs are a colorful and flavorful dish that’s perfect for grilling season.
Tender chunks of chicken are skewered with vibrant vegetables and coated in a smoky BBQ sauce that caramelizes beautifully on the grill.
Each bite is a balanced mix of juicy chicken, crisp vegetables, and sweet barbecue glaze.
Serve with a side of rice or grilled corn for a complete and satisfying meal.
Grilled BBQ Chicken
Grilled BBQ Chicken is a simple yet classic dish that brings out the best of summer flavors.
Marinated in a rich BBQ sauce, the chicken develops a smoky, caramelized crust while remaining tender and juicy inside.
The smell of grilling chicken fills the air, creating an irresistible aroma that beckons everyone to the table.
Pair it with baked beans or a fresh green salad for a laid-back BBQ feast.
BBQ Chicken Wraps
BBQ Chicken Wraps offer a deliciously portable meal packed with smoky flavor.
Grilled BBQ chicken is wrapped in a soft tortilla with fresh veggies and a drizzle of creamy ranch or coleslaw, making every bite satisfying and full of flavor.
The crispy chicken paired with cool, crunchy vegetables creates the perfect contrast in texture.
These wraps are ideal for a quick lunch or a fun meal on the go.
BBQ Chicken Pasta
BBQ Chicken Pasta is a hearty and satisfying dish that brings together smoky chicken and creamy pasta in perfect harmony.
Tender grilled chicken is tossed with al dente pasta and smothered in a tangy BBQ sauce, creating a rich, flavorful dish that’s comforting and filling.
The smoky chicken adds depth to the creamy sauce, making it a dish everyone will love.
Serve it with a side of garlic bread for an extra indulgent meal.
BBQ Chicken Sandwich
BBQ Chicken Sandwich is a simple yet incredibly satisfying choice for your next BBQ meal.
Shredded BBQ chicken is piled high on a soft bun, topped with tangy coleslaw, and drizzled with extra barbecue sauce.
Each bite is a delightful combination of smoky, sweet, and creamy flavors, with a satisfying crunch from the slaw.
Pair with crispy fries or a pickle for the ultimate BBQ sandwich experience.
BBQ Chicken Casserole
BBQ Chicken Casserole is a cozy, comforting dish that’s perfect for feeding a crowd.
Shredded BBQ chicken is layered with creamy cheese, crunchy vegetables, and tender pasta, then baked until golden and bubbly.
The smoky BBQ flavor infuses every layer, making each bite a savory, satisfying experience.
Serve it with a side of green beans or a light salad for a complete, hearty meal.
Conclusion
Summer grilling just got a whole lot better with these 28+ chicken BBQ recipes!
Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or planning a big weekend barbecue, these recipes are sure to impress.
Packed with smoky flavors, zesty marinades, and juicy tender chicken, each recipe will elevate your summer cooking to the next level.
So, grab your apron and get ready to explore a world of delicious BBQ chicken dishes that will make your summer BBQs a hit every time.
