Every product is independently reviewed and selected by our editors. If you buy something through our links, we may earn an affiliate commission at no extra cost to you.
When the summer heat rolls in, there’s nothing better than gathering around with friends and family to enjoy a hearty, flavorful meal.
21+ Summer Chicken Recipes for a Crowd offers a variety of dishes perfect for outdoor cookouts, picnics, or any large gathering.
Whether you’re grilling, roasting, or serving up fresh salads, these recipes deliver mouthwatering flavors that will please even the largest groups.
From tangy BBQ chicken to herby grilled skewers, these recipes are designed to impress with their bold flavors, juicy chicken, and easy preparation.
Get ready to discover a range of dishes that make summer entertaining a breeze, with minimal fuss and maximum flavor.
21+ Delicious Summer Chicken Recipes for a Crowd to Enjoy
Cooking for a crowd during the summer doesn’t have to be stressful or complicated.
With these 21+ Summer Chicken Recipes for a Crowd, you have the perfect balance of variety and flavor, ensuring every guest finds something they’ll love.
From spicy grilled chicken to sweet and tangy barbecue, there’s a recipe for every palate and every occasion.
Whether you’re looking to impress at your next family reunion or simply hosting a casual gathering, these recipes make cooking for a crowd both easy and enjoyable.
So fire up the grill and get ready for a summer full of delicious meals!
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
When summer calls for bold, fresh flavors, Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken answers with a vibrant punch.
The citrusy aroma from the lemon marinade mingles with earthy rosemary and thyme, creating a juicy, tender bite that’s perfect for backyard parties or beachside picnics.
Its versatility shines as the centerpiece of a hearty meal or as a flavorful addition to salads and wraps.
The slight char from the grill enhances the herbaceous notes, delivering a mouthwatering experience that lingers delightfully on the palate.
Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers
Sweet, savory, and irresistibly sticky, Honey Garlic Chicken Skewers bring an explosion of flavor to any summer gathering.
Each bite reveals a tender, caramelized exterior with hints of smoky garlic and a whisper of floral honey.
The glossy glaze glistens under the sun, making these skewers as beautiful to look at as they are to devour.
Serve them with a crisp slaw or on their own for a hand-held treat that guests won’t forget.
BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches
There’s nothing like the rich, smoky scent of BBQ Pulled Chicken Sandwiches wafting through a summer afternoon.
Slow-cooked to perfection, the chicken melts in your mouth with layers of tangy, sweet, and spicy barbecue sauce.
The soft, pillowy buns soak up every drop of flavor, turning every bite into a saucy, satisfying indulgence.
Whether paired with grilled corn or served solo, these sandwiches guarantee smiles around the table.
Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs
Zesty and refreshing, Cilantro Lime Chicken Thighs capture the lively spirit of summer with every forkful.
The juicy, pan-seared thighs are infused with the brightness of lime and the grassy notes of fresh cilantro.
Sizzling on the grill, they release a tantalizing aroma that draws guests eagerly to the table.
Perfect for tacos, rice bowls, or enjoying straight off the plate, their vibrant flavor profile keeps everyone coming back for more.
Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Salsa
Elegant yet easygoing, Balsamic Grilled Chicken with Strawberry Salsa brings a gourmet touch to casual summer feasts.
The sweet-tangy glaze of balsamic vinegar pairs beautifully with the juicy, sun-ripened strawberries, creating a refreshing burst in every mouthful.
The tender grilled chicken provides a smoky canvas that highlights the fruity brightness of the salsa.
Ideal for pairing with light greens or serving on its own, it turns any outdoor meal into a special occasion.
Mediterranean Chicken Kabobs
Transport your guests to a seaside escape with the sun-drenched flavors of Mediterranean Chicken Kabobs.
Marinated in a lively mix of olive oil, lemon, oregano, and garlic, the chicken is threaded with colorful vegetables that char beautifully over the grill.
The sizzling kabobs release a herby, savory fragrance that’s simply irresistible.
Great alongside fluffy couscous or served alone as vibrant finger food, they make every summer gathering feel like a celebration.
Teriyaki Chicken Skewers
Bursting with sweet and savory notes, Teriyaki Chicken Skewers offer a glossy, caramelized bite perfect for summer cookouts.
The umami-rich sauce seeps into the tender chicken, creating a sticky, flavorful finish that clings lovingly to each piece.
The enticing aroma of soy, ginger, and garlic fills the air as the skewers sizzle on the grill.
Pair them with grilled pineapple or enjoy them solo for a tropical twist your guests will rave about.
Buffalo Grilled Chicken
If you crave a fiery kick, Buffalo Grilled Chicken delivers a smoky, spicy heat that energizes every summer party.
Each juicy bite tingles the tongue with buttery hot sauce while the charred exterior adds a satisfying crunch.
The smell of spicy wings grilling is pure magic, drawing a hungry crowd from every corner.
Serve with cooling ranch or stack into sandwiches for a hearty, flavor-packed feast.
Greek Chicken Souvlaki
Fresh and full of Mediterranean sunshine, Greek Chicken Souvlaki captures the essence of outdoor dining.
The chicken, marinated in lemon, oregano, and garlic, grills to perfection, releasing waves of herby, citrusy fragrance.
Its juicy tenderness makes it ideal for piling into warm pita bread with tzatziki or eating straight off the skewer.
Every bite tastes like a quick escape to a seaside taverna.
Spicy Peach Chicken
Sweet meets heat in the unforgettable combination that is Spicy Peach Chicken.
Succulent chicken thighs are glazed in a vibrant peach sauce with a flicker of chili that dances on the taste buds.
As it grills, the fruity caramel notes create a sticky, golden glaze that smells absolutely heavenly.
Serve it with a cool cucumber salad or let it shine as the star of your summer spread.
Caprese Grilled Chicken
Light, juicy, and brimming with garden freshness, Caprese Grilled Chicken transforms simple ingredients into a summer masterpiece.
Mozzarella melts gently over basil-brushed chicken breasts, topped with ruby-red slices of vine-ripened tomatoes.
The aromatic blend of sweet tomato and fragrant basil fills the air as it comes off the grill.
Serve alongside fresh greens or as a stand-alone dish that feels effortlessly elegant.
Pineapple BBQ Chicken
Tropical and tangy, Pineapple BBQ Chicken infuses backyard gatherings with juicy island flavor.
The smoky barbecue sauce caramelizes around the chicken while chunks of grilled pineapple add a bright, sweet surprise.
As the meat cooks, the sweet-savory scent floats through the air, irresistible and mouthwatering.
Perfect with a cold drink in hand, this chicken brings sunshine to every summer table.
Lemon Garlic Chicken
Bright, aromatic, and utterly satisfying, Lemon Garlic Chicken delivers the perfect balance of zest and savory goodness.
The chicken is marinated in a simple yet flavorful mix of garlic, lemon, and olive oil, then grilled to golden perfection.
As it sizzles, the tangy citrus aroma fills the air, promising a refreshing taste in every bite.
Perfect for summer salads, wraps, or served alongside roasted veggies, this dish is as versatile as it is delicious.
Chipotle Chicken Skewers
Bold, smoky, and just the right amount of heat, Chipotle Chicken Skewers are the definition of summer grilling.
The smoky chipotle marinade infuses the chicken with deep, rich flavors, while a touch of lime adds a refreshing kick.
The sizzling skewers on the grill offer an irresistible smoky aroma that beckons all to the table.
Great on their own or paired with a cooling dip, these skewers are a crowd-pleasing favorite for any outdoor occasion.
Herb Grilled Chicken
Packed with vibrant flavors, Herb Grilled Chicken makes the most of fresh, fragrant herbs that elevate the chicken to new heights.
The mix of rosemary, thyme, and oregano creates a tantalizingly aromatic crust, perfect for those long summer evenings.
Each bite delivers a burst of freshness from the herbs, perfectly complementing the juicy, grilled meat.
This dish is ideal for everything from picnics to family gatherings, pairing wonderfully with a light salad or grilled vegetables.
Cajun Chicken
Bring the heat with Cajun Chicken, a spicy and bold dish that commands attention.
The Cajun seasoning gives the chicken a vibrant kick, balanced by the smoky char from the grill.
As the chicken cooks, it releases an enticing aroma of paprika, cayenne, and garlic, setting the mood for a lively meal.
Serve with rice or alongside your favorite summer sides for a dish that’s as bold as it is satisfying.
Chicken Fajitas
Sizzling, savory, and irresistibly flavorful, Chicken Fajitas are perfect for a casual yet crowd-pleasing meal.
The marinated chicken is grilled with bell peppers and onions, creating a colorful and aromatic platter of fresh, smoky flavors.
The sizzle as it hits the hot skillet is a signal of the juicy, tender chicken and crisp veggies to come.
Tuck it all into warm tortillas and top with your favorite salsa for a meal that’s bursting with flavor.
Baked BBQ Chicken
For a hands-off yet flavorful option, Baked BBQ Chicken combines the rich, tangy taste of barbecue sauce with tender chicken that practically falls off the bone.
The oven-roasting process allows the chicken to soak up the sauce, creating a perfect balance of smoky, sweet, and savory flavors.
The mouthwatering scent of the barbecue sauce baking in the oven is enough to make anyone hungry.
Serve this dish with cornbread and a side of coleslaw for a comforting, satisfying meal that’s perfect for any summer gathering.
Grilled Chicken Tenders
For a lighter, more bite-sized option, Grilled Chicken Tenders deliver all the smoky goodness of a backyard cookout in a simple, kid-friendly package.
The tender pieces of chicken marinate in a blend of olive oil, garlic, and lemon, grilling up with a delicious char and juicy center.
Each tender is perfectly cooked, with a crisp exterior and a flavorful, tender interior.
Ideal for dipping in your favorite sauce or pairing with a fresh salad, these tenders are sure to please every crowd.
Pesto Chicken
A vibrant, herby twist on classic grilled chicken, Pesto Chicken is a burst of freshness that screams summer.
The chicken is marinated in fragrant basil pesto, which infuses it with rich, nutty flavors and a touch of garlic.
As it grills, the savory aroma of fresh basil fills the air, making it impossible to resist.
This dish pairs perfectly with roasted vegetables or over a bed of pasta, turning any meal into a Mediterranean-inspired feast.
Lemon Thyme Chicken
Refresh your taste buds with the zesty yet earthy flavors of Lemon Thyme Chicken, a perfect choice for a summer cookout.
The chicken is infused with the bright citrus notes of lemon and the earthy fragrance of fresh thyme, creating a savory, aromatic meal.
As the chicken grills, it develops a light, golden crust, locking in the juicy tenderness within.
Serve it alongside a crisp salad or roasted potatoes for a meal that’s both light and satisfying.
Mango Chicken
Sweet and savory, Mango Chicken brings a tropical flair to your summer table.
The chicken is marinated in a tangy mango sauce, infused with hints of ginger and lime, then grilled to juicy perfection.
The sweet aroma of caramelizing mango mingles with the smokiness from the grill, creating a mouthwatering combination.
It pairs beautifully with coconut rice or a simple cucumber salad, making for a refreshing and vibrant summer dish.
Teriyaki Chicken Thighs
For a rich, flavorful experience, Teriyaki Chicken Thighs are marinated in a sweet and savory teriyaki glaze, then grilled to perfection.
The chicken becomes beautifully caramelized, with a sticky glaze that’s both savory and sweet, enticing all with its rich aroma.
The tender, juicy thighs absorb all the flavors of the marinade, offering a moist, flavorful bite every time.
Serve them over steamed rice or with grilled veggies for a meal that’s sure to be a hit at any gathering.
Garlic Parmesan Chicken
For a comforting, flavor-packed dish, Garlic Parmesan Chicken delivers a crispy, cheesy, and aromatic bite that’s perfect for any crowd.
The chicken is coated in a buttery garlic sauce and topped with Parmesan, creating a golden, crispy crust that’s irresistible.
The rich scent of garlic and melted cheese fills the air, creating an unforgettable experience for the senses.
Serve it alongside roasted vegetables or mashed potatoes for a hearty, satisfying meal that will keep guests coming back for more.
Conclusion
No matter how large your guest list, 21+ Summer Chicken Recipes for a Crowd ensure your summer gatherings are filled with mouthwatering, memorable meals.
These recipes offer versatility, combining fresh ingredients, rich flavors, and satisfying textures that everyone will love.
Whether you choose to cook your chicken on the grill or in the oven, each dish is designed to be hassle-free, letting you focus more on enjoying time with your loved ones.
So, grab your ingredients and start cooking—your next summer celebration is about to get a whole lot tastier!
