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Looking for the perfect way to elevate your summer BBQ? With over 28 mouthwatering summer BBQ chicken recipes, you’ll have everything you need to turn your backyard cookouts into a flavor-packed feast.
From smoky, sweet marinades to bold and spicy rubs, these chicken recipes are designed to satisfy every taste preference.
Whether you’re grilling, baking, or skewering, there’s a BBQ chicken recipe for every occasion.
Get ready to impress your guests with juicy, tender, and beautifully charred chicken dishes that will leave everyone asking for seconds!
28+ Mouthwatering Summer BBQ Chicken Recipes for Grilling Season
No matter what flavor profile you’re craving, these 28+ summer BBQ chicken recipes will keep your grill game strong all season long.
With options ranging from sweet honey BBQ to spicy chipotle, there’s a recipe for every guest to enjoy.
Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or hosting a big weekend BBQ, these recipes are sure to elevate your cooking game and create lasting memories around the grill.
Don’t forget to pair your BBQ chicken with your favorite sides for a complete meal that everyone will love.
Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken
If you’re craving a sweet and smoky bite for your summer BBQ, this Grilled Honey BBQ Chicken hits the mark. The rich, caramelized sweetness of honey mingles perfectly with the tangy barbecue sauce, creating a harmonious flavor profile that will have everyone reaching for seconds.
The chicken skin crisps up beautifully on the grill, while the tender meat stays juicy and succulent.
It’s perfect for pairing with a refreshing salad or served as the star of a backyard feast, providing a well-rounded, flavorful meal that satisfies all the senses.
Spicy Citrus BBQ Chicken
This Spicy Citrus BBQ Chicken brings a burst of fresh zest to your summer gatherings. The bold citrus marinade with a touch of heat from chili flakes gives the chicken a vibrant kick that’s both tangy and spicy.
When grilled, the skin crisps up, and the zesty juices seep into the tender meat, offering a perfect balance of heat and flavor.
It’s a refreshing alternative to traditional BBQ fare and pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables or a light, tangy coleslaw.
Smoky Paprika Chicken
Elevate your summer BBQ with this Smoky Paprika Chicken recipe, where the deep smokiness of paprika meets the juicy tenderness of grilled chicken. The combination of paprika, garlic, and a hint of cumin creates a savory, aromatic seasoning that enhances the grilled flavor.
As the chicken grills, the spices form a slightly crispy coating, locking in the juiciness of the meat.
This dish is ideal served with a side of creamy mashed potatoes or a simple cucumber salad to balance out the bold flavors.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Brighten up your BBQ with Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken, a dish that sings with fresh flavors and vibrant aromas. The zesty lemon marinade, paired with fragrant herbs like rosemary and thyme, infuses the chicken with a refreshing citrusy flavor that contrasts beautifully with the smoky char of the grill.
As the chicken cooks, the skin crisps to perfection, while the meat remains moist and tender.
This dish makes a great main for a light summer meal, served alongside a quinoa salad or roasted vegetables for a wholesome, satisfying experience.
Garlic Parmesan BBQ Chicken
This Garlic Parmesan BBQ Chicken brings together rich, savory flavors in a way that will have everyone at your BBQ asking for the recipe. The deep umami of Parmesan cheese complements the smoky barbecue sauce for a mouthwatering blend of tastes that’s both indulgent and savory.
As the chicken grills, the garlic and cheese create a crisp, golden crust, while the meat inside stays moist and tender.
Serve it with a side of grilled asparagus or a light pasta salad for a crowd-pleasing dish that will leave everyone satisfied.
Tangy Balsamic BBQ Chicken
For those who love bold, tangy flavors, this Tangy Balsamic BBQ Chicken delivers an unforgettable taste. The balsamic vinegar glaze adds a rich, slightly sweet yet tangy depth that perfectly complements the smoky barbecue flavor.
When grilled, the balsamic glaze caramelizes, creating a delightful sticky coating that enhances the chicken’s natural juiciness.
Pair it with a side of grilled corn on the cob or a fresh garden salad for a simple yet flavorful summer meal that will impress every guest.
BBQ Chicken Skewers
These BBQ Chicken Skewers are the perfect finger food for your summer gatherings. Marinated in a smoky, tangy barbecue sauce, the chicken cubes soak up the flavors and grill to perfection, with each skewer offering a juicy, flavorful bite.
The slight char on the outside adds a delightful texture, while the tender meat inside stays moist.
Pair with a light dipping sauce or serve alongside a simple salad for an easy-to-serve meal that’s full of vibrant flavor.
Chipotle BBQ Chicken
For a smoky, spicy twist, try Chipotle BBQ Chicken. The deep, smoky chipotle peppers mix with rich barbecue sauce to create a tantalizing, slightly spicy glaze that coats the chicken beautifully.
Grilled to perfection, each bite delivers a punch of heat and smokiness, with a hint of sweetness from the BBQ sauce.
It pairs perfectly with a cooling cucumber salad or a scoop of creamy mashed potatoes to balance out the heat.
Maple BBQ Chicken
Sweet and smoky with a hint of richness, Maple BBQ Chicken is a must-try for your summer BBQ. The natural sweetness of maple syrup complements the smoky, tangy BBQ sauce, creating a caramelized glaze that coats the chicken perfectly.
Grilled until the skin crisps, the chicken remains juicy and flavorful inside.
It’s the perfect dish to serve with roasted vegetables or a tangy coleslaw for a deliciously balanced meal.
Garlic Herb BBQ Chicken
This Garlic Herb BBQ Chicken is a flavor-packed twist on your standard BBQ. The combination of garlic, rosemary, and thyme gives the chicken an aromatic, herby edge that elevates the smoky BBQ flavors.
The tender chicken absorbs the herb-infused marinade, creating a mouthwatering, savory dish.
Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh garden salad to round out this light, satisfying meal.
Teriyaki BBQ Chicken
For a fusion of flavors, Teriyaki BBQ Chicken brings a sweet, savory twist to your BBQ spread. The tangy, slightly sweet teriyaki glaze pairs perfectly with the smoky barbecue sauce, creating a balanced and rich flavor profile.
Grilled to perfection, the chicken stays tender and juicy, while the glaze forms a glossy, flavorful coating.
It’s a great option to serve with steamed rice or a side of stir-fried vegetables for a complete, flavorful meal.
BBQ Chicken Thighs
BBQ Chicken Thighs are a juicy and flavorful option for your summer grilling. The rich, slightly fatty chicken thighs absorb the smoky BBQ sauce beautifully, creating a tender, juicy bite with every piece.
The skin crisps up on the grill, adding a satisfying crunch to the tender meat.
These thighs pair wonderfully with grilled corn or a fresh green salad, making for a delicious and fulfilling BBQ meal.
Spicy BBQ Chicken
This Spicy BBQ Chicken is the perfect balance of heat and smoky flavor for your next summer cookout. With a zesty blend of chili, paprika, and barbecue sauce, the chicken becomes rich with heat and tang.
Grilled to perfection, the chicken skin crisps up beautifully, locking in moisture and flavor.
It’s ideal when paired with cooling sides like a creamy potato salad or grilled veggies to balance out the spice.
BBQ Chicken Legs
Simple and satisfying, BBQ Chicken Legs are a go-to for any summer BBQ. Coated in a smoky barbecue sauce, the chicken legs caramelize on the grill, giving you that crispy, flavorful skin everyone loves.
The meat remains tender and juicy inside, making each bite irresistible.
Serve with a side of baked beans or a fresh corn salad for a hearty, crowd-pleasing meal.
Cilantro Lime BBQ Chicken
For a refreshing and tangy BBQ option, Cilantro Lime BBQ Chicken delivers a burst of citrusy flavor. The lime juice, paired with fresh cilantro, infuses the chicken with a bright and zesty twist that’s perfect for summer grilling.
The chicken becomes perfectly charred on the outside, while the meat stays juicy and full of flavor.
Pair with a light mango salsa or a side of grilled corn for a fresh, vibrant meal.
Sweet and Sour BBQ Chicken
Sweet and Sour BBQ Chicken brings the perfect mix of tanginess and sweetness to your BBQ spread. The tangy BBQ sauce combined with a touch of pineapple juice creates a mouthwatering glaze that enhances the grilled chicken.
Each bite offers a savory-sweet balance, with the skin getting a nice caramelized crunch.
Serve with a side of rice or a crisp salad to complete the meal with refreshing balance.
BBQ Chicken Wraps
BBQ Chicken Wraps are an easy and delicious way to enjoy your grilled chicken in a handheld form. After grilling the chicken with your favorite BBQ sauce, wrap it in a soft tortilla with fresh veggies and a drizzle of ranch dressing for added creaminess.
The crispy, smoky chicken blends perfectly with the fresh crunch of the vegetables.
These wraps are perfect for a light lunch or dinner and can be paired with a side of sweet potato fries for a fun, satisfying meal.
Grilled BBQ Chicken Salad
Grilled BBQ Chicken Salad is a fresh and light way to enjoy your favorite BBQ flavors. The smoky, tender chicken sits atop a bed of crisp greens, with tangy BBQ sauce drizzled on top for an extra punch of flavor.
The salad includes a mix of textures from crunchy veggies and creamy dressing that complement the grilled chicken perfectly.
It’s an ideal choice for a lighter yet flavorful meal that can be served alongside crispy tortilla chips or cornbread.
BBQ Chicken Bites
These BBQ Chicken Bites are the perfect appetizer or snack for any summer gathering. Small, bite-sized pieces of chicken are coated in a smoky, sweet BBQ sauce and grilled to crispy perfection.
The charred exterior gives way to tender, juicy meat inside, creating a satisfying contrast of textures.
Serve with a side of dipping sauce or a simple salad for an easy yet crowd-pleasing dish.
Pineapple BBQ Chicken
Pineapple BBQ Chicken combines the tropical sweetness of pineapple with the smoky richness of BBQ sauce for an irresistible flavor profile. The pineapple caramelizes on the grill, adding a burst of juicy sweetness that pairs perfectly with the tender chicken.
Each bite is a balance of savory and sweet, with the grill marks creating a beautiful texture on the chicken.
This dish pairs wonderfully with a fresh cucumber salad or coconut rice for a tropical, summer-inspired meal.
BBQ Chicken Sandwich
The BBQ Chicken Sandwich is a classic comfort food that’s perfect for your summer cookouts. Tender grilled chicken is smothered in smoky BBQ sauce and served on a soft bun, creating a satisfying meal that’s both hearty and flavorful.
The crispness of fresh lettuce and the sweetness of pickles complement the smoky, juicy chicken perfectly.
Serve with a side of crispy fries or potato wedges for a satisfying, classic BBQ experience.
Lemon BBQ Chicken
Lemon BBQ Chicken is a bright and zesty take on traditional BBQ flavors. The tangy lemon marinade infuses the chicken with a fresh, citrusy flavor that cuts through the richness of the BBQ sauce, creating a balanced and refreshing bite.
Grilled to perfection, the chicken’s exterior becomes slightly crispy, while the meat inside stays tender and juicy.
It’s perfect when paired with a light quinoa salad or a fresh green bean side dish.
BBQ Chicken Flatbread
BBQ Chicken Flatbread offers a unique, tasty twist on your typical pizza. Grilled chicken, smothered in smoky BBQ sauce, is topped with caramelized onions, cheese, and fresh cilantro, all piled onto a soft flatbread.
The sweet BBQ sauce pairs perfectly with the savory toppings, and the flatbread provides a crisp, chewy base.
It’s a fun and easy meal to share, perfect for a casual summer dinner or BBQ party.
BBQ Chicken Nachos
BBQ Chicken Nachos are a fun and flavorful way to enjoy your summer BBQ leftovers. Crispy tortilla chips are topped with tender, shredded BBQ chicken, melted cheese, and a drizzle of smoky barbecue sauce, creating the perfect bite every time.
The mix of textures, from the crunchy chips to the juicy chicken, makes these nachos a crowd favorite.
They’re ideal as a snack or appetizer, served with a side of sour cream or guacamole for dipping.
Crispy BBQ Chicken
Crispy BBQ Chicken combines the best of both worlds—crispy, golden skin with juicy, tender meat. The chicken is coated in a flavorful BBQ seasoning, creating a deliciously crunchy exterior, while the inside remains moist and packed with smoky flavor.
Every bite is a delightful contrast of textures, from the crispy skin to the tender, flavorful meat.
Serve with a side of roasted potatoes or a light salad for a simple and satisfying meal.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
BBQ Chicken Pizza offers a unique twist on the classic pizza, with smoky barbecue sauce taking the place of traditional marinara. The chicken is grilled and then piled on top of the pizza along with melted cheese, red onions, and cilantro for added flavor.
The crispy crust and smoky BBQ chicken create the perfect combination, with every bite bursting with flavor.
It’s a great choice for a laid-back dinner or a fun meal to share with friends.
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas
BBQ Chicken Quesadillas are a quick and tasty meal that brings together smoky, tender chicken and gooey melted cheese. The chicken is seasoned with barbecue sauce, then tucked inside a crispy tortilla, creating a perfect balance of flavors and textures.
Each bite offers a delightful combination of savory, smoky chicken and the satisfying crunch of the toasted tortilla.
Pair with a side of salsa or guacamole for an added kick of flavor.
BBQ Chicken Tacos
BBQ Chicken Tacos offer a fresh and zesty spin on traditional tacos. Tender grilled chicken, coated in smoky BBQ sauce, is tucked inside soft tortillas and topped with fresh veggies, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime for added brightness.
The smoky chicken pairs perfectly with the crunch of the fresh toppings, creating a balanced and flavorful taco.
Serve with a side of Mexican street corn or a light salad for a fun and satisfying meal.
Conclusion
With 28+ irresistible summer BBQ chicken recipes, your grilling options are endless.
From tangy marinades to smoky rubs, these recipes promise to make your summer BBQs unforgettable.
Whether you’re looking to impress your family or wow your friends at a gathering, there’s a chicken recipe here for every palate.
So fire up the grill, get creative with flavors, and enjoy a summer full of mouthwatering BBQ chicken dishes that will keep everyone coming back for more!
