13 Flavorful Easy Grilled Chicken Recipes You Can Make Tonight

When it comes to dinner, nothing beats the aroma of juicy, flavorful grilled chicken filling your kitchen. A well-chosen marinade can transform a simple chicken dish into something truly delightful. Whether you love the spicy kick of Sriracha or the refreshing zest of lemon herb, each recipe has its own special charm. Picture the sizzle and pop as you grill. Ready to find which flavor will become your new favorite?

Table of Contents

Spicy Grilled Sriracha Chicken

Spicy Grilled Sriracha Chicken is a flavorful and zesty dish that will tantalize your taste buds and bring a fiery kick to your summer barbecues. This recipe combines the smokiness of grilled chicken with the bold, spicy flavor of Sriracha sauce, creating a dish that’s both savory and satisfying.

Whether you’re hosting a gathering with friends or simply enjoying a family dinner, this chicken recipe is bound to be a hit.

The marinade for this Spicy Grilled Sriracha Chicken is key to its mouthwatering flavor. By allowing the chicken to soak in a blend of Sriracha, soy sauce, lime juice, and garlic, the meat absorbs a rich depth of flavor that’s perfectly complemented by the char of the grill.

The result is a tender, juicy chicken with a spicy kick that leaves a lasting impression. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it ideal for small gatherings or family meals.

Ingredients:

4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup Sriracha sauce
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup lime juice
2 tablespoons honey
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon ground black pepper
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
Lime wedges for serving (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a medium-sized bowl, whisk together the Sriracha sauce, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, minced garlic, olive oil, black pepper, salt, and smoked paprika until well combined.

2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making certain each piece is thoroughly coated.

Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight for maximum flavor.

3. Preheat the Grill: About 30 minutes before you plan to cook, remove the chicken from the refrigerator to allow it to come to room temperature. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

4. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is evenly charred and cooked through.

5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute and guarantees juicy, flavorful chicken.

6. Garnish and Enjoy: Optionally, garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra burst of citrusy flavor.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours. This allows the flavors to penetrate the meat, enhancing the taste.

If you prefer a milder version, adjust the amount of Sriracha in the marinade. When grilling, be mindful not to overcook the chicken, as it can become dry.

Using a meat thermometer can help ascertain the chicken is perfectly cooked. Finally, feel free to experiment by adding other spices or herbs to the marinade to suit your personal taste preferences.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a delightful dish that combines the zesty flavor of lemon with a blend of fresh herbs to create a meal that’s both revitalizing and satisfying. Perfect for summer barbecues or a family dinner, this recipe brings out the natural flavors of the chicken, enhanced by a simple yet flavorful marinade. The key to this dish is allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade long enough to absorb all the delicious flavors before grilling it to perfection.

This recipe is designed to serve 4-6 people, making it ideal for a small gathering or a family meal. The ingredients are simple and easily accessible, yet they come together to create a dish that’s anything but ordinary. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or a novice, this Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken is a foolproof way to impress your guests and satisfy your taste buds.

Ingredients (Serves 4-6):

4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/3 cup olive oil
Juice of 2 lemons
Zest of 1 lemon
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
Lemon wedges and fresh herbs for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, minced garlic, thyme leaves, chopped rosemary, salt, and black pepper. Whisk together until all ingredients are well blended.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for a deeper flavor.
Preheat the Grill: About 15 minutes before you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess marinade to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken has a nice charred appearance.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. Serve with lemon wedges and garnish with fresh herbs if desired.

Extra Tips: For maximum flavor, try to marinate the chicken overnight. If you’re short on time, at least an hour in the marinade will still impart a good amount of flavor.

Be sure to preheat the grill properly to guarantee even cooking and those beautiful grill marks. If you prefer a slightly smoky flavor, consider adding a small amount of wood chips to the grill. Finally, always use a meat thermometer to confirm the chicken is cooked through without overcooking, which can lead to dryness.

Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken

Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken is a delightful blend of sweet and tangy flavors that make for a perfect summer barbecue dish. This recipe combines the sweetness of honey with the pungency of mustard, creating a marinade that permeates the chicken, guaranteeing each bite is juicy and flavorful. Grilled to perfection, this dish is ideal for family gatherings or a casual dinner with friends, offering a deliciously smoky and savory experience.

Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a beginner, this Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken recipe is easy to follow and promises mouth-watering results. The marinade not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also helps tenderize it, making every piece succulent. Let’s plunge into the ingredients and instructions to create this savory dish that serves 4-6 people.

Ingredients:

4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/2 cup Dijon mustard
1/4 cup honey
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary (optional)

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, whisk together the Dijon mustard, honey, olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper until well combined. If you like a hint of herbiness, add the chopped fresh rosemary to the marinade.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, guaranteeing each piece is thoroughly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to deepen.
Preheat the Grill: Before cooking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, allow the coals to turn ashy white before starting. Oil the grill grates to prevent the chicken from sticking.
Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This guarantees the chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute throughout the meat, keeping it moist and flavorful. Serve the Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken with your favorite sides such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Extra Tips:

For a more intense flavor, consider preparing the marinade a day in advance to allow the ingredients to meld together. If you prefer a thicker coating on the chicken, reserve a small portion of the marinade before adding the raw chicken and brush it on during the last few minutes of grilling.

Always guarantee your grill is properly heated to prevent sticking and achieve those classic grill marks. Adjust the seasoning to your taste, adding more honey for sweetness or mustard for tanginess. Enjoy your Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken with a cold beverage for the ultimate summer meal!

Garlic Lime Grilled Chicken

Garlic Lime Grilled Chicken is a tantalizing dish that combines the bold flavors of garlic and lime with the smoky essence of grilled chicken. This recipe is perfect for a summer barbecue or a family dinner, offering a burst of flavor in every bite. The marinade is the star of the show, infusing the chicken with a zesty and savory taste that complements the natural sweetness of the meat.

The preparation of Garlic Lime Grilled Chicken is straightforward, making it an excellent choice for cooks of all levels. By marinating the chicken, you allow the flavors to penetrate deeply, guaranteeing each piece is juicy and flavorful. Grilling adds a charred finish that enhances the overall taste, making this recipe a crowd-pleaser.

Ingredients for 4-6 servings:

4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/3 cup fresh lime juice
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
Lime wedges (for serving)

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the minced garlic, lime juice, olive oil, soy sauce, honey, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until well blended.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, guaranteeing each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat the Grill: About 15 minutes before cooking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off any excess. Place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
Rest and Serve: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

Extra Tips:

For the best results, make sure to use fresh lime juice and high-quality olive oil as they greatly impact the flavor profile of the dish. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper to the marinade.

Additionally, if you’re using a charcoal grill, let the coals turn grey before placing the chicken on the grill to guarantee even cooking temperatures. Grilled vegetables or a fresh salad make excellent accompaniments to this dish, enhancing its vibrant flavors.

Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Skewers

Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Skewers are a delightful and flavorful dish that combines the savory taste of chicken with the sweet and tangy notes of teriyaki sauce. Perfect for summer barbecues or a cozy family dinner, these skewers aren’t only delicious but also quite easy to prepare.

The key to achieving the perfect balance of flavors lies in marinating the chicken well in advance, allowing the teriyaki sauce to infuse every bite with its rich flavors.

The preparation involves threading marinated chicken pieces onto skewers and grilling them until they’re perfectly cooked and slightly charred. This gives the chicken a smoky, caramelized exterior that complements the juicy and tender interior. The skewers can be served with rice, salad, or your favorite side dishes, making them a versatile option for any meal. This recipe serves 4-6 people, guaranteeing there’s plenty to go around.

Ingredients:

2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 cup teriyaki sauce
2 tablespoons soy sauce
2 tablespoons honey
1 tablespoon sesame oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon grated ginger
1 red bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 green bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
1 red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
Wooden or metal skewers

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, sesame oil, minced garlic, and grated ginger. Stir until well mixed.
Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, making sure they’re fully coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers, alternating between the different ingredients.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent the skewers from sticking.
Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice char. Confirm the internal temperature of the chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
Serve: Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with rice, salad, or your preferred sides.

Extra Tips:

To enhance the flavor of your Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Skewers, consider adding pineapple chunks to the skewers for a burst of sweetness.

For a more intense flavor, you can baste the skewers with additional teriyaki sauce during the last few minutes of grilling. Using chicken thighs instead of breasts will result in juicier and more flavorful skewers.

Confirm your grill is properly preheated to achieve a good sear and prevent the chicken from sticking. If you’re short on time, you can use a store-bought teriyaki sauce, but homemade versions often provide a richer taste.

Mediterranean Grilled Chicken

Mediterranean Grilled Chicken is a flavorful and healthy dish that captures the essence of Mediterranean cuisine. This dish is perfect for a summer barbecue or a casual dinner, offering a delightful combination of herbs, spices, and citrus that tantalizes the taste buds. The chicken is marinated in a mixture of olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, and herbs, allowing it to absorb all the rich flavors before being grilled to perfection. The result is juicy, tender chicken with a slightly charred exterior that pairs wonderfully with a variety of side dishes like Greek salad, couscous, or roasted vegetables.

This recipe serves 4-6 people and isn’t only delicious but also simple to prepare, making it an ideal choice for both novice and experienced cooks. Whether you’re entertaining guests or simply enjoying a quiet family meal, Mediterranean Grilled Chicken is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and enticing aroma. Perfect for those who appreciate the healthy and fresh ingredients typical of Mediterranean cooking, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.

Ingredients:

4-6 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 2 lemons
1 tablespoon dried oregano
1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves
1 teaspoon ground cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
Lemon wedges, for serving
Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, dried oregano, fresh thyme leaves, ground cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until all ingredients are well blended.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, making sure each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
Preheat the Grill: About 15 minutes before cooking, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a charcoal grill, make certain the coals are hot and covered with white ash.
Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest on a platter for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making sure the chicken remains moist and tender.
Serve: Slice the chicken and serve it on a platter. Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and lemon wedges on the side for an extra burst of citrus flavor.

Extra Tips:

For an even more intense flavor, consider adding a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a hint of heat. If you don’t have access to a grill, you can also cook the chicken on a stovetop grill pan or bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes.

Remember to always let the chicken rest after cooking to keep it juicy and tender. To guarantee even cooking, pound the chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating.

BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs

BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs are a delicious and simple way to enjoy a summer meal. These juicy, flavorful pieces of chicken are perfect for a backyard barbecue or a quick weeknight dinner. The key to achieving the perfect BBQ grilled chicken thighs lies in the marinade and grilling method. The marinade, infused with savory and sweet elements, not only tenderizes the chicken but also enhances its flavor profile.

When grilled to perfection, the chicken thighs become tender on the inside with a slightly crispy and caramelized exterior, thanks to the BBQ sauce. This recipe serves 4-6 people, making it perfect for a small gathering or family meal. The preparation involves marinating the chicken thighs for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate the meat deeply.

Grilling over medium heat guarantees that the chicken cooks evenly without burning the outside. The result is a dish that’s satisfying and full of flavor, best served with side dishes like coleslaw, corn on the cob, or potato salad.

Ingredients:

8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 cup BBQ sauce
2 tablespoons olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons soy sauce
1 tablespoon honey
1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the BBQ sauce, olive oil, minced garlic, soy sauce, honey, apple cider vinegar, smoked paprika, onion powder, salt, and black pepper. Whisk the ingredients together until fully combined.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, guaranteeing each piece is well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium heat, approximately 350-375°F (175-190°C). If using a charcoal grill, set up a two-zone fire by placing coals on one side of the grill.
Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing any excess to drip off. Place the chicken on the grill over direct heat. Grill each side for about 6-8 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is no longer pink inside. Baste occasionally with additional BBQ sauce during the last few minutes of grilling.
Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, guaranteeing moist and tender chicken thighs.

Extra Tips:

For best results, make sure to preheat the grill properly to avoid sticking and guarantee even cooking. If using a charcoal grill, adding a small piece of wood to the coals can enhance the smoky flavor of the chicken.

Always use a meat thermometer to check for doneness to prevent overcooking. Additionally, consider doubling the marinade recipe to reserve some for serving as a sauce alongside the grilled chicken.

Coconut Curry Grilled Chicken

Coconut Curry Grilled Chicken is a delectable fusion dish that combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the bold flavors of curry. This dish is perfect for those who enjoy a blend of sweet, savory, and spicy tastes. The chicken is marinated in a fragrant coconut curry sauce, then grilled to perfection, resulting in juicy and tender meat with a slightly charred exterior.

This dish is versatile enough to be served as a main course or as a delightful addition to a summer barbecue. Not only is Coconut Curry Grilled Chicken bursting with flavor, but it’s also relatively simple to prepare. The secret lies in the marinade, which infuses the chicken with a depth of flavor that pairs beautifully with the smoky notes from the grill.

Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner looking to impress your family and friends, this recipe is sure to be a hit. The serving size for this recipe is perfect for 4-6 people, making it a great option for small gatherings or family dinners.

Ingredients for Coconut Curry Grilled Chicken (Serves 4-6):

2 pounds of chicken thighs or breasts
1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk
3 tablespoons red curry paste
2 tablespoons fish sauce
1 tablespoon brown sugar
1 lime, juiced
3 cloves garlic, minced
1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

Prepare the Marinade: In a large mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, red curry paste, fish sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, minced garlic, grated ginger, and vegetable oil. Whisk until all the ingredients are well integrated and the mixture is smooth.
Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken pieces in the bowl with the marinade, ensuring each piece is thoroughly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer everything to a large resealable plastic bag. Let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, but preferably overnight for maximum flavor absorption.
Preheat the Grill: About 30 minutes before grilling, remove the chicken from the refrigerator to allow it to come to room temperature. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, approximately 400°F (200°C).
Grill the Chicken: Once the grill is hot, lightly oil the grates to prevent sticking. Place the chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reads 165°F (74°C) on a meat thermometer. Adjust the cooking time as needed based on the thickness of the chicken pieces.
Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow the juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving to add a burst of freshness and color.

Extra Tips:

For a more intense flavor, consider using bone-in, skin-on chicken pieces, as the bones and skin can add additional richness. If you’re short on time, even a quick 30-minute marinade can impart a good amount of flavor, though overnight is best.

Be sure to keep an eye on the grill to prevent the chicken from burning, and adjust the heat as necessary. Pair this dish with steamed jasmine rice or a fresh salad to balance the robust flavors of the chicken. Enjoy your Coconut Curry Grilled Chicken with a wedge of lime for an extra zing!

Pineapple Jalapeño Grilled Chicken

Pineapple Jalapeño Grilled Chicken is a flavorful and spicy dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the heat of jalapeños. This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or any time you crave a tropical twist on your grilled chicken.

The combination of juicy marinated chicken with the tangy and spicy pineapple jalapeño glaze creates a delightful balance of flavors that will tantalize your taste buds. This dish is perfect for serving 4-6 people, making it ideal for family gatherings or small parties.

The marinade, which infuses the chicken with tropical notes, is made from a blend of pineapple juice, fresh jalapeños, and other aromatic ingredients. When grilled to perfection, the chicken is tender and juicy, complemented by the caramelized glaze that forms as it cooks.