As the temperatures rise, there’s nothing quite like firing up the grill and cooking up a delicious summer meal. And when it comes to protein-packed dishes that are perfect for the season, chicken reigns supreme. In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 refreshing summer chicken recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From classic grilled chicken breasts smothered in tangy BBQ sauce to innovative kebabs featuring juicy peaches and crispy bacon, these mouthwatering meals are perfect for hot summer days.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or simply looking for quick and easy lunch ideas, we’ve got you covered with our collection of summer chicken recipes. So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to indulge in some seriously delicious eats!
Lemon Garlic Grilled Chicken Skewers
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these zesty and flavorful chicken skewers, perfect for warm weather gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 10 bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, and oregano.
3. Add chicken pieces to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides, such as quinoa salad or roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Summer Herb Marinated Chicken Salad
Summer Herb Marinated Chicken Salad Recipe
Beat the heat with this refreshing summer salad featuring juicy chicken, fragrant herbs, and a tangy dressing. Perfect for hot weather gatherings or a quick weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
– 2 tbsp fresh basil, chopped
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, basil, lemon zest, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken breast to the marinade; refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Bake chicken in preheated oven for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing into thin strips.
6. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and sliced chicken.
7. Top with crumbled feta cheese, if desired.
8. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Mango Salsa
Get ready to savor the sweet and tangy flavors of this tropical-inspired dish! This grilled chicken recipe pairs perfectly with a fresh mango salsa, creating a delightful combination that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mango, red onion, jalapeño pepper, and cilantro leaves (if using) in a bowl.
5. Serve grilled chicken with mango salsa spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken and Avocado Summer Wraps
A refreshing twist on traditional wraps, this recipe combines grilled chicken, creamy avocado, and crunchy veggies for a light and satisfying meal perfect for warm weather.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 ripe avocados, diced
– 1/4 cup mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1/2 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 large flour tortillas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a separate pan, warm tortillas over medium heat for about 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble wraps by spreading diced avocado on the tortilla, followed by sliced bell pepper, mixed greens, and grilled chicken.
5. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and drizzle with olive oil.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Cool Cucumber Chicken Salad
Beat the heat with this refreshing salad that combines the cooling flavors of cucumber and dill with savory chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 large cucumbers, peeled and thinly sliced
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly chopped dill
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken, cucumber slices, and paprika (if using).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together the yogurt, dill, and lemon juice.
3. Pour the yogurt mixture over the chicken and cucumber mixture; toss to coat.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes (prep) + 30 minutes (chill time)
Spicy Pineapple Grilled Chicken
Elevate your grilling game with this sweet and sizzling Spicy Pineapple Grilled Chicken recipe! The combination of juicy chicken, caramelized pineapple, and a hint of heat will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together brown sugar, soy sauce, honey, ginger, and red pepper flakes.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken breasts.
4. Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, grill pineapple chunks for 2-3 minutes per side, or until caramelized.
6. Serve the chicken with grilled pineapple and a sprinkle of salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summer BBQ Chicken Sliders
Perfect for a backyard BBQ or potluck, these juicy chicken sliders are smothered in sweet and tangy barbecue sauce and served on soft buns. This recipe is quick, easy, and sure to please a crowd!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into small pieces
– 1/4 cup BBQ sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 4 hamburger buns
– Coleslaw (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together BBQ sauce, olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken pieces to the bowl and toss to coat with the marinade.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Assemble sliders by placing chicken on buns and topping with coleslaw (if using).
6. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Grilled Chicken Caprese Sandwich
Elevate your lunch game with this simple yet flavorful grilled chicken caprese sandwich recipe. Fresh mozzarella, juicy tomatoes, and crispy basil come together to create a harmonious union of flavors.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 large ripe tomatoes, sliced
– 8 oz fresh mozzarella cheese, sliced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tbsp balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 1 tsp salt
– Fresh basil leaves, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breasts with salt and grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Meanwhile, toast the bread by grilling it lightly or toasting it in a toaster.
4. Assemble sandwiches by placing grilled chicken on toasted bread, topping with sliced mozzarella, tomato, and drizzle of balsamic glaze.
5. Garnish with chopped basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Peach Summer Kebabs
Transform your outdoor gatherings into a tropical paradise with these succulent chicken and peach kebabs, perfect for warm weather get-togethers. This easy-to-make recipe combines the juiciness of grilled chicken with the sweetness of caramelized peaches.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 ripe peaches, sliced into wedges
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and honey.
3. Add chicken pieces and toss to coat.
4. Thread chicken, peaches, and any additional desired vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, onions) onto skewers.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill kebabs for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until chicken is cooked through and peaches are caramelized.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Citrus Marinated Grilled Chicken
Brighten up your summer with this refreshing twist on classic grilled chicken! A zesty citrus marinade adds a burst of flavor to tender and juicy chicken breasts.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh rosemary leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together orange juice, lemon juice, garlic, olive oil, honey, salt, and pepper.
2. Add chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with fresh rosemary leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summer Chicken Pasta with Basil Pesto
A refreshing summer twist on classic pasta, this recipe combines grilled chicken, flavorful basil pesto, and al dente noodles for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti or linguine)
– 1/2 cup fresh basil leaves
– 1/4 cup pine nuts
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Freshly ground black pepper, to serve
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Season chicken with salt and pepper. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
2. Cook pasta according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
3. In a food processor, combine basil leaves, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and garlic. Process until smooth, adding olive oil as needed.
4. Slice grilled chicken into thin strips. Toss with pasta, basil pesto, salt, and pepper to taste.
5. Serve immediately, garnished with additional basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken and Watermelon Salad
This refreshing summer salad combines the smoky flavor of grilled chicken with the sweetness of watermelon, all topped off with a tangy dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups mixed greens
– 2 cups diced watermelon (about 1 small melon)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breast with salt, pepper, and your favorite seasonings.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, combine mixed greens, watermelon, feta cheese, and mint in a large bowl.
5. Slice grilled chicken into thin strips and add to the salad.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and lemon juice; toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Corn Summer Tacos
Elevate your taco game with this refreshing summer recipe featuring juicy chicken, sweet corn, and crunchy toppings. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a backyard BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 taco-sized corn tortillas
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce, crumbled queso fresco, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together cumin, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and toss to coat.
3. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
4. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (2-3 minutes).
5. Stir in corn kernels and cook for an additional minute.
6. Assemble tacos by slicing chicken, adding corn mixture, and topping with your desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Light Greek Yogurt Chicken Salad
This refreshing salad combines the tanginess of Greek yogurt with the protein-rich flavor of chicken, all wrapped up in a crunchy and flavorful package. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/2 cup plain light Greek yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cucumber
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped fresh parsley or dill for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium-sized bowl, combine the chicken, Greek yogurt, cucumber, and red bell pepper.
2. Squeeze the lemon juice over the mixture and stir in the Dijon mustard.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve chilled, garnished with chopped parsley or dill if desired.
Cooking Time: None! This salad is ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Grilled Chicken with Summer Squash
Summer squash adds a delicious twist to classic grilled chicken. This simple recipe is perfect for a quick and flavorful meal on a warm summer evening.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 medium summer squash (such as zucchini or yellow crookneck), sliced into 1/4-inch thick rounds
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: lemon wedges for serving
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush both sides of the chicken breasts with the olive oil mixture.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. While the chicken is cooking, brush the summer squash slices with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill the squash for 2-3 minutes per side, or until tender and lightly charred.
7. Serve the grilled chicken breasts with roasted summer squash slices.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken and Berry Spinach Salad
A refreshing twist on traditional spinach salads, this recipe combines the sweetness of mixed berries with the savory flavor of grilled chicken.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 cups fresh baby spinach leaves
– 1 cup mixed berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries)
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 tablespoon balsamic vinaigrette
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. Season chicken breast with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. In a large bowl, combine spinach leaves, mixed berries, and crumbled feta cheese.
4. Slice grilled chicken into strips and add to the bowl.
5. Drizzle balsamic vinaigrette over the salad and toss to combine.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Serve immediately and enjoy!
Summer Chicken Stir-Fry with Zucchini
Beat the heat with this refreshing summer stir-fry, packed with juicy chicken, crunchy zucchini, and a hint of Asian-inspired flavors.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 medium zucchinis, sliced into thin rounds
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
4. Add the sliced zucchinis and cook for 3-4 minutes, or until they start to soften.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and stir in the soy sauce. Cook for an additional minute, until everything is well coated.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Grilled Chicken with Tomato Basil Relish
Add a burst of fresh flavor to your grilled chicken with this simple and delicious recipe. The combination of juicy chicken, sweet tomatoes, and savory basil is a match made in heaven.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lemon wedges (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together cherry tomatoes, basil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Top each breast with the tomato-basil relish during the last minute of grilling.
6. Serve hot with lemon wedges, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Chicken and Quinoa Summer Bowl
This refreshing summer bowl combines protein-packed chicken, nutty quinoa, crunchy veggies, and tangy dressing for a light and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1 cup cooked quinoa
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, etc.)
– 1 cup sliced red bell pepper
– 1 cup sliced cucumber
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or cook chicken in a skillet with olive oil, salt, and pepper until cooked through.
2. Cook quinoa according to package instructions.
3. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, red bell pepper, cucumber, and feta cheese (if using).
4. Slice the cooked chicken into strips and add to the bowl.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together lemon juice and 1 tablespoon olive oil.
6. Pour dressing over the salad and toss to combine.
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cool Ranch Chicken Lettuce Wraps
A fresh twist on traditional wraps, these Cool Ranch Chicken Lettuce Wraps are perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. With the creamy flavor of Cool Ranch dressing and the crunch of crispy chicken, you’ll be hooked from the first bite!
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 1/4 cup Cool Ranch dressing
– 4 large lettuce leaves
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1/2 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine the chicken and Cool Ranch dressing. Mix until coated.
2. Lay out the lettuce leaves on a flat surface.
3. Spoon about 1/4 cup of the chicken mixture onto each lettuce leaf.
4. Top with shredded cheese and chopped cilantro, if using.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Summary
Beat the heat this summer with these 20 refreshing chicken recipes perfect for grilling. From classic combos like lemon garlic and mango salsa to international-inspired dishes like Greek yogurt salad and Mexican-style tacos, there’s something for everyone. Try making skewers with citrus marinated chicken, or indulging in a cool cucumber salad with grilled chicken. Whether you’re in the mood for a light and zesty summer bowl or a hearty sandwich, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and keep you grilling all season long.
