Grilled chicken is one of the healthiest, tastiest, and easiest ways to enjoy a protein-packed meal. Whether you prefer classic BBQ, spicy marinades, or zesty citrus flavors, grilled chicken is versatile, juicy, and full of flavor.
In this article, we’ll share the best grilled chicken recipes—from simple marinades to restaurant-quality dishes you can make at home!
1. Classic Grilled Chicken Breast
This easy grilled chicken recipe is perfect for meal prep, salads, or sandwiches.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp salt & pepper
- ½ tsp paprika
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, pepper, and paprika.
- Coat the chicken breasts with the marinade and let sit for 30 minutes (or overnight for more flavor).
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375-400°F / 190-200°C).
- Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
👉 Tip: Serve with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad!
2. Honey Garlic Grilled Chicken Thighs
These sweet and savory grilled chicken thighs are incredibly juicy and flavorful!
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 3 tbsp honey
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp ginger (grated)
- ½ tsp black pepper
Instructions:
- Mix honey, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, ginger, and black pepper in a bowl.
- Marinate the chicken thighs for at least 1 hour (or overnight).
- Preheat the grill to medium heat (350°F / 175°C).
- Grill for 6-8 minutes per side until caramelized and cooked through.
- Serve hot with steamed rice or a side of grilled corn.
👉 Tip: Garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds for extra flavor!
3. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
This fresh and zesty grilled chicken is perfect for summer BBQs.
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 1 tsp lemon zest
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt & black pepper
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, garlic powder, oregano, salt, and pepper.
- Marinate the chicken for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F / 190°C).
- Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, until golden brown and cooked through.
- Serve with grilled asparagus or a quinoa salad.
👉 Tip: Add fresh rosemary or thyme for an even more aromatic dish!
4. Spicy Cajun Grilled Chicken
A bold and flavorful grilled chicken recipe with a kick of heat!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp Cajun seasoning
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cayenne pepper (optional for extra spice)
Instructions:
- Rub the chicken with olive oil and coat with the spice mix.
- Let the chicken sit for 15-30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F / 190°C).
- Grill for 5-7 minutes per side until well-charred and fully cooked.
- Serve with a side of grilled bell peppers or a creamy coleslaw.
👉 Tip: Pair with a cool yogurt sauce to balance the spice!
5. Teriyaki Grilled Chicken
A Japanese-inspired grilled chicken with a sweet and tangy glaze!
Ingredients:
- 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ¼ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1 tbsp rice vinegar
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp grated ginger
Instructions:
- Mix soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, sesame oil, garlic, and ginger in a bowl.
- Marinate the chicken for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F / 190°C).
- Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, basting with extra teriyaki sauce.
- Serve with steamed rice and sautéed vegetables.
👉 Tip: Garnish with toasted sesame seeds and chopped scallions!
6. BBQ Grilled Chicken Drumsticks
These sticky, smoky grilled drumsticks are always a hit at cookouts!
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- ½ tsp salt & pepper
Instructions:
- Coat the drumsticks with olive oil and season with paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat (350°F / 175°C).
- Grill the drumsticks for 30-35 minutes, turning every few minutes.
- Brush with BBQ sauce during the last 10 minutes of cooking.
- Serve with potato salad or grilled corn on the cob.
👉 Tip: Let the drumsticks rest for 5 minutes before serving for maximum juiciness!
Final Thoughts
Grilled chicken is a versatile, healthy, and delicious option for any meal. Whether you prefer classic, spicy, tangy, or smoky flavors, there’s a grilled chicken recipe here for you!