Transform your ordinary chicken dinner into a mouthwatering feast with these ten spectacular grilled chicken recipes.
From succulent marinades to perfect seasoning combinations, you’ll discover new ways to elevate this versatile protein to restaurant-quality status.
Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue or preparing a quick weeknight dinner, these recipes offer something for everyone.
You’ll find everything from classic herb-infused combinations to bold international flavors, accompanied by proven techniques to ensure juicy, perfectly cooked chicken every time.
Classic Lemon Herb Mediterranean Grilled Chicken

Transform your ordinary chicken dinner into a Mediterranean masterpiece with this bright, zesty, and herb-infused grilled chicken recipe.
This dish brings together the classic flavors of fresh lemon, aromatic herbs, and garlic to create a perfectly juicy and flavorful meal that’s both healthy and delicious.
Ingredients:
• 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 3 lemons (2 for juice, 1 for garnish)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme, chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon Greek yogurt (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: In a bowl, combine lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped herbs, olive oil, salt, and pepper to create your marinade.
Step 2: Place chicken breasts in a large zip-lock bag and pour the marinade over them. Massage the marinade into the chicken and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
Step 4: Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh lemon slices and remaining herbs.
Pro Tip: For the juiciest results, pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating. Always allow your chicken to come to room temperature for 15-20 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
Spicy Tandoori-Style BBQ Chicken

Transform your backyard grilling into an Indian cuisine adventure with this mouth-watering Spicy Tandoori-Style BBQ Chicken.
This recipe brings the authentic flavors of tandoori cooking to your home, combining aromatic spices with yogurt-based marinade to create tender, flavorful chicken with a signature reddish-orange hue.
Ingredients:
• 8 chicken thighs or drumsticks, skin-on
• 2 cups plain yogurt
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons ginger paste
• 2 tablespoons tandoori masala
• 1 tablespoon garam masala
• 1 teaspoon red chili powder
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• Salt to taste
• Red food coloring (optional)
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: Mix yogurt, garlic, ginger, and all spices in a large bowl until well combined.
Step 2: Make deep cuts in chicken pieces to allow marinade penetration.
Step 3: Coat chicken thoroughly with marinade and refrigerate for 4-24 hours.
Step 4: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
Step 5: Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess drip off.
Step 6: Grill chicken for 25-30 minutes, turning occasionally until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 7: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For the most authentic flavor, marinate your chicken for at least 12 hours, and don’t skip the yogurt – it’s essential for tenderizing the meat and creating that signature tandoori texture. Always bring your marinated chicken to room temperature for 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.
Honey Mustard Glazed Grilled Chicken Breasts

Honey Mustard Glazed Grilled Chicken Breasts is a perfect combination of sweet and tangy flavors that will elevate your everyday chicken dinner.
This recipe creates juicy, tender chicken breasts with a caramelized honey mustard glaze that’s bound to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1/3 cup honey
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tablespoons whole grain mustard
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 lemon, juiced
Step 1: In a bowl, whisk together honey, both mustards, olive oil, minced garlic, paprika, salt, pepper, and lemon juice until well combined.
Step 2: Reserve 1/4 cup of the glaze for basting later. Place chicken breasts in a large zip-top bag and pour in the remaining marinade. Seal and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F). Clean and oil the grates.
Step 4: Remove chicken from marinade and discard the used marinade. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side.
Step 5: During the last 2-3 minutes of cooking, brush both sides with the reserved glaze. Cook until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 6: Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For the juiciest results, pound your chicken breasts to an even thickness before marinating. Keep a close eye on the glaze during the final minutes of grilling, as the honey can burn quickly due to its high sugar content.
Citrus Cilantro Mexican Street-Style Chicken

Citrus Cilantro Mexican Street-Style Chicken brings the vibrant flavors of Mexican street food right to your kitchen.
This zesty, herbaceous dish combines fresh citrus juices, aromatic cilantro, and classic Mexican spices to create tender, juicy chicken that’s perfect for tacos, burrito bowls, or served on its own.
Ingredients:
• 4 chicken breasts, boneless and skinless
• 3 limes, juiced
• 2 oranges, juiced
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bunch fresh cilantro, chopped
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and black pepper to taste
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine lime juice, orange juice, minced garlic, half of the chopped cilantro, olive oil, and all dry spices.
Step 2: Place chicken breasts in the marinade, ensuring they’re well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
Step 3: Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
Step 4: Remove chicken from marinade and discard the remaining liquid.
Step 5: Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 6: Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice and garnish with remaining fresh cilantro.
Pro Tip: For maximum flavor, score your chicken breasts with shallow cuts before marinating – this helps the citrus marinade penetrate deeper into the meat. Also, don’t marinate longer than 4 hours, as the citrus can start to break down the protein and affect the texture.
Garlic Rosemary Butterflied Grilled Chicken

Elevate your grilling game with this mouthwatering Garlic Rosemary Butterflied Grilled Chicken.
This recipe transforms an ordinary chicken into a perfectly cooked, aromatic masterpiece with crispy skin and juicy meat.
The butterflying technique ensures even cooking and maximum flavor absorption.
Ingredients:
• 1 whole chicken (3-4 pounds)
• 6 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tablespoons fresh rosemary, chopped
• 3 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 lemons, juiced
• 1 tablespoon kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon paprika
Step 1: Place the chicken breast-side down and cut along both sides of the backbone using kitchen shears. Remove backbone and flatten the chicken by pressing firmly on the breastbone.
Step 2: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, rosemary, olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, and paprika to create your marinade.
Step 3: Rub the marinade thoroughly all over the chicken, including under the skin. Refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
Step 4: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F) with two zones: direct and indirect heat.
Step 5: Place chicken skin-side up on the indirect heat zone. Close the lid and grill for 30-35 minutes.
Step 6: Flip the chicken and move to direct heat. Grill for an additional 10-15 minutes until skin is crispy and internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 7: Let rest for 10 minutes before carving.
Pro Tip: Before grilling, ensure your chicken is at room temperature for even cooking. Always use a meat thermometer to check doneness, especially near the thickest part of the breast and thigh joints.
Sweet and Smoky BBQ Rubbed Chicken Thighs

Transform your ordinary chicken dinner into a mouthwatering feast with these perfectly seasoned BBQ chicken thighs.
This recipe combines sweet, smoky, and savory flavors to create a delicious crust while keeping the meat tender and juicy on the inside.
Ingredients:
• 6 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon onion powder
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
Step 1: Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure the rub adheres properly.
Step 2: In a small bowl, mix all the dry ingredients thoroughly to create your BBQ rub.
Step 3: Brush chicken thighs with olive oil, then generously coat each piece with the spice mixture.
Step 4: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
Step 5: Place chicken thighs skin-side down and grill for 5-7 minutes until nicely marked.
Step 6: Flip and cook for another 20-25 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 7: Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For the crispiest skin, avoid moving the chicken too much during cooking. Also, bring your chicken to room temperature 30 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking throughout the meat.
Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers

Greek Yogurt Marinated Grilled Chicken Skewers are a delicious Mediterranean-inspired dish that combines tender, juicy chicken with bright, tangy flavors.
The Greek yogurt marinade not only infuses the chicken with incredible taste but also helps keep it moist during grilling, making these skewers perfect for your next barbecue or family dinner.
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced
• 1 tablespoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and black pepper to taste
• Wooden or metal skewers
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine Greek yogurt, minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix well to create your marinade.
Step 2: Add the chicken cubes to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for 2-4 hours (or overnight for best results).
Step 3: If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.
Step 4: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto skewers, leaving small spaces between each piece.
Step 5: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375-400°F).
Step 6: Grill the skewers for 12-15 minutes, turning every 3-4 minutes, until chicken is cooked through and slightly charred.
Pro Tip: For even cooking, make sure your chicken pieces are cut to similar sizes. Also, don’t skimp on marinating time – the longer you marinate (up to 24 hours), the more flavorful and tender your chicken will become.
Five-Spice Asian Grilled Chicken Wings

Five-Spice Asian Grilled Chicken Wings combine the aromatic blend of Chinese five-spice powder with savory Asian seasonings to create irresistibly flavorful wings.
These wings offer a perfect balance of sweet, savory, and slightly spicy flavors that will make your next BBQ or game day gathering memorable.
Ingredients:
• 2 pounds chicken wings, split at joints
• 2 tablespoons Chinese five-spice powder
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons honey
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 teaspoon black pepper
• Green onions for garnish
• Sesame seeds for garnish
Step 1: In a large bowl, combine five-spice powder, soy sauce, honey, minced garlic, grated ginger, sesame oil, and black pepper. Mix well to create your marinade.
Step 2: Add chicken wings to the marinade, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.
Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
Step 4: Place wings on the grill and cook for 20-25 minutes, turning every 5-7 minutes until they’re golden brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
Step 5: Transfer to a serving plate and garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Pro Tip: For extra crispy skin, pat your wings dry with paper towels before marinating. Also, avoid placing wings over direct high heat on the grill, as the honey in the marinade can burn quickly – maintain medium-high heat and keep a close eye on them.
Jamaican Jerk Grilled Chicken Quarters

Transport your taste buds to the Caribbean with this vibrant and spicy Jamaican jerk chicken recipe.
This authentic dish combines aromatic spices and fresh herbs to create a bold, flavorful crust on juicy grilled chicken quarters that will make your backyard barbecue feel like a beachside feast.
Ingredients:
• 4 chicken quarters (leg and thigh)
• 6 green onions, chopped
• 4 garlic cloves
• 2 scotch bonnet peppers (or habaneros)
• 2 tablespoons fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon ground allspice
• 1 tablespoon ginger, grated
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 tablespoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
• 1 teaspoon nutmeg
• 2 teaspoons salt
Step 1: Blend all ingredients except chicken in a food processor until smooth to create the jerk marinade.
Step 2: Score the chicken quarters with shallow cuts and coat thoroughly with marinade.
Step 3: Cover and refrigerate for 4-24 hours.
Step 4: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
Step 5: Place chicken on grill, skin side up, and cook for 35-40 minutes.
Step 6: Flip occasionally, basting with remaining marinade until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 7: Let rest for 5-10 minutes before serving.
Pro Tip: For authentic smoky flavor, add soaked pimento wood chips to your grill, and always use scotch bonnet peppers if you can find them – they provide the signature Jamaican heat while adding a unique fruity flavor that habaneros can’t fully replicate.
Chipotle Lime Southwest Grilled Chicken

Elevate your dinner game with this zesty Chipotle Lime Southwest Grilled Chicken.
This vibrant dish combines the smoky heat of chipotle peppers with fresh lime and southwestern spices, creating a perfect balance of flavors that will transport your taste buds to the American Southwest.
Perfect for summer grilling or year-round enjoyment, this recipe is both healthy and packed with bold flavors.
Ingredients:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 3 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
• 2 limes (juice and zest)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon honey
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste
Cooking Instructions:
Step 1: In a food processor, blend chipotle peppers, lime juice, lime zest, garlic, olive oil, honey, and all dry seasonings until smooth.
Step 2: Place chicken breasts in a large ziplock bag and pour marinade over them. Massage to coat evenly. Refrigerate for 2-4 hours.
Step 3: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (around 375°F).
Step 4: Remove chicken from marinade and grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
Step 5: Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing against the grain.
Pro Tip: For the juiciest results, bring your chicken to room temperature 30 minutes before grilling. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with two chipotle peppers and adjust according to your taste preference.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes a grilled chicken marinade more flavorful?
Combine acidic ingredients like lemon juice or vinegar with olive oil and herbs for at least 2 hours. This combination helps tenderize the meat while infusing maximum flavor throughout the chicken.
How do you prevent grilled chicken from drying out?
Brine your chicken for 30 minutes in saltwater before grilling and avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to reach 165°F (74°C) internal temperature for perfectly juicy results.
Which chicken parts work best for grilling?
Chicken thighs and leg quarters deliver the juiciest results due to their higher fat content. Bone-in pieces retain moisture better and provide more flavor than boneless cuts.
What’s the ideal grilling temperature for chicken?
Set your grill to medium-high heat (375-450°F) for direct grilling. Create both hot and cool zones to control cooking speed and prevent burning while ensuring thorough cooking.
How can you add smoky flavor to grilled chicken?
Add soaked wood chips to your grill or create a foil packet with hickory or mesquite chips. Place the packet near the heat source to infuse your chicken with authentic smoky taste.
Final Thoughts
These grilled chicken recipes prove that simple ingredients can create extraordinary meals.
Whether you prefer tangy marinades, spicy rubs, or herb-infused flavors, you’ll find a recipe that suits your taste.
Remember to always let your chicken rest after grilling and invest in a good meat thermometer to ensure perfect doneness.
Don’t be afraid to experiment with different seasoning combinations, but keep the basic grilling techniques consistent.
With these recipes in your culinary arsenal, you’ll master the art of grilled chicken and impress your family and guests every time.