When the grill is hot and the weather is right, chicken is one of the most satisfying—and versatile—meats to throw over the flames. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue, making a quick weeknight dinner, or just craving some smoky flavour, grilled chicken never disappoints. These five chicken recipes are packed with flavour, easy to prepare, and perfect for warm-weather cooking.
1. Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken Thighs
Juicy, flavorful, and perfect for meal prep or a summer feast, this lemon herb marinade infuses the chicken with brightness and a herby depth.
Ingredients:
- 600 g boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Juice and zest of 1 lemon
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1 teaspoon thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Method:
Marinate chicken thighs for at least 1 hour, then grill over medium-high heat for about 5–7 minutes per side, or until nicely charred and cooked through.
2. Spicy Honey Garlic Chicken Breasts
This sweet and spicy glaze caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving you sticky, flavour-packed chicken that’s perfect with rice or grilled vegetables.
Ingredients:
- 500 g chicken breasts
- 3 tablespoons honey
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- 2 garlic cloves, grated
- 1 teaspoon chili flakes
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
Method:
Brush marinade onto the chicken and let sit for at least 30 minutes. Grill over medium heat for 6–8 minutes per side, basting with more glaze as you go.
3. Coconut Lime Chicken Skewers
A tropical twist on grilled chicken, these skewers are creamy, citrusy, and lightly spiced—perfect for pairing with jasmine rice or grilled pineapple.
Ingredients:
- 500 g chicken breast or thighs, cut into chunks
- 100 ml coconut milk
- Juice of 1 lime
- 1 tablespoon soy sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon brown sugar
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water
Method:
Marinate chicken pieces in coconut-lime mixture for 1–2 hours, then thread onto skewers and grill for 4–5 minutes per side until charred and cooked through.
4. Smoky Paprika Drumsticks
These smoky, slightly spicy drumsticks are a crowd-pleaser and great for casual outdoor meals. The paprika adds a deep colour and warmth to every bite.
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken drumsticks
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper
- Salt and black pepper
Method:
Coat drumsticks with spice mixture and let sit for at least 30 minutes. Grill over indirect heat, turning occasionally, for 25–30 minutes or until fully cooked.
5. Tandoori-Inspired Grilled Chicken
This bold, yogurt-marinated chicken delivers rich flavour and vibrant colour. While traditionally cooked in a tandoor, the grill gives it a satisfying char and smokiness.
Ingredients:
- 600 g chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 150 g plain yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 tablespoon grated ginger
- 1 garlic clove, minced
- 1 teaspoon ground coriander
- 1 teaspoon turmeric
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- Salt to taste
Method:
Marinate chicken for at least 4 hours or overnight. Grill over medium-high heat for 6–8 minutes per side, or until well charred and cooked through.
Whether you’re looking for zesty citrus notes, spicy heat, or smoky depth, these grilled chicken recipes cover all the flavour bases. Serve them with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or flatbreads to round out your barbecue menu—and don’t forget a squeeze of fresh lemon or a drizzle of sauce to finish things off.
