Summer evenings call for vibrant, flavorful meals that don’t trap you in the kitchen. As a food blogger who’s spent years perfecting crowd-pleasing dishes, I’m thrilled to share three summer BBQ chicken recipes that make weeknight dinners a breeze. These recipes are my go-to for busy days when I crave something healthy, delicious, and fast—perfect for professionals, families, or anyone juggling a packed schedule. Each dish bursts with smoky BBQ goodness, using accessible ingredients to keep things simple yet satisfying. I’ve tested these in my own kitchen, tweaking them to balance ease and flavor, like the time I threw together the BBQ Chicken Tacos for a last-minute gathering and got rave reviews! Whether you’re grilling outdoors or using a stovetop, these recipes fit any setup. They’re healthy, customizable, and ready in under 30 minutes, making them ideal for stress-free meal planning. Ready to fire up your weeknights? Pin these recipes to your dinner board and dive into the flavors of summer!
BBQ Chicken Tacos with Fresh Corn Salsa
Growing up, tacos were a weeknight staple in my house, but it wasn’t until I added BBQ chicken that they became a summer obsession. These BBQ Chicken Tacos with Fresh Corn Salsa are a game-changer for busy evenings. The smoky, tangy chicken pairs perfectly with the sweet crunch of corn salsa, creating a meal that feels indulgent yet wholesome. I love how quickly they come together—perfect for those nights when you’re rushing from work or chasing kids around. This recipe is versatile, letting you grill the chicken for that charred flavor or cook it stovetop if you’re short on time. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s won over picky eaters and health-conscious friends alike. Plus, it’s packed with protein and fresh veggies, making it a balanced choice for families. I often double the batch for meal prep, as the leftovers taste just as good the next day. Try these tacos and let me know how they spice up your dinner routine!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup BBQ sauce (your favorite brand or homemade)
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup fresh corn kernels (or canned, drained)
- 1 diced tomato
- ¼ cup chopped red onion
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 2 tbsp chopped cilantro
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: avocado slices, hot sauce
Preparation Steps:
- Marinate: Coat chicken with ¼ cup BBQ sauce. Let sit for 10 minutes.
- Grill or Cook: Grill chicken over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side or cook in a skillet until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Slice thinly.
- Make Salsa: Mix corn, tomato, red onion, lime juice, cilantro, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Warm Tortillas: Heat tortillas on grill or skillet for 30 seconds per side.
- Assemble: Place chicken on tortillas, top with salsa and optional avocado or hot sauce.
- Serve: Enjoy immediately with extra lime wedges.
Preparation Info:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Serves: 4
Customization & Tips:
- Swap corn tortillas for flour if preferred.
- Add jalapeño to salsa for a spicy kick.
- Store leftover chicken and salsa separately in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Serve with a side of coleslaw for extra crunch.
Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers with Veggies
Nothing screams summer like firing up the grill, and these Grilled BBQ Chicken Skewers with Veggies are my secret weapon for easy, healthy dinners. I first made these for a backyard barbecue, and they were a hit with everyone from kids to adults. The juicy chicken, coated in smoky BBQ sauce, pairs beautifully with colorful bell peppers and zucchini, making it as vibrant as it is tasty. What I love most is how fuss-free they are—marinate, skewer, grill, and done! They’re perfect for busy professionals who want a nutritious meal without spending hours in the kitchen. You can even prep the skewers ahead for a quick weeknight win. These are great for meal prep, too, as they reheat well and stay flavorful. Whether you’re hosting or just feeding your family, these skewers bring summer vibes to any table. Try them and let me know your favorite veggie combo!
Ingredients:
- 1.5 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch cubes
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 zucchini, sliced into rounds
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: pineapple chunks for sweetness
Preparation Steps:
- Marinate: Toss chicken with ¼ cup BBQ sauce. Let sit for 15 minutes.
- Prep Veggies: Toss bell peppers and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
- Skewer: Thread chicken, peppers, zucchini, and optional pineapple onto skewers.
- Grill: Cook on medium-high heat for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken reaches 165°F.
- Baste: Brush with remaining BBQ sauce during last 2 minutes of grilling.
- Serve: Remove from skewers or serve as is with a side salad.
Preparation Info:
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Serves: 4
Customization & Tips:
- Use chicken breasts for a leaner option.
- Add mushrooms or cherry tomatoes for variety.
- Store leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days; reheat gently to avoid drying out.
- Pair with quinoa or rice for a heartier meal.
BBQ Chicken Lettuce Wraps
When I need a light yet satisfying dinner, these BBQ Chicken Lettuce Wraps are my go-to. I discovered this recipe during a phase of wanting healthier meals that didn’t skimp on flavor, and it’s been a staple ever since. The crisp lettuce cups hold tender, BBQ-glazed chicken, topped with a crunchy slaw that adds the perfect texture. They’re quick to make, low-carb, and ideal for health-conscious folks or anyone craving a fresh summer meal. I love serving these at casual dinners with friends—they’re fun to assemble and always spark conversation. Plus, they’re versatile enough for a quick lunch or a family-friendly dinner. The first time I made these, my husband couldn’t stop raving about the smoky-sweet balance. Prep them ahead for an even faster meal! Try these wraps and share how you make them your own!
Ingredients:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 8 large lettuce leaves (romaine or butter lettuce)
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- ½ cup shredded carrots
- 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
- 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: chopped green onions
Preparation Steps:
- Cook Chicken: Coat chicken with ¼ cup BBQ sauce. Grill or cook in a skillet over medium heat for 6-7 minutes per side until 165°F. Shred.
- Make Slaw: Mix cabbage, carrots, Greek yogurt, vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Prep Lettuce: Wash and dry lettuce leaves, keeping them intact.
- Assemble: Spoon shredded chicken into lettuce cups, top with slaw and optional green onions.
- Serve: Drizzle with extra BBQ sauce and enjoy immediately.
Preparation Info:
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Serves: 4
Customization & Tips:
- Swap lettuce for collard greens for a sturdier wrap.
- Add a pinch of chili powder to the chicken for heat.
- Store chicken and slaw separately in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Serve with sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Meal Prep Tips
These summer BBQ chicken recipes are perfect for meal prep! Double the chicken for the tacos and wraps, storing it in airtight containers for up to 3 days. Prep the salsa and slaw ahead, but keep them separate to maintain freshness. For skewers, assemble them the night before and refrigerate until ready to grill. Reheat gently to keep the chicken juicy.
