Summer Chicken Recipes For Every Occasion: Summer is the perfect time to enjoy fresh, light, and flavorful dishes that highlight the best of the season. Chicken, with its versatility and ability to take on a variety of flavors, is a fantastic protein choice for summer meals. Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, planning a picnic, or just looking for a quick weeknight dinner, these summer chicken recipes are sure to impress.
1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken Summer Chicken Recipes For Every Occasion
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 1/4 cup lemon juice
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and coat them in the marinade. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Serve with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables.
2. BBQ Chicken Skewers
Ingredients:
- 1 pound chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
- 1/2 cup BBQ sauce
- 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
- 1 red onion, cut into chunks
- Wooden skewers, soaked in water
Instructions:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Thread the chicken, bell peppers, and onion onto the skewers, alternating as you go.
- Brush the skewers with BBQ sauce.
- Grill the skewers for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally and brushing with more BBQ sauce, until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
- Serve with a side of coleslaw or corn on the cob.
3. Chicken Caprese Salad
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded or chopped
- 1 pint cherry tomatoes, halved
- 8 ounces fresh mozzarella, diced
- 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, torn
- 3 tablespoons balsamic glaze
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a large bowl, combine the chicken, cherry tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil.
- Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic glaze.
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
- Toss gently to combine and serve immediately.
4. Honey Mustard Grilled Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/4 cup honey
- 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, whisk together honey, Dijon mustard, olive oil, apple cider vinegar, salt, and pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs to the bowl and coat them in the marinade. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
- Serve with a side of grilled pineapple or a fresh fruit salad.
5. Mediterranean Chicken Wraps
Ingredients:
- 2 cups cooked chicken, shredded
- 1/2 cup hummus
- 1 cucumber, sliced
- 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
- 1/4 cup sliced red onion
- 4 large whole wheat tortillas
- 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
- Fresh dill or parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
- Spread a layer of hummus over each tortilla.
- Top with shredded chicken, cucumber slices, cherry tomatoes, red onion, and feta cheese.
- Sprinkle with fresh dill or parsley if desired.
- Roll up the tortillas and slice in half.
- Serve with a side of tzatziki sauce or a Greek salad.
These summer chicken recipes are easy to prepare and perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the flavors of the season with these delightful dishes!