Top 10 Summer Chicken Recipes to Delight Your Taste Buds

There is no better time in summer to get the grill out and throw outdoor picnics with mouthwatering food. And what better way to commemorate it than with the all-purpose, ever-popular staple of healthy dishes everywhere: chicken! From smoky, grilled chicken to zesty salads, there’s plenty no shortage of easy summer chicken recipes to keep you going all summer long.

This post will walk you through ten delicious chicken recipes that are in season. All the dishes are based on seasonal, pre-made ingredients so you will be cooking less this summer and enjoying fun in the sun more.

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken 🍋🍗🔥

Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken 🍋🍗🔥

Juicy, tender chicken marinated in zesty lemon, garlic, and fresh herbs, then grilled to smoky perfection. Perfect for summer BBQs, salads, or meal prep!

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Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or thighs)
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Zest and juice of 2 lemons (about ¼ cup juice)
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped (or 2 tsp dried)
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme leaves (or 2 tsp dried)
• 1 tbsp honey (optional, for balance)
• 1 tsp Dijon mustard
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper

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Instructions

1. Prep the Marinade:

• In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon zest/juice, garlic, rosemary, thyme, honey, Dijon, salt, and pepper.

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• Pound chicken breasts to even thickness (about ½-inch) for even cooking. Place in a dish or zip-top bag, pour marinade over, and coat evenly. Refrigerate at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).

1. Grill:

• Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F/200°C). Remove chicken from marinade (shake off excess) and grill 6-8 minutes per side until internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C). Let rest 5 minutes before slicing.

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Tips & Variations 🌟

• No Grill? Use a grill pan, skillet, or bake at 425°F (220°C) for 20-25 minutes.
• Vegan Swap: Use cauliflower steaks or tofu; marinate as above.
• Extra Flavor: Add smoked paprika, oregano, or chili flakes to the marinade.
• Crispy Skin: Grill skin-on chicken thighs for 8-10 mins per side.
• Serving Ideas:
• Slice over salads, grain bowls, or tacos.
• Pair with grilled veggies, garlic bread, or lemon rice.
• Drizzle with chimichurri or tzatziki.

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Meal Prep & Storage

• Fridge: Store cooked chicken in an airtight container for 3-4 days.
• Freeze: Freeze marinated raw chicken (up to 3 months) or cooked slices (up to 2 months).
• Reheat: Microwave gently or warm in a skillet with a splash of broth.

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This traditional summer dish is chock-full of good lemon juice and fragrant herbs such as rosemary, parsely and thyme to make one tangy, yummy chicken. Serve with a side of crunchy salad or grilled vegetables for the quintessential al fresco meal.

BBQ Chicken Kebabs 🍢🍗🔥

BBQ Chicken Kebabs 🍢🍗🔥

Tender, smoky chicken skewers glazed in tangy BBQ sauce, paired with charred veggies and pineapple for a sweet-savory kick! Perfect for summer grilling, parties, or meal prep.

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Ingredients

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• 1 cup BBQ sauce (store-bought or homemade)
• 1 red onion, cut into chunks
• 1 red bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 yellow bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 zucchini, sliced into ½-inch rounds
• 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar (or lime juice)
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• Wooden or metal skewers

Optional Add-Ins:

• Cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, or jalapeños
• Bacon-wrapped chicken pieces
• Extra BBQ sauce for dipping

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a bowl, whisk ½ cup BBQ sauce, olive oil, vinegar, smoked paprika, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
• Toss chicken in the marinade. Cover and refrigerate 30+ minutes (up to 4 hours).

1. Prep Skewers:

• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes (if using).
• Thread chicken, peppers, onion, zucchini, and pineapple onto skewers, alternating ingredients.

1. Grill:

• Preheat grill to medium-high (400°F/200°C). Oil grates.
• Grill kebabs for 10-12 minutes, turning every 2-3 minutes, until chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Brush with remaining BBQ sauce during the last 2 minutes of grilling.

1. Serve:

• Garnish with fresh cilantro or parsley. Serve with lime wedges and extra BBQ sauce.

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Tips & Variations 🌟

• Sweet & Spicy: Add 1 tbsp honey + ½ tsp chili powder to the marinade.
• Vegan Option: Swap chicken for tofu or tempeh; use vegan BBQ sauce.
• No Grill? Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 18-20 minutes, broiling the last 3 minutes.
• Meal Prep: Assemble skewers ahead; grill fresh for best texture.
• Gluten-Free: Use GF BBQ sauce.
• Pineapple Hack: Grill extra pineapple slices for dessert!

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Serving Ideas

• Pair with cornbread, coleslaw, or grilled corn.
• Serve over cilantro-lime rice or quinoa.
• Add a side of sweet potato fries or watermelon salad.

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Deliciously juicy cubes of chicken coated in tangy barbecue sauce are grilled on skewers for a tasty and simple summer meal. Kebabs are perfect party food– easy to make and easy to serve.

Tropical Mango Chicken Salad 🥭🍗🥗

Tropical Mango Chicken Salad 🥭🍗🥗

A vibrant, refreshing salad bursting with juicy mango, tender chicken, and creamy avocado—tossed in a zesty lime dressing with a hint of chili. Perfect for summer lunches, picnics, or a light dinner with island vibes!

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Ingredients

For the Salad:

• 2 cups cooked chicken breast, shredded or diced (rotisserie works great!)
• 1 large ripe mango, cubed
• 1 avocado, diced
• 1 red bell pepper, thinly sliced
• ½ small red onion, thinly sliced
• 4 cups mixed greens (spinach, arugula, or romaine)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ¼ cup toasted coconut flakes (or chopped cashews)
• Optional: 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced (for heat)

For the Lime Dressing:

• ¼ cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
• ⅓ cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp honey (or agave for vegan)
• 1 tsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp chili powder (or ¼ tsp cayenne for spice)
• Salt and pepper to taste

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Instructions

1. Make the Dressing:

• In a small bowl, whisk lime juice, olive oil, honey, ginger, garlic, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

1. Assemble the Salad:

• In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, chicken, mango, avocado, bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, and jalapeño (if using).
• Drizzle with dressing and toss gently to coat.

1. Serve:

• Sprinkle toasted coconut or cashews on top. Enjoy immediately, or chill for 15 minutes to let flavors meld.

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Tips & Variations 🌟

• Vegan Option: Swap chicken with grilled tofu or chickpeas.
• Extra Crunch: Add crispy wonton strips or plantain chips.
• Make It Creamy: Stir in 2 tbsp Greek yogurt or coconut milk to the dressing.
• Grill the Mango: Char mango slices on a grill for smoky sweetness.
• Meal Prep: Store dressing separately; assemble salad fresh to avoid sogginess.
• Gluten-Free: Ensure all add-ins (like plantain chips) are certified GF.

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Serving Ideas

• In a Wrap: Stuff into a tortilla with extra avocado and a drizzle of hot sauce.
• With Chips: Serve as a dip with tortilla chips or cucumber slices.
• Protein Bowl: Layer over quinoa or coconut rice for a hearty meal.
• BBQ Side: Pair with grilled shrimp or jerk chicken.

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This might be the most refreshing chicken salad ever, since you’re pairing juicy grilled chicken with tropical flavors like mango and avocado along with a lime-cilantro dressing, which is pretty heat wave appropriate.

Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Wings 🍗🔥✨

Crispy Oven-Baked Chicken Wings 🍗🔥✨

Perfectly crispy wings without the fryer! These oven-baked wings are golden, crunchy, and tossed in your favorite sauce. Great for game day, parties, or a guilt-free snack!

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Ingredients

• 2 lbs (900g) chicken wings, split into drumettes and flats (pat dry)
• 1 tbsp baking powder (not baking soda! – key for crispiness)
• 1 tsp salt
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp onion powder
• Optional sauce: Buffalo, BBQ, honey garlic, or lemon pepper

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Instructions

1. Prep Wings:

• Pat wings very dry with paper towels (moisture is the enemy of crispiness!).
• In a bowl, toss wings with baking powder, salt, garlic powder, paprika, pepper, and onion powder.

1. Arrange & Bake:

• Place wings on a wire rack set over a baking sheet (line with foil for easy cleanup).
• Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 40-50 minutes, flipping halfway, until golden and crispy.

1. Sauce (Optional):

• Toss baked wings in your favorite sauce (e.g., ½ cup Buffalo sauce) or serve dry with dipping sauces.

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Tips for Success 🌟

• Baking Powder Hack: It lifts the skin from the meat, creating air pockets for crunch.
• No Wire Rack? Bake directly on a parchment-lined sheet, flipping every 15 mins.
• Extra Crispy: Broil 2-3 minutes at the end (watch closely!).
• Gluten-Free: Use GF baking powder and sauces.
• Meal Prep: Bake ahead; reheat in the oven or air fryer to restore crispiness.

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Flavor Variations

• Buffalo Classic: Toss with ½ cup hot sauce + 2 tbsp melted butter.
• BBQ Glaze: Brush with sauce in the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Honey Garlic: Mix 3 tbsp honey + 2 tbsp soy sauce + 1 tbsp minced garlic.
• Dry Rub: Add 1 tsp chili powder + ½ tsp cayenne to the seasoning mix.
• Parmesan Garlic: Toss with ¼ cup grated Parmesan + 1 tbsp garlic powder post-bake.

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Serving Ideas

• Pair with celery sticks, ranch, or blue cheese dip.
• Serve over fries or coleslaw for a hearty meal.
• Add a cold beer or limeade for the ultimate game-day spread!

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Forget fried wings. These oven baked chicken wings are crunchy on the outside and tender on the inside, and you won’t feel that they are so greasy as the deep-fried version. Slather with a summer-inspired sauce you can’t resist, such as honey mustard or pineapple teriyaki.

Greek Chicken Gyros🍗🥙

Greek Chicken Gyros 🍗🥙

Savor the flavors of Greece with these tender, herb-marinated chicken gyros, wrapped in warm pita and topped with crisp veggies and creamy tzatziki. Perfect for a quick dinner or summer gathering!

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Ingredients

Marinated Chicken

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, thinly sliced
• ¼ cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon (3 tbsp)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ½ tsp ground cumin (optional, for depth)

Tzatziki Sauce

• 1 cup Greek yogurt (full-fat for creaminess)
• ½ cucumber, grated and drained (squeeze out excess water)
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh dill or 1 tsp dried dill
• 1 tbsp lemon juice
• Salt and pepper to taste

Assembly

• 4-6 pita breads (or flatbreads)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• ½ red onion, thinly sliced
• 1 cup shredded lettuce (romaine or iceberg)
• Optional toppings: Kalamata olives, crumbled feta, pepperoncini, french fries

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a bowl, whisk olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, oregano, paprika, salt, pepper, and cumin.
• Add chicken and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).

1. Make the Tzatziki:

• Grate cucumber and squeeze out excess liquid using a cheesecloth or paper towels.
• Mix cucumber, Greek yogurt, garlic, dill, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Chill until ready to serve.

1. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high. Cook chicken in batches for 5-6 minutes per side until golden and cooked through. Let rest 5 minutes, then slice thinly.

1. Warm Pitas:

• Lightly char pitas in a dry skillet or wrap in foil and warm in the oven at 350°F (175°C) for 5 minutes.

1. Assemble Gyros:

• Spread tzatziki on pitas. Layer with chicken, tomatoes, onion, lettuce, and optional toppings. Fold or roll tightly.

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Tips & Variations 🌟

• Grill for Smokiness: Char the chicken on a grill for authentic flavor.
• Extra Crispy: Add oven-baked fries inside the gyro (street-food style!).
• Vegan Option: Use marinated chickpeas or tofu and vegan yogurt.
• Meal Prep: Store components separately; assemble fresh to prevent sogginess.
• Gluten-Free: Use GF pita or lettuce wraps.

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Serving Ideas

• Pair with Greek salad, lemon-roasted potatoes, or hummus and veggies.
• Drizzle with olive oil or hot sauce for extra flair.
• Serve with a chilled glass of ouzo or lemonade.

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Take a trip to the Mediterranean with Greek-style chicken gyros. This dish is full of fresh flavors like cucumber, dill, and tzatziki sauce.

Honey Lime Chicken Tacos🍯🍋🌮

Honey Lime Chicken Tacos 🍯🍋🌮

Sweet, tangy, and bursting with fresh flavors! Tender honey-lime marinated chicken tucked into warm tortillas with crunchy slaw, creamy avocado, and zesty toppings. Perfect for weeknights or summer fiestas!

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Ingredients

Honey Lime Chicken

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• ⅓ cup honey
• Juice and zest of 2 limes
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp black pepper
• 2 tbsp olive oil

Taco Assembly

• 8 small flour or corn tortillas (warmed)
• 2 cups shredded purple or green cabbage
• 1 avocado, sliced or diced
• ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• ¼ cup crumbled cotija or feta cheese
• Lime crema (mix ¼ cup sour cream + 1 tbsp lime juice)
• Pickled red onions (optional, for tang)
• Hot sauce or salsa

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a bowl, whisk honey, lime juice/zest, garlic, soy sauce, chili powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, pepper, and olive oil.
• Add chicken and coat evenly. Marinate 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours in the fridge).

1. Cook the Chicken:

• Heat a skillet or grill over medium-high. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade) and cook 5-7 minutes per side until caramelized and internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Simmer reserved marinade in a small pot for 3-4 minutes until thickened into a glaze. Slice chicken and toss in glaze.

1. Assemble Tacos:

• Layer tortillas with cabbage, glazed chicken, avocado, cilantro, cotija, and pickled onions. Drizzle with lime crema and hot sauce.

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Tips & Variations 🌟

• Grill for Smokiness: Char the chicken on a grill for extra flavor.
• Vegan Option: Swap chicken for cauliflower florets or tofu; use agave instead of honey.
• Meal Prep: Marinate chicken overnight and cook fresh. Store components separately.
• Extra Crunch: Add radishes, crushed tortilla chips, or jicama slaw.
• Spicy Kick: Add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne to the marinade.

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Serving Ideas

• Pair with mango salsa, black beans, or cilantro-lime rice.
• Serve with a margarita or spicy pineapple agua fresca.
• Double the marinade and use it as a dressing for a side salad.

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Nutrition (per taco): ~300 kcal | 12g fat | 28g carbs | 22g protein

Caprese Stuffed Chicken🍗🍅🧀

Caprese Stuffed Chicken 🍗🍅🧀

Juicy chicken breasts stuffed with fresh mozzarella, ripe tomatoes, and basil, then baked to perfection and drizzled with balsamic glaze. A restaurant-worthy dish that’s simple enough for weeknights!

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Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 4 oz (120g) fresh mozzarella, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved (or 2 large tomatoes, sliced)
• ½ cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ cup balsamic glaze (store-bought or homemade)
• Toothpicks (for securing)

Optional Additions:

• 2 tbsp pesto (spread inside chicken)
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan (sprinkled on top before baking)
• Fresh arugula (for serving)

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Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken:

• Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
• Butterfly each chicken breast: Slice horizontally through the thickest part, leaving one edge intact to create a pocket.

1. Stuff the Chicken:

• Season the inside of each breast with salt, pepper, and half the garlic.
• Layer mozzarella, tomatoes, basil (and pesto, if using) inside each pocket. Secure edges with toothpicks.

1. Season & Sear:

• Rub chicken with olive oil, then sprinkle with Italian seasoning, remaining garlic, salt, and pepper.
• Heat an oven-safe skillet over medium-high. Sear chicken 2-3 minutes per side until golden.

1. Bake:

• Transfer skillet to the oven. Bake 20-25 minutes until chicken reaches 165°F (75°C).
• Optional: Top with Parmesan during the last 5 minutes for a golden crust.

1. Serve:

• Remove toothpicks. Drizzle with balsamic glaze and garnish with fresh basil. Serve over arugula or with sides.

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Tips for Success 🌟

• Secure Tightly: Use 2-3 toothpicks per breast to prevent filling from leaking.
• Even Thickness: Pound thicker chicken breasts to ½-inch for even cooking.
• Balsamic Hack: Simmer ½ cup balsamic vinegar + 1 tbsp honey until thickened for homemade glaze.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based mozzarella and tofu “chicken” cutlets.
• No Oven-Safe Skillet? Sear in a pan, then transfer to a baking dish.

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Serving Ideas

• Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted asparagus, or caprese salad.
• Serve over lemony orzo or quinoa for a light meal.
• Add a glass of Chianti or sparkling water with lemon.

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Spicy Peanut Grilled Chicken Skewers🌶️🥜🍢

Spicy Peanut Grilled Chicken Skewers 🌶️🥜🍢

Tender, juicy chicken skewers marinated in a bold blend of spicy peanut sauce, grilled to smoky perfection, and served with a creamy peanut dipping sauce. A fusion of Thai-inspired flavors perfect for summer BBQs or weeknight dinners!

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Ingredients

Chicken & Marinade

• 1.5 lbs (680g) boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, cut into 1.5-inch cubes
• ⅓ cup creamy peanut butter
• 3 tbsp soy sauce (or tamari for gluten-free)
• 2 tbsp lime juice
• 2 tbsp honey (or brown sugar)
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp fresh ginger, grated
• 1-2 tsp sriracha (adjust for heat)
• 1 tsp sesame oil
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• ½ tsp smoked paprika
• Wooden or metal skewers

Peanut Dipping Sauce

• ¼ cup creamy peanut butter
• 2 tbsp coconut milk (or water)
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 tsp honey
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ tsp sriracha (optional)

Garnish

• Chopped cilantro
• Crushed peanuts
• Lime wedges
• Thinly sliced red chili or scallions

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Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a bowl, whisk peanut butter, soy sauce, lime juice, honey, garlic, ginger, sriracha, sesame oil, cumin, and smoked paprika.
• Toss chicken in the marinade until fully coated. Cover and refrigerate at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours).

1. Prep Skewers:

• Soak wooden skewers in water for 30 minutes (if using). Thread chicken onto skewers.

1. Grill:

• Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Oil grates lightly.
• Grill skewers 3-4 minutes per side until chicken is cooked through (internal temp 165°F/75°C).

1. Make Peanut Sauce:

• Whisk all sauce ingredients until smooth. Add more coconut milk to thin if needed.

1. Serve:

• Drizzle skewers with peanut sauce and garnish with cilantro, peanuts, lime, and chili. Serve extra sauce on the side.

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Tips & Variations 🌟

• Vegetarian: Swap chicken for tofu, tempeh, or cauliflower florets.
• Extra Heat: Add ½ tsp chili flakes to the marinade or drizzle with chili oil.
• No Grill? Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, broiling the last 2-3 minutes for char.
• Nut-Free: Use sunflower seed butter instead of peanut butter.
• Meal Prep: Skewer and marinate ahead; grill fresh for best texture.

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Serving Ideas

• Pair with coconut rice, vermicelli noodles, or grilled veggies.
• Serve alongside a cucumber salad or mango slaw for freshness.
• Add a cold Thai iced tea or lemongrass soda for a tropical vibe.

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Whether you’re out in the yard grilling for friends, doing a little meal prep in the house for the week (it can be done on the grill too!) or simply feeling out versions of taste upwards, these recipes explore the wide, delicious world of summer chicken. Each dish is meant to be low stress, big flavor to keep your cooking — and your January — as carefree as can be.

Baked Pesto Parmesan Chicken🍗🧀🌿

Baked Pesto Parmesan Chicken 🍗🧀🌿

Tender chicken breasts smothered in basil pesto, topped with a crispy parmesan crust, and baked to golden perfection. A quick, flavorful dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights or elegant dinners!

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Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 680g)
• ½ cup basil pesto (store-bought or homemade)
• ½ cup grated Parmesan cheese
• ⅓ cup Panko breadcrumbs (or gluten-free breadcrumbs)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp Italian seasoning
• ½ tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
• Fresh basil or parsley (for garnish)
• Optional: ½ cup shredded mozzarella (for extra cheesiness)

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Instructions

1. Prep the Chicken:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking dish with parchment paper or lightly grease.
• Pat chicken dry and pound to even thickness (about ½-inch thick) for even cooking. Season both sides with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.

1. Coat with Pesto:

• Spread 1-2 tbsp pesto evenly over each chicken breast.

1. Make the Parmesan Crust:

• In a bowl, mix Parmesan, breadcrumbs, Italian seasoning, and olive oil (or melted butter) until crumbly.
• Press the mixture firmly onto the pesto-coated chicken.

1. Bake:

• Arrange chicken in the baking dish. Bake 20-25 minutes until the crust is golden and chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) internally.
• Optional: Broil 1-2 minutes for extra crispiness (watch closely!).

1. Serve:

• Garnish with fresh basil or parsley. Serve with lemon wedges for a zesty finish.

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Tips & Variations 🌟

• Crispy Hack: Use a mix of Parmesan and mozzarella for a gooey, golden topping.
• Gluten-Free: Substitute Panko with almond flour or crushed gluten-free crackers.
• Juicy Chicken: Brine breasts in salted water for 30 minutes before cooking.
• Extra Flavor: Add sun-dried tomatoes or roasted garlic to the pesto.
• Vegan Option: Use plant-based chicken and vegan Parmesan/pesto.

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Serving Ideas

• Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, roasted veggies, or caprese salad.
• Serve over lemony orzo or zucchini noodles for a low-carb meal.
• Drizzle with balsamic glaze or a dollop of marinara sauce.

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It’s a quick weeknight dinner, in fact, the kind that’s perfect for early summer, when you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen but need something delicious to eat

Sweet and Smoky Paprika Drumsticks🍗🔥🍯

Sweet and Smoky Paprika Drumsticks 🍗🔥🍯

Juicy, fall-off-the-bone chicken drumsticks with a sticky-sweet glaze and bold smoky paprika flavor. Perfect for BBQs, game day, or a fuss-free family dinner!

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Ingredients

• 8-10 chicken drumsticks (about 2 lbs / 900g)
• 3 tbsp olive oil (or melted butter)
• 2 tbsp honey (or maple syrup)
• 2 tsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp sweet paprika
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp brown sugar (optional, for extra caramelization)
• 1 tsp salt
• ½ tsp black pepper
• ¼ tsp cayenne pepper (optional, for heat)
• Fresh parsley or cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

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Instructions

1. Prep the Oven:

• Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with foil and place a wire rack on top (for crispiness).

1. Make the Glaze:

• In a bowl, whisk olive oil, honey, smoked paprika, sweet paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, brown sugar (if using), salt, pepper, and cayenne.

1. Coat the Drumsticks:

• Pat drumsticks dry with paper towels. Brush or toss them in the glaze until fully coated.

1. Bake:

• Arrange drumsticks on the wire rack. Bake 35-40 minutes, flipping halfway and brushing with leftover glaze, until skin is crispy and internal temp reaches 165°F (75°C).

1. Finish & Serve:

• Optional: Broil 2-3 minutes for extra caramelization (watch closely!).
• Garnish with fresh herbs and serve hot.

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Tips & Variations 🌟

• Grill Option: Cook over indirect heat on a grill at 375°F (190°C) for 25-30 minutes, turning often.
• Extra Sticky: Double the glaze and brush generously in the last 10 minutes of baking.
• Crispy Skin Hack: Let drumsticks air-dry in the fridge for 1 hour before baking.
• Kid-Friendly: Skip the cayenne and add 1 tsp lemon zest for brightness.
• Vegan Twist: Use cauliflower florets or tofu; replace honey with agave.

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Serving Ideas

• Pair with garlic mashed potatoes, coleslaw, or grilled corn.
• Serve over cilantro-lime rice with a side of cooling ranch dip.
• Drizzle with sriracha mayo or extra honey for added kick/sweetness.

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Spiced with smoky paprika and kissed with a sweet glaze, these drumsticks are perfect for a barbecue.

Bring These Summer Chicken Recipes to Life

Whether you’re hosting a barbecue for friends, grilling in mass quantities to meal-prep for the week or simply taking your taste buds on a summer tour, these recipes demonstrate the flexibility and tastiness of chicken when the weather is warm. The recipes, all low effort and high reward, are meant to make your time in the kitchen relaxed and unencumbered, so you can really sink into the season.

FAQ

• Q: Can I substitute chicken with another protein in these recipes?

A: Absolutely! Many of these recipes work well with proteins like turkey, tofu, or even seafood. Just be mindful of cooking times, as they may vary depending on the substitute.

• Q: How can I ensure the chicken stays juicy while grilling?

A: Marinating the chicken beforehand and not overcooking it are key. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for perfectly cooked, juicy chicken.

• Q: Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?

A: Yes! These recipes are great for meal prep. Store your cooked chicken in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze for longer storage.

• Q: What side dishes pair best with these summer chicken recipes?

A: Fresh salads, grilled vegetables, pasta salads, or even a simple fruit platter make excellent sides to complement the flavors of these chicken dishes.