20 Healthy Grilled Chicken Recipes – Best BBQ Chicken Ideas

Nothing says summer like the aroma of grilled chicken wafting through the air. These 20 healthy grilled chicken recipes are designed to keep your meals light, nutritious, and bursting with flavor. From zesty citrus marinades to bold spice rubs, there's a best BBQ chicken idea here for every taste.

Grilled chicken is naturally lean and high in protein, making it a fantastic base for healthy eating. These recipes use fresh ingredients, minimal oils, and vibrant seasonings to create dishes that are as good for you as they are delicious.

Whether you're planning a backyard BBQ or a quick weeknight dinner, these ideas will help you make the most of your grill while keeping things wholesome and exciting.

1. Classic Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken

This timeless favorite combines bright lemon and fresh herbs for a light, refreshing flavor that's perfect for summer.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice and zest of 2 lemons
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh thyme, chopped
• 2 tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

2. Spicy Grilled Chicken Wings

These wings deliver heat without the deep-fry guilt, perfect for game day or casual gatherings.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 2 lbs chicken wings
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp garlic salt
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• Optional: hot sauce for extra kick

3. Teriyaki Grilled Chicken Thighs

A healthier homemade teriyaki glaze makes these thighs sweet, savory, and utterly addictive.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 8 boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup low-sodium soy sauce
• 1/4 cup honey or brown sugar
• 2 tbsp rice vinegar
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp grated fresh ginger
• 1 tbsp sesame oil

4. Mediterranean Yogurt Marinated Chicken

Yogurt tenderizes the chicken while garlic and herbs infuse Mediterranean magic.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 chicken breasts or thighs
• 1 cup plain Greek yogurt
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tbsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

5. Honey Mustard Glazed Grilled Chicken Breast

Sweet honey and tangy mustard create a glaze that's irresistible on lean breasts.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/3 cup Dijon mustard
• 1/4 cup honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste

6. Grilled Chicken Fajitas

Sizzling strips of spiced chicken with colorful peppers and onions—Tex-Mex perfection.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 1.5 lbs chicken breasts, sliced
• 3 bell peppers, sliced
• 1 large onion, sliced
• Juice of 2 limes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tsp cumin
• 2 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder

7. Balsamic Caprese Grilled Chicken

Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, basil, and balsamic make this Italian-inspired dish a standout.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup balsamic vinegar
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 4 slices fresh mozzarella
• 4 thick tomato slices
• Fresh basil leaves
• Salt and pepper

8. Jamaican Jerk Grilled Chicken

Bold spices bring authentic island heat to this smoky grilled favorite.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 8 chicken thighs
• 4 scotch bonnet peppers
• 6 garlic cloves
• 2 tbsp allspice
• 2 tbsp thyme
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• Juice of 2 limes

9. Garlic Parmesan Grilled Chicken

A cheesy garlic crust makes this low-carb chicken indulgent yet healthy.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 1 tsp Italian herbs
• Salt and pepper

10. Asian Sesame Grilled Chicken

Umami-packed sesame and ginger make this chicken an Asian-inspired delight.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tbsp sesame oil
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• Sesame seeds for garnish

11. Cilantro Lime Grilled Chicken

Bright and zesty, this chicken is perfect for tacos or bowls.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 3 limes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tsp cumin
• Salt and pepper

12. Grilled BBQ Chicken Pizza

A fun twist using grilled chicken as a healthier pizza topping.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 1 lb pizza dough
• 2 cups grilled chicken, shredded
• 1 cup BBQ sauce
• 2 cups mozzarella cheese
• 1 red onion, sliced
• Fresh cilantro

13. Grilled Chicken Quinoa Bowl

Nutrient-packed bowl with grilled chicken and fresh veggies over quinoa.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 grilled chicken breasts
• 2 cups cooked quinoa
• 2 cups mixed greens
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup feta cheese
• Lemon vinaigrette

14. Honey Sriracha Grilled Chicken

Sweet heat in every bite—this glaze is addictive!

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup honey
• 3 tbsp sriracha
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp lime juice

15. Pesto Grilled Chicken Breast

Fresh basil pesto brings vibrant herby flavor to simple grilled chicken.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh basil pesto
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• Salt and pepper

16. Chipotle Lime Grilled Chicken

Smoky chipotle and tangy lime for a Southwest kick.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 chicken breasts
• 2 chipotle peppers in adobo
• Juice of 2 limes
• 3 tbsp olive oil
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 tsp cumin

17. Greek Grilled Chicken Souvlaki Skewers

Traditional Greek flavors on skewers—serve with tzatziki!

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 1.5 lbs chicken, cubed
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 2 lemons
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp oregano
• Salt and pepper

18. Korean Gochujang Grilled Chicken

Spicy, sweet fermented chili paste makes this Korean chicken unforgettable.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1/4 cup gochujang
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 tbsp sesame oil

19. Herb Mustard Grilled Chicken Tenders

Quick-cooking tenders with a tangy herb mustard marinade.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 1.5 lbs chicken tenders
• 1/4 cup Dijon mustard
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 2 tbsp fresh herbs (thyme, rosemary)
• 2 garlic cloves

20. Pineapple Soy Grilled Chicken Skewers

Tropical pineapple tenderizes and sweetens soy-marinated chicken.

Ingredients (serves 4):

• 1.5 lbs chicken, cubed
• 2 cups pineapple chunks
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup pineapple juice
• 2 tbsp honey
• 2 garlic cloves
• 1 tbsp ginger

Tips for Grilling Success

Preheat your grill, oil the grates, and aim for 165°F internal temperature for perfect chicken every time.

Marinate for flavor, rest after grilling, and experiment with cuts for juicier results.

Conclusion

These 20 healthy grilled chicken recipes with full ingredient lists offer endless variety for your BBQ repertoire. Fire up the grill and enjoy nutritious, flavorful meals all season!

Happy grilling!