Hey y'all! Summer is here, and it's the perfect time to fire up the grill for some smokin' Easy BBQ Recipes for Summer Grilling Nights. Whether you're hosting a backyard bash, celebrating with family, or craving that irresistible grilled flavor, these recipes are juicy, packed with flavor, and so simple to pull off. You'll impress your friends and keep your tastebuds happy all season long. Let's get cooking!
Why You'll Love This Easy BBQ Recipes for Summer Grilling Nights
- Quick to prepare, making weeknight and weekend grilling stress-free.
- Loaded with mouthwatering, smoky flavors that everyone loves.
- Flexible enough for all diets—easy to swap proteins or veggies.
- Perfect for outdoor gatherings, picnics, or casual family dinners.
- Minimal clean up means more time enjoying those summer nights.
Ingredients for Easy BBQ Recipes for Summer Grilling Nights
- 1.5 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional for heat)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon cracked black pepper
- ⅓ cup your favorite BBQ sauce (plus more for serving)
Easy BBQ Recipes for Summer Grilling Nights: Directions
Step 1: Prep the Chicken for Summer Grilling
- In a large bowl, combine olive oil, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne, salt, and black pepper.
- Add the chicken thighs, tossing until fully coated. Cover and marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours for more flavor).
Step 2: Fire Up the Grill
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F/204°C). Oil the grates to prevent sticking.
Step 3: Grill & Glaze
- Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), basting with BBQ sauce in the final 2 minutes.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Notes for Easy BBQ Recipes for Summer Grilling Nights
- Marinate longer for deeper, richer flavor—try overnight for best results.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer for juicy, safe chicken every time.
- Swap store-bought BBQ sauce for a homemade version—try this simple BBQ sauce recipe.
Variations: Easy BBQ Recipes for Summer Grilling Nights
- Substitute chicken with pork chops or beef steaks for a hearty twist.
- Use chopped bell peppers, zucchini, and mushrooms for a tasty vegetarian BBQ option.
- Turn it into skewers by cubing the chicken and grilling with veggies.
Required Equipment for Easy BBQ Recipes for Summer Grilling Nights
- Charcoal or gas grill
- Tongs
- Large mixing bowl
- Meat thermometer
- Basting brush
Storage Instructions: Enjoying Your BBQ Leftovers
- Store leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.
- Reheat gently in the microwave or oven at 350°F (177°C) until warmed through.
- Freeze for up to 2 months for easy meal prep—thaw overnight before reheating.
Serving Recommendations for Easy BBQ Recipes for Summer Grilling Nights
- Serve with grilled corn on the cob, creamy coleslaw, or baked potatoes for a classic BBQ plate.
- Pair with a refreshing summer salad or homemade lemonade for a vibrant meal.
- Slice leftovers for tasty BBQ chicken sandwiches or wraps.
Pro Tips for Perfect Easy BBQ Recipes for Summer Grilling Nights
- Let the chicken come to room temperature for 20 minutes before grilling for even cooking.
- Use indirect heat for thicker cuts to avoid burning the outside. Learn more here.
- Always rest the meat after grilling for juicier, more flavorful bites.
FAQ: Easy BBQ Recipes for Summer Grilling Nights
- Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
- Absolutely! Just adjust grilling time—chicken breasts cook faster, about 5-6 minutes per side.
- What BBQ sauce works best?
- Any favorite store-bought or homemade BBQ sauce will do—try smoky, sweet, or tangy to suit your taste.
- How do I prevent meat from sticking to the grill?
- Oil the grates well and wait until the meat naturally releases before flipping.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Marinate: 30 minutes | Cook Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 55 minutes
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- ½ cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 2 bell peppers, sliced
- 1 red onion, sliced
Instructions
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1Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
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2In a large bowl, combine olive oil, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Add the chicken breasts and toss to coat evenly.
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3Place the chicken breasts and sliced vegetables on the grill. Cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and juices run clear.
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4Brush BBQ sauce over the chicken during the last 2 minutes of grilling, turning once to coat both sides.
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5Remove the chicken and vegetables from the grill. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
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6Serve the grilled chicken and vegetables hot, with extra BBQ sauce on the side if desired.
Approximate Information for One Serving
Nutrition Disclaimers
Number of total servings shown is approximate. Actual number of servings will depend on your preferred portion sizes.
Nutritional values shown are general guidelines and reflect information for 1 serving using the ingredients listed, not including any optional ingredients. Actual macros may vary slightly depending on specific brands and types of ingredients used.
To determine the weight of one serving, prepare the recipe as instructed. Weigh the finished recipe, then divide the weight of the finished recipe (not including the weight of the container the food is in) by the desired number of servings. Result will be the weight of one serving.
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