Easy BBQ Grilled Chicken Dinner – Simple Summer Meal

Hi there, food lover! 👋 Ready to fire up the grill and bring a taste of summer right to your table? Today we’re preparing a wonderfully simple and comforting dish that’s perfect for warm evenings, family gatherings, or relaxed weekend dinners: Easy BBQ Grilled Chicken Dinner. There’s something timeless and satisfying about the aroma of chicken sizzling over a hot grill, coated in sweet and smoky barbecue sauce. It’s the kind of meal that invites everyone outside, fills the air with mouthwatering smells, and turns an ordinary evening into something special.

The beauty of an Easy BBQ Grilled Chicken Dinner lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and a little patience on the grill, you can create juicy, flavorful chicken that pairs perfectly with classic summer sides like corn on the cob, fresh salads, or roasted potatoes. Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting friends for a backyard gathering, this recipe delivers delicious results every time.

This recipe honors the traditional approach to barbecue cooking: simple seasoning, careful grilling, and a generous brush of barbecue sauce that caramelizes beautifully over the flames. Even if you’re new to grilling, you’ll find this dish approachable and rewarding. The steps are easy to follow, and the results are incredibly satisfying.

So grab your apron, gather your ingredients, and let’s prepare a classic Easy BBQ Grilled Chicken Dinner that’s full of smoky flavor and summer charm.

Table of Contents

Table of Contents

Ingredients for Easy BBQ Grilled Chicken Dinner

For the BBQ Grilled Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (or 6 chicken thighs)

1 tablespoon olive oil

1 teaspoon salt

1 teaspoon black pepper

1 teaspoon smoked paprika

1 teaspoon garlic powder

1 teaspoon onion powder

1 cup barbecue sauce (your favorite variety)

1 tablespoon honey (optional for extra sweetness)

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar (optional for tangy flavor)

Optional Side Dishes for the Dinner

4 ears corn on the cob

2 cups coleslaw

4 medium potatoes for roasting

1 tablespoon olive oil (for potatoes)

Salt and pepper to taste

Fresh parsley for garnish

Lemon wedges for serving

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Step-by-Step Directions for Easy BBQ Grilled Chicken Dinner

Step 1: Prepare the chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts or thighs dry with paper towels. Removing excess moisture helps the seasoning stick better and allows the chicken to grill more evenly. Place the chicken on a large plate or cutting board.

Step 2: Season the chicken
Drizzle the chicken with olive oil and rub it evenly over each piece. In a small bowl, mix together the salt, black pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder. Sprinkle the seasoning mixture over the chicken and gently rub it in so each piece is well coated.

Step 3: Prepare the barbecue sauce mixture
In a small bowl, combine the barbecue sauce with honey and apple cider vinegar if using. This combination adds a beautiful balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Stir until well blended and set aside for later.

Step 4: Preheat the grill
Preheat your grill to medium heat, about 375–400°F (190–200°C). If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are covered with a light gray ash before placing the chicken on the grate. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Place the chicken on the grill
Arrange the seasoned chicken pieces on the hot grill. Close the lid and allow the chicken to cook undisturbed for about 5–7 minutes on the first side. This helps create beautiful grill marks and seals in the juices.

Step 6: Flip the chicken
Using tongs, carefully flip each piece of chicken. Cook for another 5–7 minutes with the lid closed. The chicken should be cooking evenly and beginning to develop a golden grilled surface.

Step 7: Add the barbecue sauce
Once the chicken is nearly cooked through, begin brushing it generously with the prepared barbecue sauce. Turn the chicken occasionally and continue brushing with sauce so it caramelizes without burning.

Step 8: Finish grilling
Continue grilling the chicken for another 3–5 minutes, turning occasionally to ensure the sauce glazes evenly. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

Step 9: Prepare the side dishes
While the chicken finishes grilling, you can prepare the sides. Toss potatoes with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast them in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for about 25–30 minutes until golden and tender.

For corn on the cob, place the ears directly on the grill and cook for about 10 minutes, turning occasionally until lightly charred.

Step 10: Let the chicken rest
Remove the grilled chicken from the grill and allow it to rest for about 5 minutes. This helps the juices redistribute throughout the meat, making it extra tender and flavorful.

Step 11: Assemble the dinner plates
Place one piece of BBQ grilled chicken on each plate. Add roasted potatoes, grilled corn on the cob, and a scoop of fresh coleslaw for a complete meal.

Step 12: Garnish and serve
Sprinkle fresh parsley over the chicken and serve with lemon wedges if desired. The citrus adds a bright finish that complements the smoky barbecue flavors beautifully.

Nutritional Information for Easy BBQ Grilled Chicken Dinner

This Easy BBQ Grilled Chicken Dinner is both satisfying and balanced. Chicken provides a great source of lean protein, while the grilled cooking method keeps the meal lighter than fried alternatives.

Per Serving (approximate)

Calories: 420

Protein: 38g

Carbohydrates: 22g

Fat: 18g

Saturated Fat: 4g

Fiber: 3g

Sugar: 10g

Sodium: 520mg

These values can vary depending on the barbecue sauce and side dishes used. For a lighter option, choose a low-sugar barbecue sauce and serve with fresh vegetables or salad.

⏰ Prep Time: 15 minutes | 🔥 Baking Time: 20 minutes | ⏳ Total Time: 35 minutes
⚡ Calories per serving: 420 | 🍽️ Servings: 4

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Bon appétit and happy cooking!