Chicken lovers, unite for the summer!
Why is chicken the ultimate summer protein? Well, not only is it incredibly versatile, but it also cooks quickly, so you don’t have to create a sauna-like environment in your home in order to make it. (No one wants that in summer.) And the less time you spend in the kitchen, the more time you have for fun in the sun! (Or while staying out of the sun, depending on the temp.)
Whether you’re grillin’ it, bakin’ it, or tossing it into a refreshing salad, chicken pairs great with in-season veggies and refreshing flavors. And, because it’s a lean protein, it will keep you energized without making you feel overly full or weighed down.
That’s why we’ve scoured our recipe archives to create a list of the 15 best summer chicken recipes! So grab your tongs, and let’s get to it.
Perfect Summer Chicken Appetizers
Chicken Satay
Looking for an appetizer to take your summer gathering to the next level? Chicken Satay with a side of peanut sauce is one of the best things you can make for the summer, whether it’s just for the fam or for a pool party full of friends. It’s easy to make and even easier to eat. Just imagine tender chicken skewers marinated in a blend of garlic, ginger, and other amazing aromatics, then grilled to golden brown perfection! They’re great for a summer cookout or just a quick meal when you’re short on time. If you want to make sure your guests stay hydrated, don’t forget to pair this appetizer with some fresh veggies or a skewered fruit plate!
Oven Barbecue Chicken Wings
Want something sticky-sweet and finger-licking good? Check out our Oven Barbecue Chicken Wings, smothered in a sweet and smoky homemade barbecue sauce that’s about to blow your mind. Made with honey and balsamic vinegar, it’s an unforgettable condiment you might be tempted to throw on much more than just chicken. And speaking of chicken, these wings are baked to perfection until they’re crispy and delicious. If you’re looking to impress the whole family, these are your go-to finger food!
Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken Wings
When you’re feeling less mesquite and more herby (or just looking to cover all your bases with an assortment of great chicken appetizers) these Baked Parmesan Garlic Chicken Wings are a must-try. Not only are they healthier than fried wings, but this delicious recipe also comes with an optional Dijon mustard blue cheese dipping sauce how-to that is sure to become your new best friend. And let’s talk about those wings for a sec. They’re coated in a mixture of parmesan cheese, garlic, and herbs, and baked until they’re crispy on the outside and juicy on the inside. This is one of those wildly easy recipes that’s great for larger gatherings or just an easy weeknight dinner.
Refreshing Chicken Summer Salads
Asian Sesame Chicken Noodle Salad
Nothing says “I’m prepared for summer” like having a few great salad recipes up your sleeve, and this Asian Sesame Chicken Noodle Salad makes a delicious addition to your summer season lineup. Refreshing cucumber, chili peppers, and Japanese (or Chinese) noodles, all tossed together with tender chicken and a zesty sesame sauce. This is one of my favorite summer comfort foods, and BONUS: it’s also a great way to use up any leftover chicken you might have lying around.
Chicken Salad with Sesame Miso Dressing
If you’re ready to elevate your salad game, this Chicken Salad with Sesame Miso Dressing is here for you. It’s a healthy summer salad that features butter lettuce and tender chicken, topped with crunchy roasted sesame seeds, and topped off with a homemade creamy dressing made of sesame and miso. The combo of flavors and textures in this dish makes it a delicious meal, while the ingredient list makes it a refreshingly nutritious summer addition.
Charred Tomato Salsa Chicken Bowl
When you can’t put your finger on exactly what you want to eat, but you know you just want something FRESH, look no further than this Charred Tomato Salsa Chicken Bowl. It’s an amazing vibrant salad bursting with in-season tomatoes, fresh herbs like garlic and cilantro, sauteed chicken, chili peppers, and black pepper. Low in calories, but BIG on flavor.
Chinese Chicken Salad
This is a classic that never gets old. Our Chinese Chicken Salad combines chicken breast, lettuce, cucumber, snow peas, and a tangy dressing that’s a throwback to Applebee’s Oriental Chicken Salad Dressing. This is one of those easy chicken recipes that’s perfect for any time of year, but you’ll love how refreshing it is for summer. Ready to enjoy a great meal without spending a lot of time in the kitchen?
Chicken-Based Buddha Bowls
Grilled Chicken Buddha Bowl with Sweet Tangy Mango Sauce and Roasted Peanuts
Buddha Bowls are the perfect summer meal. They’re light, super nutritious, easy to make, and they put your leftovers to good use with their adaptability. Our Grilled Chicken Buddha Bowl is no exception! It features raw fruits and veggies and grilled chicken on a bed of rice. If you thought it was over, guess again! This large bowl is then topped with a sweet and tangy homemade mango sauce and roasted peanuts for a little extra crunch. This is essentially a party in a bowl, but somehow still insanely healthy and nutritious, especially when you’re looking to stay fueled with lean protein and hydrated with natural electrolytes in the summertime. (It also makes a great meal prep dish!)
Rotisserie Chicken Buddha Bowl with Sweet Pomegranate Sauce
Looking for an ultra easy meal this summer? Try our Rotisserie Chicken Buddha Bowl. It’s a breeze to whip up! Just grab a rotisserie chicken from the grocery store, toss in some grains and veggies, and drizzle on a little homemade sweet pomegranate sauce. (Oh, and some nuts and pomegranate seeds for a little crunch!) When you’re running low on time or energy this summer, even cooking chicken can seem like a big task. That’s where this recipe shines!
Chicken Tandoori Bowl with Minty Indian Yogurt Dressing
Seeking a completely different type of chicken bowl? Are you a fan of Indian recipes? If so, this Chicken Tandoori Bowl is everything you’re looking for. Delicious cubed chicken breast. Warm cauliflower rice. Hydrating broccoli. All smothered in a refreshing minty yogurt dressing. This chicken dish is packed with flavor and spice, perfect for anyone looking for a cool contrast to spiced chicken.
Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki Buddha Bowl
Summer is the perfect time to get tropical, and that’s exactly what we’ve done with our Pineapple Chicken Teriyaki Buddha Bowl. It’s a bowl that mixes sweet and savory together in a way that just WORKS. And it’s ridiculously adaptable! Use your favorite pasta or noodles. Throw in some leftover veggies. Use whatever nuts or seeds you happen to have on hand. This is one of those easy chicken recipes that you’ll end up whipping up again and again.
Satisfying Chicken Entrees for Your Summer Table
Pineapple Fried Rice
Need a delectable chicken dinner that’s got a tropical twist? Then our Pineapple Fried Rice is what you need! Juicy chicken meets shrimp, rice, and savory seasonings all in a pineapple bowl. You just need one wok, and you can even use leftover rice. In this recipe, I’m gonna teach you how to avoid soggy, heavy rice and why cooking some ingredients separately is essential for this dish. It’s a beautiful, creative dinner that’s guaranteed to impress.
Healthy General Tso’s Chicken
This is a light, refreshing, and healthy twist on a classic favorite: Healthy General Tso’s Chicken. By cooking chicken in a wok rather than deep frying, you end up with a delicious dish that’s more suited for summer! With boneless chicken breasts and homemade General Tso sauce, this healthy chicken recipe is sure to become a new summer favorite. You can even pair it with some steamed veggies or zucchini noodles for a balanced meal that’s also super satisfying.
Chicken Caprese
If you love Italian recipes and want some zest in your life, this Chicken Caprese is a must-try! It features chicken breasts, juicy tomatoes, fresh basil leaves, creamy mozzarella cheese, a little olive oil, and a light balsamic vinegar drizzle. It’s a super simple recipe that tastes like a restaurant-quality meal, and you can replace the chicken with any protein you like! My lazy-day version uses pre-made grocery store chicken, and it works just as well. It’s the perfect summer evening dinner.
Vegetable Quinoa Pilaf with Honey Mustard Chicken
Last, but definitely not least, is our Vegetable Quinoa Pilaf with Honey Mustard Chicken. It’s packed with chicken and veggies like Swiss chard, carrots, and onions as well as quinoa, so it’s both nutritious and delicious! The lemon zest and slices brighten up the flavor even further, and the overnight honey mustard marinade is ridiculously easy to whip up. If you’re looking for a summer dish that’s light, healthy, and somewhat addicting, this is what you want!
Did Your Favorite Make The List?
What’s your favorite chicken summer dish? As always, we love to hear about what you like to cook and eat! Let us know your favorites in the comments below!
Did you try this recipe? Please leave a star rating in the recipe card below and leave a review in the comment section! I always appreciate your feedback and I know other readers do, too!
Stay in touch with me in our 
I enjoy the beautiful photography!
My favorite chicken dish is smoked BarBQ chicken, it’s easy to make
especially on hot lazy summer days, just add a side and dinners ready.
Summer favorite chicken recipes are salads with rotisserie chicken from Sam’s Club. Only $5 for 3 lb chicken lasts a few days and make great stock too.
Would come in handy right now for grocery essentials. Thx for chance!
Thank you for these great recipes!