Nothing beats the smoky, saucy, and slightly sweet flavor of a good BBQ chicken. It’s a classic for a reason!
But let’s be real, a lot of BBQ recipes are packed with WAY too much sugar and other heavy ingredients.
What if you could get all that delicious, finger-licking flavor you love, but in a much healthier way?
The good news is, you totally can. You DON’T have to choose between tasty and healthy.
I’ve put together a list of incredible BBQ chicken recipes that are big on flavor but light on everything else.
There’s something here for everyone, whether you’re grilling, baking, or looking for a quick weeknight meal.
1. Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Crockpot BBQ Chicken delivers tender, flavorful chicken that’s easy to make and perfect for quick weeknight meals.
Just toss in the ingredients, let the slow cooker do the work, and enjoy juicy shredded chicken on sandwiches or over rice.
2. BBQ Chicken
BBQ Chicken comes out juicy and caramelized, with a bold sauce flavor that everyone loves.
It’s a no-fuss dinner that’s ready in under an hour and great for weeknights or weekend grilling.
3. Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks
Air Fryer BBQ Chicken Drumsticks get crispy on the outside and tender on the inside in less than 30 minutes.
They’re sticky, savory, and perfect for a fast, satisfying meal with minimal cleanup.
4. Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken
Grilled Hawaiian BBQ Chicken turns up the flavor with a sweet pineapple-soy marinade and smoky grill taste.
Serve it over rice with grilled pineapple for a fresh, tropical twist on a classic favorite.
5. Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken is soft, shredded, and packed with flavor from start to finish.
It’s a hands-off way to make chicken that’s great for sandwiches, salads, or even tacos.
6. BBQ Chicken Recipe
BBQ Chicken Recipe delivers smoky, juicy flavor with minimal effort and maximum taste.
It’s an easy crowd-pleaser that works perfectly for cookouts, family dinners, or meal prep.
7. Smoked BBQ Chicken Thighs
Smoked BBQ Chicken Thighs are rich, tender, and boast that perfect crispy skin from the smoker.
They’re ideal for parties or gatherings and bring an impressive flavor with little prep.
8. Crockpot BBQ Chicken
Crockpot BBQ Chicken is ready in minutes to prep and leaves you with fork-tender, flavorful chicken.
Shred it for sandwiches, toss it on a salad, or use it in quesadillas—it’s versatile and delicious.
9. Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken is a no-fuss favorite that turns out tender, saucy chicken every time.
Great for sandwiches, bowls, or serving with your favorite side dishes.
10. Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken
Slow Cooker BBQ Chicken is a no-fuss favorite that turns out tender, saucy chicken every time.
Great for sandwiches, bowls, or serving with your favorite side dishes.
11. Buffalo Chicken Burgers
Buffalo Chicken Burgers bring bold, spicy flavor to your plate with a low-carb, gluten-free twist.
These juicy burgers are easy to make and perfect for a quick weeknight meal or game day snack.
12. Chicken Kofta
Chicken Kofta features tender, spiced ground chicken packed with fresh herbs and Mediterranean flair.
Serve these skewered meatballs with veggies, rice, or pita for a satisfying and fresh meal.
13. Chicken Shawarma
Chicken Shawarma delivers tender, marinated thigh meat with rich, aromatic spices.
Slice it thin and serve in warm flatbread with your favorite sides for a complete meal.
14. Grilled Chicken Breast
Grilled Chicken Breast turns simple chicken into a juicy, flavorful dish with a garlic and herb kick.
A reliable go-to for summer grilling, family dinners, or meal prep.
15. Grilled Chicken Wings
Grilled Chicken Wings are crisp on the outside, juicy on the inside with a zesty garlic-lemon marinade.
Perfect for parties, snacks, or a hearty main dish with minimal effort.
16. Grilled Chicken Tenders
Grilled Chicken Tenders are marinated in lemon, garlic, and herbs for a bright, savory taste.
A fast and delicious option for summer meals, kids, or easy weeknight dinners.
17. Grilled Chicken Kabobs
Grilled chicken kabobs make a tasty, colorful dinner that’s easy to prepare and cook on the grill.
You’ll love the combo of juicy chicken and roasted veggies, all threaded on skewers and charred to perfection.
18. Hawaiian Chicken
Hawaiian chicken delivers a sweet, tropical flavor with coconut-marinated chicken thighs.
It’s a simple, show-stopping meal that’s perfect for weeknights or guests.
19. Greek Lemon Chicken
Greek lemon chicken brings fresh, zesty flavor with a simple marinade of olive oil, lemon, garlic, and herbs.
Grilled chicken breasts come out tender and full of taste with every bite.
20. Chicken Wings on Grill
Grilled chicken wings get crispy and smoky using a two-zone grilling method.
Inside, they stay juicy and tender, making them a fan-favorite snack or meal.
21. Buttermilk Chicken Recipe
Buttermilk chicken marinade makes the juiciest, most flavorful grilled chicken every time.
It works with any cut—breasts, thighs, or drumsticks—for a tender, tangy result.
22. Balsamic Herb Grilled Chicken
Balsamic herb grilled chicken gets a rich, deep flavor from a simple marinade.
It’s an easy weeknight dinner with a touch of sweetness and a bold finish.
23. Smoky Grilled Paprika Chicken
Smoky grilled paprika chicken is marinated in creamy Greek yogurt with a hint of heat.
The result? Vibrant color and a deep, smoky taste that shines on the grill.
24. Pineapple Chicken Kabobs
Pineapple chicken kabobs combine juicy chicken and sweet pineapple with a tropical glaze.
Grilled until caramelized, they’re a bright and flavorful summer favorite.
25. Chicken Pitas
Chicken Pitas bring a taste of Greece right to your kitchen with juicy grilled chicken and fresh flavors.
These Greek Chicken Pitas are easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser at mealtime.
26. Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad offers a juicy, flavorful twist on a summer favorite.
Tender marinated chicken and crisp romaine tossed in creamy dressing make every bite satisfying.
27. Keto Barbecue Chicken
Keto Barbecue Chicken delivers bold flavor and juicy tenderness in under 30 minutes.
This low carb, gluten free BBQ option is perfect for quick weeknight dinners.
28. Grilled Ranch Chicken
Grilled Ranch Chicken is a simple, tasty favorite that works for any season.
The easy ranch yogurt marinade adds creaminess and tang with just 5 ingredients.
29. Grilled Chicken Kabobs Recipe
Grilled Chicken Kabobs combine tender chicken and colorful veggies for a vibrant summer dish.
These grilled chicken skewers are juicy, full of flavor, and perfect for outdoor cookouts.
30. Grilled Chicken Wrap
Grilled Chicken Wrap is a quick, delicious lunch idea that’s easy to pack and share.
Loaded with flavor and made with simple ingredients, it’s ideal for busy days.