Looking for tasty and refreshing recipes this summer? We’ve got you covered. Our fresh summer chicken recipes will win everyone’s heart. With dishes like honey mustard chicken and chicken Caesar pasta salad, your meals will be a hit. They’re quick to make, bursting with flavor, and a healthy choice for warm days.
Key Takeaways:
- These fresh summer chicken recipes are perfect for BBQs and family dinners.
- Prepare delicious honey mustard chicken for a zingy and sweet flavor.
- Indulge in a refreshing chicken Caesar pasta salad packed with tangy Parmesan cheese.
- Treat yourself to flavor-packed Instant Pot BBQ chicken tacos.
- Try the crowd-pleasing enchiladas verdes for a zesty and spicy twist.
- Enjoy guilt-free snacking with crispy air fryer chicken tenders.
- Savor the fragrant flavors of coconut chicken curry for a taste of tropical paradise.
- Opt for a lighter version of the classic chicken Parmesan with the chicken Parm salad.
Honey Mustard Chicken
This honey mustard chicken recipe is a crowd-pleaser with its zingy and sweet taste. It’s great for summer, whether you’re cooking outside or inside. Honey and mustard blend to make a delicious marinade. This dish is both tasty and easy to make.
To start this grilled chicken recipe, mix together ¼ cup of honey, 2 tablespoons each of Dijon and grainy mustard, and 2 tablespoons of apple cider vinegar. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon each of garlic powder and dried thyme, plus some salt and pepper. Put 4 boneless chicken breasts in a bag and add the mix. Make sure the chicken is well-coated, then chill for at least 30 minutes.
Heat your grill to medium. Take the chicken out of the mix, throwing away any left-over marinade. Cook the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes on each side. It should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Let the chicken rest a bit before you serve it.
“The combination of honey and mustard creates a flavorful marinade that pairs perfectly with grilled chicken.”
Honey mustard chicken goes well with many dishes. Try it with grilled veggies and salad for a healthy meal. Or put it in a sandwich. The honey mustard marinade makes the chicken delicious and sure to be a hit.
Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad
Looking for a tasty and healthy chicken recipe for the summer? Try this amazing twist on a classic Caesar salad. It mixes juicy chicken, pasta that’s just right, creamy dressing, crisp croutons, and tangy Parmesan cheese. This dish is refreshing, filling, and a hit at any gathering.
The blend of flavors in this salad is amazing. The creamy dressing clings to every bite, with crunchy croutons for a fun texture. The pop of black pepper and the savory Parmesan make each mouthful burst with flavor. It’s a dish that’s full of surprises!
Recipe:
- Grilled chicken breast, sliced
- Cooked pasta (penne or rotini work well)
- Chopped Romaine lettuce
- Creamy Caesar dressing
- Croutons
- Grated Parmesan cheese
- Black pepper, to taste
Mix the grilled chicken, pasta, lettuce, and dressing in a big bowl. Make sure the dressing covers everything nicely. Then, add croutons, Parmesan cheese, and a bit of black pepper on top. Chill it before you serve and enjoy!
This dish isn’t just tasty; it’s also good for you. The chicken adds lean protein, while lettuce and pasta bring fiber and nutrients. The dressing and cheese offer big flavor without making the salad heavy.
This Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad is a must-have for your summer BBQs. It’s a favorite that will wow your friends and family with its fresh and lively tastes. Serve it as a side or the main dish. And, for a perfect summer meal, pair it with a cold lemonade or iced tea!
| Ingredients | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Grilled chicken breast, sliced | 2 cups |
| Cooked pasta | 2 cups |
| Chopped Romaine lettuce | 2 cups |
| Creamy Caesar dressing | 1/2 cup |
| Croutons | 1/2 cup |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | 1/4 cup |
| Black pepper | To taste |
Bring some excitement to your summer BBQs with the Chicken Caesar Pasta Salad. This healthy and yummy salad will make your guests ask for seconds. Try making it and taste the essence of summer!
Instant Pot BBQ Chicken Tacos
These Instant Pot BBQ chicken tacos blend smoky barbecue with the classic taco taste. The Instant Pot makes the chicken tender and juicy. It’s perfect with tangy BBQ sauce. A cool and creamy slaw adds a refreshing touch. This makes the tacos a delicious treat.
This recipe is simple and convenient. With just a little setup and the Instant Pot’s magic, you’ll have a tasty meal quickly. The chicken soaks up the BBQ sauce while cooking, making a great taco filling.
When the chicken is done, shred it and put it on warm tortillas. Add the slaw on top for a dish full of flavor. It’s bound to be a hit.
Instant Pot BBQ chicken tacos are great for summer parties, weekday meals, or a fast lunch. They mix smoky, tangy, and creamy tastes. This recipe keeps mealtime easy while delighting your taste buds.
Enchiladas Verdes
These green enchiladas are loved by everyone. Using rotisserie chicken makes them quick to make. The homemade sauce is zesty and spicy, adding great flavor. This dish is perfect for any night or when you have guests. It’s easy and impressive.
Enchiladas Verdes are a classic Mexican dish. They have chicken inside tortillas, topped with a green sauce from tomatillos and chilies. The mix of tender chicken, tangy sauce, and cheese is unforgettable. It will make you want more.
Start by heating your oven to 375°F (190°C). Heat the tortillas in a skillet so they’re easy to roll. Shred the chicken and mix it with cheese. Put this mixture on each tortilla and roll them up.
Mix tomatillos, chilies, garlic, onion, and cilantro in a bowl. Blend them until smooth, adding chicken broth for consistency. Put the green sauce on the enchiladas and add more cheese on top.
Cover your dish with foil and bake it for 20 minutes. The cheese should be melted and bubbly. Then, bake without foil for 5 more minutes to brown the top.
Serve your enchiladas hot, with fresh cilantro and lime juice. They go great with Mexican rice, beans, or salad. This is a great meal for a busy night or to enjoy with friends and family.
Ingredients:
- 6 large flour tortillas
- 1 rotisserie chicken, shredded
- 1 cup grated cheese (such as Monterey Jack or Cheddar)
- 1 pound tomatillos, husked and rinsed
- 2-3 green chilies, seeded
- 2 cloves garlic
- 1 small onion, roughly chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 1/2 cup chicken broth
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Heat the tortillas on a skillet for a few seconds on each side to warm them up.
- In a bowl, mix the shredded chicken with grated cheese.
- Place a spoonful of the chicken and cheese mixture on each tortilla and roll them up tightly.
- In a blender, combine tomatillos, green chilies, garlic, onion, cilantro, and chicken broth. Blend until smooth.
- Pour the green sauce over the rolled enchiladas, making sure they are evenly coated. Sprinkle some extra cheese on top.
- Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 20 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 5 minutes to achieve a golden brown crust.
- Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.
Enjoy enchiladas verdes, a tasty chicken dish that’s great for a simple dinner or a big gathering. The blend of juicy chicken, zesty sauce, and melted cheese is unbeatable. Give this recipe a try for a piece of Mexican cuisine at your table.
Air Fryer Chicken Tenders
Looking for a healthier twist on fried chicken tenders? Try these air fryer chicken tenders. They’re crispy and bring back memories of beachside snacks. Plus, you don’t need hot oil to make them. They’re a guilt-free way to enjoy your snack cravings.
Thanks to the air fryer’s hot air circulation, these tenders turn out crispy and golden. And they use less oil, making them a healthier choice. Enjoy them as an appetizer, lunch, or fun dinner. They’re loved by both kids and adults.
What makes these air fryer chicken tenders a healthy choice?
These tenders use minimal oil, cutting down on calories and fat. They’re also made with lean chicken breast, a great protein source. With the air fryer, you get the crispy taste without the guilt.
You can also pick your ingredients when you make these at home. Choose top-quality chicken, and try whole grain coatings or different seasonings. It’s a great way to tailor your chicken tenders to your health needs and taste.
How to make air fryer chicken tenders
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C).
- In a shallow dish, whisk together your preferred coating mixture. You can use breadcrumbs, panko, or crushed cornflakes for a crispy exterior.
- Cut chicken breasts into strips or tender-sized pieces.
- Dip each piece of chicken into beaten egg or your choice of wet coating (such as buttermilk or yogurt) and then coat it in the breadcrumb mixture.
- Place the coated chicken tenders in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure not to overcrowd them.
- Cook the chicken tenders in the air fryer for 10-12 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they are golden brown and crispy.
- Remove the chicken tenders from the air fryer and let them cool slightly before serving.
Serving suggestions
These air fryer chicken tenders offer many tasty options:
- Enjoy as a snack or appetizer with your favorite sauce.
- Add them to a fresh salad for extra protein.
- Try them in a wrap or sandwich with lettuce and pickles.
- Pair with oven-baked sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Be creative with seasonings and coatings to make your perfect tenders. These tenders are great for parties, movie nights, or a quick dinner. They fulfill your desire for a crispy snack without compromising your health.
| Ingredients: | Instructions: |
|---|---|
| – Chicken breasts, cut into strips or tender-sized pieces – Breadcrumbs or panko – Eggs, beaten – Salt and pepper, to taste |
|
Coconut Chicken Curry
Experience the exotic tastes of coconut chicken curry, a dish that takes you to tropical lands. This recipe blends curry spices and coconut milk’s creaminess. It’s a mix that delights your senses.
To cook this curry, first fry onions, garlic, and ginger until they smell wonderful. Add chicken and cook until it’s golden. Then, mix in curry spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. These spices add a deep aroma and go well with coconut milk.
Simmer the chicken in this spicy coconut mixture. Then, throw in mango cubes for sweetness and lime wedges for a tangy kick. These additions make the meal perfectly balanced and enjoyable.
Variations and Serving Suggestions
If you like it less spicy, use less chili powder or leave it out. You can also add veggies like bell peppers or peas for extra color and health benefits.
This curry is great over steamed rice or with naan bread. These sides absorb the sauce nicely. Topping it with fresh cilantro adds color and taste, making it more appealing.
| Ingredients | Instructions |
|---|---|
| – Boneless chicken pieces – Onions – Garlic – Ginger – Curry spices: cumin, coriander, turmeric – Coconut milk – Fresh mango – Lime wedges – Salt and pepper to taste |
1. Sauté onions, garlic, and ginger in a pan until fragrant 2. Add boneless chicken pieces and cook until lightly browned 3. Add curry spices and stir well to coat the chicken 4. Pour in coconut milk and simmer until the chicken is cooked through 5. Stir in fresh mango cubes and lime wedges 6. Season with salt and pepper to taste 7. Serve hot with rice or naan bread 8. Garnish with fresh cilantro |
Coconut chicken curry suits both a quiet night in or a big party with loved ones. Its enchanting flavors and fulfilling yet light character make it a hit for summer meals.
Give this coconut chicken curry recipe a try for a tropical taste journey. Let the blend of spices and creamy coconut milk take you to delicious escapades.
Chicken Parm Salad
If you love classic chicken Parmesan, you’re in for a treat with this summer salad twist. It combines roasted cherry tomatoes, crispy chicken, fresh mozzarella, and herby pesto dressing. It’s perfect for hot days when you want something both satisfying and cool.
This lighter version skips the heavy pasta and breaded chicken. Instead, you enjoy fresh salad greens. Sweet roasted cherry tomatoes, crispy chicken, and fresh mozzarella make it delicious. The herby pesto dressing adds vibrant flavor.
This healthier salad is also easy to make. You can cook the chicken ahead and assemble the salad when it’s time to eat. It’s great for a quick lunch, a light dinner, or a hit at summer parties.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups baby salad greens
- 1 cup roasted cherry tomatoes
- 1 cup crispy chicken strips
- 1/2 cup fresh mozzarella, diced
- 2 tablespoons herby pesto dressing
Instructions:
- Prepare the crispy chicken strips with your favorite recipe or grab some pre-made.
- Then, mix baby greens, roasted tomatoes, chicken, and mozzarella in a large bowl.
- Add pesto dressing and toss until everything’s well-coated.
- Put the salad in bowls and add more mozzarella if you like.
- Enjoy it right away!
Conclusion
These fresh summer chicken recipes give you lots of tasty options for your meals. Want grilled chicken, salads, or tacos? There’s something for everyone. And they’re healthy, too!
They’re quick to prepare, making them perfect for busy summer days. Planning a BBQ or family dinner? Impress your guests with these dishes. Try the honey mustard chicken or zesty chicken Caesar pasta salad for a taste of summer.
So, dive into summer dining with these delicious and healthy chicken recipes. Enjoy a meal on the patio or a cookout with friends. These recipes promise a fantastic culinary journey. Explore the bright flavors of summer!
