Summer is the perfect time to fire up the grill and enjoy some delicious backyard BBQ. Whether you’re a seasoned griller or just starting out, these 9 best backyard BBQ recipes will make your next cookout a hit.
From juicy grilled chicken skewers to smoky corn with chili butter, there’s something for everyone. These recipes are easy to follow and packed with flavor. Let’s dive in!
A Quick Look at All Recipes
| Recipe | Description |
|---|---|
| Grilled Chicken Skewers with Herb Marinade | Tender chicken marinated in fresh herbs |
| BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders | Slow-cooked pork in mini buns |
| Smoky Grilled Corn with Chili Butter | Corn on the cob with spicy butter |
| Spicy BBQ Shrimp Skewers | Shrimp with a kick of heat |
| Grilled Veggie Kebabs with Tzatziki Sauce | Veggies with cool cucumber sauce |
| BBQ Beef Short Ribs | Fall-off-the-bone tender beef |
| Grilled Peach and Prosciutto Salad | Sweet peaches with salty ham |
| BBQ Chicken Wings with Honey Mustard Glaze | Wings with a sweet and tangy glaze |
| Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Skewers | Salty cheese with juicy tomatoes |
Grilled Chicken Skewers with Herb Marinade
These skewers feature juicy chicken pieces marinated in a blend of fresh herbs and spices.
Why you’ll like it:
- Full of flavor from the herb marinade
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Kid-friendly and versatile
Main ingredients:
- Chicken breasts
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Garlic
- Herbs (rosemary, thyme, parsley)
Quick method:
- Cut chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and herbs.
- Marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes.
- Thread chicken onto skewers.
- Grill for 5-7 minutes on each side.
Tip: Serve with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sliders
Tender, slow-cooked pulled pork served in mini buns, topped with coleslaw.
Why you’ll like it:
- Perfectly tender and flavorful meat
- Great for parties and gatherings
- Easy to eat and share
Main ingredients:
- Pork shoulder
- BBQ sauce
- Apple cider vinegar
- Brown sugar
- Mini buns
Quick method:
- Rub pork with seasoning mix.
- Slow cook in a crockpot for 8 hours.
- Shred the pork and mix with BBQ sauce.
- Toast mini buns and add shredded pork.
- Top with coleslaw and serve.
Tip: Add a slice of pickled jalapeño for extra zing.
Smoky Grilled Corn with Chili Butter
Grilled corn on the cob slathered with a spicy chili butter.
Why you’ll like it:
- Perfectly charred and smoky
- Spicy and creamy chili butter
- Simple and quick to make
Main ingredients:
- Corn on the cob
- Butter
- Chili powder
- Lime zest
- Salt
Quick method:
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Mix butter, chili powder, lime zest, and salt.
- Grill corn, turning often, until charred.
- Brush with chili butter while hot.
- Serve immediately.
Tip: Sprinkle with cotija cheese for an extra touch.
Spicy BBQ Shrimp Skewers
Juicy shrimp skewers with a spicy BBQ glaze, perfect for a summer evening.
Why you’ll like it:
- Flavorful and spicy glaze
- Quick to cook and serve
- Great as an appetizer or main
Main ingredients:
- Large shrimp
- BBQ sauce
- Hot sauce
- Garlic
- Lemon juice
Quick method:
- Thread shrimp onto skewers.
- Mix BBQ sauce, hot sauce, garlic, and lemon juice.
- Brush shrimp with the glaze.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes per side.
- Brush with more glaze and serve.
Tip: Serve with a side of rice and grilled veggies.
Grilled Veggie Kebabs with Tzatziki Sauce
Colorful vegetable kebabs served with a cool and refreshing tzatziki sauce.
Why you’ll like it:
- Variety of colorful, fresh veggies
- Creamy and refreshing tzatziki
- Healthy and light
Main ingredients:
- Zucchini
- Red bell pepper
- Onion
- Cherry tomatoes
- Tzatziki sauce
Quick method:
- Thread veggies onto skewers.
- Brush with olive oil and season with salt.
- Grill for 5-7 minutes, turning often.
- Remove from skewers and serve with tzatziki.
- Enjoy while warm.
Tip: Add a sprinkle of feta cheese for extra flavor.
BBQ Beef Short Ribs
Slow-cooked beef short ribs that are fall-off-the-bone tender and full of flavor.
Why you’ll like it:
- Rich and savory taste
- Perfectly tender meat
- Ideal for a hearty meal
Main ingredients:
- Beef short ribs
- BBQ sauce
- Worcestershire sauce
- Garlic
- Onion
Quick method:
- Season ribs with salt and pepper.
- Place in a slow cooker with garlic and onion.
- Add Worcestershire sauce and water.
- Cook on low for 8-10 hours.
- Glaze with BBQ sauce and serve.
Tip: Serve with a side of mashed potatoes.
Grilled Peach and Prosciutto Salad
A sweet and savory salad featuring grilled peaches and crispy prosciutto.
Why you’ll like it:
- Perfect balance of sweet and salty
- Light and refreshing
- Great for a summer lunch
Main ingredients:
- Peaches
- Prosciutto
- Arugula
- Balsamic glaze
- Feta cheese
Quick method:
- Halve and pit the peaches.
- Grill peaches for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Arrange arugula on a platter.
- Top with grilled peaches and prosciutto.
- Drizzle with balsamic glaze and feta.
Tip: Add a handful of toasted nuts for crunch.
BBQ Chicken Wings with Honey Mustard Glaze
Classic chicken wings with a sweet and tangy honey mustard glaze, perfect for any occasion.
Why you’ll like it:
- Sweet and tangy glaze
- Easy to make and share
- Always a crowd-pleaser
Main ingredients:
- Chicken wings
- Honey
- Dijon mustard
- Garlic
- Soy sauce
Quick method:
- Preheat grill to medium heat.
- Mix honey, mustard, garlic, and soy sauce.
- Grill wings for 10-12 minutes, turning often.
- Brush with glaze and grill for another 5 minutes.
- Serve hot with extra glaze.
Tip: Serve with a side of blue cheese dressing.
Grilled Halloumi and Tomato Skewers
Salty halloumi cheese and juicy tomatoes grilled to perfection.
Why you’ll like it:
- Perfect combination of salty and sweet
- Quick and easy to prepare
- Great as a starter or side
Main ingredients:
- Halloumi cheese
- Tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice
- Fresh herbs
Quick method:
- Cut halloumi and tomatoes into chunks.
- Thread onto skewers, alternating cheese and tomato.
- Brush with olive oil and season with salt.
- Grill for 2-3 minutes on each side.
- Sprinkle with fresh herbs and serve.
Tip: Drizzle with a balsamic reduction for added depth.
Get Ready to Grill
These 9 best backyard BBQ recipes offer a variety of flavors and options for your next cookout. Whether you’re looking for a quick appetizer or a hearty main dish, there’s something here for everyone. For more great grilling ideas, check out our BBQ and grilling recipes.
Common Questions
What is the best way to clean a grill?
Scrape the grates with a grill brush after each use. For a deep clean, use soapy water and a wire brush.
How long should I marinate chicken before grilling?
For best results, marinate chicken for at least 30 minutes, but no longer than 24 hours.
Can I use a gas grill for all these recipes?
Yes, a gas grill works well for all these recipes. Just preheat it to the recommended temperature.
What is the ideal temperature for grilling vegetables?
Grill vegetables at medium-high heat, around 400-450°F, for the best results.
How do I keep my food from sticking to the grill?
Make sure the grill is clean and well-oiled. Use a brush to apply a thin layer of oil to the grates.
What is the best way to store leftover grilled food?
Let the food cool, then store it in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Use within 3-4 days.
Happy grilling, and enjoy your delicious backyard BBQ! Fire up the grill and savor the flavors of summer.