Behind the Recipes

Three Ways to Use Grilled Chicken All Summer Long

A trio of inspired chicken breast dinners sees you through the dog days—and beyond.

By and

Published June 4, 2024.

When the air is balmy and the days are long, I like to step out to my backyard deck, often with my young daughter in tow, to make dinner. Whether I’m preparing a weeknight supper or entertaining guests, the menu is often centered on grilled chicken breasts.

With a few smart tricks to ensure that the lean, mild meat grills up moist, well seasoned, and gorgeously browned, a whole world of great meals is opened up.

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Science: The Chemistry of Great Grilled Chicken

It’s quick and easy to grill a batch of chicken breasts to save for dinners on the fly throughout the week. The lean meat just needs a little help to gain savory depth and cook up juicy and tender. We’ve got it down to a science.

POUND lattening the breasts to a ½-inch thickness ensures that they cook through at the same rate.
BOOST UMAMI A brief dunk in a saltwater solution spiked with fish sauce creates rich umami savor without imparting a distinct flavor (as soy sauce would)—or making the chicken taste fishy—and keeps the meat supremely juicy over the hot fire.
SWEETEN (A LITTLE) A couple of spoonfuls of honey play a big role too. Its readily browning fructose and glucose help the chicken develop a tawny exterior before it overcooks.
OIL oating the breasts in oil just before grilling keeps them from fusing to the grate.

This summer, I’ve created three very different dinners that not only underscore the versatility of the grilled poultry but that are also easy to scale up (or down), making them suitable for almost any casual occasion.

While the chicken marinates (a carefully calibrated soaking liquid ensures flavorful, juicy meat) and the fire gets going, there is more than enough time to cut fresh vegetables, stir together a quick sauce, or grate cheese. Then, you can simultaneously grill another component alongside the chicken.

Once everything is cooked, all that’s left is to assemble an attractive, plentiful arrangement.

Speaking of how to arrange the food, I’m fond of family-style presentation—a bountiful platter is inviting and easy on the cook. Enjoy each of the recipes that follows as the centerpiece of a fresh, alfresco meal or as part of a larger spread for a party.