7 Easy Grilled Chicken Seasoning Recipes You’ll Absolutely Love

Grilled chicken is a versatile and delicious meal option, but sometimes it can get a little boring if you’re using the same old seasoning every time.

In this article, we’re going to explore an array of mouth-watering grilled chicken seasoning recipes that will elevate your cooking game and leave your taste buds craving for more!

Today You’ll Learn:

• The Importance of Seasoning Your Grilled Chicken
• Recipe 1: Classic BBQ Bliss
• Recipe 2: Zesty Lemon-Pepper Perfection
• Recipe 3: Spicy Cajun Kick
• Recipe 4: Mediterranean Magic
• Recipe 5: Tangy Teriyaki Twist
• Recipe 6: Bold Buffalo Blast
• Recipe 7: Smoky Chipotle Charm

The Importance of Seasoning Your Grilled Chicken

Seasoning is essential in bringing out the full flavor potential of any dish, especially grilled chicken.

A well-seasoned recipe enhances the natural taste of the meat while adding layers of complexity with various herbs and spices.

Not only does it make your dishes more flavorsome, but it also adds visual appeal with vibrant colors and interesting textures.

Experimenting with different seasonings allows you to create unique culinary experiences while discovering new favorite flavors.

Recipe 1: Classic BBQ Bliss

For an all-time favorite that never disappoints, try this classic BBQ seasoning blend:

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a bowl.
2. Rub the mixture evenly on both sides of the chicken before grilling.

Serving Ideas:

• Serve alongside corn on the cob and coleslaw for a traditional barbecue meal.
• Top a salad with sliced grilled chicken for a hearty lunch option.
• Make BBQ chicken sliders by shredding the meat and placing on mini buns.

Recipe 2: Zesty Lemon-Pepper Perfection

This zesty lemon-pepper seasoning is perfect for adding a tangy twist to your grilled chicken:

Ingredients:

• Zest of 2 lemons
• 1 tbsp freshly ground black pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt to taste

Instructions:

1. In a small bowl, combine all ingredients.
2. Rub the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken before grilling.

Serving Ideas:

• Pair with roasted vegetables and rice for an easy weeknight dinner.
• Enjoy in a wrap or sandwich with lettuce, tomatoes, and your favorite dressing.
• Create Mediterranean-inspired kebabs by skewering seasoned chicken pieces with bell peppers and onions.

Recipe 3: Spicy Cajun Kick

Add some heat to your grill game with this spicy Cajun seasoning recipe:

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp paprika
• 1 tsp cayenne pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• ½ tsp dried thyme
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Rub the seasoning mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken before grilling.

Serving Ideas:

• Serve with dirty rice and grilled vegetables for a true Southern feast.
• Slice the chicken and place on top of a mixed greens salad with an avocado dressing.
• Stuff seasoned grilled chicken into tacos with shredded lettuce, tomatoes, and sour cream.

Recipe 4: Mediterranean Magic

Transport your tastebuds to the Mediterranean coast with this herbaceous seasoning blend:

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp dried oregano
• Zest of one lemon
• 2 cloves minced garlic
• Salt & freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Rub the seasoning evenly onto both sides of the chicken before grilling.

Serving Ideas:

• Pair with couscous and roasted cherry tomatoes for a light and delicious meal.
• Slice grilled chicken and serve over pasta tossed in olive oil, lemon juice, and parmesan cheese.
• Add to pita bread along with cucumber-yogurt sauce (tzatziki), lettuce, tomato, onion, and feta cheese for Greek-style gyros.

Recipe 5: Tangy Teriyaki Twist

Give your grilled chicken an Asian flair by using this sweet-and-savory teriyaki-inspired rub:

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• Juice from half of an orange
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Stir together all ingredients in a small bowl until well combined.
2. Brush the sauce evenly onto both sides of the chicken before grilling.

Serving Ideas:

• Serve over steamed jasmine rice and sautéed bok choy for a satisfying meal.
• Create teriyaki chicken lettuce wraps with butter lettuce, julienned carrots, and a drizzle of extra sauce.
• Slice grilled chicken and toss with soba noodles, bell peppers, snow peas, and green onions in a teriyaki stir-fry.

Recipe 6: Bold Buffalo Blast

Need more heat? Crank up the spice level with this bold buffalo seasoning:

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp hot sauce (such as Frank’s Red Hot)
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Mix all ingredients together in a small bowl.
2. Rub the mixture evenly onto both sides of the chicken before grilling.

Serving Ideas:

• Top grilled chicken with blue cheese crumbles and diced celery for an elevated twist on buffalo wings.
• Serve alongside macaroni salad or potato salad for a spicy cookout favorite.
• Use shredded buffalo chicken to make loaded nachos — just add tortilla chips, melted cheese, jalapeños, sour cream, and your favorite toppings!

Recipe 7: Smoky Chipotle Charm

Add some smoky goodness to your grilled chicken by using this chipotle-infused seasoning rub:

Ingredients:

• 1 tbsp smoked paprika
• 1 tsp ground chipotle pepper
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• Salt & black pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Combine all ingredients in a small bowl.
2. Rub the seasoning blend evenly onto both sides of the chicken before grilling.

Serving Ideas:

• Pair with grilled corn salsa and cilantro-lime rice for a fiesta of flavors.
• Use seasoned grilled chicken to top a Southwest-style salad with black beans, avocado, tomatoes, and a zesty dressing.
• Slice the chicken and serve in warm tortillas with your favorite taco toppings for smoky chipotle tacos.

5 Tips For Seasoning Grilled Chicken

1. Marinate: If you have time, marinate your chicken for at least an hour (or even overnight) before grilling. This allows the flavors to penetrate more deeply into the meat and tenderize it.
2. Experiment: Be adventurous with different spice combinations! Try adding new herbs or spices to your existing recipes or create entirely new blends from scratch.
3. Season generously: Don’t be afraid to apply plenty of seasoning on your grilled chicken — this ensures that every bite is full of flavor.
4. Taste as you go: Always taste your seasonings before applying them to the chicken; adjust if necessary by adding more salt, sugar, or other ingredients until you reach the desired flavor balance.
5. Oil up: Apply a light coat of oil (such as olive or vegetable oil) on your chicken before adding seasoning. The oil helps adhere the spices and keeps them from burning during grilling.

FAQs

What are the spices for grilled chicken?

Some common spices used in grilled chicken seasoning include paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, cayenne pepper, ground black pepper, dried oregano, cumin, and chili powder. However, feel free to experiment with other herbs and spices based on personal preference.

When should you season chicken before grilling?

Ideally, season your chicken at least an hour (or up to 24 hours) prior to grilling so that it has time to absorb all those delicious flavors.

How does Gordon Ramsay cook grilled chicken? Gordon Ramsay’s technique often involves using fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil for marinating the chicken. He then grills it over medium-high heat until cooked through and golden brown on both sides. It is essential to let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving so that its juices redistribute and result in juicy, tender meat.