Perfect for those evenings when you’re craving something delicious but don’t want to spend hours in the kitchen, our roundup of 18 simple and easy grill recipes is here to save the day. Whether you’re a grilling novice or a seasoned pro, these dishes promise maximum flavor with minimal effort. So, fire up your grill and let’s dive into a world of mouthwatering meals that’ll have everyone asking for seconds!
Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Craving a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying? Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken is your answer, combining zesty flavors with juicy tenderness.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp minced garlic
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh rosemary
- 1 tbsp chopped fresh thyme
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 400°F).
- In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, and black pepper.
- Add chicken breasts to the bowl, ensuring each piece is fully coated with the marinade. Tip: Let chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes for deeper flavor.
- Remove chicken from marinade, shaking off excess. Discard remaining marinade.
- Place chicken on the grill. Cook for 6-7 minutes per side. Tip: Avoid flipping more than once to get perfect grill marks.
- Check internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 165°F. Tip: Let chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing to retain juices.
Zesty and aromatic, this chicken pairs wonderfully with a crisp salad or grilled vegetables. The herbs and lemon create a bright flavor profile, while the grill adds a smoky depth.
Easy Grilled Salmon with Dill
Here’s a straightforward grilled salmon recipe that’s perfect for a quick, healthy dinner. Herbs and lemon add freshness without overpowering the fish.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs salmon fillet
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp fresh dill, chopped
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- 1 lemon, sliced
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat, about 400°F.
- Brush salmon fillet with olive oil on both sides.
- Sprinkle salt, pepper, and dill evenly over the salmon.
- Place lemon slices on top of the salmon.
- Grill salmon skin-side down for 6 minutes. Tip: Do not move the salmon to ensure even cooking.
- Flip salmon carefully and grill for another 4 minutes. Tip: The salmon is done when it flakes easily with a fork.
- Remove from grill and let rest for 2 minutes. Tip: Resting allows juices to redistribute.
Keep it simple with a side of grilled vegetables or over a bed of quinoa. The salmon should be moist with a slightly crispy exterior, and the dill and lemon brighten each bite.
Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Ultra-easy and bursting with flavor, these grilled vegetable skewers are a summer staple. Perfect for BBQs or a quick weeknight side, they’re as versatile as they are delicious.
Ingredients
– 2 cups bell peppers, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1 cup zucchini, sliced into 1-inch rounds
– 1 cup red onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
2. Thread bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion onto skewers, alternating vegetables.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, salt, and black pepper.
4. Brush the skewers evenly with the olive oil mixture.
5. Place skewers on the grill. Cook for 10 minutes, turning halfway through, until vegetables are charred and tender.
6. Remove from grill and let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Must-try for their smoky sweetness and crisp-tender texture, these skewers shine alongside grilled meats or atop a bed of quinoa for a hearty vegetarian option.
Simple Grilled Pork Chops
Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, these grilled pork chops are juicy and flavorful with minimal prep.
Ingredients
- 4 pork chops, 1-inch thick
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Brush both sides of pork chops with olive oil.
- Season both sides with salt, black pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
- Place pork chops on the grill. Close the lid.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 145°F.
- Remove from grill. Let rest for 3 minutes before serving.
Always ensure pork chops reach the safe internal temperature. The resting period allows juices to redistribute. Serve with a side of grilled vegetables for a complete meal.
Grilled Corn on the Cob with Butter
Fire up your grill for this simple yet irresistible grilled corn on the cob. Perfect for summer barbecues, it’s all about the smoky flavor and buttery finish.
Ingredients
- 4 ears corn, husks removed
- 4 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 1 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high, 400°F.
- Brush each ear of corn with melted butter, ensuring even coverage.
- Sprinkle salt over the buttered corn to taste.
- Place corn directly on grill grates. Rotate every 2 minutes for even charring, about 10 minutes total.
- Remove corn from grill when kernels are tender and slightly charred.
- Serve immediately with extra butter on the side for dipping.
Absolutely, the charred kernels offer a delightful crunch against the creamy butter. Try sprinkling with chili powder or grated Parmesan for an extra kick.
Easy Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Brighten up your summer meals with these Easy Grilled Shrimp Skewers. They’re quick to prepare and packed with flavor, perfect for any backyard gathering.
Ingredients
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 8 wooden skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat, 375°F to 400°F.
- In a large bowl, combine shrimp, olive oil, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly.
- Thread shrimp onto soaked skewers, about 4-5 shrimp per skewer.
- Place skewers on preheated grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until shrimp turn pink and opaque.
- Remove skewers from grill. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Kick back and enjoy the juicy, charred shrimp with a hint of lemon and garlic. Serve over a bed of rice or alongside a crisp salad for a complete meal.
Grilled BBQ Chicken
Outdoor grilling season calls for this classic Grilled BBQ Chicken. It’s simple, flavorful, and perfect for any backyard gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 lbs chicken pieces
- 1 cup BBQ sauce
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
- Brush chicken pieces with olive oil.
- Season chicken evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place chicken on the grill. Cook for 5 minutes per side.
- Reduce grill heat to medium (350°F). Continue cooking for 20 minutes, flipping every 5 minutes.
- Brush BBQ sauce on both sides of the chicken during the last 5 minutes of cooking.
- Remove chicken from grill. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Succulent and smoky, this chicken pairs well with coleslaw or cornbread. Try serving it on a platter garnished with fresh herbs for a vibrant touch.
Simple Grilled Steak with Garlic Butter
Savor the simplicity of a perfectly grilled steak enhanced with rich garlic butter. This recipe delivers juicy, flavorful results with minimal effort. Ideal for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue.
Ingredients
– 1.5 lbs ribeye steak
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp salt
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 4 tbsp unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped
Instructions
1. Preheat grill to high heat (450°F).
2. Rub steak with olive oil, then season both sides with salt and pepper.
3. Grill steak for 4-5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F.
4. While steak cooks, mix butter, garlic, and parsley in a small bowl.
5. Remove steak from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
6. Top steak with garlic butter before serving.
7. For extra flavor, let the garlic butter melt over the warm steak.
8. Slice against the grain for tender bites.
9. Serve immediately.
Creamy garlic butter melts into the steak, creating a rich, savory flavor. The high heat grilling ensures a crispy exterior while keeping the inside tender. Try serving with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Craving a meaty, flavorful dish that’s surprisingly simple? Grilled Portobello mushrooms deliver a satisfying umami punch with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 4 large Portobello mushrooms
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Clean mushrooms with a damp paper towel. Remove stems.
- In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, balsamic vinegar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Brush both sides of each mushroom with the marinade.
- Place mushrooms on the grill, gill side down. Grill for 5 minutes.
- Flip mushrooms. Grill for another 4-5 minutes until tender.
- Remove from grill. Let rest for 2 minutes before serving.
Best enjoyed hot off the grill, these mushrooms boast a juicy texture and a smoky, rich flavor. Serve them as a burger alternative or alongside a crisp salad for a light yet fulfilling meal.
Easy Grilled Fish Tacos
Kick off your summer meals with these easy grilled fish tacos, perfect for a quick dinner or a weekend barbecue. Fresh, flavorful, and ready in minutes, they’re a crowd-pleaser every time.
Ingredients
- 1 lb white fish fillets (like cod or tilapia)
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 8 small corn tortillas
- 1 cup shredded cabbage
- 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Brush fish fillets with olive oil on both sides.
- Mix chili powder, garlic powder, and salt in a small bowl. Sprinkle evenly over fish.
- Grill fish for 3-4 minutes per side, until it flakes easily with a fork. Tip: Don’t flip more than once to keep fish intact.
- Warm tortillas on the grill for 30 seconds per side. Tip: Stack them and wrap in foil to keep warm.
- Flake the grilled fish into large pieces.
- Assemble tacos by placing fish on tortillas, then topping with cabbage, tomatoes, and cilantro. Tip: Squeeze lime juice over the top for extra zest.
Authentic flavors shine in these tacos, with the smoky grilled fish contrasting the crisp cabbage and juicy tomatoes. Serve with extra lime wedges and a cold beer for the ultimate experience.
Grilled Sweet Potatoes
Perfect for summer barbecues, grilled sweet potatoes offer a smoky, caramelized twist on a classic side. Slice them thick to hold up on the grill.
Ingredients
- 2 large sweet potatoes
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high, 400°F.
- Scrub sweet potatoes clean under running water.
- Slice sweet potatoes into 1/2-inch thick rounds. Tip: Uniform slices ensure even cooking.
- Toss sweet potato slices with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a large bowl.
- Place sweet potato slices on the grill. Close the lid.
- Grill for 5 minutes. Flip each slice. Tip: Use a spatula to avoid breaking the slices.
- Grill for another 5 minutes or until grill marks appear and potatoes are tender. Tip: Check doneness by piercing with a fork.
- Remove from grill. Serve immediately.
Naturally sweet with a smoky char, these potatoes are a hit. Try topping with a dollop of Greek yogurt and a sprinkle of chili powder for an extra kick.
Simple Grilled Lamb Chops
Few dishes deliver bold flavor as effortlessly as grilled lamb chops. Perfect for a quick yet impressive meal, these chops are a game-changer.
Ingredients
- 8 lamb chops, about 1 inch thick
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tbsp garlic powder
- 1 tbsp rosemary, dried
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat, 400°F.
- Brush lamb chops lightly with olive oil on both sides.
- Mix garlic powder, rosemary, salt, and pepper in a small bowl.
- Rub the spice mixture evenly over both sides of each chop.
- Place chops on the grill. Cook for 3 minutes per side for medium-rare.
- Use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 145°F for medium-rare.
- Remove chops from grill. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Perfectly grilled lamb chops boast a juicy interior with a flavorful, slightly charred crust. Serve atop a fresh arugula salad for a light, balanced meal.
Grilled Peach Dessert
Zesty and sweet, grilled peaches make a simple yet stunning dessert. Perfect for summer evenings, this dish requires minimal effort for maximum flavor.
Ingredients
- 4 peaches, halved and pitted
- 2 tbsp unsalted butter, melted
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp cinnamon
- 1/4 cup vanilla ice cream
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
- Brush peach halves with melted butter.
- Place peaches cut side down on the grill. Grill for 3-4 minutes until grill marks appear.
- Flip peaches. Drizzle with honey and sprinkle cinnamon. Grill for another 3-4 minutes.
- Remove from grill. Serve warm with a scoop of vanilla ice cream.
Juicy and caramelized, these peaches pair beautifully with the cool creaminess of ice cream. Try serving them with a drizzle of balsamic glaze for an extra flavor boost.
Easy Grilled Turkey Burgers
Zesty and satisfying, these grilled turkey burgers are a leaner alternative to beef without sacrificing flavor. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, they’re ready in under 30 minutes.
Ingredients
– 1 lb ground turkey
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 tbsp Worcestershire sauce
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 4 hamburger buns
– 1 tbsp olive oil
Instructions
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
2. In a large bowl, combine ground turkey, breadcrumbs, Worcestershire sauce, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper. Mix gently to avoid overworking the meat.
3. Divide the mixture into 4 equal portions. Shape each into a 1/2-inch thick patty.
4. Brush each patty lightly with olive oil to prevent sticking.
5. Place patties on the grill. Cook for 5 minutes on the first side without pressing down.
6. Flip the patties. Cook for another 5 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
7. Toast the hamburger buns on the grill for 1 minute, if desired.
8. Serve the turkey burgers on the buns with your favorite toppings.
Crisp on the outside and juicy inside, these turkey burgers pair wonderfully with sharp cheddar or avocado. Try serving them with a side of sweet potato fries for a complete meal.
Grilled Asparagus with Parmesan
Nothing beats the simplicity and elegance of grilled asparagus with a sprinkle of Parmesan. Perfect for a quick side or a healthy snack, this dish is a crowd-pleaser.
Ingredients
- 1 lb asparagus, trimmed
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
- Toss asparagus with olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
- Place asparagus on the grill. Cook for 3 minutes per side.
- Sprinkle Parmesan cheese over asparagus during the last minute of grilling.
- Remove from grill. Serve immediately.
Optimal grilling time ensures asparagus stays crisp-tender. The Parmesan adds a salty, nutty flavor that complements the smokiness. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken or as part of a vegetable platter.
Simple Grilled Sausages
Zesty and straightforward, grilled sausages are a summer staple that require minimal effort for maximum flavor. Perfect for any backyard gathering or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients
- 4 sausages (your choice of flavor)
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1/2 tsp salt
Instructions
- Preheat your grill to medium heat, aiming for 375°F.
- While the grill heats, lightly coat each sausage with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Season the sausages evenly with salt.
- Place the sausages on the grill, ensuring they are not touching for even cooking.
- Grill for 4-5 minutes on one side until you see clear grill marks.
- Flip the sausages and grill for another 4-5 minutes on the other side.
- Check the internal temperature with a meat thermometer; it should read 160°F for safety.
- Remove the sausages from the grill and let them rest for 3 minutes before serving.
Grilled to perfection, these sausages boast a juicy interior with a slightly charred exterior. Serve them on a toasted bun with your favorite toppings or slice them over a fresh salad for a lighter option.
Grilled Pineapple Slices
Warm summer days call for simple, refreshing treats like grilled pineapple slices. This recipe transforms the tropical fruit into a caramelized delight with minimal effort.
Ingredients
- 1 whole pineapple, peeled and sliced into 1/2-inch rounds
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 2 tbsp honey
- 1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
Instructions
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F).
- Brush both sides of pineapple slices with olive oil to prevent sticking.
- Place pineapple slices on the grill. Cook for 3 minutes per side.
- Drizzle honey over pineapple slices while grilling for added sweetness.
- Sprinkle cinnamon on top before flipping for a warm spice flavor.
- Remove from grill when grill marks appear and edges are slightly caramelized.
Serve these slices warm for a soft, juicy texture with a smoky-sweet flavor. Pair with vanilla ice cream or a sprinkle of chili powder for an unexpected twist.
Easy Grilled Ribeye Steak
Hungry for a steak that’s juicy, flavorful, and easy to make? This grilled ribeye is your answer. Perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs ribeye steak
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions
- Preheat grill to 450°F.
- Rub steak with olive oil on both sides.
- Season steak evenly with salt, black pepper, and garlic powder.
- Place steak on the grill. Close lid.
- Grill for 4 minutes. Flip steak.
- Grill for another 4 minutes for medium-rare. Adjust time for desired doneness.
- Remove steak from grill. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
Unleash the flavors by slicing against the grain. The crust is perfectly charred, while the inside stays tender. Serve with a side of roasted vegetables for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Kickstart your grilling adventure with these 18 simple and delicious recipes that promise to elevate your outdoor cooking game. Perfect for home cooks across North America, each dish is a testament to how easy and satisfying grilling can be. Don’t forget to try them out, share your favorites in the comments, and spread the love by pinning this article on Pinterest. Happy grilling!

Michael Johnson is the founder of Pan Mastery, Inspired by his blacksmith grandfather’s legacy has a deep appreciation for hand-crafted pots and pans, he provides invaluable guides, reviews, and recipes to enhance your culinary journey.