13 Quick and Easy Grilling Recipes for Busy Weeknights

Grilling doesn’t have to be a time-consuming task, especially on busy weeknights. This collection of quick and easy grilling recipes is perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious on the table without all the fuss. With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, you can whip up tasty meals that the whole family will enjoy in no time!

Sizzling Grilled Chicken Thighs With Garlic Marinade

Grilling chicken thighs is a fantastic way to enjoy a quick and tasty meal. The image shows beautifully grilled chicken thighs, perfectly charred and garnished with fresh herbs. The smoky aroma and juicy texture make this dish a favorite for busy weeknights.

To create this mouthwatering dish, a garlic marinade brings out the best flavors. The marinade is simple yet effective, ensuring the chicken stays moist and flavorful. Pair these grilled thighs with a fresh salad or some grilled veggies for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• Juice of 1 lemon
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, combine minced garlic, olive oil, lemon juice, rosemary, salt, and pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken thighs in a resealable bag or bowl. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring it's well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat. Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.
4. Grill the Chicken: Place the marinated chicken thighs on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Serve hot with your favorite sides.

Quick And Flavorful Grilled Shrimp Tacos

Grilled shrimp tacos are a fantastic option for busy weeknights. They come together quickly and are packed with flavor. The image shows perfectly grilled shrimp nestled in warm tortillas, topped with fresh avocado, cilantro, and a vibrant pico de gallo. The colors are inviting, making it hard to resist diving right in!

To make these tacos, you’ll need fresh shrimp, tortillas, and your favorite toppings. The grilling process adds a smoky touch that elevates the dish. Plus, you can customize the toppings to suit your taste!

Ingredients

• 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 8 small corn or flour tortillas
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup pico de gallo
• Fresh cilantro for garnish
• Lime wedges for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, combine olive oil, chili powder, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
2. Grill the Shrimp: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Cook the shrimp for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and opaque.
3. Warm the Tortillas: While the shrimp are grilling, warm the tortillas on the grill for about 30 seconds on each side.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Place grilled shrimp on each tortilla. Top with avocado slices and pico de gallo. Garnish with fresh cilantro.
5. Serve: Squeeze fresh lime juice over the tacos and enjoy!

Speedy Grilled Vegetable Skewers With Balsamic Glaze

Grilling is a fantastic way to bring out the natural flavors of vegetables, and these speedy grilled vegetable skewers are perfect for busy weeknights. Just look at those vibrant colors! The mix of red tomatoes, yellow bell peppers, green zucchini, and eggplant creates a feast for the eyes. Each skewer is packed with fresh ingredients, making it a healthy choice that’s quick to prepare.

The balsamic glaze drizzled over the skewers adds a sweet and tangy finish that complements the grilled veggies beautifully. This dish not only tastes great but also looks stunning on the table. It’s a simple way to impress family or friends without spending hours in the kitchen.

Gather your ingredients, fire up the grill, and enjoy a delicious meal in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 zucchini, sliced
• 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
• 1 small eggplant, sliced
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1/4 cup balsamic glaze
• Fresh basil leaves for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Skewers: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Thread the zucchini, bell pepper, eggplant, and cherry tomatoes onto skewers. Alternate the vegetables for a colorful presentation.
2. Season: Brush the skewers with olive oil and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
3. Grill: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the vegetables are tender and have nice grill marks.
4. Glaze: Remove the skewers from the grill and drizzle with balsamic glaze while they are still hot.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh basil leaves and enjoy your speedy grilled vegetable skewers!

Simple Grilled Pork Chops With Herb Butter

Grilling pork chops is a fantastic way to bring out their natural flavors while keeping dinner quick and easy. The image shows perfectly grilled pork chops topped with a rich herb butter, served alongside creamy mashed potatoes and vibrant asparagus. The sunset in the background adds a warm touch, making this meal feel special even on a busy weeknight.

To make these pork chops, start with thick-cut chops for the best results. Season them simply with salt and pepper, then grill until they reach a nice char. The herb butter, made with fresh herbs and butter, melts beautifully on top, adding a burst of flavor. Pairing the chops with sides like mashed potatoes and asparagus creates a well-rounded meal that’s sure to please everyone.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in pork chops (about 1 inch thick)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 cup unsalted butter, softened
• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Prepare the Herb Butter: In a small bowl, mix the softened butter with parsley, thyme, rosemary, and lemon juice. Set aside.
2. Season the Pork Chops: Rub the pork chops with olive oil, then season both sides with salt, pepper, garlic powder, and onion powder.
3. Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Grill the Pork Chops: Place the pork chops on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 145°F (63°C).
5. Rest and Serve: Remove the pork chops from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes. Top each chop with a generous dollop of herb butter before serving.

Effortless Grilled Salmon With Lemon-Dill Sauce

Grilled salmon is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It's quick to prepare and packed with flavor. The image showcases a beautifully grilled salmon fillet topped with a creamy lemon-dill sauce, garnished with fresh lemon slices and dill. This dish is not only visually appealing but also healthy and satisfying.

Pair the salmon with a side of colorful roasted vegetables and green beans for a complete meal. The vibrant colors of the veggies add a nice touch to the plate, making dinner feel special even on a hectic evening.

To make this dish, you’ll need just a few simple ingredients. The lemon-dill sauce complements the salmon perfectly, enhancing its natural flavors without overpowering them. Let’s get cooking!

Ingredients

• 2 salmon fillets
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 lemon, sliced
• 1/4 cup sour cream
• 1 tablespoon fresh dill, chopped
• 1 teaspoon lemon juice

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the salmon fillets with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Place the salmon on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 6-8 minutes, then flip and grill for another 4-6 minutes until cooked through.
4. While the salmon is grilling, mix the sour cream, dill, and lemon juice in a small bowl to create the sauce.
5. Once the salmon is done, serve it with the lemon-dill sauce drizzled on top and garnish with lemon slices.

Quick Grilled Sausages With Peppers And Onions

Grilling is a fantastic way to whip up a meal without spending hours in the kitchen. This recipe for quick grilled sausages with peppers and onions is perfect for busy weeknights. The image captures the essence of this dish beautifully, showcasing juicy sausages nestled in soft buns, topped with vibrant, grilled peppers and onions. The colors pop, making it not just delicious but visually appealing too!

To make this dish, you’ll need some fresh ingredients and a grill. The sausages are the star here, providing a savory base, while the peppers and onions add sweetness and crunch. This combination is simple yet satisfying, making it a go-to choice for any weeknight dinner.

Gather your friends or family around the grill, and enjoy the relaxed atmosphere as you cook. It’s a great way to bond over food and laughter, and the aroma will have everyone eager to dig in!

Ingredients

• 4 sausages (your choice of type, such as chicken, pork, or turkey)
• 2 bell peppers (any color), sliced
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Prep the Ingredients: Slice the bell peppers and onion. Set aside.
2. Heat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
3. Cook the Sausages: Place the sausages on the grill and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until fully cooked.
4. Sauté the Vegetables: In a large bowl, toss the sliced peppers and onions with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Add them to a grill basket or wrap in aluminum foil.
5. Grill the Vegetables: Place the vegetable basket or foil packet on the grill during the last 8-10 minutes of the sausages cooking time. Grill until the vegetables are tender and slightly charred.
6. Serve: Remove the sausages and vegetables from the grill. Slice the sausages if desired and serve with the grilled peppers and onions. Garnish with fresh parsley if using.

Flavor-Packed Grilled Quesadillas With Cheese And Veggies

Grilled quesadillas are a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. They come together quickly and are packed with flavor. The image showcases a delicious plate of quesadillas filled with melted cheese and colorful veggies. The vibrant red and green peppers, along with fresh cilantro, add a pop of color and freshness.

These quesadillas are perfect for a quick meal. You can customize them with your favorite ingredients, making them a versatile option for any night of the week. Pair them with salsa and sour cream for a delightful dip!

Ingredients

• 4 large flour tortillas
• 1 cup shredded cheese (cheddar or Monterey Jack)
• 1 cup bell peppers, diced (red, green, or yellow)
• 1 cup zucchini, diced
• 1/2 cup onion, diced
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Sour cream, for serving
• Salsa, for serving

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell peppers. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until softened.
2. Add the zucchini and cook for another 2-3 minutes. Season with salt and pepper.
3. On one half of each tortilla, sprinkle a layer of cheese, followed by the sautéed veggies. Fold the tortillas in half.
4. Place the quesadillas in the skillet and cook for about 3-4 minutes on each side until golden brown and the cheese is melted.
5. Remove from the skillet, cut into wedges, and serve with sour cream and salsa.

Simple Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad

Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. It combines tender grilled chicken with crisp romaine lettuce, crunchy croutons, and creamy Caesar dressing. This dish is not only quick to prepare but also packed with flavor, making it a family favorite.

The image shows a beautiful bowl of this salad, featuring sliced grilled chicken laid over a bed of fresh greens. The croutons add a delightful crunch, while the dressing drizzled on top brings everything together. It’s a perfect meal that looks as good as it tastes!

Ingredients

• 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 4 cups romaine lettuce, chopped
• 1 cup croutons
• 1/2 cup Caesar dressing
• 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
2. Brush the chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
3. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
4. In a large bowl, combine the chopped romaine lettuce, croutons, and Caesar dressing. Toss until the lettuce is well coated.
5. Top the salad with sliced grilled chicken and sprinkle with Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious, quick meal!

Easy Grilled Fajitas With Marinated Chicken

Grilled fajitas are a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. They are quick to prepare and bursting with flavor. The image showcases beautifully grilled chicken, colorful bell peppers, and onions, all wrapped in warm tortillas. This dish is not only visually appealing but also a crowd-pleaser.

To make these fajitas, start by marinating your chicken in a mix of lime juice, garlic, and spices. This adds a zesty kick that complements the grilled veggies perfectly. Once marinated, grill the chicken until it's juicy and tender. Toss the sliced bell peppers and onions on the grill for a few minutes until they are slightly charred and soft.

Serve everything together with your favorite toppings like guacamole, salsa, and fresh cilantro. It’s a simple yet satisfying meal that can be ready in under 30 minutes!

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken breast, sliced
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lime juice
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 bell pepper (red, yellow, or green), sliced
• 1 onion, sliced
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Tortillas for serving
• Optional toppings: guacamole, salsa, cilantro

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, mix olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Add the sliced chicken and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes.
2. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Grill the marinated chicken for about 6-8 minutes, flipping halfway through, until fully cooked.
3. Grill the Veggies: While the chicken is cooking, toss the sliced bell peppers and onions on the grill. Grill for about 5 minutes until they are tender and slightly charred.
4. Assemble the Fajitas: Warm the tortillas on the grill for a minute. Fill each tortilla with grilled chicken, peppers, and onions. Top with your favorite toppings.
5. Serve: Enjoy your delicious grilled fajitas with friends and family!

Quick Grilled Teriyaki Chicken Skewers

Grilling can be a lifesaver on busy weeknights, and these teriyaki chicken skewers are a perfect example. They are quick to prepare and packed with flavor. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving the chicken a delicious glaze. Plus, they’re easy to eat, making them a hit for both kids and adults.

To make these skewers, start by cutting chicken breasts into bite-sized pieces. Marinate them in a simple teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes. If you’re short on time, even a quick 10-minute soak will add some great flavor. Thread the marinated chicken onto skewers, alternating with colorful veggies like bell peppers and onions for added crunch and nutrition.

Once your grill is hot, cook the skewers for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally until the chicken is cooked through. The grill marks and slight char add to the appeal. Serve them with a sprinkle of sesame seeds and chopped green onions for that extra touch. These skewers are not just tasty; they’re also a fun way to enjoy dinner!

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
• 1/4 cup soy sauce or tamari
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 1 tablespoon erythritol or another low-carb sweetener
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Skewers (soaked in water if wooden)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Marinade: In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, sesame oil, erythritol, garlic, ginger, and black pepper.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, cover, and refrigerate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours for more flavor.
3. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
4. Skewer the Chicken: Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers.
5. Grill the Skewers: Place the skewers on the grill and cook for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice grill marks.
6. Serve: Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite low-carb side dishes.

Simple Grilled Tuna Steaks With Citrus Salsa

Grilling can be a breeze, especially on busy weeknights. Simple grilled tuna steaks are a fantastic choice that packs a punch of flavor without taking too much time. The image shows beautifully grilled tuna steaks, perfectly seared with grill marks, served alongside a fresh salad and vibrant citrus salsa. The bright colors of the mango and greens make this dish not only delicious but visually appealing too!

To make this meal even easier, you can prepare the citrus salsa while the tuna is grilling. This dish is light yet satisfying, making it perfect for a quick dinner. Plus, it’s healthy and full of protein!

Ingredients

• 2 tuna steaks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1 ripe mango, diced
• 1/2 red onion, finely chopped
• 1 jalapeño, seeded and minced
• Juice of 2 limes
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Mixed greens for serving
• Lemon wedges for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Tuna: Brush the tuna steaks with olive oil and season with salt and pepper. Let them sit for about 10 minutes.
2. Make the Salsa: In a bowl, combine diced mango, red onion, jalapeño, lime juice, and cilantro. Mix well and set aside.
3. Grill the Tuna: Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill the tuna steaks for about 2-3 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or longer if you prefer them cooked through.
4. Serve: Place the grilled tuna on a plate with mixed greens. Top with the citrus salsa and garnish with lemon wedges.

Savory Grilled Meatball Subs With Marinara

Grilled meatball subs are a fantastic choice for busy weeknights. They are quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Picture a soft sub roll filled with juicy meatballs, smothered in rich marinara sauce, and topped with melted cheese. It’s comfort food at its best!

To make these delicious subs, you’ll need a few simple ingredients. Start with pre-cooked meatballs for convenience. You can find them in the freezer section or make your own ahead of time. A good marinara sauce is key, so choose one that you love. Fresh mozzarella or provolone cheese adds that gooey, melty goodness that everyone craves.

Grilling the meatballs gives them a nice char and enhances their flavor. Simply heat them on the grill for a few minutes, then load them into the sub rolls. Pour over the marinara sauce and top with cheese. A quick trip under the broiler melts the cheese to perfection.

Serve these subs with a side of crispy fries or a simple salad for a complete meal. They’re perfect for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends. Everyone will love digging into these hearty, satisfying sandwiches!

Ingredients

• 1 pound pre-cooked meatballs
• 4 sub rolls
• 2 cups marinara sauce
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• Olive oil for grilling
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Instructions

1. Preheat your grill to medium heat. Lightly brush the meatballs with olive oil.
2. Grill the meatballs for about 5-7 minutes, turning occasionally until heated through and slightly charred.
3. While the meatballs are grilling, warm the marinara sauce in a small pot over low heat.
4. Once the meatballs are ready, place them in the sub rolls. Spoon marinara sauce over the meatballs and sprinkle with mozzarella cheese.
5. Place the assembled subs under the broiler for 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Remove from the oven, garnish with parsley if desired, and serve immediately.

Speedy Grilled Flat Iron Steak With Chimichurri

Grilling can be a quick and satisfying way to prepare dinner, especially on busy weeknights. This image showcases a beautifully grilled flat iron steak, topped with vibrant chimichurri sauce. The steak is perfectly seared, with those classic grill marks that make it look irresistible. Surrounding the steak are colorful veggies and fresh tomatoes, adding a pop of color to the plate.

The setting is casual yet inviting, with soft lighting from string lights in the background, creating a warm atmosphere for an evening meal. A couple of glasses of white wine sit nearby, suggesting a relaxed dining experience. This dish is not just about the steak; it’s about enjoying good food and good company.

Now, let’s get into how you can recreate this delicious flat iron steak with chimichurri at home!

Ingredients

• 1 lb flat iron steak
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh oregano, chopped
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 lemon, juiced

Instructions

1. Prepare the Steak: Season the flat iron steak with salt and pepper. Drizzle with olive oil and let it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes.
2. Make the Chimichurri: In a bowl, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, red pepper flakes, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and lemon juice. Mix well and set aside.
3. Grill the Steak: Preheat your grill to high heat. Grill the steak for about 4-5 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or until desired doneness.
4. Rest and Slice: Remove the steak from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice it against the grain.
5. Serve: Drizzle the chimichurri sauce over the sliced steak. Enjoy it with grilled veggies or a fresh salad!