There’s something timeless about the sizzle of food on a grill, the smell of smoke and seasoning filling the air.
Grilling isn’t just about cooking—it’s about celebration, connection, and making dinner feel like an event. Whether you’re working with a backyard barbecue or a small electric grill, there’s a distinct joy that comes from grilling your dinner to perfection.
More than just burgers and hot dogs, the grill is a versatile tool that can handle everything from vegetables and seafood to marinated chicken and tofu. Grilling brings out natural flavors, adds a unique smokiness, and can even make healthy eating taste indulgent. Plus, cleanup is often easier than a full kitchen session.
This post brings you 10 of the best dinner recipes you can make on the grill—meals that are simple, flavor-packed, and perfect for any evening. If you’re looking to level up your weeknight meals or impress your weekend guests, these recipes will bring fire to your dinner plans.
Contents
- 1 1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
- 2 2. Grilled Vegetable Skewers
- 3 3. BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs
- 4 4. Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter
- 5 5. Grilled Tofu Steaks
- 6 6. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
- 7 7. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
- 8 8. Grilled Pineapple Chicken
- 9 9. Grilled Eggplant Slices
- 10 10. Grilled Halloumi and Veggie Sandwich
- 11 Conclusion
- 12 FAQs
1. Grilled Lemon Herb Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless chicken breasts
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Juice of 1 lemon
- 2 tsp dried oregano
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, lemon juice, oregano, garlic, salt, and pepper.
- Coat chicken in the marinade and let it rest for 30 minutes.
- Preheat grill and cook chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until fully cooked.
- Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
2. Grilled Vegetable Skewers
Ingredients:
- 1 zucchini
- 1 red bell pepper
- 1 red onion
- 10 mushrooms
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp Italian seasoning
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Chop vegetables into bite-sized chunks.
- Toss with olive oil, Italian seasoning, salt, and pepper.
- Thread onto skewers and grill for 10–12 minutes, turning occasionally.
- Serve with rice or pita.

3. BBQ Grilled Chicken Thighs
Ingredients:
- 6 chicken thighs, bone-in
- 1/2 cup barbecue sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Coat chicken thighs in olive oil, paprika, salt, and pepper.
- Grill skin-side down for 8 minutes, flip, and cook 6 more minutes.
- Baste with BBQ sauce and grill another 2-3 minutes per side.
- Serve hot with coleslaw.
4. Grilled Salmon with Garlic Butter
Ingredients:
- 4 salmon fillets
- 2 tbsp melted butter
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
- Juice of 1 lemon
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Mix butter, garlic, lemon juice, salt, and pepper.
- Brush over salmon fillets.
- Grill on medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side until flaky.
- Serve with grilled asparagus or quinoa.
5. Grilled Tofu Steaks
Ingredients:
- 1 block firm tofu, pressed
- 2 tbsp soy sauce
- 1 tbsp sesame oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
Instructions:
- Slice tofu into thick steaks.
- Mix marinade and coat tofu. Let sit for 20 minutes.
- Grill for 4–5 minutes per side until crispy.
- Serve with noodles or veggie stir-fry.
6. Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Ingredients:
- 1 lb large shrimp, peeled
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili flakes
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 garlic cloves, minced
Instructions:
- Marinate shrimp with olive oil, lime, garlic, and chili flakes.
- Skewer shrimp and grill for 2–3 minutes per side.
- Serve with mango salsa or salad.
7. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Ingredients:
- 4 large portobello mushrooms
- 2 tbsp balsamic vinegar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp thyme
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
- Mix vinegar, oil, thyme, salt, and pepper.
- Brush on mushrooms and let sit for 15 minutes.
- Grill for 5–6 minutes per side until tender.
- Serve on a bun or over grains.
8. Grilled Pineapple Chicken
Ingredients:
- 4 chicken breasts
- 4 pineapple rings
- 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
Instructions:
- Marinate chicken in teriyaki, olive oil, and garlic powder.
- Grill chicken for 6 minutes per side, add pineapple rings in last 5 minutes.
- Serve stacked with rice or greens.
9. Grilled Eggplant Slices
Ingredients:
- 1 large eggplant, sliced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Brush eggplant slices with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Grill on medium heat for 4–5 minutes per side until soft.
- Top with feta and serve warm.
10. Grilled Halloumi and Veggie Sandwich
Ingredients:
- 8 oz halloumi cheese, sliced
- 1 red bell pepper, sliced
- 1 zucchini, sliced
- Olive oil for brushing
- 4 sandwich buns
Instructions:
- Brush halloumi and veggies with olive oil.
- Grill each for 3–4 minutes per side.
- Assemble in buns with hummus or pesto.
- Serve hot.

Conclusion
Grilling isn’t just a summer trend—it’s a year-round dinner upgrade.
These 10 recipes show how you can create bold flavors, healthy meals, and crave-worthy dishes with minimal equipment. Whether you’re feeding the family or grilling solo, these meals are all about simplicity and taste.
From grilled tofu to shrimp skewers, there’s something for every palate here. You’ll find that grilling is not only easy but also a great way to elevate everyday ingredients. These recipes are a mix of classic favorites and new twists, ready to fire up any weeknight.
Let your grill do the heavy lifting, and you’ll discover just how satisfying it is to end your day with smoky, perfectly charred goodness.
FAQs
1. Can I grill without a barbecue?
Yes, a grill pan or indoor electric grill works well for these recipes.
2. How do I stop food from sticking to the grill?
Always oil your grill grates and brush oil on your food before grilling.
3. What’s the best way to marinate tofu?
Use firm tofu, press it to remove water, then marinate for at least 20 minutes.
4. Can I use frozen shrimp for grilling?
Yes, just thaw completely and pat dry before adding marinade.
5. Are there vegan options in these recipes?
Yes, try the tofu, vegetable skewers, and portobello mushroom options.
6. How long should chicken cook on the grill?
For boneless breasts, cook 6–8 minutes per side, depending on thickness.