When the summer heat rolls in, the last thing you want to do is spend hours slaving over a hot stove. But that doesn't mean you have to sacrifice a delicious and healthy meal. With these quick summer chicken recipes, you can have a mouth - watering dish on the table with minimal effort.

One of the simplest yet most satisfying summer chicken recipes is grilled lemon - herb chicken. Start by marinating chicken breasts in a mixture of fresh lemon juice, minced garlic, chopped fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, and parsley, and a drizzle of olive oil. Let the chicken soak up the flavors for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight in the refrigerator. Preheat your grill to medium - high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 6 - 8 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. The lemon adds a refreshing zing, while the herbs bring a fragrant and earthy note to the chicken. Serve it with a side of grilled vegetables, such as zucchini, bell peppers, and onions, for a complete and balanced meal.

Another great option is chicken and watermelon salad. This may sound like an unusual combination, but trust us, it works wonders. Cut cooked chicken into bite - sized pieces. Cube some sweet watermelon and toss it with the chicken. Add in some feta cheese crumbles for a salty contrast. For the greens, you can use a mix of baby spinach and arugula. Drizzle a light balsamic vinaigrette over the salad. The juicy watermelon provides a burst of sweetness, the feta adds creaminess, and the chicken gives it the protein punch. It's a light and refreshing salad that's perfect for a hot summer day.

If you're in the mood for something a bit more exotic, try making Thai chicken lettuce wraps. In a pan, heat some coconut oil over medium heat. Add minced chicken and cook until it's no longer pink. Stir in grated carrots, shredded cabbage, and a generous amount of Thai red curry paste. Let the flavors meld together for a few minutes. Then, spoon the chicken mixture into large lettuce leaves, such as Bibb or iceberg lettuce. Top it off with chopped peanuts and fresh cilantro. The combination of the spicy curry, crunchy vegetables, and nutty peanuts makes for a delicious and satisfying meal that can be eaten with your hands.

For a quick and easy one - pot meal, consider making chicken and quinoa skillet. In a large skillet, heat some olive oil and sauté chopped onions and garlic until they're fragrant. Add diced chicken and cook until it's browned on all sides. Stir in quinoa, chicken broth, and a can of diced tomatoes. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and let it simmer for about 15 - 20 minutes, or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid is absorbed. You can add some frozen peas or corn during the last few minutes of cooking for extra color and nutrition. This skillet meal is not only filling but also packed with protein and complex carbohydrates.

Lastly, don't forget about chicken kebabs. Cut chicken into chunks and thread them onto skewers along with your favorite vegetables, such as cherry tomatoes, mushrooms, and pineapple. Brush the kebabs with a mixture of honey, soy sauce, and a little bit of ginger. Grill the kebabs over medium - high heat for about 10 - 12 minutes, turning them occasionally. The sweet and savory glaze on the chicken and vegetables makes for a delicious and fun summer meal that the whole family will enjoy.

In conclusion, these quick summer chicken recipes offer a variety of flavors and cooking methods to suit your taste preferences. Whether you're grilling, making a salad, or cooking a one - pot meal, you can have a healthy and delicious chicken dish on the table in no time. So, fire up the grill, gather your ingredients, and start enjoying these summer chicken delights.