16 Best Sauces for Grilled Chicken (With Easy Recipes)
The experience of eating grilled chicken with tasty sauce brings unmatched joy to every bite.
I have used my backyard cookouts throughout many years to test various flavors and now I want to show you my best creations.
These grilled chicken sauces will turn into a memorable dining experience that will delight your taste buds during any summertime meal.
I will guide you through methods that deliver an irresistible taste to each piece of food you prepare.
Let me show you how to make every bite burst with flavor!
Sauces for Grilled Chicken
You will learn about 16 amazing grilled chicken sauce recipes. These outdoor cooking choices range from the sweet tangy flavor to the spicy and creamy sensation which will elevate your chicken experience.
1. Homemade BBQ Sauce
Sweet, smoky, and totally irresistible! I love how this American favorite brings out the best in grilled chicken.
The combination of brown sugar, tomato paste, and liquid smoke creates magic on the grill. My family goes crazy when I serve this with corn on the cob and coleslaw.
The sauce caramelizes beautifully on the chicken, creating a sticky, flavorful glaze that’ll have everyone licking their fingers.
2. Honey Mustard Sauce
This golden blend brings the perfect balance of sweet and tangy flavors. Every time I make this, my kids beg for seconds!
The smooth, creamy texture coats the chicken perfectly, while the honey adds just the right touch of sweetness.
It’s fantastic with a side of roasted potatoes and steamed broccoli. You’ll love how it adds a bright, sunny taste to your grilled masterpiece.
3. Garlic Parmesan Sauce
Rich, creamy, and loaded with Italian flair! The combination of fresh garlic and aged Parmesan creates an incredible depth of flavor.
I found this sauce at a family gathering and haven’t stopped making it since. It’s amazing how well it pairs with grilled asparagus and mushrooms.
The sauce clings perfectly to the chicken, creating a restaurant-worthy dish right in your backyard.
4. Chimichurri Sauce
Fresh herbs and zesty garlic create this vibrant green Argentinian delight!
I first tried this at a friend’s cookout and was blown away by how it brightens up grilled meats.
The mix of parsley, oregano, and red wine vinegar adds such a fresh kick to your chicken.
My favorite way to serve this is with grilled bell peppers and crusty bread to soak up every last drop.
5. Teriyaki Sauce
Sweet meets savory in this Japanese-inspired favorite!
The glossy coating transforms plain chicken into a mouthwatering treat. I love serving this with stir-fried vegetables and steamed rice.
The way the sauce caramelizes on the grill creates an amazing sticky glaze that keeps everyone coming back for more. It’s become my go-to choice for weeknight grilling.
6. Buffalo Sauce
Bring the heat to your backyard cookout! This spicy, buttery coating adds an exciting kick to your grilled chicken.
I always keep celery sticks and blue cheese dressing nearby when serving this crowd-pleaser.
My friends can’t get enough of this sauce, especially during game-day gatherings. It’s amazing how such simple ingredients create such big flavors.
7. Lemon Herb Butter Sauce
Light, bright, and absolutely perfect for summer grilling!
Fresh herbs and citrus create a sauce that lets the chicken’s natural flavors shine through. I love pairing this with grilled zucchini and a light quinoa salad.
The butter melts beautifully over the hot chicken, creating little pools of flavor in every bite. It’s become my summer entertaining secret weapon.
8. Mango Habanero BBQ Sauce
Sweet tropical fruit meets fiery habanero in this exciting combination!
The natural sweetness of mango perfectly balances the pepper’s heat. My garden parties got so much more interesting when I started serving this sauce.
It pairs wonderfully with coconut rice and grilled pineapple. Watch your guests’ eyes light up when they taste this unique blend!
9. Pesto Sauce
Fresh basil and pine nuts create an Italian masterpiece that transforms ordinary chicken into something special.
I started growing my own basil just to make this sauce more often! The bright green color looks stunning on the plate, especially next to cherry tomatoes and fresh mozzarella.
My garden-to-grill dinners always feature this sauce during the summer months. It’s amazing how fresh herbs can elevate a simple meal.
10. Chick-Fil-A Sauce
This creamy cocpycat sauce pairs perfectly with any type of chicken.
I love dipping my grilled chicken tenders in Chick-fil-A, especially when I’ve had a long day and need a quick, tasty pick-me-up.
It’s also fantastic on sandwiches and burgers, adding a burst of flavor.
You’ll find yourself using it on everything from fries to veggies! Give it a try and let your taste buds celebrate.
11. Alabama White Sauce
Creamy, tangy, and totally unique! This Southern favorite adds a whole new dimension to grilled chicken.
The combination of mayo, vinegar, and lemon juice creates something truly special. I love serving this with sweet potato fries and pickled vegetables.
Ever since discovering this sauce at a roadside BBQ joint, it’s become a must-have at my cookouts.
12. Tzatziki Sauce
Cool, refreshing, and packed with cucumber and herbs! This Mediterranean classic brings a light touch to grilled chicken.
I serve this with warm pita bread and a Greek salad for the perfect summer meal.
The yogurt-based sauce keeps the meat moist and adds a wonderful tang. My guests always ask for the recipe when I make this combination.
13. Hoisin Sauce
Rich Asian flavors create an irresistible coating that turns golden brown on the grill.
The sweet and savory blend reminds me of my favorite Chinese restaurant. I love pairing this with stir-fried snap peas and jasmine rice.
The sauce creates a beautiful lacquered finish that looks as good as it tastes. It’s become my secret weapon for impressing dinner guests.
14. Spicy Sriracha Mayo
Creamy heat that’ll wake up your taste buds! This simple blend packs a punch while keeping the perfect balance.
I found this combination during a food truck festival and had to recreate it at home. It’s also amazing with crispy Asian slaw and grilled corn.
The sauce adds just enough kick without overwhelming the chicken’s flavor.
15. Peanut Sauce
Smooth, nutty goodness with a hint of ginger and garlic! This Southeast Asian-inspired sauce brings comfort food vibes to chicken.
I serve it with cucumber salad and rice noodles for a complete meal. The sauce gets even better as it warms up on the hot chicken grilled satay.
My kids named this “magic sauce” because it makes everything taste better.
16. Salsa Verde
Tomatillos and green chilies create this zesty Mexican favorite!
The bright, tangy flavor cuts through the smokiness of grilled chicken perfectly. I love serving this with Mexican street corn and black beans.
Making this sauce reminds me of cooking lessons with my neighbor’s abuela. It brings a fresh, lively taste to any grilled meal.
Final Thoughts
Grilling chicken is just the beginning – it’s the sauce that makes it memorable!
These 16 options give you plenty of ways to keep your grilled meals exciting and delicious.
Don’t be afraid to experiment and make these sauces your own.
I’ve found that the best cooking comes from trying new things and having fun in the process.
Whether you’re cooking for family or hosting a backyard party, these sauces will help you create meals worth remembering. Happy grilling!
