15 Proteins for Grilling Season

Grilling season is hands-down my favorite time to load up on easy proteins. There’s just something about that smoky, incredible flavor that makes everything taste better — and it’s all done with minimal effort! I love making extra portions because the leftovers are just as good — packed with so much flavor and perfect for easy lunches, salads, wraps, or quick dinners all week long. So, let’s get going with the best grilling recipes I know!

Sizzling Proteins for Grilling Season

1. Amazing Beef Shish Kabobs

Shish kabobs are such a festive way to eat grilled meat. I really enjoy these beef kabobs made with chunks of steak, bell peppers, and onions.

2. Easy Chimichurri Steak

This chimichurri steak has a wonderful flavor filled with fresh parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, and red chili pepper. I marinate my steak in the chimichurri sauce for at least 30 minutes and then it’s ready to grill away!

3. Grilled Lamb Chops

It’s amazing how quickly these lamb chops cook on the grill! Only 10 minutes to prep and 10 minutes to fully cook. I’ve made these so many times, yet it’s still wild to me how quick they are sometimes!

4. Chicken Shawarma

I admit, this may not be the most “authentic” shawarma, made with all the correct techniques, but my goal is to get you the delicious flavors – easily. The middle eastern spices here are so earthy, warm, and mouth-watering.

5. Grilled Ribeye

This is classic ribeye steak, made on the grill. There’s no need to smoke up the kitchen, so do it outside instead. Warning – your neighbors will be jealous.

6. Beef Galbi

My beef galbi is a homemade version of Korean BBQ. The beef short ribs are marinated in a sweet/savory soy based sauce. It’s a new flavor that is to-die-for.

7. Huli Huli Chicken

This huli huli chicken recipe is based on a classic Hawaiian grilled chicken. The huli marinade and sauce is a combination of pineapple juice, ketchup, soy sauce, brown sugar, chicken broth, garlic, and ginger. It’s tangy, sweet, and savory.

8. Chicken Kebabs

If you love beef, go for beef kebobs. If you want an alternative, these chicken kebabs are the #1 choice. They’re so light, yet the smokiness and flavor is still so good!

9. 4 Ingredient Grilled Halibut

Grilled fish is so quick and easy, and this halibut recipe uses a mere four ingredients. White, flakey, and juicy grilled fish is on the menu tonight. Add some vegetables to the grill at the same time for a full meal!

10. Cilantro Lime Chicken

This cilantro lime chicken is my favorite to chop up and use in burrito bowls. It’s got that delicious savory taste that’s perfect with some rice and a plethora of toppings.

11. Grilled Tilapia

I love tilapia – especially whole tilapia! This grilled tilapia has a hint of lemon-y zest that’s actually really refreshing. I like it with a side of quinoa or rice, or maybe even in fish tacos!

12. Grilled Pork Tenderloin

For this pork tenderloin, make sure you allot at least 30 minutes (though two hours is best!) for it to marinate prior to grilling. Then, use a thermometer to cook it to the exact temperature without overcooking and risking dryness.

13. Beef Kafta Kabob

It’s not super common, but did you ever think to grill ground meat on a skewer? Make this meat mixture and wrap it around a stick, then grill. It’s a Mediterranean flavor worth trying!

14. Salmon Kebabs

We’ve got beef kebabs, chicken kebabs, and last but not least, here’s salmon kebabs. These fish kebabs cook up so quickly, and are super light and fresh (thanks to the lemon slices!).

15. Easy Carne Asada

Oh, carne asada…. you have my Mexican heart. I may not be Mexican, but Mexican food is still one of my favorites. I love grilling this steak up and making tacos with the meat. Yum!

Grilled Vegetable Sides

• Asparagus – Simple, easy, and tasty
• Zucchini and Squash – My husband’s all-time favorite
• Zucchini and Mushrooms – Grilled mushrooms are so good!
• Corn on the Cob – A summertime must!