BBQ Recipes: Grilled Dishes Worth Serving This 4th of July

You’ve got the guest list set, and the grill cleaned off. Now it’s time to figure out what to include on the menu. Instead of pulling something together last minute, why not start with BBQ recipes that actually work for hungry crowds in the outdoor heat?

A 4th of July BBQ usually features food with strong flavor and easy setup. These ten options are quick to prep and built for open-flame cooking. You’ll also find recipes for meat-lovers and veggie-first guests.

1. Baby Back Ribs with Tangy BBQ Glaze

Every cookout needs a strong opener, and baby back ribs always deliver. Use baby back ribs, a meat that stays tender when cooked low and slow. Set them over indirect heat and let them soften gradually. Mix brown sugar, vinegar, and spice into a glaze, then brush it over the ribs as they finish. Keep them on the grill until the surface darkens and a crust forms.

2. Beer Can Chicken for Crispy Skin

Use the right setup to simplify whole-chicken grilling. Place the chicken upright over an open beer can or a poultry roaster. Use the steam to keep the inside moist while the direct heat browns the skin. Rub the surface with paprika, garlic, and black pepper before placing the chicken on the grill. Rotate as needed and grill until the skin crisps and you see clear juices in the thickest part of the meat.

3. Pork Chops with Peach-Bourbon Chutney

Grilled pork chops feature sweet and savory flavors that’s perfect for celebrating July 4th! Season thick-cut pork chops and grill each side until the surface chars and the center cooks through. In a pan, simmer peaches, shallots, and a splash of bourbon until the mixture thickens into a chutney. Spoon the warm chutney over the cooked chops and serve immediately.

4. Grilled Shrimp and Corn Salad

Use shrimp and corn when you want a filling dish. Sear the shrimp over high heat until the surface darkens and sets. Cook fresh corn until the kernels blister, then slice them off the cob. Mix the shrimp, corn, red onion, and lime juice in a bowl. Serve the salad alongside the shrimp.

5. Moroccan Chicken Kabobs with Couscous

Use kabobs to streamline outdoor meals with bold flavor. Cut chicken thighs into even chunks and coat them in cumin, coriander, and cinnamon. Thread the pieces onto skewers and grill each side until the meat browns and stays juicy. Spoon the chicken over plain or buttery couscous so the juices settle into the grain.

6. Grilled Veggie Skewers with Garlic Orzo

A well-rounded BBQ spread includes more than just meat. Slice bell pepper, zucchini, and red onion into thick, even pieces. Brush them with olive oil and grill over high heat until the edges start to darken. Cook garlic orzo separately and plate the vegetables on top. Use the orzo to hold seasoning and give the dish enough weight to serve as a main or side.

7. Mexican-Spiced Veggie Burgers with Adobo Sauce

Mexican veggie burger recipe skips meat without giving up texture or flavor. Combine mashed kidney beans, brown rice, and chipotle in adobo. Form the patties and grill until both sides develop a clean sear. Blend a quick adobo sauce from the same peppers and spoon it directly over each patty. Toast the buns and add lettuce and tomato before serving.

8. Jerk Shrimp with Quinoa and Cabbage Slaw

Jerk seasoning adds bold flavor to fast-cooking proteins like shrimp. Coat the shrimp in dry rub and grill a few minutes per side until they blacken slightly. Cook the quinoa and let it cool before plating. Toss sliced cabbage with vinegar and salt to make a crisp slaw. Layer the quinoa and shrimp in a bowl, then top with slaw to finish.

9. Grilled Zucchini with Olive Oil and Salt

Zucchini holds its shape well on the grill. Slice it thick and brush each piece with olive oil. Sprinkle with salt and place directly over the heat. Grill until the slices soften and the surface darkens, then flip once. Serve warm or at room temperature.

10. Corn on the Cob with Simple Seasonings

Grill corn to bring out its natural sweetness for any outdoor meal. Wrap each ear in foil or leave it in the husk. Cook until the kernels soften and start to brown. Brush the corn with either salted butter, garlic oil, or chili-lime seasoning. Arrange all three versions on a tray so guests can pick their favorite.

BBQ Recipes: Grill Favorites

You don’t need an overstuffed menu to pull off a great 4th of July BBQ spread. These BBQ recipes above will satisfy guests from the first bite to the last firework. What’s the first thing you’re firing up this 4th of July?

FAQs: BBQ Recipes

1. What are the easiest BBQ recipes to start with for July 4th?
   Start with burgers, hot dogs, chicken thighs, or skewers. These cook fast, don’t need special tools, and work well with basic seasoning or marinades.
2. How many dishes should I prepare for a small 4th of July BBQ?
   Plan one main protein, two sides, and something grilled that’s vegetarian-friendly. Keep the menu tight so you’re not stuck managing six burners at once.
3. What’s the best way to keep grilled food warm during the party?
   Use foil pans and cover them tightly. Set them on the cooler side of the grill or use a low oven indoors until you’re ready to serve.
4. How do I plan a balanced menu with BBQ mains and sides?
   Pair rich mains like ribs or burgers with lighter sides—grilled vegetables, corn, or a cold salad. Add variety by mixing hot and cold elements.
5. Can I prep BBQ recipes ahead of time without losing flavor?
   Yes. Marinate meat the night before, chop vegetables early, and pre-cook sides that just need reheating. Avoid over-seasoning if the food will sit.