Summer is the perfect time for light, fresh, and quick meals that don’t keep you stuck in the kitchen. These summer chicken recipes are your go-to options, whether you’re preparing a picnic spread, lighting up the barbie for a weekend get-together, or organising a simple midweek dinner. Here are ten must-try summer chicken dishes for summer that you can whip up in under 30 minutes!
Easy Chicken Dishes for Summer
1. Nugget Sliders

These little sliders are ideal for casual dinners, gatherings, or even a quick lunch. Made with golden chicken nuggets tucked inside soft rolls, these sliders are endlessly customisable. To make them even better, add some fresh lettuce, a tomato slice, and a dab of tangy barbecue sauce or creamy mayo. Pair them with a crisp summer salad or chips for a well-rounded meal.
Why it’s perfect for summer: Easy to assemble and great for outdoor entertaining.
Get the full recipe here: Nugget Sliders – Ingham’s
2. Sweet Chilli Tenders Chicken Tacos

Take taco night up a notch with this fusion of sweet, spicy, and savoury flavours. These tacos are filled with sweet chilli chicken tenders, shredded slaw, and topped with a drizzle of chilli sauce or sour cream. Ready in just thirty minutes, these chicken dishes for summer are perfect for a fast, no-fuss dinner that feels gourmet. Serve with a side of corn chips and guacamole for a complete meal.
Get the full recipe here: Sweet Chilli Tenders Chicken Tacos – Ingham’s
3. Chicken Tenders Garden Salad

Turn an easy salad into a hearty meal with the addition of crispy chicken tenders. This garden salad is loaded with fresh greens, cherry tomatoes, cabbage, and red pepper, creating a vibrant, refreshing base. Toss your preferred dressing (balsamic, ranch or lemon vinaigrette are all excellent choices) and garnish with cut chicken tenders for crunch and protein.
Why it’s perfect for summer: No heavy cooking is involved, and it’s customisable with your favourite seasonal vegetables.
Get the full recipe here: Chicken Tenders Garden Salad – Ingham’s
4. Tempura Nuggets Bowl

Bowls are a trending meal option, and this tempura nuggets bowl checks all the boxes for an easy, customisable summer meal. Start with a base of rice, layer on crispy tempura nuggets, and top with veggies like shredded carrots, avocado, radish and more. Add a drizzle of lime juice or teriyaki dressing for a savoury kick.
Why it’s perfect for summer: It’s quick to make and can be enjoyed warm or cold, making it great for meal prep or picnics.
Get the full recipe here: Tempura Nuggets Bowl – Ingham’s
5. Asian Cabbage Salad with Chicken Tenders

Try this Asian cabbage salad with chicken tenders for a different take on a summer salad. Shredded cabbage, cucumber, and onion provide a crunchy base, while a sesame-ginger dressing ties everything together with bold, tangy flavours. It’s one of the best chicken dishes for summer. You can try garnishing with chopped peanuts or sesame seeds for an added crunch.
Get the full recipe here: Asian Cabbage Salad with Chicken Tenders and Dipping Sauces – Ingham’s
6. Chicken Nugget Tacos with Corn and Avocado Salsa

For a fresh spin on tacos, combine crispy chicken nuggets with summery corn and avocado salsa. The salsa adds sweetness and creaminess, while the nuggets give a salty, crunchy touch. A simple chicken recipe for summer – add lettuce or lime wedges to customise it to your taste.
Why it’s perfect for summer: Bright, refreshing, and ideal for a casual dinner or outdoor lunch.
Get the full recipe here: Chicken Nugget Tacos with Corn & Avocado Salsa – Ingham’s
7. Chipees Wraps

These chipee wraps are as simple as they come, and they’re a summertime classic. For a filling lunch, just cook the crisp chicken pieces. Layer with romaine lettuce, avocado, cherry tomatoes, and fresh parsley on a soft tortilla, then wrap it up. When you don’t want to spend too much time in the kitchen, these wraps are perfect for fast meals or on-the-go lunches.
Why it’s perfect for summer: Portable, mess-free, and ready in minutes.
Get the full recipe here: Chipees Wraps – Ingham’s
8. Chicken Nuggets and Slaw

Who says coleslaw is just a side dish? In this recipe, creamy coleslaw is paired with crispy chicken nuggets to create a quick and balanced meal. The tangy slaw complements the savoury nuggets perfectly, and the whole dish comes together in under 30 minutes. Pair it with ranch dressing or lemon garlic aioli for a flavorful kick – this easy summer chicken dinner is finger-licking good!
Get the full recipe here: Chicken Nuggets and Slaw – Ingham’s
9. Tenders Caesar Salad

This Tenders Caesar Salad is one of the most popular summertime chicken recipes. Featuring tender chicken, crisp romaine lettuce, and creamy dressing, it’s a deliciously balanced chicken summer dish. Ideal for a quick lunch or a refreshing dinner, this salad is sure to delight.
Why it’s perfect for summer: Minimal prep time and no cooking required beyond heating the tenders.
Get the full recipe here: Tenders Caesar Salad – Ingham’s
10. Sweet Chilli Tenders Rice Bowl

For a one-bowl meal that’s as satisfying as it is simple, try the sweet chilli tenders rice bowl. These chicken summer dishes layer tender chicken strips over a base of steamed rice and add fresh veggies like cucumbers, green onions, and coriander. Drizzle with sweet chilli sauce for an irresistible mix of sweet, tangy, and savoury flavours.
Why it’s perfect for summer: It’s customisable, quick to make, and packed with fresh ingredients.Get the full recipe here:Sweet Chilli Tenders Rice Bowl – Ingham’s
Get Recipes That Are Perfect for Summer
Cooking during summer is all about simplicity and freshness, and these easy summer chicken dishes from Ingham’s deliver just that. They require minimal cooking, use fresh and vibrant ingredients, and are versatile enough to suit any occasion. You’ll find everything on our chicken dish recipes page– from popular appetisers to hearty meals that are perfect for the season.
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