Spring settles in with a gentle warmth that invites everything outdoors—the table set beneath open skies, the grill warming in the background, and the promise of a meal worth gathering around. Fresh air, bright flavors, and easy conversation define the season. Grilled Airline Chicken Breasts bring that feeling to life, offering a dish that feels polished, inviting, and quietly indulgent all at once.

This cut carries a natural elegance on the grill. The bone helps retain moisture as the meat cooks, while the skin turns crisp and golden, creating a beautiful contrast in every bite. A light coating of oil and a balanced blend of seasoning allow the flavor of the chicken to come forward with clarity. As the heat shifts across the grill, the exterior develops a rich color while the inside remains tender and full of flavor.

In the final moments, a touch of butter melts into the surface, blending with the juices to create a smooth, savory finish. A squeeze of fresh lemon and a scattering of herbs add brightness and lift, rounding out each bite with a clean, vibrant note. The result feels light yet satisfying—well-suited for afternoons that stretch comfortably into the evening.

Meals like this set the tone for time spent outdoors. The grill becomes a place to slow down, to share something well-made, and to enjoy food that feels as good as the setting around it.

For more food inspiration, follow our Brand Ambassador, Johan Magnusson of Big Swede BBQ, across social platforms and explore his award-winning rubs and cookbook at BigSwedeBBQ.com.

Serves 3-4

Grilled Airline Chicken Breasts Ingredients

  • 4 Airline Chicken Breasts (bone-in, skin-on)
  • 2 Tbs Olive Oil
  • 1 Tbs Big Swede BBQ Badass Bird Boost, or your favorite poultry seasoning
  • 1 tsp Sea Salt
  • ½ tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper
  • 2 Tbs Unsalted Butter

Optional Finish

  • Fresh Lemon Juice
  • Chopped Fresh Herbs

Grilled Airline Chicken Breasts Directions

  1. Pre-heat your Summerset grill by igniting all main burners. Then close the hood and allow the grill to heat for 10 to 15 minutes; the hood thermometer should reach approximately 425°. Turn off all the knobs except one.
  2. Pat the airline chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Lightly coat each breast with olive oil.
  3. Season generously on all sides with Big Swede BBQ Badass Bird Boost, sea salt, and black pepper. Allow the chicken to rest at room temperature for 20–30 minutes before grilling.
  4. Place the chicken skin-side down on the grill over direct heat. Close the hood and cook for 5–6 minutes to render the skin and create a deep golden crust.
  5. Flip the chicken and move it to the indirect side of the grill. Close the hood and continue cooking for 15–20 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 160°.
  6. During the final 5 minutes of cooking, place a small pat of butter on each breast and allow it to melt over the chicken.
  7. Remove the chicken from the grill when it reaches 160° and allow it to rest for 5–10 minutes. The internal temperature will rise to 165° during resting.
  8. Finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and chopped herbs if desired.
  9. Serve immediately.

Created by our Brand Ambassador, Chef Johan Magnusson of BigSwedeBBQ.com