Barbecue season is here! The smoky aroma in the air, the sound of sizzling food, and the magic of outdoor cooking make summer barbecues one of the best traditions. But if you're flying solo or hosting a small gathering, throwing a barbecue can feel like a lot of effort. Luckily, we’re here to share some mouthwatering, healthy recipes perfect for one or two—and we promise they’ll keep your stress levels low and your taste buds happy.

Whether you're looking to prep for a fun backyard afternoon or just want to master grilled goodies at home, this guide will show you how to whip up easy, healthy barbecue dishes with a creative twist. Bonus? You won’t be left with an overwhelming pile of leftovers because these recipes are perfectly portioned for smaller crowds.

Grilled Chicken Skewers with Veggies

Chicken skewers are a classic barbecue favorite, but they’re also a great way to pack in protein and veggies without overdoing the portions. And the best part? You can customize them with your favorite vegetables and marinades.

Ingredients:

  • 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (about 6 oz)
  • 1 small zucchini, sliced into thick rounds
  • 1 bell pepper, cut into chunks
  • 1/2 small red onion, cut into wedges
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • Juice of 1 lemon
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1/2 tsp smoked paprika
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Prep the marinade: Mix olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper in a bowl.
  2. Cube the chicken: Cut the chicken into bite-size pieces and toss it in the marinade. Set aside for 15-20 minutes to soak in the flavor.
  3. Assemble your skewers: Thread the chicken, zucchini, bell pepper, and onion onto skewers, alternating ingredients.
  4. Grill to perfection: Place skewers on a preheated grill (medium heat) and cook for about 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through.

Pro Tip: If you’re using wooden skewers, soak them in water for 30 minutes before grilling to prevent burning.

This recipe is a win for portion control, delivering just the right amount of food to satisfy without overloading. Plus, the variety of colors and textures makes these skewers as beautiful to serve as they are delicious to eat.

Light and Zesty Coleslaw

What’s a barbecue without a side of coleslaw? Skip the heavy, mayo-laden version and opt for this refreshing, lighter alternative packed with flavor and crunch.

Ingredients:

  • 1 cup shredded green cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded red cabbage
  • 1/2 cup shredded carrots
  • 2 tbsp Greek yogurt
  • 1 tbsp apple cider vinegar
  • 1 tsp honey
  • 1 tsp Dijon mustard
  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

  1. Combine the cabbage and carrots in a large bowl.
  2. Whisk together Greek yogurt, apple cider vinegar, honey, Dijon mustard, salt, and pepper in a small bowl to make the dressing.
  3. Pour the dressing over the veggies and toss until evenly coated.
  4. Chill for 15-20 minutes before serving for maximum flavor.

This lightened-up slaw pairs beautifully with grilled dishes and takes just minutes to toss together. Plus, it’s super single-friendly since it’s easy to prep in small batches!

Refreshing Fruit Salad

Every barbecue deserves a sweet finish, and this fruit salad is the ultimate guilt-free dessert. The mix of vibrant fruits and a spritz of citrus makes this dish both refreshing and naturally sweet.

Ingredients:

  • 1/2 cup diced watermelon
  • 1/2 cup diced pineapple
  • 1 kiwi, peeled and sliced
  • 1/2 cup blueberries
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1 tbsp honey (optional)
  • A few fresh mint leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

  1. Combine all the chopped fruits in a bowl.
  2. Drizzle with lime juice and honey (if using) and toss gently to coat.
  3. Top with fresh mint for a burst of added flavor.

Done in five minutes flat, this fruit salad doubles as a hydrating treat on a hot day. You can also mix and match with your favorite fruits depending on what’s in season.

Tips for Happy, Stress-Free Solo Barbecuing

1. Plan Ahead

Marinate proteins the night before, chop veggies in advance, and have all your ingredients ready to go. This makes cooking quicker and smoother.

2. Invest in Smaller Tools

Consider getting a tabletop grill or a small charcoal grill if you don’t have one. They're portable, easier to manage, and perfect for solo meals.

3. Portion Wisely

Cook only what you need. Freezing leftover uncooked chicken or saving unused veggies for a stir-fry later in the week will help you avoid waste.

4. Make it Fun

Put on your favorite playlist, toss on some comfy clothes, and transform your barbecue into a mini celebration, even if you’re solo. It’s about enjoying the process as much as the food.

Celebrate the Art of Solo Cooking

Grilling for one doesn’t have to mean making compromises. With these healthy and easy recipes, you can enjoy delicious barbecue vibes without the pressure of feeding a crowd or straying from your health goals. The key is to keep things simple, flavorful, and fun.

Now fire up that grill and show yourself some summer love—because good food and good vibes are worth celebrating, whether you’re sharing the table or enjoying it solo. Happy grilling!