10 Healthy Grilling Recipes for Father’s Day

Barbecues are a summertime staple and grilling is one of the most popular ways to celebrate Dad on Father’s Day. To show Dad how much you love him, preparing some healthy grilling recipes for Father’s Day that taste great can make the celebration extra special. And when those recipes also happen to be budget-friendly, that’s an added bonus that Dad is sure to appreciate.

Of course, a lot of traditional barbecue fare is not always the healthiest, but you can still cook up Dad’s favorites by choosing healthy grilling recipes that taste as good as the originals. And if you’re also looking for budget-friendly grilling ideas that are a bit more exciting for Dad’s big day than burgers and hot dogs, you may be surprised by all the choices you have to choose from.

Chicken is a healthy and budget-friendly grilling option and there are healthy chicken recipes that deliver almost any flavors you crave. You can get lean chicken breasts for as low as 2.99/lb, and other chicken parts such as legs and thighs are even kinder to your wallet. Most cuts of pork, such as pork chops and pork tenderloin, are also healthy choices and very budget-friendly. You can even find healthy grilling recipes that rely on beef, shrimp and other seafood without going overboard on your food budget – it all comes down to portion sizes.

Here are 10 healthy grilling recipes that Dad – and the whole family – are sure to enjoy. They not only have a leg up on standard burgers and hot dogs but they’re also better for you than most barbecue fare so you can feel good serving them to those you love. Plus, they’re easy on your wallet.

Grilled Chicken Recipes for Father’s Day

Chicken and Pineapple Kebabs

Photo Credit: Getty Images

30 mins

Combining lean chicken, fresh pineapple, and vibrant veggies marinated in a zesty lime and honey sauce with a dash of cayenne pepper, these kebabs offer a fiery-sweet flavor. Chicken kebabs are a protein-packed and budget-friendly idea for your Father’s Day cookout.

View Recipe
Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Photo Credit: iStock

30 mins

This economical grilled chicken dish pairs smoky chicken breasts with a vibrant chimichurri sauce made from fresh herbs and spices, delivering bold flavor without excess sodium. Ready in just 30 minutes, it's an easy and heart-healthy barbecue meal.

View Recipe

Grilling Recipes for Pork

Grilled Boneless Pork Loin Chops

Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer

90 mins

Marinated in a sweet and tangy blend of orange juice, garlic, and honey, these juicy pork chops are packed with flavor. With budget friendly ingredients and a quick grilling time, pork chops are an affordable dinner when you’re looking for a hearty but low-fat alternative to beef.

View Recipe
Pork Kebabs

Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer

30 mins

These economical pork kebabs feature marinated lean pork loin skewered with colorful bell peppers and onions, creating a high-protein meal that's both flavorful and fun to eat. Quick to prepare and easy on the wallet, they're perfect for a family barbecue or any outdoor get-together.

View Recipe

Money-Saving Grilled Beef Recipes

Grilled Skirt Steak Fajitas

Photo Credit: iStock

45 mins

Marinated skirt steak is grilled alongside peppers and onions, then wrapped in tortillas or lettuce leaves for a festive customizable meal. With bold Southwestern flavors, these fajitas are a cost-effective and delicious choice any time you’re firing up the grill.

View Recipe
Grilled Flank Steak Salad

Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer

45 mins

If you’re looking for a light BBQ meal, try this grilled flank steak served over a bed of fresh greens and vegetables. It’s topped with a flavorful dressing. Grilled flank steak salad is a budget-friendly meal and nutritious dish for your next barbecue.

View Recipe

Grilling Ideas for Shrimp

Grilled Shrimp with Mango Salsa

Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer

45 mins

Spiced shrimp are grilled quickly and paired with a sweet and spicy mango-jalapeño salsa, offering a bold and refreshing flavor profile. This tasty grilling recipe is not only affordable, but it will be a surefire hit at any summer gathering.

View Recipe
Grilled Lime Shrimp

Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer

30 mins

Marinated in a blend of lime juice, cilantro, and spices, these shrimp skewers are grilled quickly for an easy main dish or appetizer. With shrimp being one of the more affordable seafood options, they’re a budget-friendly favorite when you’re craving something from the sea.

View Recipe

Grilled Salmon Recipes For Dad

Grilled Salmon with Asparagus

Photo Credit: Adobe Stock

30 mins

Give Dad a hefty dose of omega-3s with this perfectly grilled salmon served alongside smoky asparagus and topped with a fresh salsa verde. Although salmon is pricier than some other protein choices, you only need small portions to create a satisfyingly hearty meal.

View Recipe

Budget-Friendly Grilled Surf and Turf Recipes

Surf and Turf Kebabs

Photo Credit: Baldwin Publishing Staff Photographer

30 mins

Dad is sure to love these meaty kebabs, featuring steak and shrimp marinated in a Bloody Mary-inspired sauce and skewered with fresh vegetables. Beef and shrimp kebabs are an economical idea to create an impressive-looking dish for the holiday.

View Recipe

More Healthy Father’s Day Recipes

Looking for more healthy recipes that are delicious, hearty and budget-friendly for a Father’s Day meal? Check out these other high-protein recipes. They may not all be cooked on the grill, but they’ll put a smile on Dad’s face!