21 Bold Holiday Grilled Mains That Change Up The Menu

Holiday meals don’t have to follow the same old traditions. This year, why not change up your menu with bold and exciting grilled mains that will surprise your guests? Whether you’re grilling up a succulent steak, a seafood masterpiece, or a veggie-filled skewer, these 21 grilled mains will offer something new and flavorful, all while bringing a little heat to your holiday celebrations. Get ready to bring a fresh twist to the table with these bold recipes, guaranteed to keep the menu feeling luxurious yet easy to prepare.

1. Grilled Rosemary Garlic Lamb Chops

Grilled rosemary garlic lamb chops bring rich, savory flavors to your holiday table. The marinade—made with fresh garlic, rosemary, and lemon juice—infuses the meat with an aromatic fragrance. The grilling adds a smoky char that enhances the natural sweetness of the lamb. Perfect for an elegant holiday gathering, this dish is a standout main course that’s easy to prepare.

2. Grilled Honey-Balsamic Glazed Chicken

For a sweet and savory treat, try grilled honey-balsamic glazed chicken. The combination of honey and balsamic vinegar creates a tangy glaze that caramelizes beautifully on the grill, giving the chicken a glossy finish. Serve with grilled veggies or over a bed of quinoa for a balanced, festive meal.

3. Charred Citrus Salmon

Charred citrus salmon offers a zesty and smoky alternative to traditional holiday mains. Grilled over high heat with a layer of citrus slices, the salmon develops a slight char while retaining its moist, flaky texture. The citrus provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of the fish, making it a light yet bold choice for your holiday brunch or dinner.

4. Grilled Vegetable and Halloumi Skewers

For a vegetarian option, grilled vegetable and halloumi skewers bring color, texture, and flavor to the table. The halloumi cheese crisps up beautifully on the grill, and the smoky vegetables—like bell peppers, zucchini, and red onion—are the perfect complement. These skewers are quick, simple, and perfect for a holiday feast with a Mediterranean twist.

5. Grilled BBQ Beef Ribs

Grilled BBQ beef ribs offer a bold, smoky flavor that’s perfect for any holiday gathering. The charred exterior and tender, juicy meat inside make these ribs a crowd-pleaser. Slather with your favorite BBQ sauce, grill over indirect heat, and let the flavors meld together. Serve with classic sides like coleslaw for a complete feast.

6. Grilled Portobello Mushrooms with Balsamic Glaze

For a hearty, vegetarian option, grilled portobello mushrooms with a balsamic glaze are both flavorful and filling. The balsamic vinegar adds a tangy richness that pairs beautifully with the earthy mushrooms. Grill them until soft and juicy, then drizzle with the glaze for an easy-to-make yet impressive dish that feels indulgent.

7. Grilled Shrimp Skewers with Garlic-Lemon Marinade

Grilled shrimp skewers are the perfect addition to any holiday menu. Marinate shrimp in a mixture of garlic, lemon, and olive oil, then grill until just charred. The zesty marinade infuses the shrimp with fresh, bright flavors, making these skewers a fantastic appetizer or main course. Add a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for a pop of color.

8. Grilled Miso-Glazed Cod

Grilled miso-glazed cod takes traditional grilling to a new level with the bold flavors of miso. The umami-rich glaze perfectly complements the delicate flavor of the cod, creating a beautifully balanced dish. Serve with steamed rice and sautéed greens for a complete meal that’s both light and satisfying.

9. Grilled Chicken Shawarma

Bring a Middle Eastern twist to your holiday menu with grilled chicken shawarma. Marinate chicken in a mix of spices, yogurt, and lemon, then grill it to perfection. The result is juicy, flavorful chicken with a crispy exterior. Serve with fresh pita bread, hummus, and a cucumber-tomato salad for a vibrant holiday dish.

10. Grilled Steak with Chimichurri Sauce

For meat lovers, grilled steak with chimichurri sauce is the ultimate indulgence. The chimichurri—made with parsley, garlic, and vinegar—adds a fresh, tangy kick to the smoky grilled steak. Whether you choose a rib-eye, sirloin, or filet mignon, this dish is sure to impress your guests.

11. Grilled Vegetable Paella

Grilled vegetable paella offers a bold twist on the classic Spanish dish. Grill the vegetables to perfection before combining them with saffron-infused rice. The smoky grilled vegetables enhance the flavors of the paella, making it a flavorful and satisfying option for your holiday meal, especially for guests who prefer a plant-based main course.

12. Grilled Swordfish Steaks with Lemon Herb Butter

Grilled swordfish steaks are meaty, satisfying, and perfect for the grill. Topped with lemon herb butter, these steaks are full of zesty, savory flavor. The thick, firm texture of swordfish holds up well to grilling, making it a luxurious yet simple addition to your holiday table.

13. Grilled Sweet Potato and Chickpea Skewers

Grilled sweet potato and chickpea skewers offer a hearty vegetarian option for your holiday spread. The sweet potatoes are roasted to tender perfection, while the chickpeas provide a delightful texture. Add a sprinkle of paprika and a drizzle of tahini for a Mediterranean-inspired twist that’s both nutritious and delicious.

14. Grilled Duck Breast with Cherry Sauce

Grilled duck breast with a sweet cherry sauce brings an elegant flair to your holiday gathering. The rich, tender duck pairs beautifully with the tart-sweet cherries, creating a luxurious and balanced main course. Serve with roasted root vegetables for a festive and indulgent meal.

15. Grilled Mediterranean Lamb Kebabs

Grilled Mediterranean lamb kebabs are full of bold flavors from oregano, garlic, and lemon. Thread marinated lamb onto skewers, grill until perfectly charred, and serve with tzatziki and couscous for a delicious, international flair to your holiday brunch or dinner.

16. Grilled Tofu Steaks with Teriyaki Glaze

Grilled tofu steaks with a sweet teriyaki glaze offer a flavorful and satisfying plant-based option for your holiday menu. Marinate the tofu in the teriyaki sauce, then grill it to crispy perfection. The sauce caramelizes on the grill, making the tofu deliciously savory and sweet.

17. Grilled Bone-In Ribeye

A grilled bone-in ribeye is a classic showstopper that’s perfect for a bold holiday meal. The marbling in the ribeye ensures a juicy, flavorful steak with every bite. Grill it to your preferred doneness, and serve with grilled onions and roasted potatoes for a hearty, indulgent main course.

18. Grilled Tempeh with Spicy Peanut Sauce

For a plant-based option with bold flavors, try grilled tempeh with spicy peanut sauce. The nutty, hearty tempeh gets a smoky char on the grill, while the peanut sauce adds a creamy, spicy kick. Serve with a side of steamed rice or sautéed greens for a complete meal.

19. Grilled Octopus with Lemon and Paprika

Grilled octopus is a sophisticated, seafood-forward main dish. Marinated in olive oil, lemon, and paprika, the octopus develops a smoky, charred exterior while remaining tender inside. It’s a striking and unique dish that will add a touch of coastal elegance to your holiday table.

20. Grilled Mahi-Mahi with Mango Salsa

Grilled mahi-mahi with mango salsa offers a tropical, refreshing flavor profile perfect for a festive occasion. The sweet and tangy mango salsa contrasts wonderfully with the smoky fish, making it a light yet flavorful option for holiday dining.

21. Grilled Tamarind-Glazed Chicken Thighs

For a tangy twist, grilled tamarind-glazed chicken thighs bring a burst of flavor to your holiday menu. The tamarind glaze, with its sweet and sour notes, caramelizes beautifully on the grill, creating a flavorful, sticky coating. Pair with grilled corn and fresh cilantro for a vibrant and festive dish that’s sure to impress your guests.

Conclusion

These 21 bold grilled mains will transform your holiday menu and bring fresh, exciting flavors to your table. Whether you’re grilling tender meats, flavorful seafood, or vibrant vegetables, these dishes offer variety and elegance for any celebration. Fire up the grill and surprise your guests with these flavorful mains that are simple to prepare but feel luxurious.