Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo

Name: Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups fresh clams, cleaned; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 2 lemons; 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Global Taste Adventures

I absolutely love the combination of grilled chicken and clams, and this recipe brings out the best of both worlds. The smoky flavor from the grill perfectly complements the briny sweetness of the clams, creating a delightful dish that's as satisfying as it is unique. I’ve spent years perfecting the marinade to enhance the flavors, and trust me, it’s worth every minute! This recipe is perfect for summer barbecues or a simple weeknight dinner, and it always impresses. Let’s dive into this delicious combo!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:06:27.690Z

When I first tried the grilled chicken and clam combo at a seaside restaurant, I was blown away by the flavors. I decided to recreate that experience at home, experimenting with various marinades and grilling techniques. The secret lies in marinating the chicken for at least an hour, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply.

Using fresh clams is key; I always look for ones that are tightly closed—this means they’re fresh. Grilling them in their shells not only adds flavor but also keeps them juicy. The result is a delicious meal that I can’t wait to serve to family and friends!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A unique flavor combination of smoky grilled chicken and fresh clams
Quick and easy to prepare for any occasion
Perfect for impressing guests at summer barbecues

      

The Perfect Marinade

The marinade is the soul of this dish, bringing depth and flavor to the chicken. The olive oil acts as a carrier for the flavors of garlic and lemon, ensuring that they penetrate the meat. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes, but ideally, let it sit for a few hours or even overnight. This longer marination allows the chicken to absorb all the flavors, resulting in a more profound taste that pairs beautifully with the briny clams.

Using fresh herbs like parsley not only adds brightness but also aids in tenderizing the chicken. The acidity from the lemon juice is key; it not only infuses flavor but also breaks down proteins, resulting in a juicier chicken breast when grilled. Feel free to experiment with other herbs like thyme or oregano to create your unique twist.

Grilling Mastery

Getting the grill temperature right is crucial for this dish. Aim for medium-high heat, around 375°F to 450°F. If your grill has a temperature gauge, use it to avoid overcooking the chicken. For those using charcoal, wait until the coals are ashy and glowing for optimal grilling conditions. This temperature ensures that the chicken gets those beautiful char marks without drying out the meat.

When grilling the clams, placing them on the grill in the last few minutes gives them just enough time to open up without overcooking. You’ll want to keep an eye on them; they should begin to open after about 3-5 minutes. Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking, as they are likely not safe to eat.

Ingredients

Grilled Chicken and Clams

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups fresh clams, cleaned
1/4 cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 2 lemons
1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, mix the olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, parsley, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.

Prepare the Clams

While the chicken marinates, rinse the fresh clams under cold water and set aside.

Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Grill the Clams

In the last few minutes of cooking, place the clams on the grill. Cook until they open, about 3-5 minutes. Discard any clams that do not open.

Serve

Serve the grilled chicken with steamed clams on the side. Enjoy this delightful seafood and poultry pairing!

Pro Tips

For extra flavor, try adding a splash of white wine to the grill just before adding the clams. This enhances the overall taste and aroma.

Storing and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The chicken can last up to 3-4 days, while the clams are best consumed within 1-2 days for optimal freshness. When reheating, avoid the microwave to prevent rubbery textures. Instead, reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of broth to keep it moist, and warm clams gently in a steamer or covered pot until heated through.

You can also make the marinade ahead of time. Prepare a larger batch and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This way, you can quickly marinate chicken for next time. For an even quicker meal prep, consider grilling a larger batch of chicken and using it in salads or sandwiches throughout the week, paired with the flavorful clams.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving the grilled chicken and clams with sides that enhance the dish's flavors. A light green salad drizzled with a citrus vinaigrette can balance the richness of the grilled chicken and the brine of the clams. Additionally, a side of garlic bread would absorb any delicious juices on the plate, making it a perfect accompaniment.

You can also experiment with sauces or dips to elevate the dish further. A zesty lemon aioli or a tangy chimichurri can add another layer of flavor that complements both the chicken and the clams beautifully, making your meal even more impressive for guests or family.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen clams for this recipe?

Yes, but fresh clams are recommended for the best flavor. If using frozen, ensure they are fully thawed before cooking.

→ What can I serve as a side dish?

Grilled vegetables or a simple green salad pair perfectly with this dish.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

It’s best to grill the chicken and clams right before serving to maintain their flavors and textures.

→ What is the best way to store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.