Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo

Name: Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1/4 cup olive oil; 2 tablespoons lemon juice; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 teaspoon salt; 1/2 teaspoon black pepper; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; 1 dozen fresh clams, scrubbed; 1/4 cup white wine; 2 tablespoons butter; 1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped; 1 lemon, cut into wedges

Highlighted under: Simple Global Recipes

I always enjoy grilling, but the combination of chicken and clams takes it to an entirely new level. This recipe brings together succulent grilled chicken breasts and tender clams, all infused with a zesty marinade that elevates the flavors. The contrasting textures and tastes create an irresistible dish that my family can't get enough of. In just a few steps, you can create a delightful meal that works perfectly for a summer evening or a casual gathering with friends.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T18:26:28.013Z

When I first ventured into grilling clams, I wasn't sure how they would pair with chicken, but the result was surprisingly delicious. I marinated the chicken in a citrus-based sauce, allowing it to soak in the flavors for a couple of hours. This step is crucial as it tenderizes the meat and enhances its taste.

To ensure the clams were perfectly cooked, I placed them on the grill just long enough for them to open up. I discovered that timing is key with clams; too long, and they become rubbery. The combination of the marinated chicken and the juicy clams is now a staple in my summer cookouts!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Succulent chicken infused with citrus and herbs
Tender clams add a unique twist to a classic grill
Great for summer gatherings or outdoor events

      

Understanding the Marinade

The marinade for the chicken is essential to achieving succulent, flavorful meat. Olive oil acts as a tenderizer, locking in moisture, while the acidity of the lemon juice enhances the chicken's flavor. I find that a longer marinating time, around 1-2 hours if you have it, allows the herbs and garlic to penetrate deeply. Just be cautious not to marinate for too long, as the lemon juice can begin to 'cook' the chicken, resulting in a slightly rubbery texture.

When mixing the marinade, consider whisking it well until it's fully combined. This not only ensures that the oil and juice emulsify but also distributes the minced garlic and herbs uniformly, so every bite of chicken is bursting with flavor. If you're out of fresh oregano, dried herbs work as a substitute, but using fresh enhances the overall brightness of the dish.

Grilling Techniques for Perfect Results

Preheating your grill is a crucial step that can’t be skipped. Aim for a medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. This temperature allows for a nice sear on the chicken, creating those beautiful grill marks while sealing in the juices. To test if the grill is ready, you should hear a satisfying sizzle as you place the chicken on it. If it’s not sizzling, wait a few more minutes.

When grilling the chicken, avoid pressing down on it with a spatula as this releases valuable juices that you want to keep in the meat. Instead, let it cook undisturbed until it's ready to flip—around 6-8 minutes on each side. For added flavor, consider basting the chicken with some of the leftover marinade during the last few minutes of grilling.

Perfectly Cooking the Clams

Clams can be a bit tricky, but when done correctly, they add a delightful briny flavor to the meal. Make sure your clams are clean and free of grit. A good rinse under cold water and a scrub with a brush should suffice. Soaking them in white wine not only helps to infuse flavor but can also encourage any remaining sand to be purged before cooking.

When grilling the clams, use a grill basket to prevent them from falling through the grates. The butter should be added right before placing them on the grill for a rich, glossy finish. Keep an eye on them and remove the clams as soon as they open, which usually takes about 5-7 minutes. Any clams that remain closed after cooking should be discarded, as they may not be safe to eat.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1/4 cup olive oil
2 tablespoons lemon juice
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried oregano

For the Clams

1 dozen fresh clams, scrubbed
1/4 cup white wine
2 tablespoons butter
1 teaspoon fresh parsley, chopped
1 lemon, cut into wedges

Make sure all ingredients are fresh for the best flavor!

Instructions

Cooking Instructions

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, salt, black pepper, and oregano. Add the chicken breasts and coat them evenly. Cover and let marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes.

Prepare the Clams

In a separate bowl, add the clams and white wine. Allow them to sit for about 10 minutes to let them soak up some flavor.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken on the grill and cook for about 6-8 minutes on each side or until fully cooked.

Cook the Clams

While the chicken is grilling, place the clams in a grill basket. Add butter and chopped parsley. Grill for about 5-7 minutes until the clams open.

Serve

Once the chicken and clams are cooked, serve them immediately with lemon wedges on the side.

Enjoy your delicious Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo!

Pro Tips

For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle some chili flakes over the clams just before serving.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken marinade a day in advance, allowing the flavors to meld overnight. Just place the marinated chicken in an airtight container and refrigerate. This not only saves time on the day of your gathering but enhancing the overall flavor of the chicken. For the clams, while it's best to cook them fresh, you can clean and soak them in the wine for up to 30 minutes before grilling to streamline your cooking process.

If you're planning to grill for a crowd, consider marinating double the amount of chicken and clams. These proteins pair well with various sides, making them perfect for larger gatherings. Just adjust your cooking times if using more items on the grill—ensure everything has enough space for even cooking.

Serving Suggestions

Serve the grilled chicken and clams with elegant sides that complement their flavors, such as a fresh arugula salad dressed in lemon vinaigrette or grilled vegetables. The acidity in the salad will balance the richness of the dish, creating a harmonious meal. Don't forget the lemon wedges; their acidity brightens the entire plate when squeezed over the chicken and clams before serving.

You can also serve this dish with crusty bread to soak up the flavorful juices from the clams. Another idea is to pair it with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc, which complements the bright flavors of the marinade and the brininess of the clams perfectly. This way, every bite and sip enhances your summer grilling experience.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen clams?

Fresh clams are recommended for the best flavor, but you can use frozen if needed. Just make sure to thaw them properly before grilling.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

This dish goes well with sides like grilled vegetables or a simple green salad.

→ Is there a vegetarian alternative?

You could replace the chicken with grilled tofu or portobello mushrooms for a vegetarian option.

→ How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). You can use a meat thermometer to check.