Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo

Name: Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 15 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 cups fresh clams, cleaned; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 garlic cloves, minced; 1 lemon, juiced; Salt and pepper, to taste; Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Highlighted under: International Dish Inspirations

I absolutely love making this Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo for summer barbecues with friends! The smoky, charred flavors of the grilled chicken paired with the briny, savory clams create a heavenly taste that everyone raves about. It’s surprisingly simple to prepare, and the combination of textures truly elevates the dish. I like to serve it with a fresh herb salad, making it a perfectly balanced meal. Trust me, this will be a hit at your next gathering!

Created by

Tina

Last updated on 2026-01-05T20:58:29.779Z

One sunny afternoon, I decided to experiment with clams on the grill after having them steamed for years. I marinated the chicken with garlic and lemon, letting it soak in the flavors before hitting the grill. When I tossed the clams on alongside, I was amazed by how the smoke mingled with the salty ocean taste, creating a remarkable dish. The key is to add the clams towards the end so they open up perfectly without overcooking.

After perfecting this combo on several occasions, I learned that grilling them together not only saves time but also enhances the flavor profiles. The crispy bite of chicken complements the tender clams beautifully. I often add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice right before serving. It's a staple in my summer recipe repertoire, and my guests can’t get enough!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        The unique combination of smoky chicken and fresh clams
Quick and easy to prepare for gatherings
Perfectly balanced flavors that will impress your guests

      

Marinating for Maximum Flavor

Marinating the chicken is crucial for infusing it with flavor. The combination of olive oil, garlic, and lemon juice not only adds depth but also tenderizes the meat, helping it to stay juicy when grilled. I recommend letting the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes, but for an even more pronounced flavor, you can marinate it for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator. Just ensure that you don’t exceed this time frame, as the acids in the lemon juice can break down the meat fibers too much, resulting in a mushy texture.

While the marination is essential for the chicken, it’s equally important to balance the flavors of the clams. These seafood gems absorb the smoky essence from the grill, enhancing their natural brininess. If you're short on time, you can skip the marination for the chicken, but I encourage you to stick to the 30-minute minimum for the best results.

Grilling Techniques for Perfection

Getting that perfect grill mark on your chicken requires a few techniques. Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high—around 375°F to 450°F—before placing the chicken on it. Give the chicken sufficient space on the grill without overcrowding; this allows the heat to circulate evenly, promoting a nice sear. I usually start by grilling for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving the chicken, allowing a crust to form that will help retain juices as it cooks through on the other side.

To ensure your clams steam perfectly alongside the chicken, place them directly on the grill in the last 5 minutes of cooking, and cover the lid. This method allows the clams to trap steam and open up, releasing a delicious and slightly briny flavor that complements the grilled chicken beautifully. Make sure to discard any clams that don’t open, as they are no longer fresh.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

Serving your Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo with a fresh herb salad is a delightful way to balance the smoky flavors of the dish. You can toss together arugula, parsley, and mint with a light vinaigrette to enhance the dish's freshness. Adding sliced cucumbers or radishes not only brings crunch to the plate but also introduces a subtle peppery note that contrasts well with the grilled elements.

If you're looking to switch things up, try adding a touch of spice to your dish. For a kick, consider marinating the chicken with a pinch of red pepper flakes or cayenne in the marinade. Alternatively, you could add a drizzle of garlic-infused olive oil over the clams just before serving. This step not only adds an extra layer of flavor but also enhances the aromatic experience of this meal.

Ingredients

Gather all ingredients before you begin to ensure a smooth cooking process.

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
2 cups fresh clams, cleaned
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 lemon, juiced
Salt and pepper, to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped for garnish

Make sure to properly clean the clams to avoid sandy bites.

Instructions

Marinating the chicken in advance enhances its flavor, so plan accordingly.

Prepare Chicken Marinade

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

Heat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled.

Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Add the Clams

During the last 5 minutes of cooking, add the cleaned clams directly to the grill. Close the grill lid and allow them to steam until they open.

Serve

Once the chicken is grilled and clams are opened, transfer to a serving platter, garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately with lemon wedges.

Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken and clam combination while it's still hot!

Pro Tips

For enhanced flavor, consider adding a pinch of smoked paprika to the marinade for a subtle smoky taste.

Make-Ahead Tips

You can prepare the chicken marinade in advance, which allows the flavors to blend beautifully. Just mix your marinade, store it in the fridge, and add the chicken later—this is especially handy for busy days. However, I recommend marinating the chicken no more than 4 hours in advance to maintain the ideal texture and flavor. For the clams, it’s best to clean and store them in a cool place until you are ready to grill them. They are best cooked fresh, as they lose their brininess when stored for long periods.

If you happen to have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Reheat the chicken on the grill or in a skillet over medium heat until warmed through, being careful not to overcook it again. The clams, however, do not store well once cooked, so it's best to enjoy them freshly grilled.

Troubleshooting Common Issues

One common issue when grilling chicken is the tendency for it to stick to the grates. To prevent this, ensure that the grill grates are clean and lightly oiled before adding the chicken. If it does stick, resist the urge to forcefully flip it; wait until the natural sear lifts the chicken itself. If the grill temperature is too low, the chicken won’t sear properly—always preheat to the right temperature for that perfect golden crust.

When it comes to clams, if they don't open during grilling, it may indicate they were either dead before cooking or not fresh. It's a good practice to check your clams prior to cooking; any with cracked shells or that do not close when tapped should be discarded. Maintaining proper storage conditions prior to cooking is essential to ensure freshness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen clams?

Yes, but make sure they are properly thawed and rinsed before grilling.

→ What should I serve with this dish?

A fresh green salad or grilled vegetables would make a great side!

→ Can I substitute the chicken?

Absolutely! You can use fish or shrimp for a different twist.

→ How do I know when the clams are done?

Clams are ready when their shells have opened. Discard any that remain closed after cooking.