Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo

Name: Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 4 chicken breasts; 2 cups clams, cleaned; 1/4 cup olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped; 1 tablespoon lemon juice; Salt and pepper to taste

Highlighted under: Taste the Globe

I absolutely love the flavors that come together in this Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo! The smoky char from the grill perfectly complements the tender, juicy chicken, while the briny clams add a unique twist that elevates the dish. When I first tried this recipe, I was surprised at how well the ingredients married together. With a few fresh herbs and a squeeze of lemon, this dish transforms into a delightful meal that’s perfect for any get-together. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!

Created by

Lina

Last updated on 2026-01-05T22:45:27.936Z

When I first attempted this Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo, I learned the magic of marination. Using a simple blend of olive oil, garlic, and herbs not only infuses the chicken with flavor but also keeps it juicy and tender during grilling. The clams, cooked side by side, soak up those delicious juices. It’s a meal that's as rewarding to cook as it is to eat!

One tip that truly makes this dish shine is timing. Grill the chicken and clams simultaneously for about 10 minutes, ensuring the chicken reaches the recommended internal temperature while the clams open up perfectly. This method allows all the flavors to meld beautifully, creating a dish that impresses without requiring extensive prep work.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Smoky, flavorful chicken grilled to perfection
Briny, tender clams that elevate your meal experience
A beautiful dish that impresses without elaborate work

      

Understanding the Ingredients

The combination of chicken and clams in this dish introduces a delightful complexity of flavors. The chicken breasts provide a blank canvas that soaks up the marinade beautifully, resulting in a juicy and aromatic bite. On the other hand, clams are not merely an add-on; they bring a briny essence that contrasts remarkably with the rich flavor of grilled chicken. When selecting clams, opt for fresh ones that are tightly shut, as this indicates they are alive and fresh, ensuring the best taste and texture.

Using high-quality olive oil is essential in this recipe; it not only helps in marinating the chicken but also contributes to its natural flavor. The garlic adds depth and aroma, while fresh parsley brightens the dish, making it more vibrant. Lemon juice not only aids in marinating but also balances the brininess of the clams when served. If you can't find fresh parsley, basil or cilantro can be a lovely substitute, adding a different but equally delightful twist.

Grilling Tips for Success

Achieving the perfect grill marks on chicken is all about the heat. Preheat your grill to medium-high, which generally hovers around 375°F to 400°F. When placing the chicken on the grill, don’t rush to flip it; let it cook undisturbed for about 5–6 minutes until grill marks form, and the chicken releases easily. This cooks the marinated chicken through while adding a lovely charred flavor. If the chicken sticks, it probably needs more time—patience is key here.

For the clams, timing is crucial. Clams can go on the grill about 5 minutes after the chicken, and they typically take another 5-10 minutes until they begin to open up. Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking, as they are not safe to eat. It’s also a good practice to soak the clams in water with a bit of cornmeal for 20–30 minutes before cooking, as this helps purge any sand they may have inside. I'm always surprised at how clean they come out after this step!

Ingredients

Gather the following ingredients for this delightful dish:

Main Ingredients

4 chicken breasts
2 cups clams, cleaned
1/4 cup olive oil
3 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon lemon juice
Salt and pepper to taste

These ingredients are sure to bring vibrant flavors to your table!

Instructions

Follow these steps to create your delicious grilled chicken and clam combo:

Marinate the Chicken

In a bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, parsley, lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and coat them well. Let them marinate for at least 15 minutes.

Prepare the Clams

While the chicken is marinating, rinse the clams under cool water to remove any sand. Set aside.

Grill the Chicken and Clams

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Once hot, place the marinated chicken on the grill. After about 5 minutes, add the clams to the grill.

Cook for an additional 10 minutes until the chicken is fully cooked and the clams have opened.

Serving

Remove from the grill and let the chicken rest for a few minutes. Serve warm, garnished with extra parsley and lemon wedges.

Enjoy your grilled chicken and clam combo with sides of your choice!

Pro Tips

For a smoky flavor, add a few wood chips to the grill. This enhances the taste of both chicken and clams. Also, ensure the clams are fresh
they should be closed tight before cooking.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This grilled chicken and clam combo is best served fresh, but you can prepare elements ahead of time. The chicken can be marinated for up to 4 hours in the refrigerator, allowing the flavors to penetrate deeply. However, if you marinate it overnight, the acidity from the lemon juice might start to break down the meat, resulting in a mushy texture. Prepare the clams right before grilling to ensure optimal freshness, as they are best enjoyed as soon as they're cooked.

If you happen to have leftovers, store the grilled chicken and clams separately in airtight containers. The chicken will last for 3-4 days in the fridge, while the clams should be consumed within 24 hours for the best flavor. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in the oven at 350°F for about 10-15 minutes, and enjoy clams chilled or at room temperature as a seafood salad topping.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo, consider serving it alongside a vibrant salad or crusty bread to soak up any leftover juices. A Mediterranean pasta salad with olives, cherry tomatoes, and feta pairs beautifully, allowing for a refreshing contrast to the rich grilled flavors. If you're feeling more adventurous, a risotto infused with lemon and herbs creates a creamy backdrop that will complement the dish wonderfully.

For a beautiful presentation, arrange the grilled chicken and clams on a large platter, garnished with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. This visual appeal not only enhances the dining experience but also signals to your guests that a special meal is being served. Don’t forget to drizzle a little olive oil over the dish right before serving to add a touch of gloss and extra flavor!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen clams for this recipe?

It's best to use fresh clams for the best flavor and texture. However, if you must use frozen, ensure they're fully thawed and heated through before serving.

→ What can I serve with the Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo?

This dish pairs well with a light salad, grilled vegetables, or a fragrant rice pilaf.

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

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption. A meat thermometer is the best tool for this.

→ What if some clams don't open during cooking?

Discard any clams that remain closed after cooking, as they may no longer be safe to eat.