Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo

Name: Grilled Chicken and Clam Combo
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: Serves 4
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 cloves garlic, minced; Juice of 1 lemon; 1 teaspoon dried oregano; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed; 1 tablespoon butter; 1 cup white wine; Chopped parsley for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Culinary Recipe Ideas

I love preparing grilled chicken and clam combo during warm evenings; the smoky flavor of the grilled chicken pairs beautifully with the briny sweetness of clams. It’s a delightful dish that brings a taste of the coast to my backyard. The best part is how quick and easy this recipe is, making it perfect for gatherings or a simple weeknight dinner. Plus, the marinade infuses the chicken with flavor while the clams steam right on the grill, creating a feast that looks as good as it tastes.

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2026-01-05T21:46:30.400Z

When I first stumbled upon the idea of combining grilled chicken with clams, I was skeptical, but it turned out to be a brilliant culinary surprise. The smoky chicken complements the freshness of the clams like nothing else. I remember the first time I made this dish for friends; everyone was raving about how unique it was!

One tip I learned along the way is to not rush the marinating process. Allowing the chicken to soak in the marinade for at least an hour really enhances the flavor. The garlic, lemon, and herbs create a wonderful aroma that mingles with the grill's smokiness. You won't believe how simple yet extraordinary this dish can be!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Juicy grilled chicken seasoned to perfection
Sweet and succulent clams that complement every bite
A unique blend of flavors that impresses at any gathering

      

Marinating the Chicken

Marinating the chicken not only enhances its flavor but also helps keep it juicy while grilling. The combination of olive oil, lemon juice, garlic, and oregano creates a beautiful marinade that penetrates the chicken. I recommend marinating for at least 30 minutes; however, for even more flavor, you can marinate overnight in the refrigerator. Just remember to let it sit at room temperature for about 15–20 minutes before grilling to ensure even cooking.

When applying the marinade, make sure every piece of chicken is well coated. You can use a resealable plastic bag to make this process easier—just add the marinade and chicken, seal it, and shake it up. This not only allows for better coverage but also makes cleanup a breeze.

Cooking the Clams

When steaming clams, freshness is key. Ensure you use live clams and discard any that remain closed after cooking; they were likely dead before cooking and are unsafe to eat. Additionally, scrubbing them under cold water will remove any grit, improving texture and taste. This extra step elevates the dish significantly, making the clams much more enjoyable.

Using white wine adds depth to the flavor of the clams, but if you're looking for a non-alcoholic option, you can substitute with vegetable broth or a splash of apple cider vinegar mixed with water. The liquid should be enough to create steam but not drown the clams. Aim for about one cup; you want to see bubbles forming in the pot, signaling that the cooking process is bubbling along nicely.

Serving Suggestions

For a complete meal, consider serving the grilled chicken and clams with a side of grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers, which can be cooked alongside the chicken. This adds not only color but also nutrition to your plate, creating an appetizing presentation. You can also toss a simple salad with a light vinaigrette to balance the meal.

If you have leftover clams or chicken, consider using them in pasta dishes or as toppings for a salad the next day. They reheat well, staying succulent if you do so gently on the stovetop to avoid overcooking, which can make them chewy. You can even add them to a homemade seafood broth for a delightful soup.

Ingredients

For the Grilled Chicken

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 cloves garlic, minced
Juice of 1 lemon
1 teaspoon dried oregano
Salt and pepper to taste

For the Steamed Clams

1 pound fresh clams, scrubbed
1 tablespoon butter
1 cup white wine
Chopped parsley for garnish

Instructions

Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper. Add the chicken breasts and ensure they are well coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.

Grill the Chicken

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side or until fully cooked and internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

Steam the Clams

In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add white wine and bring to a simmer. Add the cleaned clams, cover the pot, and steam for about 5-7 minutes until the clams have opened up.

Serve

Plate the grilled chicken alongside the steamed clams. Garnish with chopped parsley and serve immediately.

Pro Tips

For an extra layer of flavor, consider adding a splash of lemon zest to the clam steaming liquid or serve with a lemon wedge for squeezing over the chicken.

Ingredient Tips

The key to juicy grilled chicken lies in using boneless, skinless chicken breasts. While they are lean, they can dry out quickly if overcooked. For optimal results, use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F (75°C). If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs can be an excellent substitute, requiring about 8–10 minutes per side on the grill.

For the clams, look for varieties like littlenecks or steamers, which are tender and sweet when cooked. Avoid any clams with cracked shells or those that are not tightly closed, as this indicates spoilage. If you're unfamiliar with clams, many local seafood markets can offer guidance on selecting the freshest batch.

Grilling Techniques

Preheating the grill to medium-high ensures good searing, contributing to a beautiful char and smoky flavor. To avoid sticking, lightly oil the grill grates or the chicken itself. I also recommend adding the chicken first and letting it cook undisturbed for the first few minutes to develop those grill marks.

Keep in mind that grilling times can vary based on chicken breast thickness and grill temperature. If your chicken breasts are particularly thick, consider flattening them with a meat mallet for even cooking. This ensures that both sides cook at the same rate and reach that perfect juicy texture.

Make Ahead and Storage

This recipe can easily be prepared in advance, especially the marinade and clams. You can marinate the chicken a day before, which will allow the flavors to deepen. Store the chicken in an airtight container in the fridge until you're ready to grill. For the clams, buy them on the day you plan to cook to guarantee freshness, but the meal can be prepped ahead of time, making it less stressful on serving day.

If you have any leftover clams, store them in a container in the fridge and consume them within a day or two. Reheat them gently to maintain their texture. The grilled chicken can last up to four days in the fridge when stored properly, so feel free to double the batch for easy meals throughout the week.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use frozen clams?

Yes, but be sure to thaw them completely and rinse well to remove any sand before cooking.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This combo pairs well with a fresh green salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

→ How do I know when the clams are done?

Clams are done when they have fully opened up. Discard any that remain closed after cooking.

→ Can I marinate the chicken overnight?

Absolutely! Marinating overnight will enhance the flavors even more.