When it comes to gourmet meals, few ingredients can rival the succulent flavor and tender texture of grilled quail. This small but mighty bird is a perfect canvas for a wide range of flavors and seasonings, from classic herbs and spices to bold and exotic combinations. Whether you’re looking to impress your dinner guests or simply treat yourself to a delicious meal, grilled quail is an excellent choice.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 mouthwatering grilled quail recipes that are sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. From classic pairings like garlic and herb to more adventurous combinations like spicy Asian-inspired flavors, these recipes showcase the versatility and flavor of grilled quail. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just looking for inspiration for your next meal, we have something for everyone.
In the following pages, we’ll delve into each of these recipes, exploring the ingredients, cooking techniques, and presentation ideas that make them truly special. So grab a pen and paper, get ready to be inspired, and let’s dive into the world of grilled quail!
Garlic and Herb Marinated Grilled Quail
Elevate your outdoor cooking with this flavorful and tender quail recipe, perfect for a summer evening or special occasion. With the bold flavors of garlic and herbs, these grilled quails are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 quail
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/4 cup white wine vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, vinegar, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Place quail in a large zip-top plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour marinade over quail; seal bag or cover dish with plastic wrap.
4. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight (up to 24 hours).
5. Remove quail from marinade; pat dry with paper towels.
6. Grill quail for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Honey Glazed Grilled Quail with Rosemary
Elevate your grilled quail game with this simple yet impressive recipe that combines the natural sweetness of honey with the earthy flavor of rosemary. Perfect for a special occasion or a rustic dinner party, these Honey Glazed Grilled Quail with Rosemary are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 quail, cleaned and patted dry
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 sprigs of fresh rosemary, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Brush the quail with the honey glaze, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Season with salt, pepper, and chopped rosemary.
5. Grill quail for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes total
Spicy Asian-Inspired Grilled Quail
Experience the bold flavors of Asia with this simple yet exciting quail recipe. Marinated in a sweet and spicy mixture, these grilled quails make for a delicious appetizer or main course.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 quail
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons rice vinegar
– 2 tablespoons gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, rice vinegar, gochujang, garlic, and ginger.
3. Place quails in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Toss to coat evenly.
4. Let quails marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
5. Remove quails from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Brush quails with sesame oil and season with salt and pepper.
7. Grill quails for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
8. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Citrus and Thyme Grilled Quail Skewers
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with these flavorful and aromatic quail skewers, perfectly balanced by the brightness of citrus and the earthiness of thyme. Perfect for a summer evening or a dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 quail pieces
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 sprigs fresh thyme, chopped
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, olive oil, thyme, and honey.
3. Thread quail pieces onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Brush the citrus-thyme mixture evenly onto the quail.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Grill for 8-10 minutes, turning occasionally, or until cooked through.
7. Serve immediately, garnished with additional thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 8-10 minutes
Balsamic and Brown Sugar Glazed Grilled Quail
Elevate your grilling game with this sweet and tangy quail recipe, perfect for a unique dinner party or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 quail, rinsed and patted dry
– 1/4 cup balsamic glaze (or reduced balsamic vinegar)
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp olive oil
– 1 tsp chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together balsamic glaze, brown sugar, and thyme until well combined.
3. Brush the quail with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill quail for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the balsamic-brown sugar glaze evenly over the quail.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for a few minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Style Grilled Quail with Olives
Elevate your outdoor dining experience with this flavorful and exotic quail dish, inspired by the Mediterranean region. With a zesty marinade and a sprinkle of salty olives, these grilled quails are sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 quail, patted dry
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, lemon juice, oregano, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place quails in a large bowl and brush with the marinade, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Grill quails for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. During the last minute of grilling, sprinkle olives on top of each quail.
6. Remove from heat and garnish with fresh parsley leaves.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Cajun Spiced Grilled Quail with Creamy Grits
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the rich flavors of Cajun spices with the tender texture of grilled quail. Perfect for a quick dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 quail, rinsed and patted dry
– 2 tbsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Creamy Grits (recipe below)
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
3. Brush quail with olive oil and sprinkle with spice mixture, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Grill quail for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Serve quail hot with Creamy Grits (recipe below).
Creamy Grits:
– 1 cup stone-ground grits
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tbsp butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Combine grits, broth, and cream in a saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 5-7 minutes or until creamy. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper.
Smoky Chipotle Grilled Quail Tacos
Elevate your taco game with these bold and flavorful Smoky Chipotle Grilled Quail Tacos, perfect for a unique dinner or fiesta.
Ingredients:
– 12 quail, patted dry
– 1/4 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together chipotle peppers, olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Add the quail to the marinade, tossing to coat. Let sit for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Grill the quail for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos by placing grilled quail on a tortilla, garnishing with radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and crumbled queso fresco (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Quail with Peach and Ginger Chutney
This recipe combines the tender flavor of quail with the sweetness of peaches and the spiciness of ginger, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 12 quail
– 2 ripe peaches, diced
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 2 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together honey, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the quail.
4. Grill quail for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine diced peaches and grated ginger in a separate bowl.
6. Serve grilled quail with peach and ginger chutney spooned over the top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Soy and Sesame Grilled Quail with Scallions
Elevate your backyard gatherings with this flavorful and aromatic quail dish, perfectly balanced by the savory sweetness of soy sauce and the nutty crunch of sesame.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 quails
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp sesame oil
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup scallions, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, sesame oil, ginger, and honey.
3. Rinse quails under cold water, pat dry with paper towels. Brush quails with the soy mixture, making sure they are evenly coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill quails for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with thinly sliced scallions and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Lemon Pepper Grilled Quail with Garlic Aioli
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with this flavorful and elegant quail dish, perfect for a summer evening or special occasion. This recipe combines the bright citrus flavors of lemon pepper with the richness of garlic aioli, all wrapped up in tender grilled quail.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 quail, patted dry
– 2 lemons, zested and juiced
– 1 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup mayonnaise
– Salt to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together lemon zest, black pepper, and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the quail.
4. Grill quail for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine garlic and mayonnaise in a small bowl. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve grilled quail with a dollop of garlic aioli and garnish with chopped parsley or thyme if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Quail Stuffed with Wild Rice and Mushrooms
This recipe elevates the humble quail to new heights by filling it with a savory mixture of wild rice, earthy mushrooms, and aromatic herbs. The result is a delightful fusion of flavors and textures that will impress your guests.
Ingredients:
– 4 quails
– 1 cup cooked wild rice
– 1/2 cup sautéed mushrooms (such as cremini or shiitake)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked wild rice, sautéed mushrooms, olive oil, garlic, and thyme.
3. Stuff each quail with the mixture, dividing it evenly among the four birds.
4. Season the quails with salt and pepper.
5. Grill the quails for 12-15 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Pomegranate Molasses Glazed Grilled Quail
Sweet and tangy, this glaze elevates grilled quail to new heights. Perfect for a special occasion or as an impressive appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 12-16 quail, patted dry
– 1/4 cup pomegranate molasses
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh parsley or thyme, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together pomegranate molasses, honey, olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the glaze all over the quail, making sure they’re evenly coated.
4. Grill the quail for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Let rest for a few minutes before serving.
6. Garnish with parsley or thyme, if desired.
Cooking Time: 12-16 minutes
Grilled Quail with Charred Corn and Avocado Salad
This recipe combines the rich flavors of grilled quail with the sweetness of charred corn and creamy avocado, perfect for a summer evening or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 12 quail
– 2 ears of corn, husked and silked
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season quail with salt, pepper, and a squeeze of lime juice. Grill quail for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Brush corn with olive oil and season with salt. Grill corn for 10-12 minutes, turning frequently, until slightly charred.
4. In a bowl, combine diced avocado, grilled corn kernels, and a squeeze of lime juice. Toss to combine.
5. Serve quail with the charred corn and avocado salad spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Maple and Mustard Glazed Grilled Quail
Elevate your grilled quail game with this sweet and tangy Maple and Mustard Glazed Grilled Quail recipe!
Ingredients:
– 12-15 quail, cleaned and patted dry
– 1/4 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons whole-grain mustard
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon apple cider vinegar
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, mustard, olive oil, honey, and apple cider vinegar until smooth.
3. Season quail with salt and pepper.
4. Grill quail for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush glaze on quail during last 2 minutes of grilling.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh thyme leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Grilled Quail with Roasted Grapes and Feta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of grilled quail with the sweetness of roasted grapes and the tanginess of feta cheese, creating a unique and delicious dish perfect for special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 quails
– 1 cup red or green grapes, halved
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the quail with the mixture, making sure they are evenly coated.
4. Grill the quail for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, toss grapes with olive oil, salt, and pepper. Spread them on a baking sheet and roast in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 10-12 minutes, or until tender.
6. Once quails are done, let them rest for a few minutes before serving with roasted grapes and crumbled feta cheese.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Herb Crusted Grilled Quail with Lemon Zest
Elevate your grilled quail game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe, perfect for a summer evening or special occasion. The combination of fresh herbs, lemon zest, and garlic creates a savory crust that complements the tender quail.
Ingredients:
– 12 quail
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp lemon zest
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, parsley, thyme, garlic, and lemon zest.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the quail.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill quail for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Grilled Quail with Blackberry Balsamic Reduction
Grilled Quail with Blackberry Balsamic Reduction: A sweet and savory twist on traditional grilled quail.
Ingredients:
– 12-15 quail, patted dry
– 1/4 cup blackberry jam
– 2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small saucepan, combine blackberry jam and balsamic vinegar. Bring to a simmer over medium heat and cook until reduced by half, stirring occasionally (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Season quail with salt and pepper.
4. Brush both sides of the quail with olive oil.
5. Grill quail for 2-3 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve quail hot with blackberry balsamic reduction spooned over the top. Garnish with fresh thyme leaves.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Jerk Spiced Grilled Quail with Mango Salsa
Experience the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean with this succulent quail dish, smothered in a spicy jerk seasoning and served with a sweet and tangy mango salsa.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 quails
– 2 tbsp jerk seasoning
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 lime, juiced
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Mango Salsa (recipe below)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning, brown sugar, and lime juice.
3. Brush quails with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill quails for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. While quails are cooking, prepare Mango Salsa (see below).
Mango Salsa:
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 tbsp lime juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Combine all ingredients in a bowl. Serve with grilled quails.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes (including salsa preparation)
Grilled Quail and Fig Skewers with Mint Yogurt Sauce
Elevate your outdoor cooking experience with this unique and flavorful combination of grilled quail, sweet figs, and refreshing mint yogurt sauce.
Ingredients:
– 12 quail, cleaned and patted dry
– 1 cup fresh figs, cut into wedges
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/2 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Thread quail, figs, garlic, and a drizzle of olive oil onto skewers.
3. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill for 5-6 minutes per side, or until quail is cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, mix yogurt, mint, and lemon juice in a bowl.
6. Serve grilled quail skewers with figs and drizzle with mint yogurt sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your culinary game with these succulent grilled quail recipes! From classic flavor combinations like garlic and herb to more adventurous options like spicy Asian-inspired, there’s something for every palate. Try honey glazed quail with rosemary, citrus and thyme skewers, or Mediterranean-style quail with olives. For a twist, indulge in smoky chipotle tacos, peach and ginger chutney, or soy and sesame quail with scallions. With 20 mouthwatering recipes to choose from, you’ll be sure to impress your guests at your next dinner party.
