Name: BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli: Spicy, Smoky
Prep time: 30 min
Cook time: 6 min
Total time: 36 min
Cuisine: seafood
Ingredients: 1 lb prawns, deveined with shells on or off; 3 tbsp olive oil; 3 cloves garlic, minced; 1 red chilli, finely chopped; 2 tbsp lemon juice; 1 tsp lemon zest; 1/2 tsp salt; 1/2 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika; 2 tbsp fresh parsley, chopped; Skewers (if using)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

BBQ grilled prawns with garlic, lemon, and chilli offer a perfect balance of smoky, spicy, and tangy flavors. The combination of fresh seafood with the bold kick of chilli, the citrusy brightness of lemon, and the aromatic depth of garlic makes this dish an irresistible summer staple. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a backyard barbecue or looking for a quick and easy seafood dish, these prawns are a surefire hit. Plus, they cook in just minutes, making them a convenient option for a stress-free meal.

Ingredients

prawns, deveined with shells on or off
olive oil
garlic, minced
red chilli, finely chopped
lemon juice
lemon zest
salt
black pepper
paprika
fresh parsley, chopped
skewers (if using)

Directions

Prepare the prawns: Rinse the prawns thoroughly under cold running water. Pat them dry with paper towels. If using skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning.
Make the marinade: In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, finely chopped red chilli, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, black pepper, and paprika.
Marinate the prawns: Add the prawns to the bowl and toss to coat them evenly. Let them marinate for about 20-30 minutes to absorb the flavors.
Preheat the grill: Heat your barbecue grill to medium-high heat. If using a stovetop grill pan, brush it lightly with oil to prevent sticking.
Skewer the prawns (if using): Thread the marinated prawns onto skewers, ensuring they lie flat for even cooking.
Grill the prawns: Place the prawns directly on the grill. Cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they turn pink and opaque with a slight char.
Garnish and serve: Remove the prawns from the grill and sprinkle with fresh chopped parsley. Serve immediately with extra lemon wedges for added zest.

Variations

Butterflied Prawns: Split the prawns down the back and grill them open for extra smoky flavor.
Herb-Infused: Add fresh herbs like cilantro or basil to the marinade for a more fragrant profile.
Coconut Grilled Prawns: Swap olive oil with coconut oil for a tropical twist.
Sweet and Spicy: Mix honey or maple syrup into the marinade to balance out the heat from the chilli.
Asian-Inspired: Replace paprika with soy sauce and add grated ginger for an umami-rich variation.

Servings and Timing

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Cook Time: 6 minutes
Total Time: 36 minutes
Servings: 4

Storage/Reheating

Refrigeration: Store leftover grilled prawns in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.
Freezing: For longer storage, freeze the prawns in a sealed container for up to 1 month.
Reheating: Warm them in a skillet over medium heat for 1-2 minutes or in a microwave for 30 seconds, adding a little butter or olive oil to maintain moisture.

FAQs

How do I know when prawns are fully cooked?

Prawns turn pink and opaque when fully cooked. Avoid overcooking, as they can become tough and rubbery.

Can I use frozen prawns?

Yes, just ensure they are fully thawed and patted dry before marinating to absorb flavors better.

Do I need to remove the shells before grilling?

Keeping the shells on helps retain moisture and adds extra smoky flavor, but you can grill them shelled if preferred.

Can I cook these in a pan instead of on a grill?

Absolutely! Use a hot grill pan or cast-iron skillet and cook over medium-high heat for similar results.

What type of prawns should I use?

Large prawns or jumbo shrimp work best for grilling as they hold their shape and stay juicy.

Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, the marinade can be prepared up to a day in advance and stored in the fridge.

What sides pair well with grilled prawns?

Try serving with rice, grilled vegetables, a fresh salad, or crusty bread to soak up the delicious juices.

How spicy is this recipe?

It has a mild to moderate heat level. Adjust the chilli quantity to suit your spice preference.

Can I grill these on skewers?

Yes, skewers help with handling and flipping. Metal skewers work best, but soaked wooden skewers are a great alternative.

How can I make this dish more flavorful?

Marinate longer (up to 2 hours), use fresh spices, and grill over charcoal for added smokiness.

Conclusion

BBQ grilled prawns with garlic, lemon, and chilli are a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that brings together the best of smoky, tangy, and spicy flavors. Perfect for summer barbecues, weeknight dinners, or entertaining guests, these prawns are guaranteed to be a crowd-pleaser. With easy preparation and endless variations, this recipe is a must-try for seafood lovers. Fire up the grill and enjoy the perfect bite of grilled prawns!

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