BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Name: BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mediterranean
Ingredients: ⅓ cup olive oil; 2 cloves garlic; 1-2 chillies; Juice and zest of 1 lemon; 8 large prawns (prepared with shells on); Salt & pepper to taste; Fresh lemon wedges for serving; Fresh crusty bread of your choice for dipping in the sauce

Published: January 15, 2026

by Aileen Reed

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick to Prepare: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for spontaneous meals.
Minimal Ingredients: With only five main ingredients needed, it’s easy to keep your pantry stocked.
Bursting with Flavor: The combination of garlic, lemon, and chilli offers a zesty kick that enhances the natural sweetness of the prawns.
Perfect for Sharing: Serve these grilled prawns with crusty bread and lemon wedges for an enjoyable communal dining experience.
Versatile Dish: Great as an appetizer or main course, these prawns can fit into any meal plan.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start grilling those delicious prawns, gather your tools. Having the right equipment will make the process smoother and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

BBQ grill
Firelighters
Charcoal
Matches or lighter
Pan for sauce preparation
Sharp knife
Grater

Importance of Each Tool

BBQ grill: Essential for achieving that perfect charred flavor on the prawns while ensuring even cooking.
Pan for sauce preparation: Allows you to blend flavors seamlessly while keeping everything organized.
Sharp knife: A must-have for slicing chillies finely to ensure they infuse their heat into the sauce effectively.

Ingredients

For the Marinade

⅓ cup olive oil
2 cloves of garlic
1-2 chillies
1 lemon – juice and zest

For the Prawns

8 large Prawns (prepared with shells still on but vein removed)
Salt & pepper to taste

For Serving

Fresh lemon wedges for serving
Fresh crusty bread of your choice for dipping in the sauce

Additional Supplies

Firelighters
Charcoal
Matches or lighter
Glass of water

How to Make BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Step 1: Prepare Your BBQ Grill

Get your fire started by placing a few firelighters into the bottom grill of the BBQ. Once alight, top with charcoal, piling it in the middle to create a concentrated heat source.

Step 2: Make the Marinade

While your BBQ heats up, prepare the sauce. Add olive oil to a pan and grate in the garlic cloves. Finely slice the chillies using a sharp knife and add them to the pan. Fry over medium heat for about 2 minutes before adding the zest and juice of the lemon. Cook gently until the garlic is fragrant but not burnt.

Step 3: Marinate the Prawns

Pour half of your olive oil and garlic mixture over the cleaned prawns. Massage this marinade under their shells so they’re evenly coated.

Step 4: Check Your BBQ

Ensure that your coals are all white hot with no black areas left. Place a clean grill over these coals; it’s time to cook!

Step 5: Grill the Prawns

Once your coals are ready, place the prawns on the grill. They should sizzle immediately! Aim for them to get slightly charred on each side without burning. If flames flare up from dripping oil, sprinkle some water gently from a glass to calm them down.

Step 6: Flip and Finish Cooking

After about 45 seconds to 1 minute on one side (until pink and charred), flip them over. Once their shells turn pinky-orange and their meat is pearl white, remove them from heat and place them onto a clean tray. Pour over any remaining garlic, lemon, and chilli sauce.

Step 7: Serve Immediately

Enjoy your grilled prawns right away! Pair them with optional lemon wedges and fresh crusty bread for dipping into that delicious sauce.

How to Serve BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Serving BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli can elevate your dining experience, whether it’s a casual family dinner or a lively gathering with friends. Here are some creative ways to serve these delicious prawns.

With Fresh Lemon Wedges

Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the prawns just before eating to enhance their flavors and add a zesty touch.

Accompanied by Crusty Bread

Serve with slices of fresh crusty bread for dipping in the rich garlic and chilli sauce, making each bite even more delightful.

On a Bed of Salad

Place the grilled prawns on a bed of mixed greens or arugula for a refreshing and healthy option that balances the richness of the dish.

With Rice or Quinoa

Serve alongside fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the flavorful sauce, providing a satisfying and wholesome meal.

Garnished with Fresh Herbs

Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro on top for an added burst of freshness and vibrant color to your plate.

As Part of a Platter

Create a seafood platter by pairing these prawns with other grilled seafood options like calamari or shrimp skewers for an impressive presentation.

How to Perfect BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Perfecting your BBQ Grilled Prawns is easy with some simple tips. Follow these suggestions to ensure your prawns are juicy, flavorful, and cooked to perfection.

Choose Fresh Prawns: Always opt for fresh prawns for the best flavor and texture. Frozen prawns can work too but make sure they are fully thawed before cooking.
Marinate Properly: Allow the prawns to marinate in the garlic and olive oil mixture for at least 15 minutes. This ensures they absorb all the delicious flavors.
Control the Heat: Make sure your BBQ coals are white hot before grilling. This provides high enough heat for a good sear while keeping the insides tender.
Don’t Overcook: Keep an eye on cooking times; prawns cook quickly. They should turn pink and opaque without being rubbery, which usually takes only about 1-2 minutes per side.
Use Skewers If Needed: If you’re grilling smaller prawns, consider using skewers to prevent them from falling through the grill. Soak wooden skewers in water first to avoid burning.
Rest Before Serving: Let the grilled prawns rest for a minute after cooking. This allows juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is juicy and full of flavor.

Best Side Dishes for BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

To complement your BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli, consider serving them alongside these delightful side dishes.

Garlic Butter Rice: Fluffy rice sautéed in garlic-infused butter makes for a rich side that pairs perfectly with seafood.
Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables tossed in olive oil and grilled until charred brings out natural sweetness and adds color to your meal.
Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw dressed in tangy vinegar complements the grilled prawns nicely while adding freshness and texture.
Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and herbs provides a refreshing balance against the bold flavors of the prawns.
Zucchini Noodles: Spiralized zucchini tossed in lemon juice makes for a healthy alternative to pasta that enhances the citrus notes of your dish.
Potato Wedges: Crispy potato wedges seasoned with herbs offer heartiness that pairs well with any grilled dish while providing comfort food vibes.
Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad with diced veggies and lemon dressing offers a nutritious option that complements your prawn dish beautifully.
Mediterranean Quinoa Salad: This wholesome salad packed with olives, feta (optional), cucumbers, and tomatoes adds Mediterranean flair and pairs wonderfully with seafood.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can affect the final dish. Here are some tips to help you avoid them.

Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the prawns enough will result in bland flavors. Make sure to use salt and pepper generously for a well-rounded taste.
Bold cooking time: Overcooking the prawns can lead to a rubbery texture. Keep an eye on them and aim for 45 seconds to 1 minute on each side until they are just cooked through.
Bold grilling temperature: Using coals that aren’t hot enough can prevent the prawns from getting a nice char. Wait until all coals are white hot before placing the prawns on the grill.
Bold sauce preparation: Cooking the garlic too long will cause it to become bitter. Saute it just until fragrant and add the lemon juice immediately after.
Bold marinating technique: Forgetting to massage the marinade under the shell means missing out on flavor. Take a moment to ensure each prawn is well-coated.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftover BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli in an airtight container.
They can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 2 days.

Freezing BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Place cooled prawns in a freezer-safe bag or container.
They will last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place prawns on a baking sheet and heat for about 10 minutes.
Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid overcooking.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little oil and sauté the prawns for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some answers to common questions about BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli.

Can I use frozen prawns for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen prawns! Just make sure to thaw them completely before marinating and grilling.

What should I serve with BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli?

These prawns pair well with fresh salads, grilled vegetables, or crusty bread for dipping into the sauce.

How do I know when my prawns are done cooking?

Prawns are done when they turn pink and opaque. The meat should look pearl white inside.

Can I customize this BBQ grilled prawn recipe?

Absolutely! Feel free to adjust the amount of garlic and chilli according to your taste preferences. You could also add herbs like cilantro or basil for extra flavor.

Final Thoughts

BBQ Grilled Prawns with Garlic, Lemon & Chilli offer a delightful blend of flavors that make them perfect for any summer gathering. With just five ingredients and minimal prep time, this dish is both simple and versatile. Don’t hesitate to customize it with your favorite spices or additional toppings—enjoy experimenting!

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