Jul 14 2026
RestaurantsSuperior GrillMesquite Grilled Quail Recipe

Mesquite Grilled Quail Recipe

Inspired by Superior Grill
Time1h 30m
Serves3

Three whole quail, rice and house-cut fries

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Ingredients

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Quail Marinade

Rice

Method

Marinating the Quail

  1. 1

    Prepare the Marinade

    In a bowl, mix together olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and black pepper to create the marinade.

  2. 2

    Marinate the Quail

    Place the whole quail in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the quail, ensuring they are well coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or up to overnight for more flavor.

Preparing the Rice

  1. 3

    Rinse the Rice

    Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

  2. 4

    Cook the Rice

    In a pot, combine the rinsed rice, water, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for another 5 minutes.

Making the Fries

  1. 5

    Prepare the Potatoes

    Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C). Cut the potatoes into fries and place them in a large bowl.

  2. 6

    Season and Bake the Fries

    Drizzle the olive oil over the cut fries, then sprinkle with salt and black pepper. Toss to coat evenly. Spread the fries in a single layer on a baking sheet and bake for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until golden and crispy.

Grilling the Quail

  1. 7

    Prepare the Grill

    Soak the mesquite wood chips in water for at least 30 minutes. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

  2. 8

    Grill the Quail

    Remove the quail from the marinade and let excess marinade drip off. Place the quail on the grill, and add the soaked mesquite wood chips to the grill for smoking. Grill for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the skin is crispy.

Serving

  1. 9

    Plate the Dish

    On a serving plate, place a scoop of rice, add the grilled quail on top, and serve with a side of house-cut fries.

  2. 10

    Enjoy

    Serve hot and enjoy your delicious mesquite grilled quail with rice and fries!

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