18 Juicy Grilled Duck Recipes for Gourmet Dinners

recipesforlife

April 6, 2025

Get ready to elevate your dinner game with these mouth-watering grilled duck recipes! Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, our collection of 18 delectable dishes is sure to impress. From sweet and sticky honey glazes to savory and spicy five-spice blends, we’ve got the perfect recipe for any taste or occasion.

In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey around the world, exploring flavors and techniques from Asia to the Americas. You’ll find recipes that pair perfectly with summer’s sweetest stone fruits, as well as those that are hearty enough to warm up chilly winter nights. And don’t worry – we’ve got plenty of options for vegetarians and vegans too! So grab your apron, fire up the grill, and get ready to savor the rich, buttery flavor of perfectly cooked duck.

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Honey Glazed Grilled Duck with Orange Zest

Honey Glazed Grilled Duck with Orange Zest
This recipe combines the rich flavors of honey, orange zest, and grilled duck breast for a truly unique and delicious dish.

Ingredients:

– 4 duck breasts
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup orange marmalade
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 teaspoon grated orange zest
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, orange marmalade, and 1 tablespoon of olive oil.
3. Brush the glaze all over the duck breasts, making sure they are fully coated.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Grill the duck for 8-10 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
6. During the last minute of grilling, brush the remaining orange juice and zest all over the duck.
7. Let the duck rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Spicy Five-Spice Grilled Duck Breast

Spicy Five-Spice Grilled Duck Breast
Elevate your grilled duck game with this bold and aromatic recipe. The combination of five-spice powder, soy sauce, and honey creates a sweet and savory glaze that pairs perfectly with the smokiness from the grill.

Ingredients:

– 4 duck breasts
– 2 tbsp five-spice powder
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together five-spice powder, soy sauce, and honey until well combined.
3. Brush both sides of the duck breasts with olive oil and season with salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
4. Grill duck for 5-7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C).
5. During the last minute of grilling, brush the five-spice glaze all over the duck.
6. Remove from heat and let rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes total

Grilled Duck with Cherry Balsamic Reduction

Grilled Duck with Cherry Balsamic Reduction
Savor the sweet and tangy flavors of this summer-inspired dish, perfect for a special occasion or a backyard BBQ.

Ingredients:

– 1 duck breast (about 1 lb), skin removed
– 1 cup cherry preserves
– 1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh thyme leaves, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together cherry preserves and balsamic vinegar until well combined.
3. Brush the duck breast with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the duck for 5-6 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness.
5. While the duck is cooking, simmer the cherry-balsamic mixture over low heat for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally, until thickened slightly.
6. Once the duck is cooked, brush with the warm reduction sauce and garnish with chopped thyme leaves (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes

Garlic and Herb Marinated Grilled Duck

Garlic and Herb Marinated Grilled Duck
Elevate your grilling game with this flavorful recipe that combines the richness of duck with the pungency of garlic and herbs. Perfect for a special occasion or a weekend dinner.

Ingredients:

– 4 duck breasts (boneless)
– 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 blender or food processor, combine olive oil, vinegar, garlic, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Place duck breasts in a shallow dish and pour marinade over them. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove duck from marinade and grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through to your desired level of doneness.
5. Let rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Smoky Maple-Glazed Grilled Duck Legs

Smoky Maple-Glazed Grilled Duck Legs
Elevate your grilling game with these tender and flavorful duck legs smothered in a sweet and tangy maple glaze, infused with the deep flavors of smoked paprika.

Ingredients:

– 4 duck legs
– 1/2 cup pure maple syrup
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together maple syrup, apple cider vinegar, and smoked paprika.
3. Season duck legs with salt and black pepper.
4. Grill duck legs for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush glaze over duck legs during the last 2 minutes of grilling.
6. Let rest for 5 minutes before serving.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Asian-Inspired Grilled Duck with Hoisin Sauce

Asian-Inspired Grilled Duck with Hoisin Sauce
Asian-Inspired Grilled Duck with Hoisin Sauce: A sweet and savory twist on traditional grilled duck, infused with the flavors of Asia.

Ingredients:

– 1 whole duck (3-4 lbs), patted dry
– 1/4 cup hoisin sauce
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tsp grated ginger
– 2 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together hoisin sauce, soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, and garlic.
3. Brush the duck all over with the marinade, making sure to get some under the skin as well.
4. Place the duck on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last minute of cooking, brush the duck with sesame oil.
6. Let the duck rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving. Garnish with chopped scallions.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Grilled Duck Skewers with Pineapple Salsa

Grilled Duck Skewers with Pineapple Salsa
Grilled Duck Skewers with Pineapple Salsa Recipe

Savor the sweet and savory flavors of grilled duck skewers paired with a tangy pineapple salsa, perfect for your next outdoor gathering or BBQ.

Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless duck breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
– Pineapple Salsa (see below)

Pineapple Salsa:
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/2 cup red onion, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon lime juice
– Salt to taste

Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, soy sauce, honey, paprika, salt, and pepper. Add the duck pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Thread the marinated duck onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
4. Grill the skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, prepare the Pineapple Salsa by combining all ingredients in a bowl and refrigerating for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
6. Serve grilled duck skewers with Pineapple Salsa on the side.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Rosemary and Thyme Grilled Duck Tenderloins

Rosemary and Thyme Grilled Duck Tenderloins
Elevate your grilling game with this aromatic and flavorful recipe that combines the earthy notes of rosemary and thyme with tender duck. Perfect for a special occasion or a cozy night in.

Ingredients:

– 4 duck tenderloins (about 1 pound)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh rosemary
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh thyme
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon black pepper

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together olive oil, rosemary, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the duck tenderloins.
4. Grill the duck for 5-7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Let the duck rest for 2-3 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes

Grilled Duck with Blackberry Gastrique

Grilled Duck with Blackberry Gastrique
Grilled Duck with Blackberry Gastrique: A Sweet and Savory Twist on a Classic Recipe

This dish is perfect for a special occasion or a dinner party, offering a unique combination of flavors that will impress your guests. The sweet and tangy blackberry gastrique pairs perfectly with the smoky grilled duck.

Ingredients:

– 4 duck breasts
– 1 cup blackberries
– 1/2 cup port wine
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small saucepan, combine blackberries, port wine, honey, and apple cider vinegar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
3. Season duck breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Grill duck for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Brush blackberry gastrique on the grilled duck during the last minute of cooking.
6. Serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Citrus-Marinated Grilled Duck Quarters

Citrus-Marinated Grilled Duck Quarters
Citrus-Marinated Grilled Duck Quarters Recipe

This refreshing summer recipe combines the sweetness of citrus with the richness of grilled duck quarters, resulting in a dish that’s both flavorful and tender. Perfect for a backyard barbecue or a special occasion.

Ingredients:

– 4 duck quarters
– 1/2 cup freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed grapefruit juice
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh rosemary leaves for garnish (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together orange juice, grapefruit juice, honey, garlic, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the duck quarters in a large ziplock bag and pour in the marinade. Seal and refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight.
4. Remove the duck from the marinade and shake off excess. Brush with olive oil.
5. Grill the duck quarters for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Let rest for a few minutes before serving. Garnish with fresh rosemary leaves, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Grilled Duck Salad with Mango and Avocado

Grilled Duck Salad with Mango and Avocado
This refreshing salad combines the smoky flavor of grilled duck breast with the sweetness of mango, creaminess of avocado, and a hint of tangy citrus. Perfect for a light and satisfying meal or as a unique appetizer.

Ingredients:

– 4 duck breasts
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/4 cup mixed greens
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season duck breasts with salt, pepper, and a drizzle of olive oil.
3. Grill duck for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, diced mango, and crumbled feta cheese (if using).
5. Slice grilled duck into strips and place on top of the salad.
6. Drizzle with lime juice and serve immediately.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

BBQ Grilled Duck with Bourbon Glaze

BBQ Grilled Duck with Bourbon Glaze
Elevate your backyard BBQ game with this mouthwatering duck recipe, featuring a rich bourbon glaze that complements the smoky flavor of the grill.

Ingredients:

– 1 (3-4 lb) Muscovy or Pekin duck breast
– 1/2 cup bourbon whiskey
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 tbsp apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp Dijon mustard
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat (400°F).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together bourbon, honey, vinegar, mustard, and smoked paprika.
3. Season the duck breast with salt and pepper.
4. Grill the duck for 10-12 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
5. During the last 5 minutes of grilling, brush the bourbon glaze all over the duck.
6. Let the duck rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes

Grilled Duck with Fig and Port Wine Sauce

Grilled Duck with Fig and Port Wine Sauce
A sweet and savory fusion of flavors, this recipe combines the rich taste of grilled duck with the lusciousness of figs and port wine.

Ingredients:

– 4 boneless duck breasts
– 1/2 cup fig jam
– 1/4 cup port wine
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small saucepan, combine fig jam, port wine, and honey. Bring to a simmer over low heat.
3. Grill duck breasts for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Brush the fig and port wine glaze over the duck during the last minute of grilling.
5. Let the duck rest for 5 minutes before slicing and serving.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Jerk-Spiced Grilled Duck with Mango Chutney

Jerk-Spiced Grilled Duck with Mango Chutney
Experience the bold flavors of Jamaica with this mouthwatering combination of spiced grilled duck and sweet mango chutney. Perfect for a summer BBQ or dinner party, this recipe is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 2 duck breasts
– 1/4 cup jerk seasoning
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together jerk seasoning and olive oil.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both duck breasts.
4. Grill duck for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, combine mango, brown sugar, apple cider vinegar, and soy sauce in a separate bowl.
6. Simmer the chutney over low heat for 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally.
7. Serve grilled duck with warm mango chutney spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Grilled Duck Breast with Red Wine Reduction

Grilled Duck Breast with Red Wine Reduction
Elevate your grilling game with this easy-to-make recipe that pairs perfectly seared duck breast with a rich red wine reduction.

Ingredients:

– 4 duck breasts, skin removed
– 1/4 cup red wine (such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season duck breasts with salt and pepper.
3. Grill duck for 4-5 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 135°F (57°C).
4. Meanwhile, combine red wine, olive oil, garlic, and honey in a small saucepan.
5. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat and cook until reduced by half, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve grilled duck breast with red wine reduction spooned over the top.

Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes

Grilled Duck Tacos with Chipotle Lime Crema

Grilled Duck Tacos with Chipotle Lime Crema
Elevate your taco game with this unique fusion of flavors, featuring grilled duck breast, crispy tortillas, and a tangy chipotle lime crema.

Ingredients:

– 4 duck breasts
– 1/2 cup chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
– 1/2 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Cilantro, chopped (optional)
– Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chipotle peppers, sour cream, lime juice, and honey.
3. Season duck breasts with salt and pepper.
4. Grill duck breasts 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 slicing grilled duck into thin strips and serving on tortillas with chipotle lime crema and chopped cilantro (if using).
7. Serve immediately and enjoy!

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Teriyaki Grilled Duck Thighs with Scallions

Teriyaki Grilled Duck Thighs with Scallions
Elevate your grilling game with this sweet and savory teriyaki-inspired recipe for duck thighs. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion, these grilled duck thighs are sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 4-6 duck thighs
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 bunch scallions, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, soy sauce, honey, and garlic.
3. Brush the mixture evenly onto both sides of the duck thighs.
4. Grill duck for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, brush scallions with vegetable oil and season with salt and pepper.
6. Grill scallions for 1-2 minutes per side, or until slightly charred.
7. Serve grilled duck thighs with scallions on top.

Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes

Grilled Duck with Peppercorn Cream Sauce

Grilled Duck with Peppercorn Cream Sauce
This decadent dish combines the richness of grilled duck breast with a creamy peppercorn sauce, perfect for a special occasion or dinner party. The combination of flavors and textures is sure to impress.

Ingredients:

– 4 duck breasts
– 1/2 cup heavy cream
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly ground black pepper
– 1 teaspoon white peppercorns
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)

Instructions:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Season duck breasts with salt and black pepper.
3. Grill duck for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, melt butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
5. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute.
6. Stir in heavy cream, black pepper, and white peppercorns.
7. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes, or until slightly thickened.
8. Serve grilled duck with peppercorn cream sauce spooned over the top. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.

Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes

Summary

Get ready to elevate your dinner game with these 18 mouthwatering grilled duck recipes! From sweet and sticky honey glazes to spicy five-spice marinades, there’s something for every palate. Try pairing citrusy flavors with smoky maple glaze or go bold with bourbon-infused BBQ sauce. Whether you’re in the mood for tenderloins or legs, these gourmet-inspired recipes will guide you through every step. Impress your guests and treat yourself to a culinary adventure with these succulent grilled duck dishes.

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