In the hustle and bustle of life, finding a dish that brings both flavor and ease to the table can feel like a treasure hunt. Enter Chimichurri Chicken—a recipe that transforms simple ingredients into a culinary experience. As I discovered this vibrant Argentinian delight, the tantalizing aroma of marinated chicken and zesty herb sauce took over my kitchen, making it impossible to resist.
Picture this: succulent chicken thighs, kissed by the grill, their tender flesh infused with a garlicky, herbaceous chimichurri that dances across your palate. Whether you’re preparing a satisfying weeknight dinner or elevating your weekend meal, this quick recipe promises to impress without the fuss. With just a handful of ingredients and under an hour, you’ll be serving up joy on a plate—perfect for those who crave homemade goodness but are tired of the same old routine. Grab your apron, and let’s bring a little slice of Argentina to your dinner table!
Why is Chimichurri Chicken Recipe a Must-Try?
Simplicity at Its Best: This Chimichurri Chicken recipe requires minimal ingredients and straightforward steps, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal quickly.
Bursting with Flavor: The chimichurri sauce is a vibrant blend of fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil, creating a zesty kick that elevates the tender chicken.
Versatile Meal: Serve it with a salad, roasted veggies, or rice for a complete meal, making it perfect for any occasion.
Healthy Choice: With lean chicken thighs and fresh ingredients, this dish is not only satisfying but nutritious too.
Time-Saver: Ready in under an hour, it’s an excellent option for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings. Enjoy homemade deliciousness with minimal effort!
Chimichurri Chicken Ingredients
For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – Use boneless and skinless thighs for maximum tenderness when grilled.
• Fine Sea Salt – Enhances the flavor during marination; adjust according to your taste preference.
For the Chimichurri Sauce
• Flat-Leaf Parsley – Finely chop one bunch for a bright herb base that brings freshness to the dish.
• Garlic Cloves – Minced finely, they add aromatic depth that permeates the chicken.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – This rich base helps to blend the flavors wonderfully within the sauce.
• Red Wine Vinegar – Offers essential acidity; feel free to substitute with white wine vinegar for a gentler flavor.
• Dried Oregano – A herbaceous touch; fresh oregano can provide an even brighter taste when available.
• Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Enhances the overall spiciness; adjust to your personal preference.
• Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – An optional ingredient for those who enjoy a gentle heat in their chimichurri.
This Chimichurri Chicken recipe is all about fresh flavors and effortless cooking, making it the perfect addition to your weeknight dinner lineup!
How to Make Chimichurri Chicken
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Prepare Chimichurri Sauce: In a bowl, combine finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and let it sit covered for 2 hours or overnight to meld the flavors.
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Marinate Chicken: Toss the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a bowl with 1/2 tsp of sea salt and half of the chimichurri sauce. Cover and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse flavors.
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Cooking (Grilling): Preheat your grill to medium/high heat. Place the chicken smooth-side down on the grill, cooking for 5-7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165˚F and the chicken is beautifully charred.
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Cooking (Sautéing): Alternatively, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, ensuring it is thoroughly cooked through and golden.
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Serve: Arrange the grilled chicken on a platter, drizzle with the remaining chimichurri sauce, and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
Optional: Top with sliced avocado for an extra layer of creaminess.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Make Ahead Options
These Chimichurri Chicken preparations are perfect for busy weeknights! You can make the chimichurri sauce up to 24 hours in advance; simply mix all the ingredients and refrigerate to enhance the flavors. Additionally, you can marinate the chicken thighs in half the chimichurri sauce for up to 3 hours before cooking without losing quality. To prepare, keep the marinated chicken in the refrigerator until you’re ready to grill or sauté. When you’re ready to serve, cook the chicken as instructed, and drizzle with the remaining chimichurri. This advanced prep not only saves you time, but you’ll still enjoy a delicious and vibrant Chimichurri Chicken dinner that’s just as mouthwatering!
What to Serve with Chimichurri Chicken?
Create a symphony of flavors and textures to complement your succulent chicken masterpiece.
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Creamy Mashed Potatoes: These buttery potatoes soak up the chimichurri sauce, enhancing each bite with richness and comfort.
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Fresh Arugula Salad: The peppery notes of arugula pair beautifully with the zesty sauce, adding freshness and a crisp contrast to the dish.
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Grilled Vegetable Medley: Charred vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers harmonize with the smoky notes of the grilled chicken, making for a colorful and nutritious side.
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Quinoa Pilaf: A fluffy quinoa base infused with herbs complements both the chicken’s flavors and the chimichurri without overpowering them.
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Roasted Corn on the Cob: Sweet and slightly charred corn brings a delightful pop of flavor that pairs perfectly with the herbaceous chicken.
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Cucumber Tomato Salad: Bright, refreshing, and tangy, this salad can cut through the richness of the chicken, making each bite feel light and joyful.
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Red Wine: A glass of medium-bodied red wine, like a Malbec, enhances the depth of flavor in the chicken and complements the chimichurri’s acidity beautifully.
Chimichurri Chicken Variations
Feel free to get creative with this recipe and discover how a few twists can elevate your dish!
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Chicken Breasts: Swap out thighs for chicken breasts, adjusting cook time for a leaner option.
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Vegetarian Delight: Replace chicken with marinated portobello mushrooms for a robust, meat-free meal. Grilling them brings out their earthy flavors.
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Vegan Twist: Use grilled tofu instead of chicken, marinating it in the chimichurri sauce to infuse all those vibrant flavors. It’s a delightful plant-based alternative.
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Zesty Citrus: Squeeze fresh lime or lemon juice into the chimichurri sauce for a bright, citrusy kick. This adds a refreshing zest that pairs well with the chicken.
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Spicy Kick: Add more crushed red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños to the chimichurri for a fiery boost. Spice lovers will appreciate this extra layer of flavor!
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Herb Variations: Incorporate fresh cilantro or mint along with parsley in the chimichurri for a delightful twist that adds complexity to the traditional flavor.
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Texture Boost: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or chopped walnuts in the chimichurri to add a satisfying crunch that elevates each bite.
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Creamy Addition: Top the dish with a dollop of Greek yogurt or avocado crema for a creamy contrast that enhances the zesty flavors of the chimichurri.
How to Store and Freeze Chimichurri Chicken
Fridge: Store leftover Chimichurri Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave to maintain juiciness.
Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the marinated chicken thighs in a resealable freezer bag for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
Reheating: When reheating from the fridge or freezer, keep the chicken covered to trap moisture, preventing it from drying out during the process.
Serving Advice: Always drizzle fresh chimichurri sauce on top after reheating to revitalize the flavors and add a vibrant, zesty touch!
Expert Tips for Chimichurri Chicken
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Room Temperature Chicken: Make sure to bring your chicken thighs to room temperature before cooking. This helps them cook evenly and retain moisture.
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Marination Time: For the most flavorful Chimichurri Chicken, consider marinating for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, to fully infuse the flavors.
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Use a Meat Thermometer: To achieve the perfect doneness, use an instant-read thermometer. Chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165˚F to ensure safety and juiciness.
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Resting Period: Let your chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring each bite is delightful and moist.
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Keep Some Sauce Separate: Reserve a portion of the chimichurri sauce that hasn’t come into contact with raw chicken for serving to avoid cross-contamination while adding that zesty finish.
These tips will help you create the best possible Chimichurri Chicken recipe, making your dinner truly special!
Chimichurri Chicken Recipe FAQs
What type of chicken is best for chimichurri?
Using boneless and skinless chicken thighs is ideal for this Chimichurri Chicken recipe because they stay juicy and tender throughout cooking. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but be mindful of reducing cooking time to avoid drying them out.
How should I store leftover chimichurri chicken?
Leftover Chimichurri Chicken should be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can use a microwave or stovetop; just be sure to cover it to retain moisture and prevent the chicken from drying out.
Can I freeze chimichurri chicken?
Absolutely! To freeze, place the marinated chicken thighs in a resealable freezer bag. Make sure to remove as much air as possible and label the bag. It can be frozen for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to cook, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight before grilling or sautéing.
How can I ensure the chimichurri sauce stays fresh for longer?
To keep your chimichurri sauce fresh, store it in a tightly sealed jar in the refrigerator. It should last for about 1 week. If you want to extend its life, you can freeze the chimichurri in ice cube trays. Once frozen, transfer the cubes to a resealable bag and use them as needed.
What if my chicken isn’t cooking evenly?
If you find your chicken is cooking unevenly, it might be because it’s not at room temperature before cooking. Always let your marinated chicken sit out for about 20-30 minutes before grilling or sautéing. Also, using an instant-read thermometer can help prevent undercooking or overcooking.
Is chimichurri suitable for people with dietary restrictions?
Yes! This Chimichurri Chicken recipe is naturally gluten-free and can be made dairy-free. If you have allergies, just double-check the ingredients in your chimichurri sauce, particularly the vinegar and any added spices, to ensure they meet your dietary needs.
Zesty Chimichurri Chicken Recipe for Effortless Dinner Bliss
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, combine finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, black pepper, and red pepper flakes. Mix well and let it sit covered for 2 hours or overnight to meld the flavors.
- Toss the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a bowl with 1/2 tsp of sea salt and half of the chimichurri sauce. Cover and let it marinate for at least 15 minutes to infuse flavors.
- Preheat your grill to medium/high heat. Place the chicken smooth-side down on the grill, cooking for 5-7 minutes on each side until the internal temperature reaches 165˚F and the chicken is beautifully charred.
- Alternatively, heat a skillet over medium heat and add a drizzle of olive oil. Sauté the marinated chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, ensuring it is thoroughly cooked through and golden.
- Arrange the grilled chicken on a platter, drizzle with the remaining chimichurri sauce, and serve immediately with your choice of sides.
- Optional: Top with sliced avocado for an extra layer of creaminess.