The aroma of grilled chicken mingling with zesty herbs is like a warm embrace on a sunny day. I was recently whisked away to Argentina with each bite of my Chimichurri Chicken, a vibrant dish that transforms an ordinary meal into something extraordinary. This easy and healthy recipe features juicy marinated chicken thighs, perfectly grilled, and generously topped with a homemade chimichurri sauce bursting with fresh parsley, garlic, and a hint of spice. Not only is Chimichurri Chicken a feast for the senses, but it also brings together an array of flavors in just a matter of minutes. Whether you’re looking for a family-friendly dinner or a crowd-pleaser for your next gathering, this dish is sure to impress. Curious about how to bring that Argentinian flair into your kitchen? Let’s dive into the recipe! Why is Chimichurri Chicken a Must-Try? Flavor Explosion: The vibrant chimichurri sauce transforms grilled chicken into a fiesta of flavors, combining fresh herbs with a touch of garlic and spice. Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings, ensuring you won’t miss out on deliciousness. Health-Conscious Choice: With juicy chicken thighs and zesty sauce, you get a healthy, gluten-free meal that doesn’t skimp on taste—ideal for a nourishing family dinner. Versatile Pairing: Serve with fresh salads or grilled vegetables, or even pair it with rice for a complete meal that’s bursting with color and nutrition. Dinner Party Showstopper: Impress your guests with this beautifully grilled dish—it’s a crowd-pleaser that showcases Argentinian cuisine, making your dinner unforgettable. For more delicious chicken ideas, check out our Garlic Parmesan Chicken or Chicken Biscuits Hot. Chimichurri Chicken Ingredients For the Marinade • Chicken Thighs – The main protein, providing a juicy and succulent base; boneless and skinless is best for tenderness. • Fine Sea Salt – Enhances flavor and promotes even seasoning, ensuring every bite is delicious. • Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Adds richness and helps balance the tangy notes of the vinegar, making the chicken even more flavorful. For the Chimichurri Sauce • Flat-Leaved Parsley – Fresh herb providing vibrant color and herbal notes; feel free to swap with cilantro for a unique twist. • Garlic Cloves – Adds a pungent depth to the sauce; can substitute with garlic powder in a pinch if fresh isn’t available. • Red Wine Vinegar – Contributes acidity and tang, enhancing the overall flavor; apple cider vinegar works well as a substitute too. • Dried Oregano – Offers earthy, aromatic notes; fresh oregano can elevate the flavor even more if you have it on hand. • Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a mild spice that complements the sauce, enhancing the flavors without overpowering them. • Crushed Red Pepper Flakes – Adds just the right amount of heat; adjust according to your spice preference to make your Chimichurri Chicken shine. The vibrant language and tantalizing ingredients of this Chimichurri Chicken recipe will truly ignite your culinary creativity! Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Chimichurri Chicken Step 1: Make the Chimichurri Sauce In a medium bowl, combine chopped flat-leaved parsley, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, fine sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir the mixture well until all ingredients are fully blended. Cover the bowl and let the chimichurri sauce sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight to develop its robust flavors. Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Place the boneless, skinless chicken thighs in a large bowl and sprinkle them generously with fine sea salt. Pour half of the prepared chimichurri sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes, or for maximum flavor, refrigerate it overnight before grilling. Step 3: Preheat the Grill While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat, reaching around 375°F to 450°F. This high temperature ensures a delicious char on your Chimichurri Chicken while keeping it juicy. If using a grill pan or skillet, heat it over medium heat and add a tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil to prevent sticking. Step 4: Grill the Chicken Once the grill is hot, place the marinated chicken thighs smooth-side down on the grates. Grill for approximately 5-7 minutes without moving them, allowing a nice sear to form. Flip each thigh and continue grilling for another 5-7 minutes. Check for doneness; the internal temperature should reach 165°F to ensure your chicken is safe and perfectly cooked. Step 5: Serve the Dish After grilling, remove the chicken thighs from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. This step allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat tender. To serve, plate the grilled Chimichurri Chicken and generously spoon the remaining chimichurri sauce over the top. The vibrant colors and fresh herbs promise to delight your senses! What to Serve with Chimichurri Chicken? Transform your dining experience with these delightful pairings that balance flavors and textures beautifully. Creamy Risotto: This rich and creamy dish balances the zesty chimichurri, making every bite a luxurious delight. The smooth texture of the risotto contrasts wonderfully with the grilled chicken. Grilled Vegetables: A medley of seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, grilled to perfection, adds a fresh crunch that complements the aromatic chicken beautifully. Citrusy Quinoa Salad: This vibrant salad, tossed with citrus vinaigrette, not only adds a refreshing bite but also elevates the overall flavor profile of your meal. Garlic Bread: Toasted garlic bread serves as a delicious vehicle for soaking up the extra chimichurri sauce—the perfect indulgence to balance the lightness of the chicken. Pineapple Salsa: A sweet and tangy pineapple salsa enhances the dish, adding an unexpected tropical twist that pairs wonderfully with the savory notes of the chicken. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: The natural sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes offers a comforting balance to the tangy chimichurri chicken, making for a hearty side. Red Wine: A bold red wine, like Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon, beautifully complements the richness of the chicken and the freshness of the chimichurri, enhancing your meal experience. Fluffy Couscous: Cooked with herbs and lemon zest, couscous is light yet satisfying, providing a delightful texture that pairs perfectly with the juicy chicken. Let these pairings inspire your dinner table, turning your Chimichurri Chicken into a complete and captivating meal! Make Ahead Options Chimichurri Chicken is an excellent choice for meal prep, saving you precious time on busy weeknights! You can prepare the chimichurri sauce up to 24 hours in advance—simply mix all the ingredients, cover, and refrigerate to let the flavors mingle. Additionally, marinate the chicken thighs up to 3 days ahead of cooking. Just season them with salt and half of the chimichurri sauce, and store them in the fridge in an airtight container. When it’s time to cook, allow the chicken to come to room temperature for 15 minutes before grilling. This ensures each bite is just as delicious and juicy as when made fresh! Chimichurri Chicken Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and customize your Chimichurri Chicken to match your taste preferences and pantry staples! Chicken Breasts: Use boneless, skinless chicken breasts instead of thighs for a leaner option. Just remember to adjust the cooking time for tenderness. Herb Swap: Experiment with different herbs like cilantro or mint in your chimichurri for a unique flavor twist. A squeeze of lime adds a refreshing brightness that pairs beautifully. Vegetable Boost: Add grilled vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or eggplant as a colorful side that complements the dish well. They add both flavor and nutrition to your meal. Heat Adjustment: For a milder spice, decrease the crushed red pepper flakes or omit them entirely. If you love heat, add more or toss in some diced jalapeños for an extra kick. Vinegar Variations: Swap red wine vinegar for apple cider or balsamic vinegar to change the tanginess of the chimichurri. Each variant yields a distinct yet delicious flavor! Storage Tip: If you have leftover chimichurri sauce, drizzle it over fresh salads or use it as a marinade for other proteins like steak or fish. Make it Smoky: Add a splash of smoked paprika to your chimichurri for a smoky depth that complements the grilled chicken beautifully. This twist can take your dish to the next level! Sauté Method: Don’t have a grill? No problem! Use a skillet to sauté the marinated chicken, and serve it over a bed of greens for a comforting meal. It’s equally satisfying without the grill marks! Get ready to explore these delightful variations, and don’t forget to check out our Fried Chicken Street and Cream Cheese Chicken for more fun ideas in your kitchen! Expert Tips for Chimichurri Chicken Correct Marinade Time: Marinate for optimal flavor; while 15 minutes works, overnight yields the best results and truly infuses the chicken with the chimichurri’s vibrant flavors. Check Your Grill: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat (375°F to 450°F) before adding the chicken. This controls the cooking process, giving you perfectly grilled Chimichurri Chicken without dryness. Don’t Overcook: Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F to keep your chicken juicy and avoid the common mistake of overcooking, which can lead to a dry texture. Resting is Key: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring every bite is succulent. Fresh Ingredients Matter: Using fresh herbs like flat-leaved parsley and high-quality extra virgin olive oil really elevates the chimichurri sauce, enhancing the overall flavor profile of your dish. How to Store and Freeze Chimichurri Chicken Fridge: Store leftover grilled Chimichurri Chicken in an airtight container for up to 3 days. For the best flavor, reheat gently on the stove or in the oven. Freezer: If you’ve made extra, freeze the grilled chicken in a freezer-safe bag. It will keep well for up to 3 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating. Chimichurri Sauce: The chimichurri can be made in advance and stored in the fridge for up to 1 week, or you can freeze it in small portions for quick use later. Reheating: To reheat, warm the chicken on low heat, adding a splash of water or chicken broth to keep it juicy. Serve with fresh chimichurri sauce for a delicious touch! Chimichurri Chicken Recipe FAQs How do I select ripe ingredients for my Chimichurri Chicken? Absolutely! When selecting chicken thighs, look for ones that are plump and bright pink without any dark spots or off odors. For the chimichurri sauce, choose fresh parsley that is vibrant and not wilted; the leaves should be firm and fragrant. Garlic should be firm with no sprouting, and opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. What is the best way to store leftover Chimichurri Chicken? You can store leftover grilled Chimichurri Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For optimal freshness, reheat it gently—either on the stove or in the oven—not exceeding 165°F. This way, you’ll keep it juicy and flavorful! Can I freeze Chimichurri Chicken for later? Yes, you can! Freeze the grilled chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container. It will keep well for up to 3 months. For best results, thaw the chicken overnight in the fridge before reheating, ensuring it retains its flavor and moisture. What if my chimichurri sauce turns out too spicy? Very much! If your chimichurri sauce is too spicy, just add more olive oil to mellow it out. You can also mix in more chopped parsley or a pinch of sugar to balance the heat. Remember, you can always adjust and taste as you go to find that perfect flavor balance! Are there any dietary considerations I should keep in mind? Yes! This Chimichurri Chicken recipe is gluten-free and healthy, making it suitable for a variety of diets. It’s important to ensure that all your ingredients, especially vinegar and any additional sauces, are gluten-free if you have gluten sensitivities. As always, be mindful of any allergies to specific herbs or spices, such as parsley or garlic. Chimichurri Chicken: Juicy Grilled Goodness with Herb Magic Chimichurri Chicken is a flavorful dish featuring juicy grilled chicken thighs topped with a vibrant chimichurri sauce. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsMarinating Time 15 minutes minsTotal Time 30 minutes mins Servings: 4 servingsCourse: ChickenCuisine: ArgentinianCalories: 300 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Marinade4 thighs Boneless Skinless Chicken Juicy and succulent1 teaspoon Fine Sea Salt For seasoning2 tablespoons Extra Virgin Olive Oil Enhances flavorFor the Chimichurri Sauce1 cup Flat-Leaved Parsley Fresh herb3 cloves Garlic Minced1/4 cup Red Wine Vinegar Contributes acidity1 teaspoon Dried Oregano Offers earthy notes1/2 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Enhances flavor1/4 teaspoon Crushed Red Pepper Flakes Adjust for spice Equipment GrillMedium Bowllarge bowl Method Chimichurri Sauce PreparationIn a medium bowl, combine chopped flat-leaved parsley, minced garlic, extra virgin olive oil, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, fine sea salt, freshly ground black pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes. Stir well and let sit in the fridge for at least 2 hours or overnight.Marinating the ChickenPlace the chicken thighs in a large bowl and sprinkle with fine sea salt. Pour half of the chimichurri sauce over the chicken and marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes or refrigerate overnight for more flavor.Grilling the ChickenPreheat the grill to medium-high heat (375°F to 450°F). Grill the marinated chicken thighs smooth-side down for 5-7 minutes without moving them. Flip and cook for another 5-7 minutes until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.Serving the DishRemove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Plate the grilled chicken and spoon the remaining chimichurri sauce on top. Nutrition Serving: 1thighCalories: 300kcalCarbohydrates: 2gProtein: 20gFat: 24gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 3gMonounsaturated Fat: 16gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 700mgPotassium: 300mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 500IUVitamin C: 10mgCalcium: 30mgIron: 2mg NotesMarinating overnight enhances flavor. Serve with salads or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
