Chimichurri Chicken Recipe
Welcome to the heart of flavor! If you’re looking for a dish that not only tantalizes your taste buds but also brings a burst of color and zest to your dinner table, then you’ve landed in the right place. This Chimichurri Chicken Recipe is a delightful combination of juicy chicken thighs and a vibrant chimichurri sauce that will make your meal feel like a celebration. Whether you’re hosting friends or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this dish is sure to impress.
Chimichurri sauce, with its fresh herbs and zesty kick, is a traditional Argentinian condiment that pairs perfectly with grilled meats. The best part? It’s super easy to make! You’ll find that the ingredients are simple yet packed with flavor. Plus, this recipe offers flexibility; you can grill or sauté the chicken based on your preference. Let’s dive into the details of this mouthwatering dish!
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs (about 8 pieces, boneless and skinless)
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 1 cup flat-leaf parsley (finely chopped from 1 bunch)
- 4 garlic cloves (finely minced)
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 2 1/2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 tsp dried oregano (or 1 Tbsp fresh oregano)
- 1/2 tsp fine sea salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Instructions
- Prepare the Chimichurri sauce by combining all of the ingredients in a bowl in the order listed. Stir together, cover, and refrigerate for 2 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully.
- Place the chicken into a mixing bowl and add 1/2 tsp salt and half of the prepared Chimichurri sauce. Cover and marinate for 15 minutes or refrigerate overnight if making ahead. Marinating is key for flavor!
- To grill the chicken, preheat the grill over medium/high heat. Place the chicken smooth-side down on the hot grates, cover, and grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165˚F at the thickest point with an instant-read thermometer.
- Alternatively, to sauté the chicken, preheat a heavy skillet over medium heat and add 1 Tbsp olive oil. Add the chicken smooth-side down and sauté for 5-7 minutes per side or until cooked through and 165˚F at the thickest point.
- To serve the chicken, arrange it on a platter and spoon on the remaining chimichurri sauce. Serve right away for the best flavor experience.
Tips & Variations
- Herb Variations: Feel free to experiment with the herbs in your chimichurri. You can add cilantro for a different flavor profile.
- Spice Level: If you love heat, increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño to the sauce.
- Marinating Time: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. This gives the chicken a deeper taste.
- Serving Options: This chicken pairs beautifully with roasted vegetables or a fresh salad. Try serving it over a bed of quinoa or rice for a complete meal.
Serving Suggestions
When it comes to serving this Chimichurri Chicken, the options are endless! A fresh garden salad or roasted seasonal vegetables make great accompaniments. If you’re in the mood for something hearty, consider pairing it with garlic mashed potatoes or a fluffy couscous salad. And don’t forget some crusty bread to soak up all that delicious chimichurri sauce!
Conclusion
This Chimichurri Chicken Recipe is not just a meal; it’s an experience that brings friends and family together around the table. The vibrant flavors of the chimichurri sauce elevate simple chicken thighs into a dish that feels special. Whether you grill or sauté, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor. So gather your ingredients, roll up your sleeves, and get ready to impress!
FAQ
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out faster than thighs. Be sure to monitor the cooking time closely.
How do I store leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken and chimichurri sauce in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to avoid drying out the chicken.
Can I freeze the chimichurri sauce?
Absolutely! You can freeze chimichurri sauce in an ice cube tray. Once frozen, transfer to a zip-top bag for easy use later.
What can I serve with chimichurri chicken?
This chicken pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, rice, or even a light pasta dish. Feel free to get creative!
Delicious Chimichurri Chicken Recipe for Flavor Lovers
Course: Main CourseCuisine: ArgentinianDifficulty: Easy8
servings20
minutes10
minutes446
kcalDiscover the vibrant flavors of Chimichurri Chicken! Easy, delicious, and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients
2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)2 lbs chicken thighs (boneless and skinless)
1/2 tsp fine sea salt1/2 tsp fine sea salt
1 cup flat-leaf parsley (finely chopped)1 cup flat-leaf parsley (finely chopped)
4 garlic cloves (minced)4 garlic cloves (minced)
1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
2 1/2 Tbsp red wine vinegar2 1/2 Tbsp red wine vinegar
1/2 tsp dried oregano1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp fine sea salt1/2 tsp fine sea salt
1/4 tsp black pepper1/4 tsp black pepper
1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes1/4 tsp crushed red pepper flakes
Directions
- Combine all chimichurri sauce ingredients in a bowl and refrigerate.
- Marinate chicken with salt and half of the chimichurri sauce.
- Grill or sauté the chicken until cooked through.
- Serve chicken with remaining chimichurri sauce.











