Chimichurri Chicken

Chimichurri chicken is a vibrant, flavorful dish that combines juicy, perfectly grilled or baked chicken with a zesty homemade chimichurri sauce. This Argentine-inspired recipe is loaded with fresh herbs, garlic, olive oil, and a touch of red wine vinegar for a bright, herbaceous kick that pairs beautifully with chicken. It’s quick, healthy, and bursting with bold flavor!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
• Fresh, herby, and packed with bright, zesty flavor
• Naturally low-carb, keto-friendly, and gluten-free
• Perfect for grilling season or indoor cooking
• Versatile—serve with veggies, rice, or salad

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
• Olive oil
• Salt and black pepper

For the chimichurri sauce:

• Fresh parsley, finely chopped
• Fresh cilantro (optional, for extra flavor)
• Fresh garlic, minced
• Red wine vinegar
• Olive oil
• Red pepper flakes or finely chopped fresh chili (optional)
• Dried oregano
• Salt and black pepper

directions

1. Make the chimichurri sauce: In a bowl, mix together chopped parsley, cilantro (if using), garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir in olive oil until well combined. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Let it sit for at least 10 minutes for flavors to meld.
2. Prepare the chicken: Pat the chicken dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Drizzle with a bit of olive oil.
3. Cook the chicken:
   • Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–6 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
   • Stovetop: Heat a grill pan or skillet over medium-high heat. Cook chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side until cooked through.
   • Oven: Bake at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness.
4. Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then slice and spoon plenty of chimichurri sauce over the top. Serve extra sauce on the side.

Servings and timing

• Makes about 4 servings
• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cook time: 15–20 minutes
• Total time: 25–30 minutes

Variations

• Swap chicken for shrimp, steak, or grilled veggies—chimichurri works with almost anything.
• Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice for extra zing.
• Make it spicy with extra chili flakes or fresh chopped jalapeño.
• Stir in a touch of fresh mint for a unique twist.

storage/reheating

• Store leftover cooked chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
• Chimichurri is best served fresh but can be refrigerated for up to 3 days—stir well before using.

FAQs

What is chimichurri sauce made of?

It’s a fresh mix of parsley, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, and spices—like a zesty herb dressing.

Can I make chimichurri ahead of time?

Yes! It tastes even better after a few hours in the fridge. Just stir before serving.

What cut of chicken is best for chimichurri chicken?

Boneless thighs or breasts both work well—thighs stay extra juicy on the grill.

How do I keep chicken from drying out?

Don’t overcook it. Use an instant-read thermometer and rest the chicken for a few minutes before slicing.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

Fresh is best for chimichurri, but in a pinch, you can use dried oregano—don’t replace the parsley.

Is chimichurri spicy?

It’s not super spicy, but you can adjust the heat with more chili flakes or fresh chili.

Can I freeze chimichurri sauce?

Freezing isn’t recommended as the herbs can lose their fresh texture.

What should I serve with chimichurri chicken?

Rice, roasted potatoes, grilled veggies, or a fresh green salad.

Can I marinate chicken in chimichurri?

Yes! Reserve some sauce for serving, and use the rest to marinate chicken for up to 4 hours.

Is chimichurri chicken healthy?

Absolutely! It’s high in protein, fresh herbs, and healthy fats from olive oil.

Conclusion

Chimichurri chicken is a bright, bold, and delicious dish that’s sure to impress. With juicy, perfectly cooked chicken and a vibrant sauce, it’s a quick, healthy dinner you’ll want to make again and again. Fire up the grill (or stovetop) and enjoy this easy flavor-packed meal!

Print