Chimichurri Steak Bowl

Chimichurri Steak Bowl is a bold, satisfying meal that features juicy grilled steak, vibrant chimichurri sauce, and a medley of fresh vegetables and grains all in one bowl. Packed with flavor and balanced with protein, healthy fats, and fiber, this dish is perfect for a nourishing lunch or a hearty dinner that feels both indulgent and wholesome.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This bowl delivers on every level: savory, tangy, fresh, and filling. The steak is tender and perfectly seared, while the chimichurri sauce adds a bright, herby punch that ties everything together. It’s a customizable, meal prep–friendly recipe that works equally well hot or cold. Whether you’re feeding a family or prepping meals for the week, this bowl will become a go-to.

ingredients

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

For the steak:

  • Flank steak or skirt steak
  • Olive oil
  • Garlic powder
  • Salt and pepper

For the chimichurri sauce:

  • Fresh parsley
  • Fresh cilantro (optional)
  • Garlic
  • Red wine vinegar
  • Olive oil
  • Red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper

For the bowl:

  • Cooked rice, quinoa, or cauliflower rice
  • Cherry tomatoes (halved)
  • Avocado (sliced)
  • Cucumber (diced)
  • Red onion (thinly sliced)
  • Corn (grilled or canned)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

directions

  1. Season the steak with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Let sit at room temperature for 20–30 minutes.
  2. While the steak rests, prepare the chimichurri by finely chopping parsley (and cilantro if using), garlic, and mixing with red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Set aside.
  3. Heat a grill or skillet over high heat. Cook the steak for 3–5 minutes per side, depending on thickness and desired doneness. Let rest for 5–10 minutes, then slice against the grain.
  4. Assemble the bowls by dividing the cooked rice or grains into serving bowls.
  5. Top with steak slices, cherry tomatoes, avocado, cucumber, red onion, and corn.
  6. Drizzle generously with chimichurri sauce and serve with lime wedges.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 20 minutes
Cook time: 10 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes

Variations

  • Swap steak for grilled chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a different protein option.
  • Use farro, brown rice, or couscous instead of white rice.
  • Add black beans or pickled jalapeños for extra flavor and heat.
  • Make it dairy-friendly with a topping of crumbled feta or cotija cheese.
  • Add leafy greens like arugula or spinach to turn it into more of a salad-style bowl.

storage/reheating

Store components separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Reheat steak and rice in a skillet or microwave until warmed through.
Chimichurri sauce should be kept in the fridge and stirred before using again.
Avoid storing avocado if prepping ahead—add fresh when serving.

FAQs

What cut of steak is best for chimichurri bowls?

Flank steak, skirt steak, or sirloin all work well thanks to their rich flavor and quick cooking time.

Can I make this recipe ahead of time?

Yes, it’s perfect for meal prep. Assemble components ahead and store separately.

Is chimichurri spicy?

It’s mildly spicy due to red pepper flakes, but you can adjust the heat to taste.

Can I use store-bought chimichurri?

You can, but homemade is fresher and allows for better flavor control.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free grains like rice or quinoa.

How long should I let the steak rest?

Letting it rest 5–10 minutes after cooking helps the juices redistribute for maximum tenderness.

Can I use frozen corn?

Yes, thawed frozen corn works well—just sauté it briefly for best flavor.

Can I make it vegetarian?

Absolutely. Use grilled vegetables or tofu as the protein and load up on veggies and beans.

What kind of vinegar should I use for chimichurri?

Red wine vinegar is traditional, but white vinegar or lemon juice can be used in a pinch.

How do I store leftover chimichurri sauce?

Keep it in a sealed jar in the fridge for up to 1 week. It also freezes well in ice cube trays.

Conclusion

The Chimichurri Steak Bowl is a fresh, flavorful, and nourishing dish that brings bold Argentine-inspired flavors to your table. With its colorful presentation, satisfying textures, and zesty chimichurri, this bowl is perfect for busy weeknights, relaxed weekend dinners, or lunch on the go. Make it your own with endless variations and enjoy a well-rounded meal in every bite.

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Chimichurri Steak Bowl

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This Chimichurri Steak Bowl is packed with juicy grilled steak, fluffy rice, and fresh veggies, all topped with a zesty homemade chimichurri sauce. It’s bold, colorful, and full of satisfying textures – perfect for lunch, dinner, or a make-ahead meal!

  • Author: Beth
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 20 minutes
  • Total Time: 30 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: South American-Inspired

Ingredients

Scale

For the Steak:

  • 1 1/2 lbs flank steak or skirt steak

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • Juice of 1 lime

  • 2 garlic cloves, minced

  • 1 tsp ground cumin

  • Salt and black pepper to taste

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

  • 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro (optional)

  • 3 garlic cloves, minced

  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

  • 1/2 cup olive oil

  • 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

  • Salt and pepper to taste

For the Bowl:

  • 2 cups cooked rice (white, brown, or cauliflower rice)

  • 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

  • 1 avocado, sliced

  • 1/2 red onion, thinly sliced

  • 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco or feta (optional)

  • Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

  1. In a shallow dish or zip-top bag, combine olive oil, lime juice, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add steak and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).

  2. While steak marinates, make the chimichurri: mix parsley, cilantro (if using), garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes in a bowl. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside.

  3. Heat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill steak for 4–5 minutes per side for medium-rare, or to your desired doneness. Let rest for 5 minutes, then slice thinly against the grain.

  4. To assemble the bowls: divide rice between bowls, then top with steak slices, tomatoes, avocado, red onion, and cheese if using.

  5. Drizzle generously with chimichurri and serve with lime wedges.

Notes

  • Great for meal prep! Store ingredients separately and assemble when ready to eat.

  • Swap rice for quinoa or greens to lighten it up.

  • Leftover chimichurri makes a great marinade or dipping sauce.

 


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