Grilled Chimichurri Chicken is a delightful dish that combines juicy chicken with a vibrant chimichurri sauce. This recipe is quick to prepare, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. The aromatic herbs and zesty flavors of the chimichurri elevate the simple chicken, making it a standout meal that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a delicious meal ready in no time.
Flavor Explosion: The fresh herbs and spices create a lively taste that will impress your family and friends.
Versatile Dish: Great for grilling season, but also suitable for indoor cooking methods, this chicken can be served with various sides.
Healthy Option: Packed with protein and made with fresh ingredients, this dish is light yet satisfying.
Impressive Presentation: The colorful chimichurri sauce makes this dish visually appealing for any gathering.

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Chimichurri Chicken, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools to ensure everything goes smoothly.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Grill or grill pan
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Knife and cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Grill or grill pan: Allows for that perfect char and smoky flavor on the chicken.
Mixing bowl: Essential for combining the chimichurri ingredients thoroughly.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate proportions of your ingredients for balanced flavor.
Knife and cutting board: Necessary for chopping herbs and vegetables efficiently.

Ingredients

For the Chicken

4 skinless boneless chicken breasts

For the Chimichurri Sauce

1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
2 green onions, green parts only, finely chopped
2-3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
1 red chili, deseeded and finely chopped
1/2 tsp dried oregano
1/2 tsp dried basil
1/3 cup olive oil
1 tbsp red or white wine vinegar
Kosher salt and ground pepper, to taste

For Garnish

2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

In a mixing bowl, combine the parsley, cilantro, green onions, garlic, and red chili.
Add the oregano, basil, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper.
Mix well to combine all ingredients thoroughly. Let it rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Pour one-third of the chimichurri sauce over the chicken breasts in a shallow dish or plastic bag.
Marinate for 15 to 20 minutes to infuse the chicken with flavor.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Place the marinated chicken on the grill.
Cook each side for about 6 to 8 minutes until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 4: Serve

Remove grilled chicken from the grill and let it rest briefly.
Serve on a platter topped with reserved chimichurri sauce and garnish with fresh parsley as desired.

Now you have a delicious Grilled Chimichurri Chicken meal ready to impress! Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken is not only flavorful but also versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some delightful ways to present this dish to impress your guests or family.

With Fresh Salad

A light, green salad with mixed greens and tomatoes pairs well, providing a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and chimichurri sauce.

On a Bed of Rice

Serve the grilled chicken over fluffy white rice or quinoa. This creates a hearty meal that absorbs the delicious chimichurri sauce beautifully.

In Tacos

Shred the grilled chicken and use it as a filling for tacos. Add fresh toppings like avocado, cheese, and salsa for a fun twist.

With Grilled Vegetables

Accompany the chicken with an assortment of grilled vegetables such as zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. The smoky flavor complements the dish perfectly.

How to Perfect Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

To ensure your Grilled Chimichurri Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Marinate longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes enhances flavor absorption.
Preheat the grill: Ensuring that your grill is hot before placing the chicken helps achieve nice grill marks and searing.
Use a meat thermometer: Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
Let it rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This keeps it juicy.
Adjust chimichurri ingredients: Feel free to tweak the herbs and spices in your chimichurri sauce based on your taste preferences.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Chimichurri Chicken can elevate your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider.

Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes flavored with garlic make a comforting side that complements the chicken’s taste.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds a delightful crunch and sweetness, balancing out the savory notes of chimichurri.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness pairs beautifully with the zesty chimichurri sauce while adding vibrant color to your plate.
Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw can add crunch and freshness, creating a great contrast with grilled chicken.
Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and feta cheese offers a refreshing bite alongside your main dish.
Grilled Asparagus: The slightly charred flavor of asparagus adds sophistication and works well with both chicken and chimichurri sauce.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Grilling the perfect chimichurri chicken can be challenging. Here are some common mistakes to steer clear of.

Not marinating long enough: Marinating the chicken for only a short time can result in less flavor. Aim for at least 15-20 minutes to allow the chimichurri sauce to penetrate the meat.
Overcooking the chicken: Cooking chicken for too long can make it dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Skipping the resting period: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
Ignoring fresh ingredients: Using dried herbs instead of fresh ones will diminish the flavor of your chimichurri. Always opt for fresh herbs for the best taste.
Not adjusting seasoning: Tastes can vary, so be sure to taste and adjust salt and pepper before serving. Don’t hesitate to add more if needed.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store grilled chimichurri chicken in an airtight container.
It will last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and then place them in a freezer-safe bag.
Frozen grilled chicken can last for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover with a damp paper towel, and heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a little olive oil, and warm the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make Grilled Chimichurri Chicken vegan?

You can substitute chicken with firm tofu or eggplant. Ensure you marinate them with the same chimichurri sauce for flavor.

Can I use other meats for this recipe?

Yes! Grilled chimichurri sauce works well with beef, pork, or even shrimp. Adjust cooking times according to the protein used.

How spicy is Grilled Chimichurri Chicken?

The spice level depends on how much red chili you include. For less heat, reduce or omit the chili altogether.

What side dishes pair well with Grilled Chimichurri Chicken?

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. You can customize sides based on your preferences.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken is not just delicious but also versatile, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Feel free to customize it with your favorite herbs or spices in the chimichurri sauce. Give this recipe a try; your taste buds will thank you!