Name: Chimichurri Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 10 min
Total time: 45 min
Ingredients: 2 lbs chicken thighs, boneless and skinless (about 8 pieces); 1/2 tsp fine sea salt; 1 cup flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped (from 1 bunch); 4 cloves garlic, 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

Introduction to Chimichurri Chicken Recipe

If you're craving something full of flavor that doesn't involve the hassle of takeout, this chimichurri chicken recipe is your answer! Not only is it delicious, but making it at home gives you the control to customize everything to your taste. Takeout can often be laden with hidden preservatives and excessive sodium, while homemade meals allow you to use fresh ingredients and adjust seasonings to elevate your dish without worrying about your health.

Why Homemade is Better than Takeout?

Fresh Ingredients: When you prepare your meal, you can select the freshest ingredients. Fresh herbs in the chimichurri sauce won't compare to the alternatives used in many takeout orders.
Cost-Effective: Cooking at home is often significantly cheaper than ordering from your favorite restaurant. You can buy ingredients in bulk and use them across multiple meals.
Flavorful Creativity: Want to spice things up? You can experiment with the chimichurri sauce by adding your favorite herbs or adjusting the garlic level.
Healthier Options: You control the quality of oil and seasonings, ensuring a healthier meal free from excess fats and additives.

Ready to dive into this delightful chimichurri chicken recipe? Let’s get started, and you’ll soon impress not just yourself but everyone around your dining table!

Ingredients for Chimichurri Chicken

Essential Ingredients for the Chicken

To create a truly scrumptious Chimichurri Chicken, start with high-quality protein. You’ll need:

2 lbs boneless and skinless chicken thighs: These are deliciously juicy options that soak up flavor wonderfully.
½ teaspoon fine sea salt: A touch of salt is essential for enhancing the chicken's natural taste.

Chicken thighs are a personal favorite due to their rich flavor and tender texture, making this dish a go-to for busy weeknights or casual gatherings.

Key Components of the Chimichurri Sauce

The star of this dish is undoubtedly the chimichurri sauce, which adds that zing your chicken craves. Here’s what you’ll need:

1 cup flat-leaf parsley: Freshly chopped for that vibrant green color and fresh taste.
4 garlic cloves: Minced to bring a savory punch.
⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil: For richness and a velvety texture.
2 ½ tablespoon red vinegar: This adds acidity to balance the flavors beautifully.
½ teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh: A fragrant herb that complements the parsley.
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes: For a bit of heat, adjustable to your preference.

Want to elevate your Chimichurri Chicken Recipe even more? Consider using fresh herbs from your garden! It truly makes a difference. For more cooking tips, check out Serious Eats, which offers a treasure trove of culinary advice.

Step-by-step preparation for Chimichurri Chicken

Creating a mouthwatering chimichurri chicken recipe doesn’t have to be daunting! Follow these simple steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time. This savory chicken dish is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings with friends. Let’s dive into the preparation!

Prepare the chimichurri sauce

The first step is to make the iconic chimichurri sauce that brings this dish to life. Combine these ingredients in a medium bowl:

1 cup finely chopped flat-leaf parsley (about one bunch)
4 minced garlic cloves
⅓ cup high-quality extra virgin olive oil
2 ½ tablespoons red wine vinegar (for a non-alcoholic version, use apple cider vinegar)
½ teaspoon dried oregano or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano
½ teaspoon fine sea salt
¼ teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes for that extra kick

Stir everything together until well blended. Cover the bowl and refrigerate the sauce for at least 2 hours or overnight. This allows the flavors to meld beautifully, giving you a vibrant and refreshing sauce.

Marinate the chicken

While your chimichurri sauce is chilling, it’s time to marinate the chicken. In a mixing bowl, place 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs and sprinkle with ½ teaspoon of fine sea salt. Add half of the prepared chimichurri sauce and mix well to ensure the chicken is well-coated. Cover the bowl and let it marinate for 15 minutes. For best results, consider marinating it overnight in the refrigerator. The longer it sits, the more flavorful your chicken will be!

Grilling the chicken

If you opt for a smoky flavor, firing up the grill is the way to go! Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Place the marinated chicken smooth-side down on the hot grates. Grill for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (check this with an instant-read thermometer). Make sure to avoid moving the chicken too much; let it develop those beautiful grill marks!

Sautéing the chicken

No grill? No problem! A stovetop can work wonders too. Preheat a heavy skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Place the marinated chicken smooth-side down in the skillet and sauté for 5-7 minutes per side, ensuring it cooks fully to 165°F at the thickest point. Not only is this method easy, but it also allows for a juicy chicken packed with flavor.

Serving the chimichurri chicken

Once your chicken is perfectly cooked, it’s time to serve. Arrange the chicken on a platter and generously spoon the remaining chimichurri sauce over the top. This colorful sauce adds not just a pop of flavor but also an inviting look to your dish. Serve it immediately and watch as your guests dig in!

This chimichurri chicken recipe is bound to become a staple in your rotation. Whether grilled or sautéed, the marriage of tender chicken and zesty sauce makes for a delightful evening meal. Enjoy!

Variations on Chimichurri Chicken

Chimichurri Chicken with Different Meats

Why stick to just chicken? This vibrant chimichurri sauce makes a fantastic marinade for various meats! Try it with beef, where the rich flavors complement a tender steak beautifully. Turkey bacon offers a lean alternative for a smoky variant, perfect for breakfast or brunch. Alternatively, chicken ham adds a delightful twist, especially when grilled. Each meat absorbs the chimichurri’s freshness, ensuring that no meal is ever boring.

Exploring Vegetarian Alternatives to Chimichurri

For those leaning toward a plant-based diet, there are wonderful vegetarian options to enjoy. Instead of chicken, consider marinating tofu or seitan in the chimichurri. Alternatively, grilled portobello mushrooms can provide a hearty, umami boost. If you’re into grains, a quinoa salad topped with chimichurri brings a fresh, nutritious twist, making it a hit at any gathering. Exploring these alternatives can keep your meals exciting and flavorful!

Cooking tips and notes for Chimichurri Chicken

Tips for the best marinating results

To really maximize the flavor of your chimichurri chicken recipe, marinate the chicken for at least 15 minutes, but for the best results, aim for a few hours or even overnight. This allows the bold flavors of the chimichurri sauce to penetrate the chicken, making it more tender and flavorful. If you're short on time, just make sure to coat the chicken thoroughly. Remember, using high-quality extra virgin olive oil can make a significant difference in taste!

Suggestions for adjusting flavors

Feel free to get creative with your chimichurri ingredients! Want a bit more heat? Add extra crushed red pepper flakes. If you enjoy a zesty punch, consider increasing the amount of red wine vinegar. Alternatively, swap some of the parsley for cilantro for an exciting twist. Adjusting these ingredients can help customize the chimichurri chicken recipe to fit your unique taste preferences. Don't hesitate to experiment – it's all part of the cooking adventure!

Serving Suggestions for Chimichurri Chicken

Pairing Side Dishes

To create a delightful meal with your chimichurri chicken, consider these tasty side dishes:

Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus, lightly seasoned and grilled, complement the vibrant flavors of chimichurri wonderfully.
Quinoa Salad: A refreshing quinoa salad with diced cucumbers, tomatoes, and a tangy lemon dressing adds a nutritious touch.
Corn on the Cob: Sweet, grilled corn brushed with butter pairs perfectly with the savory notes of the chicken.

Explore ideas for side dishes that elevate your meal and keep your guests coming back for more.

How to Plate Beautifully

Presentation matters! To showcase your chimichurri chicken recipe, follow these simple tips:

Choose the Right Platter: A white or colorful platter enhances the vibrant green chimichurri.
Layering: Arrange the chicken pieces in a fanned-out manner, and drizzle with a generous amount of chimichurri for visual appeal.
Garnish: Finish with fresh herbs or lemon wedges for a pop of color and freshness.

A well-plated meal makes for an inviting dining experience—your friends will be impressed! For more meal idea inspiration, check out The Kitchn.

Time Breakdown for Chimichurri Chicken

Preparation Time

For our chimichurri chicken recipe, you’ll need about 20 minutes to prepare the ingredients and make the flavorful chimichurri sauce. This part is essential, as the vibrant herbs and garlic will infuse the chicken with irresistible flavor.

Cooking Time

The cooking time for this dish is approximately 10 minutes. Whether you choose to grill or sauté, the chicken cooks quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or an impromptu dinner with friends.

Total Time

In total, you’ll spend around 45 minutes from start to finish. This includes marinating the chicken for 15 minutes, which enhances tenderness and flavor. For those who love meal prepping, feel free to marinate the chicken overnight for a deeper flavor infusion!

This quick breakdown makes it easy to plan your day, ensuring you have time to enjoy your delicious chimichurri chicken. Check out more tips and tricks for making this dish over at Serious Eats.

Nutritional Facts for Chimichurri Chicken

Calories per Serving

Each serving of this delicious chimichurri chicken recipe contains approximately 446 calories. It’s a satisfying dish that balances flavor and nutrition, making it perfect for a hearty meal without compromising your health goals.

Breakdown of Key Nutrients

When you enjoy this dish, you’re also fueling your body with essential nutrients:

Protein: Approximately 36g, vital for muscle repair and growth.
Fat: Around 30g, primarily from heart-healthy olive oil.
Carbohydrates: About 2g, keeping it low-carb for those monitoring their intake.
Fiber: Minimal, but the fresh parsley offers some beneficial antioxidants.

The vibrant components of the chimichurri sauce also provide additional health benefits, such as anti-inflammatory properties from garlic and olive oil. If you want to learn more about the health benefits of olive oil, check out this source. Enjoy this flavorful dish while knowing you're making a nourishing choice!

FAQ about Chimichurri Chicken

How long can I marinate the chicken?

For the best results, you can marinate your chicken using our chimichurri chicken recipe for at least 15 minutes to let the flavors penetrate. If you have the time, consider marinating it overnight in the refrigerator. This not only enhances the flavor but also helps tenderize the meat, making each bite even juicier.

Can I freeze chimichurri chicken?

Absolutely! If you find yourself with extra chimichurri chicken, you can freeze it for future meals. Just make sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and reheat on the grill or in a skillet for a fresh-tasting dinner.

What other dishes can I use chimichurri with?

Chimichurri sauce is incredibly versatile! Besides chicken, it pairs beautifully with grilled steak, roasted vegetables, and even fish. You can drizzle it over quinoa salad, or toss it with pasta for a zesty twist. The vibrant flavor enhances any dish, making it a fantastic culinary companion.

For more tips on using chimichurri in your cooking, check out this article on versatile sauces. Happy cooking!

Conclusion on Chimichurri Chicken

This chimichurri chicken recipe is a delightful way to spice up your dinner routine. The vibrant flavors of the chimichurri sauce elevate simple grilled or sautéed chicken into something special. Whether you’re dining solo or hosting friends, this dish promises a memorable meal everyone will enjoy. Don't forget to check out more tips on creating the perfect chimichurri to enhance your culinary adventures!