When the warm weather rolls in, and the grill becomes the centerpiece of backyard gatherings, nothing beats a delightful plate of chimichurri grilled chicken. While this dish shines on its own, it pairs wonderfully with several side options. Think crisp greens like a light arugula salad, or creamy potato salad with chopped green onions.
Perhaps you want to keep it simple with roasted vegetables, or maybe a warm and fluffy quinoa pilaf sounds good? Fresh corn on the cob is a classic BBQ accompaniment that adds sweetness. And let’s not forget about some crusty bread for dipping into the vibrant chimichurri sauce. The possibilities are endless!
What is Chimichurri Grilled Chicken?
Chimichurri grilled chicken is a dish that perfectly marries the smoky, charred flavors of grilled chicken with a vibrant salsa-like sauce known as chimichurri. Traditionally made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, and spices, chimichurri adds a fresh, zesty flavor that pairs beautifully with grilled meats.
The practice of marinating chicken in this sauce not only infuses it with flavor but also helps keep it tender and juicy as it cooks.
What Makes This Recipe Different From Other Chimichurri Grilled Chicken?
Several recipes claim the title of chimichurri grilled chicken, but the one I’m sharing is truly special. What sets it apart is the balance of ingredients in the chimichurri. This version emphasizes bright flavors without overpowering. The use of fresh herbs and zesty components like lemon juice and red wine vinegar enhances every bite.
Additionally, I’ve fine-tuned the marinade’s seasonings, including smoked paprika and ground cumin. This gives the chicken depth without overshadowing the freshness of the chimichurri.
How Does It Taste Like?
Picture this: A perfectly grilled piece of chicken that has a lightly crispy exterior. Each bite meets tender, juicy meat infused with the herbs’ freshness. The chimichurri sauce adds a tangy kick and a hint of spice from the red chili pepper.
The garlic brings a lovely warmth, and the acidity from the vinegar beautifully balances the richness of the chicken. It’s a symphony of flavors – and might just become your new favorite way to enjoy grilled chicken.
Ingredients You’ll Need To Make This Dish
To create this dish, gather the following ingredients:
For the Grilled Chicken:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup packed flat-leaf parsley
- 1/4 cup packed cilantro (or more parsley if desired)
- 1/4 cup diced red onion
- 1-3 cloves grated or minced garlic (adjust to your liking)
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lemon juice
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1 red chili pepper, seeds removed and finely chopped
- Kosher salt and fresh ground black pepper to taste
Step-by-step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. In a bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken. This seasoning blend adds layers of flavor to the chicken, making each bite memorable.
Step 2: Make the Chimichurri
Next, let’s whip up the chimichurri. In a food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, red onion, garlic, red chili pepper, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar. Pulse until finely chopped. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the processor runs. This helps emulsify the sauce. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Set aside a portion for serving later.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
Take the seasoned chicken and place it in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the chimichurri sauce over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a beautiful sear on the chicken. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are glowing and covered with white ash.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade. Discard the marinade. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Test with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite. Serve with the reserved chimichurri on top.
Tips & Tricks On Making Chimichurri Grilled Chicken
- Use Fresh Herbs: Always opt for fresh parsley and cilantro. They elevate the flavor significantly compared to dried herbs.
- Adjust the Heat: Adjust the number of chili peppers according to your heat preference. You can even omit them if you prefer a milder sauce.
- Marinate Longer: For the tastiest results, marinate the chicken for a longer duration. Overnight refrigeration works wonders!
- Rest the Chicken: Never skip the resting step after grilling. It makes all the difference between dry and juicy chicken.
- Serve Extra Chimichurri: Always serve extra chimichurri on the side. It’s great on side dishes, too!
Nutrition Information
For a standard serving (one chicken breast with chimichurri), here’s a rough nutritional breakdown:
- Calories: 350
- Protein: 38g
- Fat: 20g
- Carbohydrates: 5g
- Fiber: 1g
These numbers can vary depending on serving size and additional side dishes.
How Do I Store This Dish?
If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll last about 3-4 days. When ready to eat, you can reheat it in the microwave or on a skillet over medium heat until warmed. For the best flavor, the chimichurri can be made fresh and added before serving.
What other substitutes can you use in Chimichurri Grilled Chicken?
If you find yourself short on a few ingredients, don’t fret. Here are five substitutes you can use:
- Dried Herbs: If you don’t have fresh parsley or cilantro, you can use dried herbs instead. Use about one-third the amount since dried herbs pack more concentrated flavor.
- Lime Juice Instead of Lemon Juice: Lime juice can be a great alternative. It maintains the acidity while bringing a different twist to the flavor.
- Shallots Instead of Red Onion: If you prefer a milder onion flavor, swap in finely chopped shallots for a subtle sweetness.
- Jalapeño for Red Chili Pepper: For an extra kick, try diced jalapeño instead of red chili pepper. Just make sure to adjust accordingly for heat.
- Vinaigrette Instead of Chimichurri: If you’re in a rush, a store-bought vinaigrette can work in a pinch. Look for ones flavored with herbs to keep the experience similar.
Conclusion
Chimichurri grilled chicken isn’t just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor, freshness, and simplicity. This dish embodies summer cooking and gives everyone at the table something to enjoy. With a few simple ingredients and not much fuss, you can create a delightful experience on the plate. As you gather with family and friends, let this dish be the star of your next BBQ. The vibrant colors and zesty flavors will leave everyone wanting more. So grab your grill, make that chimichurri, and get ready for a flavor-packed adventure! Enjoy every bite and remember: good food is meant to be shared.
You’ll also like the following recipes!
Chimichurri Grilled Chicken – Quick Delicious Meals
Have you ever taken a bite of something that made your taste buds dance? That's the magic of chimichurri grilled chicken. Imagine juicy, well-seasoned chicken slathered with a zesty, herb-forward chimichurri sauce.
Each bite bursts with flavor and freshness, transporting you straight to a sun-drenched patio in Argentina. This dish isn’t just a meal; it’s an experience. With roots in Argentinian cuisine, chimichurri brings brightness to grilled meats, elevating them to something extraordinary.
Cooking is a personal adventure for me. I remember the first time I tried chimichurri. I was skeptical at first, but I was hooked after just one forkful. Now, this grilling staple has become a go-to recipe for summer BBQs and weeknight dinners alike. The good news is, it's also simple to make! Let’s dive in.
Ingredients
For the Grilled Chicken:
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
-
Start by seasoning the chicken breasts. In a bowl, combine garlic powder, smoked paprika, ground cumin, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken. This seasoning blend adds layers of flavor to the chicken, making each bite memorable.
Step 2: Make the Chimichurri
-
Next, let’s whip up the chimichurri. In a food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, red onion, garlic, red chili pepper, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar. Pulse until finely chopped. Slowly drizzle in the olive oil while the processor runs. This helps emulsify the sauce. Adjust salt and pepper to taste. Set aside a portion for serving later.
Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
-
Take the seasoned chicken and place it in a resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the chimichurri sauce over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish with plastic wrap. Let it marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
Step 4: Preheat the Grill
-
While the chicken marinates, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a beautiful sear on the chicken. If you’re using a charcoal grill, wait until the coals are glowing and covered with white ash.
Step 5: Grill the Chicken
-
Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken from the marinade. Discard the marinade. Grill the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Test with a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Step 6: Rest and Serve
-
After grilling, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring a juicy bite. Serve with the reserved chimichurri on top.
Nutrition Facts
Servings 4
- Amount Per Serving
- Calories 350kcal
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat 20g31%
- Total Carbohydrate 5g2%
- Dietary Fiber 1g4%
- Protein 38g76%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet. Your daily value may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Note
- Use Fresh Herbs: Always opt for fresh parsley and cilantro. They elevate the flavor significantly compared to dried herbs.
- Adjust the Heat: Adjust the number of chili peppers according to your heat preference. You can even omit them if you prefer a milder sauce.
- Marinate Longer: For the tastiest results, marinate the chicken for a longer duration. Overnight refrigeration works wonders!
- Rest the Chicken: Never skip the resting step after grilling. It makes all the difference between dry and juicy chicken.
- Serve Extra Chimichurri: Always serve extra chimichurri on the side. It’s great on side dishes, too!
