This Easy Grilled Chimichurri Chicken is juicy and full of flavor! The bright green chimichurri sauce adds a tasty, herby kick that will make your taste buds dance.
Making this dish is super simple—just marinate the chicken, grill it up, and enjoy! I love serving it with rice or a fresh salad. It’s a perfect meal for warm nights! 🌞
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless chicken thighs are perfect for grilling—they’re juicy and flavorful. If you prefer, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they may be drier, so be careful not to overcook them.
Fresh Herbs: Parsley and cilantro form the base of the chimichurri sauce. If you’re not a cilantro fan, you can double the parsley or use fresh basil for a unique twist.
Red Wine Vinegar: This adds a tangy kick to the sauce. If you don’t have it, apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar can work well as alternatives.
Red Pepper Flakes: Adjust these based on your spice tolerance. If you want a milder sauce, consider omitting them or using paprika instead for a different flavor.
How do I ensure my chicken is perfectly grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll get it just right! First, make sure to start with a clean grill and preheat it well to prevent sticking.
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning to help get a good sear.
- Make sure your grill is set at medium-high heat. This helps achieve nice grill marks and juicy meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Letting the chicken rest after grilling is key—it locks in moisture and enhances the flavor.
With these insights and techniques, you’re all set to make delicious grilled chimichurri chicken! Enjoy! 🌟
Easy Grilled Chimichurri Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for grilling)
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 small shallot, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Juice of 1 lemon (optional for brightness)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe combines about 15 minutes of prep time with grilling for 10-14 minutes, plus an additional 5 minutes of resting time for the chicken. Total, you’ll need around 30-35 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:
In a medium bowl, mix together the finely chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, and chopped shallot. Then, add the red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. If you’re including lemon juice, add it in as well. Stir everything together well, and let the sauce sit while you prepare the chicken. This allows the flavors to blend beautifully!
2. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken thighs and pat them dry using paper towels. This helps them to grill better! Season both sides generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper. Feel free to get creative and add any other spices you love!
3. Preheat the Grill:
Get your grill nice and hot by preheating it to medium-high heat. To prevent the chicken from sticking, lightly oil the grill grates or brush the chicken with a bit of olive oil.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken thighs on the grill. Cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side until you see beautiful grill marks and the internal temperature has reached 165°F (74°C). You want the chicken to be juicy and delicious!
5. Rest the Chicken:
Once grilled, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest on a plate for about 5 minutes. This step is crucial as it allows the juices to redistribute throughout the chicken, making it even tastier!
6. Serve:
Now it’s time to enjoy your meal! Spoon generous amounts of the chimichurri sauce over the grilled chicken. Serve it right away with sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.
Enjoy this flavorful and easy grilled chimichurri chicken that’s perfect for any summer meal!
FAQ: Easy Grilled Chimichurri Chicken
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts! However, keep in mind that they may dry out faster than thighs. To help keep them juicy, avoid overcooking and consider marinating for a bit longer.
How long can I store the chimichurri sauce?
Your homemade chimichurri sauce can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 1 week. Just give it a good stir before using it again, as the ingredients may settle.
Can I make the chimichurri sauce in advance?
Absolutely! You can prepare the chimichurri sauce a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to develop even more, making it taste even better when you serve it!
What should I serve with chimichurri chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides! Options like grilled vegetables, rice, quinoa, or a refreshing salad all complement the flavors of the chimichurri chicken beautifully.
