Introduction to Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Infused with a bold garlic-herb marinade and served with a drizzle of vibrant chimichurri sauce, this Grilled Chimichurri Chicken brings serious Argentine-inspired flavor to your plate. The sauce—made with parsley, garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar—is the real star, cutting through the smoky richness of grilled chicken with a burst of freshness in every bite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Herby, tangy, and loaded with real flavor.
No sugar or cream—just clean, bold ingredients.
Perfect for outdoor grilling or indoor cast-iron searing.
Delicious served over rice, salad, or tucked in flatbread.
The chimichurri doubles as a marinade and a sauce.

Ingredients for Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Let’s line up everything that’ll bring this recipe to life.

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts: The star of the show! They’re lean, easy to grill, and soak up flavors beautifully.
Fresh parsley: This herb adds a bright, fresh taste to the chimichurri. It’s the backbone of the sauce.
Fresh cilantro: A burst of flavor that complements the parsley. If you’re not a fan, feel free to skip it!
Red wine vinegar: This tangy ingredient balances the richness of the chicken and adds depth to the chimichurri.
Olive oil: A must for a luscious sauce. It helps to meld the flavors and keeps the chicken moist.
Garlic: Minced garlic brings a punch of flavor. You can never have too much garlic, right?
Red pepper flakes: For those who like a little heat! Adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
Salt and black pepper: Essential for seasoning. They enhance all the other flavors in the dish.

For those looking to mix things up, consider adding a squeeze of lime juice for extra zest or swapping in different herbs like oregano. You can find the exact quantities for each ingredient at the bottom of the article, ready for printing!

How to Make Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Creating Grilled Chimichurri Chicken is a straightforward process that rewards you with incredible flavor. Follow these simple steps, and you’ll be on your way to a delicious meal that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Step 1: Preheat the Grill

Preheating your grill is crucial. It ensures that the chicken cooks evenly and develops those beautiful grill marks. Aim for medium-high heat, around 375°F to 400°F. This temperature will give you a nice sear while keeping the inside juicy. A hot grill also helps to prevent sticking, making flipping the chicken a breeze.

Step 2: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

Now, let’s whip up that vibrant chimichurri sauce! In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro, red wine vinegar, olive oil, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Mix everything well until it’s nicely blended. This sauce is the heart of the dish, infusing the chicken with fresh, zesty flavors that will make your taste buds dance.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Time to marinate! Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the chimichurri sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well coated. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours in the fridge for deeper flavor. This step is key; marinating not only enhances the taste but also tenderizes the chicken, making it juicy and delicious.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Once your grill is hot and the chicken is marinated, it’s grilling time! Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess drip off. Discard the used marinade. Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. This ensures your chicken is perfectly cooked and safe to eat.

Step 5: Rest and Serve

After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the meat moist. When ready to serve, slice the chicken and drizzle the reserved chimichurri sauce on top. This final touch adds a burst of flavor and makes for a beautiful presentation. Enjoy your Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with pride!

Tips for Success

Always preheat your grill for even cooking and great grill marks.
Don’t skip the marination; it’s key for flavor and tenderness.
Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F is your target.
Let the chicken rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Feel free to customize the chimichurri with your favorite herbs!

Equipment Needed

Grill: A gas or charcoal grill works well. If you don’t have one, a grill pan can do the trick.
Medium bowl: For mixing the chimichurri sauce. Any mixing bowl will suffice.
Meat thermometer: Essential for checking chicken doneness. A simple instant-read thermometer is perfect.
Resealable plastic bag: Great for marinating. A shallow dish can also work.

Variations

Herb Swap: Try using fresh oregano or basil instead of parsley and cilantro for a different flavor profile.
Spicy Twist: Add diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the chimichurri for an extra kick.
Grilled Veggies: Marinate and grill vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant alongside the chicken for a colorful side.
Low-Carb Option: Serve the chicken over a bed of leafy greens instead of rice for a lighter meal.
Vegan Version: Substitute chicken with firm tofu or portobello mushrooms, marinating them in the chimichurri sauce for a delicious plant-based dish.

Serving Suggestions

Grilled Vegetables: Pair your chicken with a medley of grilled zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a colorful plate.
Rice or Quinoa: Serve over fluffy rice or quinoa to soak up the chimichurri sauce.
Refreshing Salad: A crisp green salad with a light vinaigrette complements the bold flavors.
Wine Pairing: Enjoy with a chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir.

FAQs about Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative. They’re juicier and can handle the bold flavors of the chimichurri sauce beautifully. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to reach the safe internal temperature.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

You can marinate the chicken for as little as 30 minutes or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor. Just be careful not to exceed 2 hours, as the acidity in the chimichurri can start to break down the chicken’s texture.

What can I serve with Grilled Chimichurri Chicken?

This dish pairs wonderfully with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. The chimichurri sauce also complements roasted potatoes or even a hearty grain like quinoa. Get creative!

Can I make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare the chimichurri sauce a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the fridge. The flavors will meld beautifully, making it even more delicious when you’re ready to grill.

Is Grilled Chimichurri Chicken gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free! Just ensure that any additional ingredients or sides you serve with it are also gluten-free to keep the meal safe for those with gluten sensitivities.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a celebration of flavor and togetherness. The vibrant chimichurri sauce transforms simple chicken into a culinary masterpiece that’s sure to impress. Whether you’re firing up the grill for a family dinner or hosting friends for a weekend barbecue, this dish brings everyone to the table. The ease of preparation and the bold, fresh flavors make it a go-to recipe in my kitchen. So, grab your ingredients, fire up that grill, and enjoy the deliciousness that awaits. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you!