There’s something magical about a juicy grilled chicken topped with a vibrant chimichurri sauce. It’s a dish that brings together the bold flavors of herbs and spices, creating a delightful taste experience. If you’re tired of the same old chicken recipes and want to add a burst of excitement to your meals, this Grilled Chimichurri Chicken is just the answer. Not only is it simple to prepare, but it also offers a fresh and zesty twist that will have your taste buds dancing.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Let’s face it—grilling is the ultimate way to elevate your chicken game. The method locks in moisture while adding a smokiness that’s hard to beat. But what makes this recipe truly stand out is the chimichurri sauce. With its bright green color and robust flavor profile, it perfectly complements the grilled chicken, turning an ordinary meal into an extraordinary feast.
Moreover, you can whip this up in no time! It’s ideal for busy weeknights or weekend barbecues where you want something that’s both impressive and satisfying. If you’re a fan of fresh ingredients, vibrant flavors, and easy preparation, this dish will quickly become a staple in your kitchen!
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make this delicious Grilled Chimichurri Chicken, you’ll need some fresh ingredients. Here’s what you should gather:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to your heat preference)
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil (for the chimichurri)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce
Start by making the chimichurri sauce. In a bowl, mix together the chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and red wine vinegar. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup of olive oil until well combined. Season to taste with salt and pepper, then set aside. This sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for an even richer flavor.
2. Marinade the Chicken
While the chimichurri is developing its flavors, you’ll want to prepare the chicken. Drizzle the olive oil over the chicken breasts and season both sides with salt and pepper. Let them sit for about 10 minutes to absorb the seasoning.
3. Preheat the Grill
Get your grill ready by preheating it to medium-high heat. A properly heated grill will give you beautiful grill marks and juicy chicken.
4. Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Remember not to flip the chicken too often; giving it time on each side will enhance the grill marks and flavor.
5. Let It Rest
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring that each bite remains moist and flavorful.
6. Serve and Garnish
After resting, slice the chicken and drizzle generously with the chimichurri sauce. If you want to take it up a notch, serve it with extra chimichurri on the side for dipping. A sprinkle of fresh herbs on top adds a nice touch!
Serving and Storage Tips
This grilled chicken can be served alongside a variety of sides. Try pairing it with:
- Grilled vegetables
- Corn on the cob
- Rice or quinoa
- Salad for a light meal
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This chicken is versatile enough to be used in salads, sandwiches, or wraps the next day, making meal prep a breeze!
Helpful Tips
- For added flavor, let the chicken marinate in the olive oil and seasonings for an hour or even overnight.
- Adjust the heat in the chimichurri by reducing or adding red pepper flakes according to your taste preferences.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or under a broiler in your oven.
Frequently Asked Questions FAQ
Can I use other cuts of chicken?
Absolutely! This recipe works well with thighs, drumsticks, or even bone-in chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as darker meat will require a bit longer to cook through.
What if I can’t find fresh herbs?
If fresh herbs are unavailable, dried herbs can be used in a pinch, though the flavor will not be as vibrant. Use about one-third of the quantity for dried herbs compared to fresh.
Can I make chimichurri ahead of time?
Yes, chimichurri sauce can be prepared a day in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavors actually develop even more overnight!
Is chimichurri sauce spicy?
The spice level depends on how much red pepper flake you add. Feel free to omit or reduce the red pepper if you prefer a milder sauce.
Can I freeze grilled chicken with chimichurri sauce?
Yes, grilled chicken can be frozen, but it’s best to store the chimichurri sauce separately. Wrap the chicken tightly in foil or freezer bags to avoid freezer burn.
Conclusion
Your culinary journey is about to get a whole lot tastier with this Grilled Chimichurri Chicken recipe. With its fresh ingredients and straightforward preparation, it is an excellent choice for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for family, hosting friends, or just treating yourself, this dish guarantees satisfaction. So fire up that grill, gather some friends, and enjoy a meal bursting with flavor that’s bound to impress!
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Delicious Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Recipe for Flavor Explosion
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Description
Experience a flavor explosion with this delicious grilled chimichurri chicken recipe Perfect for weeknight dinners or summer grilling sessions
Ingredients
Instructions
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- minutes: 5
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Argentinian
Nutrition
- Calories: 350 calories
- Sugar: 1 gram
- Fat: 20 grams
- Carbohydrates: 5 grams
- Fiber: 1 gram
- Protein: 30 grams