Chimichurri Chicken Recipe: A Flavor-Packed and Colorful Dish You’ll Love

Chimichurri Chicken is more than just a delicious meal—it’s a vibrant, herbaceous, and zesty dish that brings a burst of South American flavor to your dinner table. Known for its rich green chimichurri sauce and perfectly grilled or baked chicken, this recipe has become a favorite among food lovers looking for something exciting, healthy, and packed with flavor. Whether you’re new to chimichurri or already a fan, this guide will take you through everything you need to know about making the perfect chimichurri chicken at home.

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What Is Chimichurri Chicken?

Chimichurri Chicken is a dish made by marinating or topping chicken (usually grilled or roasted) with chimichurri sauce—a tangy and vibrant condiment originating from Argentina and Uruguay. The sauce is made from finely chopped parsley, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, oregano, and red pepper flakes. It’s fresh, bold, and slightly spicy, which makes it a perfect match for juicy, well-seasoned chicken.

This recipe combines healthy protein with a bright, herb-forward sauce, creating a dish that is both nutritious and deeply satisfying. It’s typically served with grilled vegetables, potatoes, rice, or salads, making it highly versatile.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Chimichurri Chicken is a must-try for anyone who enjoys bold, herbaceous flavors and a touch of heat. Here’s why it’s worth making:

• Flavor-packed: The chimichurri sauce delivers a punch of garlic, herbs, and spice.

• Healthy: It’s made with fresh herbs, lean chicken, and olive oil—great for those following a wholesome diet.

• Quick and easy: Minimal prep time and simple ingredients.

• Versatile: Serve it with almost anything—grains, vegetables, or bread.

• Meal-prep friendly: Stays fresh and flavorful for days.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make Chimichurri Chicken, here are the basic ingredients:

For the Chicken:

• Boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts

• Olive oil

• Salt and black pepper

• Paprika (optional, for color)

• Lemon juice (for marinating)

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

• Fresh parsley (flat-leaf is best)

• Garlic cloves

• Red pepper flakes or fresh chili (to taste)

• Dried oregano

• Red wine vinegar or lemon juice

• Olive oil

• Salt to taste

Some versions also include cilantro or a touch of onion, depending on personal preference.

How to Make Chimichurri Chicken

Step 1: Make the Chimichurri Sauce
Finely chop fresh parsley and garlic or blend them lightly in a food processor. Mix with olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, salt, and red pepper flakes. Let it sit for at least 15 minutes to develop flavor.

Step 2: Prepare the Chicken
Season your chicken pieces with olive oil, salt, pepper, and a little lemon juice. Optionally, add paprika for extra flavor and color.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken
Grill or pan-sear the chicken until golden and cooked through. You can also bake it in the oven at 400°F (200°C) for 25-30 minutes, flipping halfway.

Step 4: Serve
Top the hot chicken with chimichurri sauce and serve immediately. Add grilled vegetables or rice on the side for a complete meal.

Tips for the Best Chimichurri Chicken

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh parsley and garlic make a big difference.

• Don’t over-blend the sauce: Chimichurri should have a slightly chunky texture.

• Let the sauce rest: Giving the sauce 15-30 minutes before serving allows flavors to meld.

• Marinate for extra flavor: You can marinate the chicken with a bit of chimichurri in advance.

• Double the sauce: It tastes great on other proteins like fish, steak, or tofu.

Serving Suggestions

Chimichurri Chicken goes well with a variety of sides. Here are some ideas:

• Grilled or roasted vegetables (zucchini, bell peppers, corn)

• Quinoa, rice, or couscous

• Mashed or roasted potatoes

• Crusty bread or flatbread

• A fresh green salad

It also makes a great protein option for wraps, tacos, or meal prep bowls.

Is Chimichurri Chicken Spicy?

It can be! Chimichurri is traditionally mildly spicy due to the red pepper flakes, but you can easily adjust the heat level. Use fewer flakes for a mild sauce or add extra chili for a spicier kick.

Can You Make Chimichurri Chicken Ahead of Time?

Yes, this recipe is excellent for meal prepping. The sauce can be stored in the fridge for up to 5 days, and the chicken stays juicy and flavorful even after reheating. It’s a great option for busy weekdays or packed lunches.

How to Store and Reheat

• Storage: Store leftover chicken and sauce separately in airtight containers. Refrigerate for up to 4 days.

• Reheating: Gently reheat chicken in a skillet or microwave. Add fresh chimichurri on top after heating to maintain its freshness.

Variations of Chimichurri Chicken

• Baked version: Cook everything in the oven for an easy one-pan meal.

• Grilled skewers: Cube the chicken and thread it onto skewers for grilling.

• Add cilantro: Add fresh cilantro to the sauce for a deeper green color and unique twist.

• Spicy kick: Mix in a bit of jalapeño or serrano pepper for added heat.

Make It Pinterest-Perfect

If you love sharing colorful and delicious meals online, Chimichurri Chicken is ideal. With its vibrant greens and golden chicken, it photographs beautifully and grabs attention on platforms like Pinterest. Don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more stunning recipes and pin-worthy ideas!

Read Also: Chicken Casserole Recipe: A Colorful, Comforting Meal for Every Table

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is chimichurri sauce made of?
Chimichurri is a sauce made with parsley, garlic, olive oil, vinegar, oregano, and red pepper flakes. Some versions include cilantro or onion.

2. Is chimichurri chicken healthy?
Yes, it’s high in protein, made with fresh herbs and olive oil, and typically served with wholesome sides.

3. Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Absolutely. Chicken breasts work well, though thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy.

4. How spicy is chimichurri sauce?
It has a mild kick but can be adjusted based on the amount of red pepper used.

5. Can I marinate the chicken in chimichurri sauce?
Yes, marinating adds flavor. Reserve some sauce for topping before serving.

6. What can I serve with chimichurri chicken?
Grains, vegetables, potatoes, and salads are great options.

7. How long does chimichurri sauce last?
It lasts up to 5 days in the refrigerator in a sealed container.

8. Can I freeze chimichurri sauce?
Yes, chimichurri can be frozen for up to one month, though it’s best fresh.

9. Is this dish gluten-free?
Yes, Chimichurri Chicken is naturally gluten-free.

10. Can I use cilantro instead of parsley?
Yes, or you can combine both herbs for a different flavor.

11. What kind of vinegar is best for chimichurri?
Red wine vinegar is traditional, but you can also use apple cider or white wine vinegar.

12. How do I store leftover chimichurri chicken?
Keep it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days.

13. Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?
Yes, grilling adds great flavor and char to the chicken.

14. Is chimichurri vegan?
The sauce itself is vegan-friendly.

15. Where does chimichurri originate from?
Chimichurri sauce comes from Argentina and Uruguay, commonly used for grilled meats.

Conclusion

Chimichurri Chicken is a vibrant and delicious dish that brings excitement to any meal. With its herbaceous sauce, juicy grilled or baked chicken, and easy preparation, it’s perfect for busy weeknights, special gatherings, or weekly meal prep. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or entertaining guests, this recipe delivers both flavor and visual appeal.

If you enjoyed this recipe, don’t forget to follow us on Pinterest for more vibrant and easy-to-make dishes. Make sure to save, pin, and share this recipe with your friends and family who love flavorful meals that are as beautiful as they are tasty. Happy cooking!

Chimichurri Chicken Recipe

This Chimichurri Chicken is a bold, zesty, and flavor-packed dish featuring juicy grilled or baked chicken smothered in a fresh homemade chimichurri sauce. With vibrant green herbs, a hint of garlic, and a tangy kick, this Argentinian-inspired recipe is easy to make, visually stunning, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend BBQ.

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Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Total Time 40 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Argentinian, South American

Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients

  

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless skinless chicken thighs or breasts
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon salt
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 teaspoon paprika optional, for color
• Juice of ½ lemon

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

• 1 cup fresh parsley finely chopped
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar or lemon juice
• ½ cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes adjust to taste
• Salt to taste about ½ teaspoon

Method

 

Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

1. In a small bowl, mix together parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes.
2. Slowly stir in the olive oil until fully combined.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Let the sauce sit for at least 15 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. (Can be made ahead and refrigerated.)

Step 2: Season the Chicken

1. In a bowl, coat chicken with olive oil, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, and optional paprika.
2. Let marinate for 10–15 minutes if time allows.

Step 3: Cook the Chicken

Grill Method:

1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Oven Method:

1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Place chicken on a baking sheet or oven-safe skillet.
3. Bake for 25–30 minutes, flipping halfway through, until cooked through.

Step 4: Serve

1. Transfer the cooked chicken to a serving platter.
2. Spoon chimichurri sauce generously over the chicken.
3. Garnish with extra parsley or lemon slices if desired.
4. Serve with grilled vegetables, rice, potatoes, or a fresh salad.

Notes

You can double the chimichurri sauce and store leftovers in the fridge for up to 5 days.

Use cilantro in addition to parsley for a fresh twist.

Marinating the chicken with a tablespoon of chimichurri (optional) before cooking deepens the flavor.