Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken combines juicy chicken with a vibrant chimichurri sauce, making it the perfect dish for any gathering. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or preparing a quick weeknight meal, this recipe stands out for its ease and flavor. The refreshing chimichurri elevates the simple chicken into a gourmet experience that everyone will love.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish can be ready in under 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy nights.
• Bursting with Flavor: The chimichurri sauce is a fantastic blend of herbs and spices that enhances the chicken beautifully.
• Versatile Serving Options: Serve it with rice, salad, or crusty bread for an easy meal that suits all tastes.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and fresh ingredients, this recipe is a nutritious option for any diet.
• Perfect for Any Occasion: Great for casual dinners, special celebrations, or outdoor barbecues.

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Chimichurri Chicken, you’ll need some essential tools that will help streamline your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Grill
• Mixing bowl
• Knife
• Cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Grill: Essential for achieving that perfect charred flavor on the chicken while keeping it juicy.
• Mixing bowl: A spacious bowl allows you to easily combine ingredients for the chimichurri sauce without spilling.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures precise chopping of herbs and vegetables for a well-mixed sauce.
• Cutting board: Provides a safe surface to chop all your ingredients efficiently.

Ingredients

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken offers a delightful combination of juicy chicken and a refreshing chimichurri sauce. It’s quick to prepare and an impressive dish for any occasion.

For the Chicken

• 4 skinless boneless chicken breasts

For the Chimichurri Sauce

• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 2 green onions, green parts only, finely chopped
• 2-3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
• 1 red chili, deseeded and finely chopped
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano
• 1/2 tsp dried basil
• 1/3 cup olive oil
• 1 tbsp red or white apple vinegar
• Kosher salt and ground pepper, to taste

For Garnish

• 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, finely chopped

How to Make Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

Combine parsley, cilantro, green onions, garlic, and red chili in a mixing bowl.
Add oregano, basil, olive oil, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are combined. Let rest for 10 minutes to allow flavors to meld.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Pour one-third of the chimichurri sauce over the chicken breasts in a separate bowl. Ensure each piece is well-coated. Marinate for 15-20 minutes to enhance flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This temperature is crucial to achieve nicely grilled chicken without drying it out.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place marinated chicken breasts on the grill. Cook each side for about 6-8 minutes or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).

Step 5: Serve

Transfer grilled chicken onto a serving platter. Drizzle with reserved chimichurri sauce before serving. Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Chimichurri Chicken!

How to Serve Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken is a versatile dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of sides and garnishes. Here are some creative serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Fresh Salad

• A vibrant salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumber adds a refreshing contrast to the richness of the chicken.

Rice Pilaf

• Fluffy rice pilaf infused with herbs complements the flavors of the chimichurri sauce, making it a hearty addition.

Grilled Vegetables

• Seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus can be grilled alongside the chicken for a colorful and healthy side.

Avocado Slices

• Creamy avocado slices on the side provide a rich texture that pairs well with the tangy chimichurri flavor.

Corn on the Cob

• Sweet corn on the cob, either grilled or boiled, brings a classic touch to your meal and balances the spices.

Crusty Bread

• Serve with crusty bread to soak up any extra chimichurri sauce. It’s perfect for those who love to enjoy every last bite!

How to Perfect Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

To ensure your Grilled Chimichurri Chicken turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips:

• Use fresh herbs – Fresh parsley and cilantro make a significant difference in flavor compared to dried herbs.

• Marinate longer – For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes instead of just 15-20 minutes.

• Preheat your grill – Make sure your grill is hot before adding the chicken. This ensures nice grill marks and seals in juices.

• Check doneness – Use a meat thermometer to ensure that the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.

• Let it rest – Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps retain its juices for a more succulent bite.

• Customize the spice – Adjust red chili according to your heat preference. You can add more or less based on how spicy you want it.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken can be complemented by various delightful side dishes. Here are some top picks that enhance its flavors:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy and buttery mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting base.

2. Quinoa Salad – A light quinoa salad mixed with diced vegetables offers a nutritious balance that enhances your meal.

3. Roasted Sweet Potatoes – Sweet potatoes roasted to perfection add sweetness and texture that contrasts nicely with the chicken.

4. Coleslaw – A crunchy coleslaw provides freshness and acidity, making it an excellent pairing with grilled meats.

5. Grilled Pineapple – Sweet grilled pineapple adds a tropical flair that brightens up your dinner plate.

6. Mediterranean Couscous – Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, feta cheese, and cherry tomatoes gives an exciting flavor profile that complements chimichurri.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Grilled Chimichurri Chicken, it’s easy to overlook some key details. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Skipping the marination: Marinating the chicken is crucial for flavor. Don’t rush this step; letting it sit for at least 15-20 minutes ensures a delicious outcome.
• Using dry herbs instead of fresh: Fresh herbs add vibrant flavor and aroma. Always choose fresh parsley and cilantro when making chimichurri to enhance the dish significantly.
• Ignoring grill temperature: Cooking on too high or too low heat can lead to uneven cooking. Preheat your grill to medium-high for perfectly grilled chicken.
• Not resting the chimichurri: Allowing the chimichurri sauce to rest before serving helps meld the flavors. A minimum of 10 minutes is recommended for optimal taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Dry chicken can ruin your meal. Use a meat thermometer to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) without overcooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Duration: Store grilled chicken in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Containers: Use airtight containers to maintain freshness and prevent odors from other foods.

Freezing Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

• Duration: You can freeze it for up to 3 months.
• Containers: Use freezer-safe bags or containers to avoid freezer burn.

Reheating Grilled Chimichurri Chicken

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in intervals of 1 minute until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or oil, then add chicken. Cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes, flipping halfway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Grilled Chimichurri Chicken special?

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken stands out due to its vibrant flavors from fresh herbs in the chimichurri sauce, which adds zest and brightness to every bite.

Can I use other meats with chimichurri sauce?

Yes! Chimichurri pairs well with other meats like steak, pork, and fish. Feel free to experiment with different proteins based on your preference.

How can I customize my chimichurri sauce?

You can customize chimichurri by adding ingredients like jalapeños for extra heat or lemon juice for a citrusy twist. Adjusting herbs can also create unique variations.

Is Grilled Chimichurri Chicken healthy?

Absolutely! This dish is high in protein while being lower in carbs, making it suitable for various diets. The fresh ingredients also contribute additional nutrients.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any occasion. Its bright flavors make it perfect for summer cookouts or cozy dinners alike. Feel free to customize your chimichurri by adding different herbs or spices, making this dish uniquely yours. Enjoy this delightful recipe and impress your friends and family!