What is Chimichurri Chicken?
Originating in Argentina, chimichurri sauce is a vibrant, herb-packed condiment made with parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar. When used to marinate chicken, it creates a juicy, flavorful dish that’s perfect for any meal. The herbaceous, garlicky sauce brings out the best in grilled meats, especially chicken, which soaks up the marinade beautifully.
Ingredients and Preparation
Ingredients Needed
To create this recipe, gather the following simple ingredients:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken breasts or thighs
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Optional: red pepper flakes for extra heat
- For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and optional chili flakes for a kick
Step-by-Step Preparation
- Create the Chimichurri Sauce:
- In a bowl, mix parsley, garlic, vinegar, oregano, and salt.
- Gradually add olive oil to reach your preferred consistency. More oil gives a thinner sauce, while less keeps it thicker.
- Marinate the Chicken:
- Coat the chicken thoroughly with half of the chimichurri sauce. Marinate in the fridge for at least one hour, though overnight marinating offers even better flavor.
- Reserve the remaining sauce for drizzling over the chicken when served.
Cooking Methods for Perfect Chimichurri Chicken
Grilling
- Preheat and Prepare the Grill: Set the grill to medium-high heat, ensuring the grates are oiled to prevent sticking.
- Grill the Chicken: Grill the marinated chicken for 6–7 minutes on each side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
Pan-Searing
- Heat a Pan with Oil: Warm up a skillet over medium-high heat, adding a drizzle of oil.
- Sear the Chicken: Cook for 6–7 minutes on each side until golden brown.
Grilling ensures that the chimichurri chicken maintains a slightly smoky flavor while searing in the skillet keeps it juicy.
Serving Suggestions and Tasty Variations
Chimichurri chicken pairs well with many sides and can be served in various ways:
- Classic Pairings: Serve with roasted potatoes, steamed vegetables, or a side of rice.
- Creative Options:
- Chimichurri Chicken Skewers: Cut chicken into cubes, marinate, and grill on skewers for a fun twist.
- Baked Chimichurri Chicken: Bake marinated chicken at 400°F for 20–25 minutes for a hassle-free alternative.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What’s the best cut of chicken for chimichurri? Both chicken thighs and breasts work well; thighs tend to stay juicier when grilled.
- How long should I marinate the chicken? Marinating for at least one hour is ideal, but for deeper flavor, marinate overnight.
- Can I make chimichurri sauce in advance? Yes, you can prepare chimichurri sauce up to a week in advance and store it in the refrigerator.
Final Thoughts
Chimichurri chicken is a versatile and flavorful dish that combines the tangy, fresh qualities of chimichurri sauce with the juiciness of well-marinated chicken. This recipe is straightforward, requires minimal ingredients, and is sure to be a hit at your next meal. Whether grilled, pan-seared, or baked, chimichurri chicken is a fantastic way to enjoy the flavors of fresh herbs and garlic in an easy, flavorful meal.