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Chimichurri Chicken

Chimichurri Chicken


  • Author: Lina
  • Total Time: 25 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Chimichurri Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring juicy, tender chicken breasts or thighs paired with a fresh, herb-packed chimichurri sauce. Quick and easy to prepare in under 30 minutes, this recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners and can be cooked on the grill, stovetop, or oven. The bright combination of parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, and olive oil creates a zesty sauce that complements the lean protein, making it a healthy and versatile meal that’s delicious fresh or as leftovers.


Ingredients

Scale

Chicken

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs

Chimichurri Sauce

  • 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
  • 1 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (adjust to taste)
  • 1 tablespoon lemon juice (optional)

Seasoning for Chicken

  • Salt, to season
  • Black pepper, to season
  • Olive oil, for cooking

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce: Combine the chopped fresh parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Mix well until thoroughly blended and slightly chunky but pourable. Let the sauce sit for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld beautifully.
  2. Season the Chicken: Pat the chicken dry with paper towels and lightly season both sides with salt and pepper. This helps to create a flavorful crust as the chicken cooks.
  3. Cook the Chicken: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a splash of olive oil. Sear the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side, until golden brown and cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Alternatively, grill the chicken for a smoky, charred flavor.
  4. Rest and Coat with Sauce: Remove the chicken from the heat and let it rest for a few minutes to lock in the juices. Then, generously spoon the chimichurri sauce over the chicken or serve it alongside for dipping, ensuring each bite is bright and juicy.

Notes

  • Use fresh herbs: Dried herbs won’t give the same vibrant flavor or color as fresh parsley and cilantro.
  • Don’t overcook: Chicken cooks quickly; use a thermometer to avoid dryness and keep it juicy.
  • Marinate for extra flavor: For deeper taste, marinate the chicken in some chimichurri sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
  • Adjust heat level: Add or reduce red pepper flakes depending on your preference for spice.
  • Make sauce ahead: Chimichurri sauce enhances in flavor when made a day before and refrigerated.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Skillet or Grilling
  • Cuisine: Argentinian

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
  • Calories: 320 kcal
  • Sugar: 1 g
  • Sodium: 400 mg
  • Fat: 22 g
  • Saturated Fat: 3 g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 18 g
  • Trans Fat: 0 g
  • Carbohydrates: 2 g
  • Fiber: 1 g
  • Protein: 30 g
  • Cholesterol: 85 mg

Keywords: chimichurri, chicken, easy dinner, quick recipe, fresh herbs, healthy meal, grilled chicken