Grilled Chimichurri Chicken: An Incredible, Essential Recipe for 2023

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken is a deliciously bold dish that elevates your grill game and tantalizes your taste buds. Featuring juicy chicken marinated in a vibrant chimichurri sauce, this recipe captures the essence of Argentinian cuisine. With its mouthwatering flavors and dynamic colors, this dish is perfect for family gatherings, summer barbecues, or a simple weeknight dinner. If you've never tasted grilled chicken slathered in that zesty, herby topping, you are in for an amazing experience.

Imagine biting into tender, smoky grilled chicken infused with the aromatic notes of fresh parsley, garlic, and a hint of vinegar. Each bite is a delightful composition that resonates with the sizzling sounds of the grill and the inviting aroma wafting through your kitchen or backyard. This delicious chicken isn't just a meal; it's a savory celebration that brings joy and warmth to any occasion. In this article, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about making Grilled Chimichurri Chicken, from preparation to serving suggestions. Whether you're an experienced grill master or just starting out, this recipe will impress everyone at your table.

So why wait? Let's dive deeper into why this recipe is a must-try and how you can successfully prepare it.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken is much more than just a meal; it’s an adventure in flavor. Here are some reasons to get excited about this incredible dish:

1. Flavor Explosion: The combination of fresh herbs, garlic, and vinegar creates a bold flavor that is utterly irresistible.
2. Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward instructions, this recipe is accessible for cooks of all skill levels.
3. Healthy Option: Chicken is a lean protein, and when grilled, it requires less oil than frying, making it a healthier alternative.
4. Versatility: This dish pairs well with various sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad, making it adaptable to any meal.
5. Crowd-Pleaser: Everyone loves grilled chicken! It’s perfect for family gatherings, barbecues, and parties.
6. Make Ahead: The chimichurri sauce can be prepared in advance, saving you time on the day you plan to grill.

With these compelling reasons, it’s clear why Grilled Chimichurri Chicken can become a staple in your recipe repertoire.

Preparation and Cooking Time

Creating Grilled Chimichurri Chicken is simple and quick, making it perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend get-togethers. Here’s a breakdown of the time involved in making this delightful dish:

• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Marinating Time: 1 hour (or overnight for enhanced flavors)
• Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour and 35 minutes (including marinating)

These times may vary slightly based on individual cooking techniques and preferences, but this framework should work well for most home cooks.

Ingredients

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
• 1 teaspoon oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• Juice of 1 lime (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Creating Grilled Chimichurri Chicken ensures a flavorful and enjoyable meal with these simple steps:

1. Prepare Marinade: In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, oregano, salt, black pepper, and lime juice if using. Blend well to create a delicious chimichurri sauce.

1. Marinate Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a large resealable plastic bag or dish. Pour half of the chimichurri sauce over the chicken, ensuring every piece is coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour or overnight for maximum flavor.

1. Preheat Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Ensure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent sticking.

1. Remove Chicken from Marinade: Take the chicken out of the marinade, allowing the excess sauce to drip off.

1. Grill Chicken: Place the chicken on the hot grill. Cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).

1. Rest Chicken: Once fully cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes to lock in the juices.

1. Serve with Sauce: Serve the grilled chicken with the remaining chimichurri sauce drizzled on top.

By following these steps, you'll have flavorful, grilled chicken ready to impress everyone at your table.

How to Serve

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken can be served in numerous delightful ways to enhance your dining experience:

1. Plating: Arrange the grilled chicken on a large platter or individual plates. Drizzle with extra chimichurri sauce for an appealing presentation.

1. Accompaniments: Pair with sides like grilled vegetables, cornbread, rice pilaf, or a fresh garden salad. These complement the vibrant flavors of the chicken beautifully.

1. Garnish: For an extra touch of color, consider garnishing with additional parsley, lime wedges, or edible flowers.

1. Serving Temperature: Serve the chicken warm for the best flavor and texture.

1. Beverage Pairing: Enhance your meal with refreshing beverages such as a crisp white wine, sparkling water with lime, or a tangy lemonade.

With these serving ideas, you can present Grilled Chimichurri Chicken in a way that’s both beautiful and delicious, creating a memorable experience for you and your guests. Dive into the flavors and enjoy a delightful culinary journey with each bite!

Additional Tips

• Marinate Longer for Enhanced Flavor: While one hour of marinating is sufficient, letting the chicken soak in the chimichurri overnight maximizes flavor.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: A meat thermometer ensures that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for perfectly cooked meat.

• Experiment with Herbs: Try adding fresh cilantro or basil to your chimichurri for a unique twist on the traditional recipe.

• Resting Time: Letting your chicken rest after grilling allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender bite.

• Grill Marks: For attractive grill marks, avoid flipping the chicken too often. Stick to one flip and allow it enough time to achieve those beautiful charred lines.

Recipe Variation

Feel free to customize your Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with these fun variations:

1. Spicy Chimichurri: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a chopped jalapeño to the chimichurri for an extra kick.

1. Different Proteins: Substitute chicken with shrimp, steak, or pork. Adjust the cooking time accordingly based on thickness.

1. Vegetarian Option: Grill portobello mushrooms or zucchini slices marinated in chimichurri for a delicious meat-free option.

1. Citrus Twist: Add orange juice or lemon zest to your chimichurri for a fragrant citrus twist that brightens the flavors.

1. Smoky Toaster Oven Version: If you don’t have a grill, use a toaster oven with a broil function to cook the chicken while maintaining the smoky flavor.

Freezing and Storage

• Storage: Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It can last up to three days while maintaining its quality.

• Freezing: To freeze, wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap or foil, then place in a freezer-safe bag. Frozen chicken can last for up to three months. To reheat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the grill or in the oven.

• Chimichurri Sauce Storage: The chimichurri can also be refrigerated in a sealed jar for about a week. For longer storage, freeze the sauce in an ice cube tray and transfer the cubes to a bag when solid.

Special Equipment

To make the most out of your Grilled Chimichurri Chicken, consider using the following tools:

• Mixing Bowl: For preparing the chimichurri marinade.

• Whisk or Fork: To mix the marinade ingredients thoroughly.

• Resealable Plastic Bag: Ideal for marinating chicken without mess.

• Grill or Grill Pan: Any good-quality grill or cast-iron grill pan will work.

• Meat Thermometer: This is crucial for checking chicken doneness accurately.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make chimichurri in advance?

Yes, making chimichurri a day ahead of time enhances its flavors. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Why is my chicken dry?

Overcooking can lead to dryness. Always time your cooking and check doneness with a meat thermometer.

Is chimichurri sauce only for chicken?

No! Chimichurri pairs excellently with various meats, fish, grilled vegetables, or even as a dipping sauce.

Can I grill bone-in chicken parts?

Yes, just be sure to adjust the cooking time since bone-in pieces require longer until they reach the safe temperature.

What type of vinegar works best?

Red wine vinegar is traditional, yet white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can also create a delicious sauce.

Conclusion

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken is more than just a meal; it’s a vibrant culinary experience that enhances any gathering. With its combination of robust flavors, simple preparations, and the option for various variations, this recipe is bound to become a favorite in your kitchen. So fire up that grill, gather your ingredients, and indulge in the sensational tastes of this Argentinian classic. Your taste buds are in for a treat!