Description

Chimichurri Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish featuring grilled or roasted chicken marinated in a tangy, herb-filled chimichurri sauce made with fresh parsley, garlic, vinegar, and spices. This zesty and fresh sauce enhances the natural juiciness of the chicken, creating a delicious and simple meal perfect for any occasion!

Ingredients

For the Chicken:

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

1 cup fresh parsley, packed
1/2 cup fresh cilantro (optional, for added flavor)
3-4 cloves garlic, minced
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1 tablespoon lemon juice (or lime juice)
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
1/2 teaspoon ground cumin (optional, for extra flavor)
1/4 cup olive oil
Salt and pepper, to taste

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Instructions

Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:
- In a food processor or blender, combine the parsley, cilantro (if using), garlic, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, red pepper flakes, and cumin (if using). Pulse a few times to roughly chop everything.
- With the processor running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until the sauce reaches your desired consistency. It should be thick but pourable.
- Taste and adjust seasoning with salt, pepper, and extra lemon or vinegar if needed. Set aside.
Prepare the Chicken:
- Preheat your grill or skillet over medium-high heat. Alternatively, you can roast the chicken in the oven at 400°F (200°C).
- Brush the chicken with olive oil and season generously with salt and pepper on both sides.
Cook the Chicken:
- Grilling: Place the chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 6-7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Pan-searing: Heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
- Roasting: Place the chicken breasts on a baking sheet and roast for 20-25 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
Serve the Chicken:
- Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes.
- Drizzle the chimichurri sauce generously over the chicken. You can also serve extra sauce on the side for dipping.
Garnish and Enjoy:
- Garnish with extra chopped parsley or cilantro, if desired. Serve with your favorite sides like rice, roasted vegetables, or a simple salad.

Notes

Add More Spice: If you like more heat, add a fresh chili pepper (jalapeño or serrano) to the chimichurri sauce or increase the red pepper flakes.Grilled Vegetables: Grill some vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions alongside the chicken and serve them with chimichurri for a complete meal.Herb Variations: Try using other herbs like oregano, thyme, or basil for a different flavor twist.Bone-in Chicken: Use bone-in chicken thighs or drumsticks for a more flavorful option. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.