Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Juicy, tender grilled chicken thighs with chimichurri are perfect for any occasion. This dish combines the rich flavors of marinated chicken with a vibrant chimichurri sauce that enhances each bite. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue or enjoying a cozy family dinner, this recipe will impress everyone at the table. The unique blend of fresh herbs and spices makes it stand out, ensuring it becomes a favorite in your meal rotation.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With simple steps and minimal prep time, you can whip up this dish quickly.
• Flavor Explosion: The chimichurri sauce provides a fresh and zesty kick that elevates the chicken.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish or serve it with salads, rice, or vegetables for a complete meal.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time and grill when ready for an effortless weeknight dinner.
• Healthy Choice: Packed with protein and healthy fats, it’s a nutritious option for any diet.

Tools and Preparation

To make grilled chicken thighs with chimichurri, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Grill
• Baking dish
• Measuring cups and spoons

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: It quickly blends the chimichurri ingredients to create a smooth sauce without much effort.
• Grill: Provides the perfect cooking environment to achieve those delicious grill marks and smoky flavor on the chicken.
• Baking dish: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly while allowing you to easily transfer it to the grill.

Ingredients

To prepare grilled chicken thighs with chimichurri, gather the following ingredients:

For the Chimichurri Sauce

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup fresh Italian parsley (chopped)
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried)
• 1 small shallot (peeled)
• 2 cloves garlic (peeled)
• 1/2 jalapeno pepper (seeded)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red apple vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• Fresh ground pepper

For the Chicken

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs

How to Make Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

In a food processor, combine:
1. Cilantro, parsley, oregano, shallot, garlic, and jalapeño.
2. Pulse until finely chopped.
3. Add the lemon juice, red apple vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper.
4. Blend until well combined.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

1. Place the chicken in a baking dish.
2. Season with salt and pepper.
3. Pour 1/4 cup of chimichurri over the chicken.
4. Turn to coat completely.
5. Marinate for 20 minutes to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

1. Remove chicken from fridge to warm slightly while heating your grill to medium-high.
2. Grill each thigh for about 5-6 minutes per side or until juices run clear.

Step 4: Serve

Serve your grilled chicken thighs topped or alongside extra chimichurri for an added burst of flavor.

Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken thighs with chimichurri!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri are versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

On a Bed of Greens

• Fresh mixed greens – Serve the grilled chicken atop a mix of arugula, spinach, and romaine for a refreshing salad.
• Kale salad – Pair with a kale salad dressed in olive oil and lemon for a nutritious option.

With Grains

• Quinoa – A light and fluffy grain that pairs beautifully with the flavors of chimichurri.
• Couscous – Serve alongside couscous tossed with vegetables for a hearty side.

In Sandwiches

• Grilled chicken sandwich – Slice the chicken and place it in whole-grain bread with avocado and lettuce for a tasty lunch option.
• Wraps – Use tortillas to wrap the chicken, fresh veggies, and chimichurri sauce for an easy-to-eat meal.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Seasonal roasted veggies – Accompany the chicken with seasonal vegetables like bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots for added flavor and nutrition.
• Sweet potatoes – The sweetness of roasted sweet potatoes complements the savory notes of the chicken.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

To achieve juicy and flavorful grilled chicken thighs, follow these key tips. Each step will help you enhance your cooking technique for this delicious dish.

• Marinate longer – For the best flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 1-2 hours or even overnight.
• Use room temperature chicken – Allow the marinated chicken to come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
• Preheat your grill – Make sure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve nice sear marks and locks in moisture.
• Don’t flip too often – Let the chicken cook undisturbed on one side until it easily releases from the grill grates before flipping.
• Check internal temperature – Use a meat thermometer to make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Rest before serving – Allow the grilled chicken to rest for about 5 minutes before slicing. This helps retain its juices.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Pairing your Grilled Chicken Thighs with complementary sides enhances your meal experience. Here are some excellent options to consider.

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes – Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic provide richness that pairs perfectly with chimichurri flavors.
2. Grilled Corn on the Cob – Add charred corn brushed lightly with olive oil as a sweet and crunchy side.
3. Tabbouleh – A refreshing Middle Eastern salad made from parsley, tomatoes, bulgur wheat, and lemon juice that balances well with meat dishes.
4. Roasted Asparagus – Bright green asparagus drizzled with olive oil and roasted until tender offers a nutritious complement.
5. Coleslaw – A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity that brightens up your meal.
6. Baked Zucchini Fries – Lightly breaded zucchini sticks baked until crispy serve as a delightful side or appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri turn out perfectly, watch out for these common mistakes.

• Not marinating long enough – Marinating the chicken for only a short time can result in a bland flavor. Aim for at least 20 minutes, but overnight is ideal for maximum taste.
• Using dry herbs instead of fresh – Fresh herbs bring vibrant flavor and aroma to chimichurri. If you use dried herbs, reduce the quantity, as they are more concentrated.
• Overcooking the chicken – Chicken thighs are best when cooked to an internal temperature of 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to avoid dryness.
• Skipping the resting period – Allowing grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes before slicing helps retain juices, making each bite more succulent.
• Not adjusting seasoning – Taste your chimichurri before serving; it may need more salt or acidity depending on your preference and the ingredients used.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container.
• They can last in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

• Wrap the chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer-safe container.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

• Oven – Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave – Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a little olive oil and cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about preparing Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri.

How do I make chimichurri sauce?

Chimichurri sauce is made by blending fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley with garlic, shallots, lemon juice, vinegar, and olive oil. It’s perfect as both a marinade and topping!

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! While this recipe uses boneless skinless chicken thighs, you can also use boneless skinless chicken breasts or drumsticks if you prefer.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 20 minutes. However, letting them sit overnight will enhance the taste even more.

What can I serve with Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri?

This dish pairs well with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. You can customize sides based on your preferences!

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri is not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions. Feel free to customize it by adding different spices or trying variations of chimichurri sauce. Try this recipe today and enjoy its vibrant flavors!