Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce is a culinary adventure that tantalizes your taste buds with herby, zesty goodness. Picture succulent chicken, kissed by flames, then drizzled with a vibrant chimichurri that dances on your palate like it just won a tango contest.
Now, imagine the aroma wafting through your kitchen as you grill this masterpiece. Whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy weeknight dinner, this dish promises to elevate any occasion and leave your guests raving about your culinary prowess.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This grilled chicken recipe is incredibly easy to prepare and perfect for busy weeknights.
- The chimichurri brings an explosion of flavor that pairs beautifully with the tender chicken.
- Its vibrant colors make it an eye-catching centerpiece for any meal.
- Versatile enough to serve on its own or with salads and sides, you’ll want to make it again and again.
Ingredients for Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: Use about 3-4 breasts, ensuring they are fresh for optimal flavor.
Olive Oil: A good quality extra-virgin olive oil enhances flavor while keeping the chicken juicy.
Fresh Parsley: Look for bright green leaves; they add freshness and vibrancy to the chimichurri.
Fresh Garlic: Choose firm cloves for a robust flavor; garlic is the backbone of the chimichurri sauce.
Red Wine Vinegar: This tangy vinegar balances the richness of the chicken; opt for quality brands.
For the Sauce:
Red Pepper Flakes: Add these for a kick; adjust according to your spice tolerance!
Salt and Pepper: Essential seasoning to enhance all the flavors in the dish; use freshly ground pepper if possible.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. This ensures they sear nicely on the grill. Season both sides generously with salt and pepper before rubbing them down with olive oil.
Step 2: Mix Up That Chimichurri
In a medium bowl, combine finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Stir until well mixed—trust me; you’ll want to take a spoonful (or two) just to taste!
Step 3: Preheat Your Grill
Get your grill nice and hot! Preheat it to medium-high heat (about 400°F or 200°C). If using charcoal, let those coals get nice and ashy before cooking.
Step 4: Grill It Up
Place seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side until they’re cooked through (internal temperature should reach at least 165°F or roughly 74°C). You want those beautiful grill marks!
Step 5: Let It Rest
After grilling, transfer chicken breasts onto a cutting board and let them rest for about five minutes. This allows juices to redistribute throughout—no one likes dry chicken!
Step 6: Serve With Chimichurri
Slice the rested chicken breasts and drizzle generously with chimichurri sauce. Serve immediately alongside your favorite sides—it’s an absolute showstopper!
Transfer to plates and enjoy every bite of this grilled delight!
You Must Know
- This amazing grilled chicken with chimichurri sauce offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze.
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand.
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table.
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing.
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating your chicken to enhance its flavor and tenderness. While the chicken soaks in those delicious juices, whip up your chimichurri sauce. Grill the marinated chicken until perfectly charred and juicy, and serve it drizzled with that zesty sauce.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out herbs in your chimichurri for a unique twist. Experiment with different vinegars or add some heat with red pepper flakes. You can also try using boneless thighs instead of breasts for a richer flavor.
Storing & Reheating
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To reheat, warm it gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Always let your chicken rest after grilling for at least five minutes to lock in juices.
- Use fresh herbs for a vibrant chimichurri flavor that pops.
- Don’t skip the marination time; even 30 minutes can elevate the dish dramatically.
It was one of those lazy Sunday afternoons when I decided to impress my friends with my culinary skills. Little did I know, they would rave about this grilled chicken with chimichurri sauce long after the meal was over!
FAQs
What is Chimichurri Sauce?
Chimichurri sauce is a vibrant, herb-based condiment originating from Argentina. It typically consists of fresh parsley, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, and spices. This flavorful sauce is perfect for enhancing grilled meats, particularly grilled chicken with chimichurri sauce. The combination of herbs provides a fresh taste that complements the smoky flavors of grilled foods.
How do you make Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce?
To make grilled chicken with chimichurri sauce, start by marinating chicken breasts in olive oil, garlic, and spices for at least 30 minutes. Grill the chicken until fully cooked. While grilling, prepare the chimichurri by blending parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil together. Once the chicken is ready, drizzle chimichurri sauce over it before serving for an extra burst of flavor.
Can I use store-bought Chimichurri Sauce?
Yes, you can use store-bought chimichurri sauce if you’re short on time or prefer convenience. However, homemade chimichurri sauce offers fresher flavors and allows you to adjust ingredients according to your taste preferences. Using homemade chimichurri will elevate your grilled chicken dish and ensure a unique touch.
What sides pair well with Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce?
Grilled chicken with chimichurri sauce pairs beautifully with various sides. Consider serving it alongside grilled vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers or a light salad featuring mixed greens and cherry tomatoes. Additionally, rice or quinoa can complement the dish well, soaking up the delicious flavors of the chimichurri.
Conclusion for Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce
Grilled chicken with chimichurri sauce combines savory flavors and fresh herbs to create a delightful meal. The preparation involves marinating the chicken and grilling it to perfection while making a zesty chimichurri to drizzle on top. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also versatile in pairing options. Whether served at a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner, this recipe will impress everyone at your table. Enjoy the vibrant taste of Argentina right in your kitchen!
Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce
Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce is a succulent dish that combines perfectly grilled chicken breasts with a vibrant, herbaceous chimichurri sauce. This recipe is simple yet impressive, making it ideal for both casual weeknight dinners and festive barbecues. The smoky flavor of the chicken beautifully complements the zesty sauce, creating a delightful dining experience that will leave your guests asking for seconds.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 14 minutes
- Total Time: 29 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Argentinian
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 2 tbsp extra-virgin olive oil (for chicken)
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil (for chimichurri)
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Pat the chicken breasts dry and season both sides with salt and pepper. Rub with 2 tbsp of olive oil.
- In a bowl, mix parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, 1/2 cup olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper until combined.
- Heat grill to medium-high (400°F).
- Cook chicken for 6-7 minutes on each side until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing. Drizzle with chimichurri sauce and serve.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast (170g)
- Calories: 380
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 18g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 36g
- Cholesterol: 120mg
Keywords: Marinate the chicken in olive oil and garlic for at least 30 minutes before grilling for enhanced flavor. Feel free to adjust herbs or spice levels in the chimichurri to suit your tastes.
