Savor the vibrant flavors of Chimichurri Chicken Thighs, marinated in a zesty chimichurri sauce made with fresh herbs, garlic, and red pepper flakes. This dish is perfect for summer grilling, family gatherings, or a cozy weeknight dinner. The juicy chicken thighs bring a taste of Argentina right to your table, making every meal special!
Why You’ll Love This Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
These Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are a delightful blend of flavor and ease.
- Flavorful Experience: The chimichurri sauce adds a burst of freshness that elevates the chicken’s natural taste.
- Quick and Easy: With minimal prep time, you can have this dish ready in just 25 minutes.
- Versatile Dish: Perfect for any occasion – from summer barbecues to family dinners.
- Healthy Choice: Packed with herbs and lean protein, this dish is both nutritious and satisfying.
- Impressive Presentation: The vibrant colors of the chimichurri make for an eye-catching plate.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools makes cooking Chimichurri Chicken Thighs easy and enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Resealable plastic bag or large bowl
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides that charred flavor while ensuring even cooking.
- Medium bowl: Ideal for mixing the chimichurri sauce without spills.
- Whisk: Helps emulsify the sauce for a smooth texture.
- Resealable plastic bag: Great for marinating chicken evenly without mess.
Ingredients
For the Chicken
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
For the Chimichurri Sauce
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- Juice of 1 lime
How to Make Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce
In a medium bowl, combine the chopped parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Slowly whisk in the olive oil and red wine vinegar until well combined. Add lime juice to taste.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable plastic bag or bowl. Pour half of the chimichurri sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is well coated. Reserve the remaining sauce for serving. Seal the bag or cover the bowl, and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour (or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor).
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Remove the chicken from the marinade and let any excess drip off. Place the chicken thighs skin-side down on the preheated grill. Grill for about 6-7 minutes, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Step 5: Serve
Transfer the grilled chicken thighs to a serving platter. Drizzle with the reserved chimichurri sauce and garnish with additional fresh herbs if desired. Serve immediately and enjoy!
How to Serve Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are not just a main course; they can be served in various delightful ways. Whether you want a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, these ideas will elevate your meal.
With Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens: A light salad with arugula, spinach, and cherry tomatoes pairs wonderfully.
- Cucumber Salad: Crisp cucumbers tossed with vinegar and herbs add a refreshing crunch.
On Grilled Vegetables
- Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grill seasonal vegetables alongside your chicken for a colorful plate.
- Asparagus: Roasted or grilled asparagus complements the flavors of chimichurri beautifully.
In Tacos
- Chicken Tacos: Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in corn tortillas with avocado and salsa.
- Burrito Bowls: Layer the chicken over rice, beans, and fresh toppings for a hearty meal.
With Bread
- Crusty Baguette: Serve slices of warm baguette to soak up the extra chimichurri sauce.
- Garlic Bread: Add a flavorful twist by serving garlic bread alongside your chicken.
How to Perfect Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
To achieve the best Chimichurri Chicken Thighs, follow these tips for juicy and flavorful results.
- Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the chicken, the more flavor it absorbs. Aim for at least 4 hours.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and cilantro enhance the flavor profile of the chimichurri sauce significantly.
- Preheat Your Grill: Ensuring your grill is hot before cooking helps achieve that perfect sear on the chicken skin.
- Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes before serving to retain its juices.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify red pepper flakes based on your heat preference.
- Serve Warm: Enjoying your Chimichurri Chicken Thighs warm allows all flavors to shine through.
Best Side Dishes for Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Pairing side dishes with your Chimichurri Chicken Thighs can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some delicious options to consider:
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy and flavorful, they provide a comforting base for the chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: A nutritious salad with quinoa, black beans, and corn offers great texture and taste.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Their natural sweetness balances out the zesty chimichurri perfectly.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness to each bite of chicken.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice flavored with herbs makes an excellent companion for soaking up chimichurri sauce.
- Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter enhances summer grilling vibes.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Marinating chicken can be tricky, and there are some common pitfalls that can lead to less-than-perfect Chimichurri Chicken Thighs. Here are a few mistakes to steer clear of:
- Over-marinating: Longer isn’t always better. Marinating chicken thighs for too long can make the meat mushy. Aim for 1-24 hours for optimal flavor without compromising texture.
- Under-seasoning the sauce: Chimichurri is all about flavor. If you skimp on salt or herbs, the sauce won’t have the punch it should. Taste and adjust seasoning before marinating.
- Skipping the resting time: After grilling, let your chicken rest for a few minutes. This allows juices to redistribute, resulting in juicier, more flavorful thighs.
- Using low-quality oil: The olive oil in your chimichurri greatly affects its flavor. Always opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
- Neglecting grill temperature: If your grill isn’t hot enough, the chicken won’t sear properly, leading to dry meat. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat before placing the chicken on it.
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftover Chimichurri Chicken Thighs in an airtight container.
- They will last for up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.
Freezing Instructions
- For longer storage, freeze cooked chicken thighs in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be stored for up to 3 months; remember to label with the date.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C), place chicken in a baking dish covered with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover loosely with a damp paper towel, and heat in 30-second intervals until hot.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a splash of water or oil. Add chicken and cover; cook for about 5-7 minutes until heated through.
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes Chimichurri Chicken Thighs so flavorful?
The vibrant flavors come from fresh herbs, garlic, and spices in the chimichurri sauce that infuse into the chicken during marination.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?
Yes! Boneless chicken thighs will cook faster but still absorb all the delicious flavors of the chimichurri sauce.
How do I know when my Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are done?
Use a meat thermometer; they should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
What should I serve with Chimichurri Chicken Thighs?
These flavorful thighs pair well with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Can I customize the chimichurri sauce?
Absolutely! You can adjust herbs or spices based on your preference. Adding additional ingredients like oregano or red onion can enhance flavor variations.
Final Thoughts
Chimichurri Chicken Thighs offer a delightful taste experience that’s perfect for any occasion. Their juicy texture combined with zesty flavors makes them an appealing choice for summer grilling or weeknight dinners. Feel free to customize the chimichurri sauce by adding your favorite herbs or adjusting spice levels to suit your palate!
Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the vibrant taste of Chimichurri Chicken Thighs, a delectable dish that brings the flavors of Argentina to your dining table. Marinated in a zesty chimichurri sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of red pepper flakes, these juicy chicken thighs are perfect for summer grilling or cozy weeknight dinners. With minimal prep time and maximum flavor, this dish is sure to impress family and friends at any gathering.
Ingredients
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- ½ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- In a medium bowl, mix parsley, cilantro, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in olive oil and red wine vinegar until combined. Add lime juice to taste.
- Place chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or bowl, pour half the chimichurri over them, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill marinated chicken thighs skin-side down for about 6-7 minutes; flip and cook another 6-7 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
- Serve on a platter drizzled with reserved chimichurri sauce.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Category: Main Dish
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Argentinian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken thigh (150g)
- Calories: 365
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 490mg
- Fat: 25g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 20g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 2g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 115mg
Leave a Comment