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 family dinners, weekend gatherings, or a delightful summer barbecue. With its juicy texture and bold taste, these chicken thighs bring a taste of Argentina right to your table!
Why You’ll Love This Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile and easy to prepare.
- Bold flavors: The chimichurri sauce delivers an irresistible blend of fresh herbs and spices that elevate the chicken.
- Quick preparation: With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
- Versatile serving options: Serve it as a main course or slice it up for salads and sandwiches.
- Perfectly juicy: Bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs ensure that each bite is moist and flavorful.
- Grill-friendly: The grilling method adds a smoky char that complements the tangy chimichurri sauce beautifully.
Tools and Preparation
Gathering the right tools can make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill
- Medium bowl
- Whisk
- Resealable plastic bag or bowl
- Meat thermometer
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill: Provides the ideal cooking method for achieving smoky flavor and crispy skin on the chicken.
- Medium bowl: Perfect for mixing the chimichurri sauce without splashing ingredients everywhere.
- Meat thermometer: Ensures your chicken reaches the safe internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Ingredients
Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious Chimichurri Chicken Thighs.
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
Serving Chimichurri Chicken Thighs is an exciting opportunity to showcase the vibrant flavors of this dish. The zesty chimichurri sauce complements the juicy chicken, making it a delightful centerpiece for any meal. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your dining experience.
With Fresh Salad
- Mixed Greens Salad: Toss together fresh greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
- Tomato and Avocado Salad: Combine ripe tomatoes and creamy avocado for a colorful and tasty addition.
Over Rice or Quinoa
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice with cilantro and lime enhances the dish’s Argentinian flair.
- Herbed Quinoa: Cook quinoa with herbs for a nutritious base that pairs well with the chicken.
Accompanied by Grilled Vegetables
- Seasoned Zucchini and Bell Peppers: Grill vegetables brushed with olive oil and seasoning for a smoky flavor.
- Asparagus with Lemon Zest: Lightly charred asparagus adds a touch of elegance to the plate.
How to Perfect Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
To ensure your Chimichurri Chicken Thighs turn out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips. Each suggestion will help enhance the flavors and cooking process.
- Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh parsley and cilantro provide better flavor than dried herbs, enhancing the chimichurri sauce significantly.
- Marinate Longer: For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 4 hours, or overnight if possible.
- Preheat Your Grill Properly: A well-preheated grill ensures even cooking and beautiful grill marks on your chicken.
- Check Internal Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
- Let It Rest: Allow cooked chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving; this helps retain its juices.
- Customize Heat Level: Adjust red pepper flakes in the chimichurri sauce according to your spice preference for tailored heat.
Best Side Dishes for Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Pairing side dishes with Chimichurri Chicken Thighs can elevate your meal further. Here are some delicious options that complement the dish beautifully.
- Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic create a comforting side that balances the flavors.
- Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled or boiled brings a natural sweetness that pairs well with the spicy chimichurri.
- Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw made with cabbage and carrots offers a refreshing contrast to the richness of chicken thighs.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes caramelized in the oven add depth and sweetness to your plate.
- Grilled Corn Salad: Combine grilled corn, bell peppers, and lime dressing for a bright, zesty side dish.
- Baked Beans: Savory baked beans provide a hearty complement, adding texture and flavor richness.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When preparing Chimichurri Chicken Thighs, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes that can impact the final dish. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for:
- Not Marinating Long Enough: Marinating the chicken for less than an hour won’t allow the flavors to penetrate. Aim for at least 1 hour, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken thighs too long can lead to dryness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Skipping the Resting Period: Allowing grilled chicken to rest for a few minutes helps retain moisture. Avoid cutting into it immediately after grilling.
- Ignoring the Chimichurri Sauce Ratio: Using too much vinegar can overpower the sauce’s flavor. Balance your chimichurri with olive oil and seasonings to enhance its taste.
- Not Adjusting Spice Levels: If you prefer milder flavors, be cautious with red pepper flakes. Start with less and adjust according to your taste preference.
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
- Wrap chicken thighs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing them in a freezer-safe bag.
- They can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating Instructions
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C) and reheat chicken on a baking sheet for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Use a microwave-safe dish, cover loosely, and heat at medium power for about 2-3 minutes, checking frequently.
- Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth, and cover until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Chimichurri Chicken Thighs?
Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant chimichurri sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, and spices, then grilled or baked.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken thighs in the chimichurri sauce for at least 1 hour but preferably overnight to enhance flavor absorption.
Can I use boneless chicken thighs?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs; however, cooking times may vary. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What other dishes pair well with Chimichurri Chicken Thighs?
These flavorful chicken thighs pair beautifully with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Final Thoughts
Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are not only packed with flavor but also versatile enough for any occasion. You can customize this recipe by adding your favorite herbs or adjusting spice levels. Try it today and bring a taste of Argentina to your kitchen!
Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are a mouthwatering dish that melds juicy, grilled chicken with a vibrant, herbaceous chimichurri sauce. This Argentinian-inspired recipe is perfect for summer barbecues, family dinners, or any occasion where you want to impress without spending hours in the kitchen. The marinated chicken absorbs the zesty flavors of fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, and red pepper flakes, creating a bold taste that’s sure to delight your taste buds. With minimal prep time and versatile serving options, this dish shines as a main course or can be sliced for salads and sandwiches. Get ready to bring the taste of Argentina right to your table!
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 (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ teaspoon ground black pepper
- ½ cup olive oil
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- Juice of 1 lime
Instructions
- In a bowl, mix parsley, cilantro, garlic, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Gradually whisk in olive oil and vinegar. Add lime juice to taste.
- Marinate chicken thighs in half the chimichurri sauce for at least 1 hour (up to 24 hours).
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill chicken skin-side down for about 6-7 minutes; flip and cook 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
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Argentinian
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 thigh (150g)
- Calories: 350
- Sugar: 0g
- Sodium: 350mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 16g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 3g
- Fiber: 0g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 130mg
Leave a Comment