Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Juicy and flavorful, Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri is perfect for any gathering, be it a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. The tender chicken thighs are marinated in a vibrant chimichurri sauce that enhances their natural flavor, making this dish a standout choice. Plus, it’s quick to prepare and offers a delightful twist on traditional grilled chicken.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: This recipe takes only minutes to prep and cook, making it ideal for busy weeknights or last-minute gatherings.
• Flavor-Packed: The chimichurri sauce delivers an explosion of fresh herbs and spices, elevating the chicken’s taste.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it as the main course or slice it for salads and wraps; the options are endless!
• Healthy Option: With lean chicken thighs and fresh ingredients, this dish is both nutritious and delicious.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra for lunch the next day; it tastes even better when the flavors meld together!

Tools and Preparation

Gathering the right tools will streamline your cooking process and ensure your grilled chicken turns out perfectly every time.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool makes quick work of blending herbs into a smooth chimichurri sauce.
• Grill: A good quality grill provides even heat, ensuring your chicken thighs cook properly with those beautiful grill marks.
• Baking dish: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly without spilling or mess.
• Tongs: Perfect for safely flipping the chicken on the grill without piercing the meat.

Ingredients

To make these delicious Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri, you’ll need:

For the Chimichurri Sauce

• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro (fresh)
• 1/2 cup fresh Italian parsley (chopped, fresh)
• 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 apple vinegar 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 the cilantro, parsley, oregano, shallot, garlic, and jalapeño. Add in the lemon juice, apple vinegar vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pulse until everything is well combined and finely chopped.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a baking dish. Season with salt and pepper. Pour 1/4 cup of chimichurri over the chicken and turn to coat completely. Cover and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes or up to 24 hours.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Remove the chicken from the fridge to allow it to warm slightly while you preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill. Cook them for about 5-6 minutes on each side until they are cooked through and juices run clear.

Step 5: Serve

Serve your grilled chicken thighs hot off the grill with additional chimichurri on the side for drizzling. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Grilled chicken thighs with chimichurri are not only delicious, but they also offer a versatile dining experience. Here are some creative ways to serve this flavorful dish.

Serve with Fresh Salads

• Mixed Greens Salad: Combine arugula, spinach, and mixed greens for a refreshing contrast.
• Cucumber and Tomato Salad: Chopped cucumbers and tomatoes tossed in olive oil and lemon complement the chicken perfectly.

Pair with Grains

• Quinoa: Lightly seasoned quinoa adds a nutty flavor and boosts nutrition.
• Brown Rice: A hearty option that absorbs the flavors of the chimichurri.

Add Some Vegetables

• Grilled Asparagus: Lightly charred asparagus enhances the grilled theme of your meal.
• Roasted Bell Peppers: Sweet bell peppers provide vibrant color and sweetness.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Getting the perfect grilled chicken thighs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips to elevate your dish.

• Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 1 hour will deepen the flavors.
• Preheat Your Grill: A hot grill ensures that you get beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F for safe consumption.
• Let It Rest: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes after grilling; this helps retain moisture.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Complement your grilled chicken thighs with delicious side dishes that enhance the overall meal. Here are some great options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic add comfort.
2. Roasted Seasonal Vegetables: A colorful medley of vegetables roasted until tender brings seasonal freshness.
3. Coleslaw: A crunchy slaw provides a refreshing contrast, especially on warm days.
4. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob is a classic pairing that’s easy to prepare on the grill.
5. Baked Sweet Potatoes: Soft and sweet, these potatoes offer a nutritious side option.
6. Pasta Salad: A cold pasta salad with olives and cherry tomatoes adds variety and texture.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri, it’s easy to overlook some key steps. Here are common mistakes to avoid for the best results.

• Not marinating long enough – Skipping the marination time can lead to bland chicken. Aim for at least 20 minutes, but for more flavor, marinate up to 24 hours.
• Using dried herbs instead of fresh – Fresh herbs yield a more vibrant chimichurri. If using dried herbs, reduce the amount by one-third to avoid overpowering the sauce.
• Skipping the resting period – Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can release juices. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing to keep it juicy.
• Overcooking the chicken – Cooking too long can dry out the chicken thighs. Use a meat thermometer; they should be done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Forgetting to season properly – Insufficient seasoning can make even well-cooked chicken taste flat. Don’t skimp on salt and pepper before grilling.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container.
• They will last for up to 4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

• Wrap individual chicken thighs tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil.
• Place them in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

• Oven – Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave – Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover with a damp paper towel. Heat in short intervals until hot, checking frequently.
• Stovetop – Heat a skillet over medium heat and add a little oil. Cook chicken for about 5-7 minutes per side until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

How do I make chimichurri sauce?

To make chimichurri sauce, blend fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley with garlic, shallot, jalapeño, lemon juice, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes! While this recipe uses boneless skinless thighs, you can also use boneless skinless breasts or even bone-in cuts. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

How long can I store grilled chicken thighs?

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

What should I serve with grilled chicken thighs?

These grilled thighs pair well with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. You can also serve them in salads or wraps for added versatility.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize the chimichurri by adding different herbs or spices based on your taste preferences. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings—give it a try!

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Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

• Author: sofia
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 12 minutes
• Total Time: 22 minutes
• Yield: Serves approximately 4
• Category: Main
• Method: Grilling
• Cuisine: American

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Description

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri is a mouthwatering dish that’s perfect for any occasion, whether it’s a summer barbecue or a cozy family dinner. The juicy chicken thighs are marinated in a vibrant chimichurri sauce, packed with fresh herbs and zesty flavors that elevate the dish to new heights. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also versatile enough to be served as the main attraction or added to salads and wraps. With lean protein and wholesome ingredients, it’s a delicious way to enjoy healthy eating without sacrificing flavor.

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Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro
• 1/2 cup fresh Italian parsley
• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano
• 1 small shallot
• 2 cloves garlic
• 1/2 jalapeño pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• Salt and fresh ground pepper

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Instructions

1. In a food processor, blend cilantro, parsley, oregano, shallot, garlic, jalapeño, lemon juice, apple cider vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper until smooth.
2. Place chicken thighs in a baking dish. Season with salt and pepper, then pour in 1/4 cup chimichurri sauce to marinate for at least 20 minutes (up to 24 hours).
3. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken thighs for about 5-6 minutes per side or until juices run clear.
4. Serve hot with additional chimichurri sauce on the side for drizzling.

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Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 330
• Sugar: 0g
• Sodium: 370mg
• Fat: 22g
• Saturated Fat: 3g
• Unsaturated Fat: 18g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 6g
• Fiber: 0g
• Protein: 30g
• Cholesterol: 120mg

Keywords: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken longer if time allows. Experiment with different herbs in the chimichurri for varied taste profiles.