Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Juicy, tender grilled chicken thighs are a delightful option for any meal, especially when paired with a vibrant chimichurri sauce. This recipe for Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri showcases the perfect balance of flavors and is versatile enough for family dinners or summer barbecues. The chimichurri not only serves as a marinade but also enhances the dish’s flavor when served on the side.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor Explosion: The chimichurri sauce is packed with fresh herbs, garlic, and a hint of spice, making every bite unforgettable.
• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this dish ready to marinate and grill in no time.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main course or slice the chicken for salads, sandwiches, or wraps.
• Health-Conscious Choice: High in protein and low in carbs, this recipe fits perfectly into a balanced diet.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make extra chimichurri to use throughout the week on various dishes.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools is essential. Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this delicious dish.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Food processor
• Baking dish
• Grill
• Meat thermometer

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool makes quick work of chopping herbs and combining ingredients for the chimichurri sauce.
• Grill: Achieving that perfect char on your chicken thighs requires a good grill, which enhances flavor through smoke and heat.
• Meat thermometer: Ensuring your chicken is cooked to perfection (165°F) helps avoid overcooking while keeping it juicy.

Ingredients

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 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 the cilantro, parsley, oregano, shallot, garlic, and jalapeño. Add lemon juice, red apple 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 the 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: Heat Up the Grill

Take the marinated chicken out of the fridge to warm slightly while preheating your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Cook the marinated chicken thighs on the grill for about 5-6 minutes per side until juices run clear. Check with a meat thermometer for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Step 5: Serve

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

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri is a delicious and versatile dish that can be served in various ways. Here are some creative serving suggestions that will enhance your meal experience.

With a Fresh Salad

• A crisp garden salad adds a refreshing contrast to the rich flavors of the chicken and chimichurri. Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for balance.

Over Rice or Quinoa

• Serving the chicken over fluffy rice or quinoa provides a hearty base that absorbs the chimichurri sauce beautifully. Choose brown rice or quinoa for added nutrients.

In Tacos

• Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in corn or flour tortillas. Top with extra chimichurri, diced onions, and avocado for a tasty twist on traditional tacos.

With Grilled Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with grilled seasonal vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus. The smoky flavor complements the dish wonderfully.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Perfecting Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri involves careful attention to detail. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.

• Marinate for Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes, but for deeper flavor, aim for several hours or overnight in the refrigerator.

• Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure perfectly cooked chicken, use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C) before serving.

• Let It Rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for about 5 minutes. This helps retain moisture and makes each bite juicier.

• Adjust Spiciness: If you prefer less heat, remove all seeds from the jalapeño pepper before adding it to the chimichurri sauce.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Pairing side dishes with Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri enhances your meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some excellent options:

1. Roasted Potatoes: Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with herbs make a satisfying accompaniment.
2. Coleslaw: A crunchy coleslaw adds freshness and texture that contrasts nicely with the grilled meat.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn on the cob can be grilled alongside the chicken for added sweetness.
4. Steamed Asparagus: Lightly steamed asparagus drizzled with olive oil offers a sophisticated touch.
5. Garlic Bread: Serve warm garlic bread to soak up any leftover chimichurri sauce.
6. Couscous Salad: A light couscous salad mixed with vegetables and herbs complements the flavors of the dish beautifully.
7. Mediterranean Chickpea Salad: A colorful chickpea salad brings protein and fiber while balancing out flavors.
8. Grilled Zucchini: Simple grilled zucchini adds both color and nutrition while being easy to prepare alongside your chicken.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

To ensure your Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri turn out perfectly, here are some common mistakes to avoid.

• Skipping the marinade: Not marinating the chicken can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate your chicken for at least 20 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
• Using too high of a grill temperature: Cooking on high heat may char the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Aim for medium-high heat for an even cook.
• Not letting the chicken rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after cooking can cause juices to escape. Let it rest for about 5 minutes before slicing.
• Ignoring the chimichurri ratio: Using too much oil in your chimichurri can overwhelm other flavors. Balance your herbs and oil according to taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken thighs should be cooked until juices run clear but still remain juicy. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness at 165°F.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container.
• They will last in the refrigerator for about 3-4 days.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

• Place cooled chicken in a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Properly stored, they can last up to 3 months in the freezer.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F, place chicken on a baking sheet, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, checking frequently to avoid drying out.
• Stovetop: Warm a skillet over medium heat and cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other types of meat?

Yes! While this recipe features chicken thighs, you can substitute with beef or turkey if desired.

How do I make chimichurri without cilantro?

You can replace cilantro with additional parsley or use other fresh herbs like basil or mint for a different flavor profile.

What is the best way to serve Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri?

These grilled thighs pair well with rice, grilled vegetables, or fresh salads. Serve extra chimichurri on the side for added flavor!

Can I prepare chimichurri ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can make chimichurri up to a week in advance. Just store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Its vibrant flavors from the chimichurri sauce elevate simple grilled chicken into something special. Feel free to customize your chimichurri by adding different herbs or adjusting spice levels according to your taste!