Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Juicy, tender Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri are perfect for any occasion, from casual family dinners to summer barbecues. This recipe features flavorful chicken thighs marinated in a vibrant chimichurri sauce that doubles as a topping. The combination of fresh herbs and spices makes this dish a standout on any table, ensuring everyone will come back for seconds.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Delicious Flavor: The chimichurri sauce is packed with fresh herbs, garlic, and spices that elevate the taste of the chicken.
• Easy Preparation: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, this recipe is quick to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Versatile Dish: Serve it with your favorite sides or over a salad, making it a flexible option for various meals or gatherings.

Tools and Preparation

To make Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment ensures a smooth cooking process and better results.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool makes it easy to blend the chimichurri ingredients into a smooth sauce quickly.
• Grill: A grill provides that delicious smoky flavor while giving the chicken perfect char marks.
• Baking dish: Ideal for marinating the chicken evenly and keeping all the flavors locked in before grilling.

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 jalapeño 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 the lemon juice, red apple vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Pulse until well combined and finely chopped.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a baking dish. Season it with salt and pepper. Cover with 1/4 cup of chimichurri sauce. Turn to coat the chicken completely. Marinate for 20 minutes to 24 hours in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

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

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Cook the chicken on the grill for about 5-6 minutes per side or until juices run clear. Ensure it reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F (74°C).

Step 5: Serve

Serve your grilled chicken thighs with extra chimichurri sauce on the side for dipping or drizzling over each serving. Enjoy!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri is a delicious dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal experience.

With Fresh Salad

• Tossed Green Salad: A light, refreshing salad made with mixed greens, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes pairs beautifully with the rich flavors of the chicken.
• Avocado Salad: Creamy avocado slices on a bed of arugula add a touch of richness that complements the chimichurri sauce.

In Tacos

• Chicken Tacos: Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in soft tortillas topped with chimichurri, diced onions, and cilantro for a flavorful twist.
• Spicy Taco Bowl: Create a taco bowl with quinoa, black beans, and grilled chicken for a hearty meal.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime juice enhances the dish’s vibrant flavors.
• Quinoa Pilaf: A nutty quinoa pilaf adds texture and is an excellent base for the grilled chicken.

As a Sandwich

• Grilled Chicken Sandwich: Layer grilled chicken on toasted bread with lettuce, tomato, and chimichurri for a satisfying sandwich option.
• Wrap It Up: Use a whole grain wrap to create a filling meal that’s easy to take on the go.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Perfecting your Grilled Chicken Thighs requires attention to detail. Here are some tips for achieving optimal flavor and tenderness.

• Marinate Longer: Allow your chicken to marinate for up to 24 hours for deeper flavor penetration.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Preheat Your Grill: A well-heated grill helps achieve those beautiful sear marks while keeping the meat juicy.
• Rest Your Chicken: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow juices to redistribute for better texture.
• Experiment with Chimichurri: Feel free to customize your chimichurri by adding different herbs like basil or mint for unique flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

To complement your Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri, consider these tasty side dishes that enhance the overall meal.

1. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini drizzled with olive oil make a colorful addition.
2. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn brushed with butter or olive oil adds sweetness that balances the savory chicken.
3. Potato Wedges: Crispy baked potato wedges seasoned with herbs provide crunch alongside the tender chicken.
4. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw offers crunch and freshness, making it an excellent counterpoint to grilled meats.
5. Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until caramelized bring natural sweetness and fiber to your plate.
6. Mediterranean Couscous: Fluffy couscous mixed with olives, tomatoes, and herbs serves as a hearty side that pairs well.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some pitfalls to watch out for.

• Using dried herbs instead of fresh: Fresh herbs add vibrant flavor to chimichurri. Always opt for fresh when possible to enhance the overall taste.
• Skipping the marinating time: Marinating chicken is crucial for flavor absorption. Even a quick 20 minutes can make a big difference in taste.
• Overcooking the chicken: Chicken thighs can dry out if overcooked. Use a meat thermometer to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
• Not letting the chicken rest: Allowing the chicken to rest after grilling helps retain its juices. Let it sit for about 5 minutes before serving.
• Ignoring seasoning adjustments: Taste your chimichurri before using it on the chicken. Adjust salt and pepper as needed for personal preference.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store cooked chicken in an airtight container.
• It can last up to 3-4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

• Place cooled chicken in freezer-safe bags or containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Place chicken on a baking sheet and heat until warm, about 15-20 minutes.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate and cover. Heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until warmed through.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, then cover and heat for about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, while thighs are recommended for juiciness, you can also use boneless skinless chicken breasts.

How do I customize the chimichurri sauce?

You can adjust herbs or add spices like red pepper flakes for extra heat. Feel free to experiment!

What should I serve with Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri?

These grilled thighs pair well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad.

Can I prepare chimichurri ahead of time?

Absolutely! Chimichurri can be made up to a week in advance and stored in the refrigerator.

How long do leftovers last?

Leftovers can be stored in the fridge for 3-4 days or frozen for up to 3 months.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to customize according to your tastes. Whether you’re enjoying it at a summer barbecue or as part of a weeknight dinner, this dish is sure to impress. Don’t hesitate to try different herbs or spices in your chimichurri sauce!