Name: Chimichurri Chicken
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Argentinian
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs; 2 tbsp olive oil (for marinade); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 tsp paprika (optional); 1 tbsp lemon juice or red wine vinegar; 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped; 1 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1 tsp dried); 3 garlic cloves, minced; 2 tbsp red wine vinegar; 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste); 1/2 tsp salt; 1/4 tsp black pepper; 1/2 cup olive oil (for sauce)

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Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This dish is loaded with fresh flavor thanks to the chimichurri, a no-cook sauce that comes together in minutes. The chicken is marinated and grilled (or baked) to perfection, making it juicy and deeply infused with herbs and garlic. It’s healthy, gluten-free, dairy-free, and great for pairing with vegetables, grains, or salads. Plus, both the chicken and sauce can be made ahead!

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the chimichurri sauce:

Fresh parsley (finely chopped)
Fresh oregano (or dried)
Garlic cloves (minced)
Red wine vinegar
Olive oil
Red pepper flakes
Salt
Black pepper

For the chicken:

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
Olive oil
Salt
Pepper
Paprika (optional)
Lemon juice or a splash of red wine vinegar

Directions

Make the chimichurri: In a bowl, combine parsley, oregano, garlic, vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in olive oil until well combined. Let sit at room temperature to allow flavors to blend.
Marinate the chicken: In a separate bowl or zip-top bag, combine chicken with olive oil, salt, pepper, lemon juice, and a few spoonfuls of chimichurri. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours in the refrigerator.
Cook the chicken:
- Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Place chicken in a baking dish and bake for 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness.
Let chicken rest for 5 minutes after cooking.
Slice and serve topped with fresh chimichurri.

Servings and timing

This recipe makes 4 servings.
Prep time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook time: 20 minutes
Total time: 30 minutes (not including marinating)

Variations

Spicy Chimichurri: Add more red pepper flakes or a chopped chili pepper for heat.
Cilantro Twist: Replace half the parsley with cilantro for a different herb flavor.
Chimichurri Chicken Bowl: Serve over rice or quinoa with roasted vegetables.
Dairy-Free Creamy Sauce: Blend chimichurri with avocado for a creamy version.
Sheet Pan: Bake chicken with potatoes and bell peppers for a full one-pan meal.

Storage/Reheating

Store leftover chicken and chimichurri separately in airtight containers.
Refrigerate for up to 4 days.
Reheat chicken gently in a skillet or microwave.
Chimichurri is best served fresh but can be stored for up to 5 days. Stir well before using.
Chicken can also be frozen for up to 2 months; thaw before reheating.

FAQs

What is chimichurri made of?

Chimichurri is a raw sauce made from fresh herbs (mainly parsley), garlic, vinegar, olive oil, and seasonings. It originates from Argentina and Uruguay.

Can I use dried herbs?

Fresh is best for flavor, but you can substitute 1 tsp dried oregano if fresh isn’t available.

What cut of chicken works best?

Boneless thighs are juicier, but breasts work well too. Adjust cooking time accordingly.

Can I make this recipe ahead?

Yes, marinate the chicken ahead and store chimichurri separately. Cook when ready.

Is chimichurri spicy?

It has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but you can adjust heat to your liking.

Can I use chimichurri as a marinade?

Yes, but keep some fresh sauce aside for serving since marinade that touched raw chicken shouldn’t be reused.

What sides go well with chimichurri chicken?

Grilled veggies, rice, roasted potatoes, couscous, or salad are all great options.

Can I cook the chicken in a skillet?

Yes, pan-sear over medium heat for 5–7 minutes per side, depending on thickness.

Is this recipe healthy?

Yes, it’s high in protein, low in carbs, and made with whole, clean ingredients.

Can I freeze chimichurri?

You can freeze it in small portions (like in ice cube trays), but fresh is best for flavor and texture.

Conclusion

Chimichurri Chicken is an easy, flavor-packed dish that brings fresh herbs, garlic, and juicy chicken together in a beautiful, vibrant meal. Whether grilled, baked, or pan-seared, it’s a versatile and healthy option that you’ll want to make again and again. Serve it for dinner, meal prep, or your next backyard BBQ—it’s sure to impress.

Chimichurri Chicken

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Chimichurri Chicken is a bold and flavorful dish featuring juicy grilled or baked chicken topped with a vibrant chimichurri sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, and olive oil. A quick, healthy, and delicious option for any meal.

Author: Laura
Prep Time: 10 minutes (plus marinating time)
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes
Yield: 4 servings
Category: Dinner
Method: Grilling or Baking
Cuisine: Argentinian
Diet: Gluten Free

Instructions

In a bowl, mix parsley, oregano, garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Slowly whisk in 1/2 cup olive oil to make chimichurri sauce. Let sit at room temperature.
In a separate bowl or zip-top bag, marinate chicken with 2 tbsp olive oil, lemon juice, salt, pepper, paprika, and 2–3 tbsp of the chimichurri sauce. Let marinate for at least 30 minutes (up to 4 hours in the fridge).
To grill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
To bake: Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C). Bake chicken in a baking dish for 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness.
Let cooked chicken rest for 5 minutes. Slice and serve with remaining chimichurri sauce spooned on top.

Notes

Reserve fresh chimichurri for serving—do not reuse marinade that touched raw chicken.
Chimichurri can be made ahead and refrigerated for up to 5 days.
Use boneless thighs for juicier results, or breasts for a leaner option.
Add cilantro to the chimichurri for a flavor twist.

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1 chicken breast with sauce
Calories: 370
Sugar: 0g
Sodium: 390mg
Fat: 24g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Unsaturated Fat: 18g
Trans Fat: 0g
Carbohydrates: 2g
Fiber: 0g
Protein: 34g
Cholesterol: 90mg