Jump to Recipe Print RecipeThe sizzle of summer grilling has a way of awakening my taste buds, and nothing captures that essence quite like Grilled Chimichurri Chicken. This vibrant dish showcases marinated chicken thighs kissed with a zesty chimichurri sauce, bringing an unmistakable burst of freshness to your dinner table. Not only is this recipe an easy dinner option that’s gluten-free, Paleo, and Whole30-compliant, but it also makes for a perfect crowd-pleaser during backyard cookouts. With minimal prep and maximum flavor, you’ll love how this beautifully charred chicken transforms your evening meals into a delightful culinary escape. Ready to elevate your grilling game and impress your family or friends? Let’s dive into this recipe that promises to turn every bite into a summer celebration! Why is Grilled Chimichurri Chicken a Must-Try? Flavor Explosion: The zesty chimichurri sauce elevates each bite, offering a bold and refreshing taste that’s hard to resist. Easy Preparation: With only a few simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can have this mouthwatering dish on your table in no time. Health-Conscious Delight: Whether you’re following a gluten-free, Paleo, or Whole30 diet, this recipe ticks all the boxes while still being incredibly satisfying. Crowd-Pleaser: Perfect for summer gatherings, this juicy grilled chicken is sure to impress your guests and become a staple at cookouts. Versatile Options: Feel free to swap the chicken for grilled vegetables or steak for a delightful twist, making it a flexible choice for any meal. With just a quick marinade and a grill pan, you can unlock the ultimate summer flavor while keeping things healthy and delicious!** Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Ingredients Elevate your grilling experience with this tasty recipe! For the Chimichurri Sauce Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley – Provides herbal freshness. Use an equivalent weight of parsley if unavailable. Fresh Oregano – Adds a fragrant, earthy note. Substitute 2 teaspoons dried oregano if fresh is not available. Garlic Cloves – For pungency and depth of flavor. Fresh is preferred; avoid powdered garlic. Small Shallot – Contributes sweetness and mild onion flavor. Can substitute with a small sweet onion if necessary. Serrano Chili – Adds heat and flavor complexity. Omit if you prefer a milder sauce or substitute with jalapeño. Red Wine Vinegar – Provides acidity to balance flavors. Use white wine vinegar as an alternative. Sea Salt – Enhances all flavors. Freshly Ground Black Pepper – Adds a subtle kick. Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Ensures richness and aids in marinade. Avoid using refined oils for the best flavor. For the Chicken Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs – The main protein that absorbs the chimichurri flavor. Bone-in thighs or drumsticks can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce In a mixing bowl, finely chop fresh parsley and oregano, then mince the garlic and shallot. Add the serrano chili, red wine vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir vigorously while drizzling in extra virgin olive oil until fully combined. The chimichurri sauce should appear vibrant and silky, reflecting the fresh ingredients. Set half aside for marinating the chicken and reserve the rest for serving. Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs into a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the chimichurri sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight, to allow those flavors to meld and infuse in your Grilled Chimichurri Chicken. Step 3: Preheat the Grill About 15 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C). To check the readiness, sprinkle a few drops of water on the surface; they should sizzle and evaporate almost immediately. This temperature will help achieve a beautifully charred exterior while keeping the inside moist and juicy. Step 4: Grill the Chicken Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing excess sauce to drip off. Place them carefully on the grill, and cook for 5-7 minutes per side. Watch for a nice golden-brown char to develop, and use a meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for fully cooked grilled chicken. Step 5: Rest and Serve After grilling, transfer the chicken to a cutting board or serving platter and allow it to rest for 5 minutes. This step is crucial to retain juices. Serve warm with the reserved chimichurri sauce drizzled generously on top for extra flavor. Pair with summer sides like grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to complete your delicious Grilled Chimichurri Chicken meal! Storage Tips for Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Fridge: Store leftover Grilled Chimichurri Chicken in an airtight container for up to 4 days. This ensures it stays fresh and flavorful for easy meals throughout the week. Freezer: For longer storage, freeze the chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months. Be sure to label it with the date for reference. Reheating: To reheat, place the chicken in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until warmed through, or microwave it in short intervals until hot. Adding a splash of water can help retain moisture. Servings: Enjoy the chicken directly or toss it into salads or wraps for a quick and satisfying meal! Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Variations & Substitutions Feel free to get creative and make this recipe your own with these delightful twists! Vegetarian Delight: Swap the chicken for grilled zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant, marinating them in the chimichurri for a hearty meal. This option brings a great charred flavor, perfect for veggie lovers! Paleo-Friendly Steak: For a hearty alternative, use steak instead of chicken. The marinade will add a fresh kick while maintaining the essence of chimichurri on perfectly grilled beef. Dairy-Free: Keep this dish entirely dairy-free by using extra virgin olive oil as your rich base, ensuring all flavors remain vibrant and satisfying. No dairy means all the freshness shines through! Flavor Boost: Add 1 tablespoon of smoked paprika to the chimichurri sauce for a deeper, smokier flavor that complements the grilled chicken beautifully. This twist adds an exciting depth that your taste buds will treasure. Add More Heat: For spice enthusiasts, increase the number of serrano chilis or add a splash of hot sauce to the chimichurri. This will enhance the “zing” and make each bite a fiery adventure! Fruity Twist: Incorporate diced mango or pineapple into the chimichurri for a tropical touch. The sweetness of the fruit balances the tangy notes wonderfully, creating a vibrant summer flavor. Herb Variations: Experiment with fresh mint or cilantro in place of parsley for a refreshing spin on the traditional chimichurri. These herbs will introduce an exciting layer of flavor unique to your grilled chicken. Grilled Shrimp: Instead of chicken, try marinated shrimp on the grill. Not only does it cook quickly, but the chimichurri adds a delightful layer of flavor, making it a perfect summer dish. Don’t forget to adjust the grilling time accordingly! Each variation allows you to tailor the dish to your palate and dietary preferences. The best part? You can easily make extra chimichurri sauce—try using it as a dressing for salads or a dipping sauce for fresh veggies! Enjoy the culinary journey and relish in the flavors of summer! What to Serve with Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Enhance your culinary experience with these delightful pairings that balance flavors and textures, making each meal even more memorable. Creamy Avocado Rice: The rich, buttery texture of avocado rice complements the zesty chicken, creating a deliciously creamy side that enhances every bite. Grilled Vegetable Medley: A colorful assortment of seasonal vegetables adds freshness and crunch, making for a visually stunning and tasty addition to your plate. Indulge in a beautiful balance of textures with these offerings. The crispiness of grilled vegetables coupled with the juiciness of the chicken creates a symphony of flavors. Quinoa Salad: Light and nutritious, a refreshing quinoa salad mixed with vibrant cherry tomatoes and cucumbers adds a healthy touch and bursts with freshness. Herbed Couscous: Fluffy couscous with fresh herbs mirrors the chimichurri’s taste profile, adding a textured side that works beautifully with the chicken. Pair your grilled chimichurri chicken with something sweet to finish the meal. Chilled White Sangria: A refreshing glass of white sangria with fruity notes enhances the summer vibe, making it a delightful pairing that quenches your thirst while you dine. Light Fruit Sorbet: A scoop of fruity sorbet provides a light, refreshing end to your meal, cleansing the palate while echoing the bright flavors of the chicken. Whatever you choose, these pairings will inspire you to create a complete and satisfying dining experience! Make Ahead Options These Grilled Chimichurri Chicken thighs are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts! You can marinate the chicken in the chimichurri sauce up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully (which enhances taste). Additionally, you can prepare the chimichurri sauce itself up to 3 days ahead; just store it in an airtight container in the fridge to keep it fresh. When you’re ready to grill, simply remove the chicken from the marinade and grill it as instructed. For optimal taste, let the chicken rest for 5 minutes after grilling before serving with the reserved chimichurri sauce. This way, you’ll enjoy a delicious, hassle-free meal on busy weeknights! Expert Tips for Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor. Taste the richness of the chimichurri sauce deeper in every bite! Use Fresh Herbs: Fresh herbs like parsley and oregano are key; dried versions won’t provide the vibrant taste essential to grilled chimichurri chicken. Watch the Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high; this helps achieve a perfect char while keeping the chicken juicy. Check for Doneness: Invest in a meat thermometer to confirm the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to avoid undercooking. Rest the Chicken: Letting the chicken rest for 5 minutes before serving allows juices to redistribute, leading to more moist and flavorful grilled chicken. Customize Heat Levels: Adjust the type or amount of serrano chili in the chimichurri to suit your spice tolerance while maintaining that refreshing kick! Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Recipe FAQs What type of chicken should I use for this recipe? I recommend using boneless skinless chicken thighs, as they absorb the chimichurri flavor beautifully and yield juicy results. If you prefer, you can also use bone-in thighs or drumsticks, but keep in mind that they will require longer cooking times. How can I tell if my herbs are fresh enough for the chimichurri sauce? Fresh herbs should be vibrant in color and free from dark spots or wilting. For parsley and oregano, look for bright green leaves. If they have yellowing or a mushy texture, it’s best to choose fresh ones instead. What’s the best way to store leftover grilled chicken? Absolutely! Store leftover Grilled Chimichurri Chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. When reheating, place it in the oven at 350°F (175°C) until thoroughly warmed or microwave it in short intervals with a splash of water to keep it moist. Can I freeze the chimichurri sauce? Yes, you can! To freeze chimichurri sauce, pour it into an ice cube tray or freezer-safe container, sealing tightly. It will keep for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to use it, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight or let it sit at room temperature for a quick thaw before serving with your grilled chicken. What should I do if my chicken is undercooked? If you find that your grilled chicken is undercooked, don’t worry! Simply return it to the grill and cook for an additional few minutes, checking the internal temperature along the way. The chicken should reach at least 165°F (75°C) before it’s safe to eat. Always use a meat thermometer for accuracy! Is chimichurri sauce safe for pets? While chimichurri sauce is flavorful for human consumption, it’s important to note that certain ingredients, such as garlic and onions, can be harmful to pets. If you want to share the grilled chicken with your furry friends, be sure to set aside a portion before adding the chimichurri sauce. Grilled Chimichurri Chicken: Juicy Thighs Bursting with Flavor Grilled Chimichurri Chicken features marinated chicken thighs and zesty chimichurri sauce for a flavorful dish that's gluten-free, Paleo, and Whole30-compliant. Print Recipe Pin Recipe Prep Time 15 minutes minsCook Time 15 minutes minsResting Time 5 minutes minsTotal Time 35 minutes mins Servings: 4 thighsCourse: DinnerCuisine: ArgentinianCalories: 360 Ingredients Equipment Method Nutrition Notes Ingredients 1x2x3x? For the Chimichurri Sauce1 bunch Fresh Flat-Leaf Parsley Use an equivalent weight of parsley if unavailable.2 tablespoons Fresh Oregano Substitute 2 teaspoons dried oregano if fresh is not available.4 cloves Garlic Cloves Fresh is preferred; avoid powdered garlic.1 small Shallot Can substitute with a small sweet onion if necessary.1 small Serrano Chili Omit if you prefer a milder sauce or substitute with jalapeño.2 tablespoons Red Wine Vinegar Use white wine vinegar as an alternative.1 teaspoon Sea Salt1 teaspoon Freshly Ground Black Pepper Adds a subtle kick.1/2 cup Extra Virgin Olive Oil Avoid using refined oils for the best flavor.For the Chicken1 pound Boneless Skinless Chicken Thighs Bone-in thighs or drumsticks can be used, but adjust cooking time accordingly. Equipment Grillmixing bowlMeat Thermometerresealable bag Method Step-by-Step Instructions for Grilled Chimichurri ChickenIn a mixing bowl, finely chop fresh parsley and oregano, then mince the garlic and shallot. Add the serrano chili, red wine vinegar, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir vigorously while drizzling in extra virgin olive oil until fully combined. Set half aside for marinating the chicken and reserve the rest for serving.Place the boneless skinless chicken thighs into a large resealable bag or a shallow dish. Pour half of the chimichurri sauce over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, ideally overnight.About 15 minutes before grilling, preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat, aiming for around 400°F (200°C).Once the grill is hot, remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, allowing excess sauce to drip off. Place them carefully on the grill, and cook for 5-7 minutes per side until they are golden-brown and reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).After grilling, transfer the chicken to a cutting board or serving platter and allow it to rest for 5 minutes before serving warm with the reserved chimichurri sauce. Nutrition Serving: 1thighCalories: 360kcalCarbohydrates: 5gProtein: 27gFat: 27gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 4gMonounsaturated Fat: 15gCholesterol: 100mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 360mgFiber: 1gVitamin A: 5IUVitamin C: 1mgCalcium: 20mgIron: 2mg NotesAllowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances flavor. Use fresh herbs and a meat thermometer for best results. Tried this recipe?Let us know how it was!
