Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Juicy, tender Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri are perfect for any gathering, from casual barbecues to elegant dinners. This dish stands out with its vibrant chimichurri sauce that not only marinates the chicken but also serves as a delicious topping. The combination of fresh herbs and spices creates a flavor explosion that will impress your guests while being easy enough for weeknight dinners.

Jump to:

• Why You’ll Love This Recipe
• Tools and Preparation
• Essential Tools and Equipment
• Importance of Each Tool
• Ingredients
• Fresh Herbs and Vegetables
• Marinade Components
• Chicken
• How to Make Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri
• Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce
• Step 2: Blend Ingredients
• Step 3: Marinate the Chicken
• Step 4: Preheat the Grill
• Step 5: Grill Chicken
• Step 6: Serve
• How to Serve Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri
• On a Bed of Greens
• With Rice or Quinoa
• In Tacos
• As a Sandwich
• With Roasted Vegetables
• How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri
• Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri
• Common Mistakes to Avoid
• Storage & Reheating Instructions
• Refrigerator Storage
• Freezing Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri
• Reheating Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
• How long should I marinate the chicken?
• Is chimichurri sauce spicy?
• Can I make chimichurri ahead of time?
• Final Thoughts
• 📖 Recipe Card

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Flavor-Packed: The chimichurri sauce adds a zesty kick that elevates the grilled chicken thighs.
• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep time, this recipe is perfect for busy cooks who crave delicious meals.
• Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it with rice, salad, or on its own; this dish adapts to your meal preferences.
• Healthy Choice: Made with lean chicken thighs and fresh ingredients, it’s a nutritious option for any diet.
• Great for Meal Prep: Marinate ahead of time and grill when ready for an effortless dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make the best Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri, having the right tools can simplify your cooking process.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: Quickly blends the chimichurri ingredients for a smooth consistency.
• Grill: Provides that essential charred flavor that makes grilled chicken so appetizing.
• Baking dish: Perfect for marinating the chicken evenly in the chimichurri sauce.

Ingredients

Fresh Herbs and Vegetables

• 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)

Marinade Components

• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
• 1/2 cup olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• fresh ground pepper

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.

Step 2: Blend Ingredients

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

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

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

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

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

Step 5: Grill Chicken

Cook each side for about 5-6 minutes until juices run clear.

Step 6: Serve

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

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Grilled chicken thighs with chimichurri make for a delightful and versatile dish. You can serve them in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some creative serving suggestions.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve the grilled chicken thighs over a fresh salad of mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers for a light meal.

With Rice or Quinoa

• Pair the chicken with fluffy rice or quinoa, allowing the chimichurri sauce to soak into the grains for added flavor.

In Tacos

• Shred the grilled chicken and serve it in warm tortillas topped with extra chimichurri, avocado, and diced onions for delicious tacos.

As a Sandwich

• Use the grilled chicken thighs as a filling for sandwiches, adding lettuce, tomato, and more chimichurri for extra zest.

With Roasted Vegetables

• Accompany your chicken with roasted seasonal vegetables to create a colorful and healthy plate.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

For perfectly grilled chicken thighs, follow these essential tips that will enhance your cooking technique and flavor profile.

• Marinate Longer: The longer you marinate the chicken in chimichurri (up to 24 hours), the more flavorful it will be.
• Preheat Your Grill: Ensure your grill is hot before placing the chicken on it. This helps achieve a nice sear and prevents sticking.
• Use a Meat Thermometer: Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
• Rest After Cooking: Allow the chicken to rest for about 5 minutes after grilling before slicing. This helps retain juices.
• Experiment with Herbs: Feel free to add different herbs or spices to your chimichurri for unique flavor variations.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

To complement your grilled chicken thighs with chimichurri, consider these delicious side dishes. They pair well and enhance the overall meal experience.

1. Garlic Bread: Crispy garlic bread makes an excellent side, perfect for soaking up any leftover chimichurri sauce.
2. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and freshness, balancing out the rich flavors of the chicken.
3. Grilled Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn adds smokiness when grilled and can be served slathered in butter or lime juice.
4. Potato Salad: A creamy potato salad offers heartiness that complements grilled meats beautifully.
5. Couscous Salad: Light couscous mixed with lemon juice, herbs, and veggies offers a refreshing side option.
6. Mixed Vegetable Stir-Fry: Colorful stir-fried vegetables provide nutrition and vibrancy alongside your main dish.
7. Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add a touch of sweetness that contrasts nicely with savory flavors.
8. Caprese Salad: Fresh mozzarella, tomatoes, and basil make for an elegant side that enhances any grill night.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience making Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri.

• Skipping the Marinade Time: Not marinating the chicken long enough can lead to less flavor. Aim for at least 20 minutes, but overnight is best.
• Ignoring Temperature Guidelines: Cooking chicken thighs on too high heat can burn the outside while leaving the inside undercooked. Use medium-high heat for even cooking.
• Not Using Fresh Ingredients: Fresh herbs make a significant difference in the chimichurri’s flavor. Always opt for fresh over dried when possible.
• Overcrowding the Grill: Placing too many chicken thighs on the grill at once can lower the temperature and lead to uneven cooking. Grill in batches if necessary.
• Forgetting to Let Chicken Rest: Cutting into the chicken immediately after grilling can cause juices to escape, resulting in dry meat. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container.
• They will stay fresh for up to 4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

• Wrap chicken tightly in plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing it in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover chicken with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes, checking frequently.
• Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat, add a bit of oil, and warm the chicken for about 3-5 minutes per side until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts; however, they may dry out faster than thighs due to their lower fat content.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate your grilled chicken thighs with chimichurri for at least 20 minutes, or up to 24 hours for a deeper taste.

Is chimichurri sauce spicy?

Chimichurri can have a mild spice from jalapeño peppers. You can adjust or omit them based on your spice preference.

Can I make chimichurri ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare chimichurri sauce ahead and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.

Final Thoughts

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri is not only delicious but also versatile. You can customize it by adding more spices or swapping herbs based on your taste preferences. This dish is perfect for summer grilling or any occasion where you want to impress guests with minimal effort. Give it a try!