Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

The bold, zesty flavors of chimichurri bring this grilled chicken dish to life, with fresh herbs and garlic elevating the juicy, smoky chicken thighs to an entirely new level. Perfect for summer gatherings or a quick weeknight dinner, this meal is simple to prepare yet incredibly satisfying.

Chimichurri’s balance of acidity and herbal freshness beautifully complements the richness of grilled chicken. With minimal ingredients and maximum flavor, this dish proves that with the right seasoning and a hot grill, weeknight dinners can be both easy and gourmet.

Full Recipe:

Ingredients:

6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

For the Chimichurri:

1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
3 garlic cloves, minced
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste

Directions:

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Pat chicken thighs dry and rub with olive oil, salt, pepper, and garlic powder.
Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes on each side, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
While chicken grills, prepare the chimichurri sauce. In a medium bowl, combine parsley, cilantro, red wine vinegar, garlic, red pepper flakes, and olive oil. Stir well and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Once chicken is cooked, remove from grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
Spoon chimichurri generously over grilled chicken thighs and serve immediately.

Prep Time: 15 minutes | Cooking Time: 12 minutes | Total Time: 27 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings

The Ultimate Summer Grilling Recipe That Bursts with Flavor

When it comes to summer grilling, nothing beats the irresistible aroma and satisfying sizzle of chicken thighs hitting a hot grill. And if you’re looking to take your grilled chicken game to the next level, Chimichurri is your secret weapon. Originating from Argentina and Uruguay, chimichurri is a bold, herbaceous sauce that instantly brightens any grilled meat and it’s especially divine on juicy, smoky chicken thighs.

This dish combines the rich, succulent texture of chicken thighs with the vibrant zing of fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and chili flakes. The contrast between the crisp-charred exterior of the chicken and the cooling, tangy freshness of the chimichurri creates a harmony of flavors that’s unforgettable.

Let’s explore what makes this recipe a must-have in your weeknight rotation and a showstopper for your next cookout.

Why Chicken Thighs?

Many people reach for chicken breasts when planning meals, but chicken thighs are often the better choice, especially for grilling. Here’s why:

Flavor: Chicken thighs have more fat than breasts, which means they’re richer and more flavorful.
Moisture: Their higher fat content helps keep them juicy, even when grilled at high heat.
Forgiveness: Chicken thighs are less likely to dry out than breasts, making them ideal for both novice and expert grillers.

For this recipe, boneless, skinless chicken thighs are best. They cook quickly, stay moist, and allow the chimichurri to shine.

Chimichurri: The Sauce of the Gods

Chimichurri is a raw, vibrant sauce traditionally made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. There are red and green varieties, but the green (chimichurri verde) is most common and best suited for this dish.

What makes chimichurri so special is its fresh intensity. It cuts through the richness of grilled meats with acidity and herbaceous brightness. Here’s a breakdown of its core components:

Fresh Parsley and Cilantro: The base of the sauce, providing earthy and citrusy notes.
Garlic: Essential for depth and punch.
Red Wine Vinegar: Adds tanginess and balances the oil and herbs.
Chili Flakes: For a gentle, background heat that enhances flavor without overpowering.
Olive Oil: Binds everything together and gives the sauce a luscious, silky finish.

The beauty of chimichurri lies in its versatility, you can tweak the herbs, adjust the acidity, or spice it up further depending on your preferences.

Marinade vs. Sauce

You might wonder: can you use chimichurri as a marinade as well? Absolutely! A portion of the chimichurri can be reserved to marinate the chicken before grilling (for up to 2 hours). This allows the herbs and acids to tenderize and infuse the meat with flavor from the inside out.

However, always make a second, separate batch for serving, especially if the first has touched raw poultry. This ensures safety and maintains the sauce’s bold, fresh character.

Grilling Tips for Perfect Chicken Thighs

Here are some helpful tips to make sure your grilled chicken thighs turn out perfect every time:

Preheat the grill: A properly heated grill ensures a good sear and even cooking.
Oil the grates: Prevent sticking by oiling your grates with a paper towel dipped in oil, held with tongs.
Don’t crowd the grill: Leave space between the thighs for even cooking and proper air circulation.
Use a meat thermometer: Chicken thighs are done when they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Let it rest: Always allow the chicken to rest for 5 minutes before slicing. This locks in the juices and keeps the meat moist.

Pairing Suggestions

To round out your meal, consider these complementary side dishes:

Grilled Vegetables: Zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus grilled with a touch of olive oil and salt go beautifully with chimichurri.
Rice or Quinoa: A neutral base like white rice or quinoa helps soak up the delicious juices and sauce.
Roasted Potatoes: Crispy potatoes seasoned with garlic and rosemary are hearty and satisfying.
Crusty Bread: Perfect for mopping up leftover chimichurri.
Simple Salad: A fresh green salad with lemon vinaigrette can balance the richness of the chicken.

Add a glass of chilled Sauvignon Blanc or a light red like Pinot Noir for a restaurant-worthy dinner at home.

Recipe Variations

Want to put your own spin on this dish? Try these fun and flavorful variations:

Spicy Chimichurri: Add diced jalapeño or increase the chili flakes for a spicier kick.
Lemon Chimichurri: Substitute lemon juice and zest for vinegar for a citrusy version.
Chimichurri Yogurt Sauce: Mix in a few tablespoons of Greek yogurt for a creamier sauce that doubles as a dip.
Smoked Paprika Rub: Add paprika or cayenne to the chicken seasoning for an extra layer of smoky flavor.
Vegetarian Option: Use the same chimichurri sauce on grilled portobello mushrooms or cauliflower steaks.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This recipe is not only delicious fresh off the grill but also fantastic as leftovers. Here’s how to store and reheat:

Make-Ahead: The chimichurri can be made up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the fridge.
Leftovers: Cooked chicken can be stored for up to 4 days. Slice it up and use it in salads, wraps, or rice bowls.
Reheating: Reheat gently in a pan or microwave. Drizzle fresh chimichurri over the top to revive the flavors.

Health Benefits

Besides being insanely tasty, this recipe is also quite nutritious:

High in Protein: Chicken thighs are an excellent source of lean protein.
Low in Carbs: This dish is keto and paleo-friendly.
Rich in Antioxidants: Parsley, garlic, and olive oil all provide anti-inflammatory benefits.
Gluten-Free: Naturally gluten-free, this recipe is suitable for those with dietary restrictions.

A Crowd-Pleaser for All Occasions

Whether you’re hosting a backyard barbecue, meal prepping for the week, or simply craving something flavorful and satisfying, these grilled chicken thighs with chimichurri are sure to impress.

They’re quick to prepare, full of flavor, and incredibly versatile. You can serve them hot off the grill, cold as leftovers, or chopped up into a salad. Plus, the chimichurri adds such a unique punch that even the pickiest eaters will be asking for seconds.

Conclusion

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri is more than just a summer staple, it’s a celebration of bold flavors and simple cooking done right. With minimal ingredients and maximum impact, this recipe proves that a great meal doesn’t have to be complicated.

Whether you’re an experienced home cook or just starting out, this dish offers a perfect balance of ease, elegance, and excitement. With juicy grilled chicken and a fresh herbaceous sauce, you’ll have a meal that tastes like it came from a high-end restaurant, right in your own backyard.

So fire up the grill, whip up some chimichurri, and get ready to impress your family and friends with this unforgettable dish. Your dinner table is about to get a whole lot more delicious.

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