Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Juicy and flavorful, Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri offers a delightful dish perfect for any gathering or weekday dinner. The combination of tender grilled chicken and a vibrant chimichurri sauce creates a mouthwatering experience. This recipe is not only simple but also versatile, making it ideal for friends and family alike. Serve it during summer barbecues, weeknight meals, or special occasions to impress your guests with minimal effort.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to Prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, this dish comes together quickly.
• Flavorful: The chimichurri sauce adds a fresh and zesty kick that enhances the chicken perfectly.
• Versatile: Enjoy these grilled chicken thighs as a main dish, in salads, or as part of a sandwich.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein and healthy fats, this meal is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Crowd-Pleaser: The appealing flavors make it a hit at gatherings, ensuring everyone leaves happy.

Tools and Preparation

Before you begin cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having the right equipment makes preparing Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri even easier.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Food processor: This tool simplifies the process of creating the chimichurri sauce by chopping ingredients quickly and evenly.
• Grill: Cooking the chicken on a grill imparts a smoky flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Ingredients

To create delicious Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri, gather the following 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 jalapeno pepper (seeded)
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon red apple vinegar 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.

Step 2: Mix Ingredients

Add the lemon juice, red apple vinegar 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 with 1/4 cup of chimichurri sauce. Turn to coat completely. Marinate for 20 minutes up to 24 hours in the refrigerator.

Step 4: Preheat Grill

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

Step 5: Grill Chicken

Cook the chicken for about 5-6 minutes per side until juices run clear.

Step 6: Serve

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

Enjoy this delicious recipe that brings together succulent chicken thighs and vibrant chimichurri!

How to Serve Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Grilled chicken thighs with chimichurri are versatile and can be served in various ways. This dish not only brings flavor but also pairs wonderfully with different sides, enhancing your meal experience.

Fresh Salad

• A crisp salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and tomatoes adds brightness and freshness to the grilled chicken.

Quinoa Pilaf

• Serve the chicken atop a warm quinoa pilaf for a nutritious boost. Add herbs and vegetables for extra flavor.

Grilled Vegetables

• Pair the chicken with seasonal grilled vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus for a colorful plate.

Rice or Couscous

• Fluffy rice or couscous complements the chimichurri sauce beautifully. Consider seasoning them with lemon zest for added zing.

Flatbreads

• Warm flatbreads make an excellent side. They can be used to scoop up the chimichurri or wrapped around the chicken.

Roasted Potatoes

• Crispy roasted potatoes seasoned with garlic and herbs provide a hearty side that balances the dish’s flavors.

How to Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

To achieve perfectly grilled chicken thighs with chimichurri, consider these helpful tips. They will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Marinate well: Allowing the chicken to marinate for at least 20 minutes ensures it absorbs all the flavors from the chimichurri.
• Preheat your grill: Ensuring your grill is at medium-high heat helps achieve those perfect grill marks while keeping the chicken juicy inside.
• Use a meat thermometer: Cooking chicken thighs until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F guarantees safety without overcooking.
• Let it rest: After grilling, let the chicken rest for a few minutes to allow juices to redistribute, resulting in tender bites.
• Customize your chimichurri: Feel free to adjust herbs and spices based on your preference. Experimenting can lead to unique flavors!

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

When serving grilled chicken thighs with chimichurri, choosing complementary side dishes enhances your meal’s overall appeal. Here are some tasty options:

1. Garlic Mashed Potatoes: Creamy mashed potatoes infused with garlic make an indulgent pairing that balances the dish’s zestiness.
2. Steamed Broccoli: Bright green broccoli steamed until tender adds color and nutrients without overwhelming other flavors.
3. Corn on the Cob: Sweet corn grilled or boiled brings a delightful crunch and natural sweetness that pairs well with the savory chicken.
4. Mediterranean Couscous Salad: A refreshing salad loaded with cucumbers, olives, and feta cheese complements the robust flavors of chimichurri.
5. Stuffed Bell Peppers: Colorful bell peppers stuffed with rice, beans, or vegetables create a hearty and visually appealing side.
6. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles tossed in olive oil add a low-carb option that still delivers on flavor.
7. Roasted Cauliflower: Spiced roasted cauliflower florets offer a wonderful crunch while enhancing the overall taste profile of your meal.
8. Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw adds crunch and acidity, balancing out the richness of grilled chicken thighs beautifully.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can make your Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri a success. Here are some mistakes to steer clear of:

• Skipping the marinade time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 20 minutes, but longer is better for deeper flavor.
• Overcrowding the grill: If you place too many chicken thighs on the grill at once, they will steam instead of sear. Cook in batches if necessary for that perfect char.
• Using low-quality oil: A poor quality olive oil can affect the overall taste of your chimichurri. Always opt for high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best results.
• Not letting chicken rest after grilling: Cutting into the chicken right off the grill lets juices escape, resulting in dry meat. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
• Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using wilted herbs or old spices can diminish flavor. Always use fresh ingredients for vibrant and zesty chimichurri.

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 each thigh individually in plastic wrap before placing them in a freezer bag.
• They can be frozen for up to 3 months; label with dates for reference.

Reheating Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and bake wrapped in foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
• Microwave: Place on a microwave-safe plate and cover loosely; heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes or until warmed.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if necessary, until thoroughly heated.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about making Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri:

Can I use other cuts of chicken?

Yes, you can use chicken breasts or even drumsticks, but cooking times may vary.

How long do I need to marinate the chicken?

For optimal flavor, marinate the chicken thighs for at least 20 minutes, but up to 24 hours is ideal.

What can I serve with Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri?

This dish pairs beautifully with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad.

Can I make chimichurri ahead of time?

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

Final Thoughts

These Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri offer juicy and flavorful bites that are sure to impress. The chimichurri sauce adds a fresh twist that elevates this dish. Feel free to customize by adding your favorite herbs or spices to suit your taste!