Name: Chimichurri Chicken Thighs: Tasty and Easy Weeknight Meal
Prep time: 20 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 50 min
Cuisine: Argentinian
Ingredients: 1/2 cup fresh cilantro; 1/2 cup fresh Italian parsley chopped; 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 wine vinegar; 1/2 cup olive oil; 1 teaspoon kosher salt; fresh ground pepper; 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs

When it comes to a delightful culinary experience, few dishes compare to Chimichurri Chicken Thighs. This mouthwatering recipe offers the perfect blend of vibrant flavors and juicy tenderness, making it a favorite at family dinners or summer barbecues. With its zesty chimichurri sauce, this dish elevates ordinary chicken thighs into something extraordinary.

Moreover, Chimichurri Chicken brings a delightful twist to traditional grilling methods. The herby marinade not only infuses the meat with bold taste but also promotes tender results. If you’re looking to impress your guests or simply indulge in a delicious meal, this dish is sure to satisfy your cravings and have everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe:

Chimichurri Chicken Thighs offer a delightful twist on your usual chicken dinners. Bursting with flavor, these succulent thighs are marinated in a vibrant chimichurri sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, and tangy vinegar. The result? A juicy and aromatic dish that brings a taste of Argentine cuisine right to your kitchen. Not only is this recipe simple to prepare, but it’s also incredibly versatile, allowing you to pair it with a variety of sides.

Imagine serving your chimichurri chicken alongside a refreshing Sesame Ginger Chicken Salad for a complete meal that’s healthy and delicious. Whether you’re hosting a weekend gathering or looking for a quick weeknight dinner idea, chimichurri chicken thighs are sure to impress. Plus, the leftovers make for fantastic wraps or sandwiches, so you can savor the flavors all week long. Give this recipe a try, and you’ll be adding it to your regular rotation in no time!

Ingredients for Chimichurri Chicken Thighs:

Succulent Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are a flavorful feast. This dish requires fresh ingredients for vibrant taste. Gather the following:

1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
1/2 cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped
1 tablespoon fresh oregano or 1 teaspoon dried oregano
1 small shallot, peeled
2 cloves garlic, peeled
1/2 jalapeno pepper, seeded
1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil
1 teaspoon kosher salt
Fresh ground pepper, to taste
2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs

To enhance your meal planning, consider trying the Chicken Pot Pie Soup for a comforting and deliciously easy recipe. Combining these ingredients will yield a mouthwatering dish perfect for any occasion. Enjoy the robust flavors of Chimichurri, while the chicken thighs ensure tenderness in every bite!

How to Prepare Chimichurri Chicken Thighs:

To create mouthwatering Chimichurri Chicken Thighs, start by preparing the flavorful chimichurri sauce. In a food processor, combine half a cup each of fresh cilantro and Italian parsley, along with a tablespoon of fresh oregano, a peeled small shallot, two garlic cloves, and half a seeded jalapeño pepper. Blend until finely chopped. Next, add one tablespoon each of fresh lemon juice and red wine vinegar. Slowly drizzle in half a cup of olive oil while the processor is running. Season the mixture with one teaspoon of kosher salt and freshly ground pepper to taste.

Next, marinate 2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs in the chimichurri sauce for at least 30 minutes. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, then place the marinated thighs on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes per side or until fully cooked.

For a delicious twist with chicken similar to this dish, check out this easy Cream Cheese Chicken recipe. For more grilling inspiration, you might also want to explore Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri. Enjoy your meal!

Serving Suggestions:

Chimichurri chicken thighs are incredibly versatile and can be paired with various sides to elevate your meal. For a light and refreshing option, serve them atop a vibrant Greek chicken bowl. This dish combines theHerbaceous chimichurri flavor with fresh vegetables, creating a colorful plate. Alternatively, consider pairing your chimichurri chicken thighs with creamy pepperoncini chicken skillet rice for a delightful blend of flavors. The creaminess of the dish complements the zesty brightness of the chimichurri, making for a delicious contrast.

If you’re looking for something heartier, a comforting chicken pot pie soup can bring warmth and richness to your meal. The flaky pie crust complements the juicy chicken, both cooked to perfection. For a unique twist, enjoy these thighs with a tangy Asian chicken crunch salad, which adds brightness through its fresh ingredients. No matter how you choose to serve your Chimichurri chicken thighs, the explosion of flavor will surely impress your guests at dinner or during a special gathering.

Storage Tips for Chimichurri Chicken Thighs:

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the flavor and safety of your Chimichurri Chicken Thighs. After cooking, allow the chicken to cool to room temperature, but do not leave it out for more than two hours. Once cooled, place the chicken in an airtight container. It’s best to store it in the refrigerator, where it can stay fresh for up to four days. If you have leftovers, consider freezing them for long-term storage. Wrap the chimichurri chicken tightly in plastic wrap and then in foil or use a freezer-safe bag, ensuring to remove as much air as possible. This method can keep it safe in the freezer for up to three months. For a quick meal option, try pairing it with a refreshing side like a Sesame Ginger Chicken Salad, which complements the robust flavors of chimichurri beautifully.

Nutritional Benefits of Chimichurri Chicken Thighs:

Chimichurri chicken thighs offer a wealth of nutritional benefits, primarily due to their high protein content, which is essential for muscle growth and repair. Packed with healthy fats from olive oil and vibrant herbs, this dish is rich in antioxidants. Additionally, for more wholesome chicken recipes, explore this sweet potato rice bowl that balances health and flavor beautifully.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

What is chimichurri?

Chimichurri is a vibrant, herb-based sauce from Argentina, primarily made with parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. It’s known for its robust flavor, making it an excellent marinade or dressing complementing grilled meats, especially chicken thighs.

How do I prepare Chimichurri Chicken Thighs?

To prepare *Chimichurri Chicken Thighs*, marinate chicken thighs in a blend of chimichurri for at least 30 minutes. This allows the chicken to absorb the aromatic flavors. Grill or bake until cooked thoroughly, achieving juicy, savory results.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh in chimichurri?

While fresh herbs are recommended for the best flavor, you can use dried herbs in a pinch. However, the taste may differ slightly, impacting the chicken’s overall flavor profile.

What side dishes pair well with Chimichurri Chicken Thighs?

Pair your *Chimichurri Chicken Thighs* with a fresh salad, roasted vegetables, or even a comforting rice dish. A great choice is the Creamy Ranch Chicken as a flavorful side option.

Can I make chimichurri ahead of time?

Absolutely! Chimichurri can be made in advance and stored in the refrigerator for up to a week. This actually enhances the flavors, making your chicken thighs even more delicious.

Is Chimichurri Chicken healthy?

Yes! With lean chicken thighs and fresh ingredients, *Chimichurri Chicken Thighs* can be a health-conscious choice. It’s packed with flavor but low in calories when prepared without excessive oil or sugar.

Chimichurri Chicken Thighs: Tasty and Easy Weeknight Meal

Total Time: 50
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Gluten Free

Print Recipe

Description

Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings together the bold tastes of fresh herbs and spices, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

Scale

1/2 cup fresh cilantro

1/2 cup fresh Italian parsley chopped

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 wine vinegar

1/2 cup olive oil

1 teaspoon kosher salt

fresh ground pepper

2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs

Instructions

In a food processor, combine cilantro, parsley, oregano, shallot, garlic, jalapeno, lemon juice, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to taste. Blend until smooth.
In a large bowl, coat the chicken thighs with half of the chimichurri mixture. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight in the refrigerator.
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken thighs in a baking dish.
Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Serve the chicken thighs with the remaining chimichurri sauce drizzled on top.