Chimichurri Chicken Thighs

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I absolutely love this recipe because it combines two things I enjoy: juicy, grilled chicken thighs and a vibrant chimichurri sauce that really elevates the dish. The chicken thighs stay tender and flavorful, thanks to the marination in chimichurri, and the grilling adds a beautiful smokiness. The chimichurri itself is so versatile; it brings a fresh and punchy flavor that works perfectly with grilled meats or even as a dipping sauce. It’s simple, quick, and incredibly satisfying.

Ingredients

• 4 bone-in, skinless chicken thighs

• 1 cup fresh parsley, packed

• 4 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tsp dried oregano)

• 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 1 tablespoon lemon juice

• 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil

• 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)

• Salt and pepper, to taste

• 1 tablespoon honey (optional for sweetness)

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. Start by preparing the chimichurri sauce. In a food processor or a bowl, combine the parsley, garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, and olive oil. Blend or mix until everything is well combined but still slightly chunky.

2. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper flakes, if desired. Taste and adjust seasoning, adding honey if you prefer a touch of sweetness.

3. Place the chicken thighs in a resealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour about half of the chimichurri sauce over the chicken, making sure the thighs are well-coated. Let them marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (or up to 2 hours).

4. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Once the grill is ready, remove the chicken from the marinade and place it on the grill.

5. Grill the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F and the chicken is nicely browned and charred.

6. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.

7. Drizzle the remaining chimichurri sauce over the grilled chicken thighs before serving.

Servings and Timing

This recipe makes 4 servings. It takes about 10 minutes to prepare the chimichurri sauce, 30 minutes for marinating, and around 15 minutes for grilling. In total, you can have this dish ready in under an hour!

Variations

If you want to change things up, here are a few variations to try:

• Add more herbs: Besides parsley and oregano, try adding cilantro or basil for an extra fresh flavor.

• Spicy version: Add more red pepper flakes or a dash of hot sauce to the chimichurri to make it spicier.

• Grilled Vegetables: This chimichurri is also fantastic on grilled veggies like zucchini, bell peppers, or eggplant.

• Chicken Breasts: If you prefer chicken breasts, they can be used instead of thighs. Just be sure to adjust the grilling time, as chicken breasts cook faster.

Storage/Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. The chicken will still taste great the next day! To reheat, I recommend gently warming the chicken in the oven or on a stovetop pan to maintain its juiciness. Avoid microwaving it, as it may dry out.

The chimichurri sauce can be stored separately in a jar for up to a week in the fridge. It actually gets better with time, as the flavors have a chance to develop more.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

Yes, you can definitely use chicken breasts instead of thighs. Just be mindful that chicken breasts cook faster than thighs, so adjust the grilling time accordingly.

How spicy is chimichurri sauce?

Chimichurri sauce is typically not very spicy, but if you like heat, you can increase the amount of red pepper flakes or add a spicy chili pepper to the sauce.

Can I make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! The chimichurri sauce can be made in advance. In fact, it tastes even better after sitting for a few hours or overnight in the fridge, as the flavors meld together.

Can I cook the chicken in the oven instead of grilling?

Yes, you can bake the marinated chicken thighs in the oven. Preheat your oven to 400°F and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.

How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature of the chicken. It should reach 165°F to ensure it’s fully cooked and safe to eat.

Conclusion

Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are a delicious and easy-to-make dish that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner, grilling for a weekend BBQ, or just craving something flavorful, this recipe is sure to please. The combination of juicy, tender chicken and fresh, zesty chimichurri sauce makes every bite irresistible. Try it out, and I’m sure it will become a favorite in your kitchen!