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Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe

Avatar photoByOlivia Bennett
Jump to Recipe· 4.4 from 106 reviews

If you’re craving a vibrant and delicious meal full of fresh flavors, this Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe is exactly what you need! Juicy grilled chicken breasts come alive with a bright, zesty chimichurri sauce that bursts with herbs and a perfect hint of heat. It’s simple, fresh, and utterly satisfying.

Why You Should Make This Recipe

Here’s why this Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe will soon become one of your all-time favorites:

  • Bold, Herby Flavors: The chimichurri sauce blends parsley, oregano, garlic, and vinegar for a fresh punch that awakens every bite.
  • Simple Ingredients: You likely have most of these pantry essentials on hand, making it easy to whip up any day of the week.
  • Juicy Grilled Chicken: Brining the chicken ensures it stays tender and moist, so no dry bites here!
  • Versatile & Customizable: Whether you’re grilling outside or cooking indoors, this recipe adapts beautifully to your setup.
A white plate holds three pieces of sliced cooked chicken with a golden-brown color, each piece topped with a thick green sauce mixed with herbs and small bits of garlic or spices. The chicken slices are neatly arranged, showing juicy white inside layers under the herb sauce. To the right side of the plate is a small white bowl filled with more of the same green sauce, thick and textured. Fresh green parsley leaves are placed under some chicken pieces, serving as a garnish. The plate sits on a white marbled surface with a soft beige cloth partly visible at the bottom left corner. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce, grilled chicken recipes, chimichurri sauce recipe, easy grilled chicken, flavorful chicken dishes

Ingredients & Substitutions

This recipe relies on uncomplicated, fresh ingredients that work together to create mouthwatering flavor and texture. Each element, from the tangy vinegar to the spicy red pepper flakes, plays a vital role in balancing this dish perfectly.

Flat lay of fresh parsley bunches, whole garlic cloves, diced red onions, dried oregano sprigs, red pepper flakes scattered gently, raw organic chicken breasts with a sprinkle of paprika, small pool of golden extra virgin olive oil, and a drizzle of white vinegar artistically placed, all arranged on a white marble surface, photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce, grilled chicken recipes, chimichurri sauce recipe, easy grilled chicken, flavorful chicken dishes
  • Extra Virgin Olive Oil: Provides richness and helps marry all the herbs and spices in the chimichurri sauce.
  • White Vinegar: Adds the perfect acidic brightness that lifts the flavor of the sauce.
  • Garlic Cloves: Fresh garlic amps up the savory depth—don’t skip it!
  • Fresh Parsley: The star herb for that classic bright green color and earthy note.
  • Chicken Breasts: Free-range and organic are preferred for the best texture and flavor, but any good-quality chicken will do.
  • Paprika: Adds a subtle smokiness and lovely color to the chicken.
Note: You’ll find the complete list of ingredients, along with their exact measurements, in the printable recipe card at the bottom of this post.

How to Make Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

Start by tossing all the chimichurri ingredients into a food processor or a high-speed blender. Give it a gentle whirl on low speed for about three minutes until everything is finely chopped but still vibrant. This sauce is a fresh explosion of herbs, garlic, and tang, so keep it colorful and textured!

Step 2: Brine the Chicken Breasts

Brining is the secret to super juicy chicken. Combine warm water and kosher salt in a large bowl, stirring until dissolved. Submerge the chicken breasts and let them soak for 15 to 30 minutes. This step keeps the meat tender and flavorful when grilled.

Step 3: Season and Prepare the Grill

Pat the chicken dry and brush all sides with olive oil. Sprinkle with paprika, salt, and pepper for that smoky-sweet crust once grilled. If using a gas grill, clean grates and oil them carefully to prevent sticking. Preheat your grill to about 450°F for those perfect sear marks.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for approximately 6 minutes on each side. Keep an eye on them to avoid charring. Using a meat thermometer is the best way to ensure they’re cooked through—look for 165°F in the thickest part. Then, remove from the grill and let them rest briefly.

Step 5: Drizzle and Serve

Plate the chicken and generously drizzle the fresh chimichurri sauce over the top. The herbaceous sauce contrasts beautifully with the smoky chicken, creating a dish bursting with bright, layered flavors.

How to Serve Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe

The image shows a white plate with three pieces of cooked chicken sliced in thick layers, each topped with a green herb sauce that looks chunky and fresh. The chicken is a golden brown color with slight grill marks, and the sauce has a mix of bright green with small bits of red and white, giving it a textured look. Behind the chicken is a small white cup filled with the same green sauce. There are also a few fresh green parsley leaves placed on the plate near the chicken. The plate sits on a white marbled surface, with two blurred white bowls and a golden object in the background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 2:3 --v 7 - Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce, grilled chicken recipes, chimichurri sauce recipe, easy grilled chicken, flavorful chicken dishes

Garnishes

Freshly chopped parsley or a wedge of lime makes a wonderful, simple garnish that complements the vibrant chimichurri. For a touch of crunch, sprinkle some toasted pine nuts or sliced radishes on top.

Side Dishes

This recipe pairs beautifully with light sides like grilled vegetables, roasted potatoes, or a crisp green salad. For something heartier, serve with rice or a warm quinoa pilaf to soak up every last bit of chimichurri sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Try slicing the grilled chicken and fanning it out on a platter with dollops of chimichurri. For a casual vibe, serve it in pita wraps or atop toasted baguette slices for a vibrant appetizer. Getting creative makes this dish exciting every time!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator. It’ll stay juicy for up to four days, making for quick and tasty meals later in the week.

Freezing

You can freeze both the grilled chicken and chimichurri sauce separately in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to three months. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating or serving cold.

Reheating

For a quick reheat, pop the chicken in the microwave until warmed through. Alternatively, enjoy the grilled chicken cold or at room temperature—the sauce keeps it lively either way!

FAQs

  1. Can I make the chimichurri sauce without a food processor?

    Absolutely! You can finely chop all the herbs, garlic, and onions by hand with a sharp knife, then mix everything together well. It might take a bit longer, but the flavor is just as fresh and delicious.

  2. What if I don’t have a grill?

    No worries! You can pan-sear the chicken breasts in a hot skillet or bake them in the oven. Both methods will yield juicy, flavorful chicken when seasoned and cooked properly.

  3. Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

    Yes, chicken thighs work wonderfully with this recipe. They tend to be more forgiving and stay juicier, plus they soak up the chimichurri sauce beautifully.

  4. Is this recipe spicy?

    The chimichurri sauce has a mild kick from red pepper flakes, but it’s not overwhelmingly spicy. You can easily adjust the heat by adding more or less according to your taste.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you give this Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe a try—the combination of juicy grilled chicken and vibrant, herb-packed sauce is a match made in culinary heaven. It’s perfect for dinner any night of the week and guaranteed to impress anyone lucky enough to taste it!

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Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe

Grilled Chicken with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star 4.4 from 106 reviews
  • Author: Olivia
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Total Time: 37 minutes
  • Yield: 3 servings 1x
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Argentinian
  • Diet: Gluten Free
Print Recipe

Description

This Grilled Chicken Chimichurri recipe features tender, juicy chicken breasts perfectly grilled and topped with a vibrant, fresh chimichurri sauce made from parsley, garlic, vinegar, and spices. The chimichurri adds a bright and zesty flavor that complements the smoky grilled chicken, making it a perfect dish for a healthy and flavorful meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Chimichurri Sauce

  • 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1/4 cup white vinegar
  • 2 garlic cloves
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1 tsp dried fresh oregano
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, packed
  • 1/4 cup red onions, diced
  • Dash of red pepper flakes
  • Dash of honey (optional)

Grilled Chicken

  • 3 free range organic medium chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp paprika
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 2 tablespoons kosher salt (for brine)
  • Warm water (enough to cover chicken in brine)

Instructions

  1. Make the Chimichurri Sauce: Add all chimichurri ingredients – olive oil, white vinegar, garlic cloves, salt, dried oregano, fresh parsley, red onions, red pepper flakes, and honey if using – to a food processor or high-speed blender. Process on low for about 3 minutes until finely blended and well combined. Set aside.
  2. Brine the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine warm water with 2 tablespoons of kosher salt, stirring until the salt dissolves. Submerge the chicken breasts in the brine and let them sit for 15 to 30 minutes. This step helps the chicken stay juicy and flavorful.
  3. Prepare the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the brine and pat dry thoroughly with a paper towel. Brush all sides with 1 tablespoon olive oil, then season evenly with paprika, salt, and pepper.
  4. Prepare the Grill: If using a gas grill, clean the grates with a steel grill brush. Dip a paper towel wad in cooking oil and wipe the grates to prevent sticking. Turn all burners on to medium-high heat and cover the grill, heating it to approximately 450°F.
  5. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Grill for about 6 minutes on each side, checking occasionally and turning as needed to ensure even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; the internal temperature should read 165°F at the thickest part.
  6. Serve: Remove the grilled chicken from the grill and place it on a serving dish. Drizzle generously with the freshly made chimichurri sauce and serve immediately for best flavor and juiciness.

Notes

  • Nutritional information provided is for 2 tablespoons of chimichurri sauce only.
  • If you don’t have a grill, you can pan-fry or bake the chicken as alternatives.
  • For enhanced flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator; bring it to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
  • Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
  • Reheat chicken in the microwave or enjoy it cold in salads or sandwiches.
  • You can freeze the chimichurri chicken in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 3 months.
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