Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are packed with flavor! Marinated in a zesty chimichurri sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, and a splash of vinegar, they are juicy and delicious.
These thighs are perfect for a laid-back dinner. Just grill or bake them, and you’re in for a treat! I love serving them with rice or veggies to soak up all that tasty sauce.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs keep the meat juicy and flavorful. If you’re looking for a leaner option, boneless, skinless thighs work well too. You can even use breast meat, but keep an eye on cooking time as it cooks faster.
Olive Oil: This adds richness to both the chicken and chimichurri. You can substitute canola or avocado oil if you want a different flavor profile, but I prefer sticking to olive oil for its taste.
Herbs: Fresh parsley and cilantro are key in chimichurri. If cilantro isn’t your thing, you can replace it with more parsley or use fresh basil for a slightly different flavor. Dried herbs can work in a pinch, but fresh will always give the best results!
Red Wine Vinegar: This adds nice acidity to the sauce. If you don’t have it, lemon juice or apple cider vinegar can be good substitutes. Just remember that the flavor might change slightly.
What’s the Best Way to Cook Chicken Thighs to Ensure They’re Juicy and Crispy?
Cooking chicken thighs to get that perfect balance of juicy meat and crispy skin is all about technique. Here are some tips:
- Pat the chicken dry before seasoning; this helps the skin crisp up during cooking.
- Make sure your grill or oven is preheated well. This helps the skin start to crisp immediately.
- Cook them skin-side down first. This renders the fat out and gives you that delicious crispy skin.
- Use a meat thermometer! Pull them off the heat at 165°F (75°C) for safe and juicy chicken.
How to Make Chimichurri Chicken Thighs?
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, packed
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, packed
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup olive oil (for chimichurri)
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Salt, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish will take about 15 minutes to prepare and around 15-20 minutes to cook. All in all, you’re looking at about 30 to 35 minutes for this tasty chimichurri chicken thighs recipe. It’s quick to make and packed with flavor!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
Start by preheating your grill or oven to medium-high heat. While it’s heating up, take your chicken thighs and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps get that nice crispy skin. In a bowl, mix together the 1 tablespoon of olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, oregano, salt, and pepper. Rub this flavorful mixture all over your chicken thighs to coat them well.
2. Make the Chimichurri Sauce:
Next, it’s time for the chimichurri! In a food processor, combine the fresh parsley, cilantro, minced garlic, 1/2 cup of olive oil, red wine vinegar, and crushed red pepper flakes (if you like a little heat). Pulse the ingredients until the herbs are finely chopped and everything is well mixed. Taste the sauce and add a bit of salt if needed. Set this aside to let the flavors blend.
3. Cook the Chicken:
Now, place the chicken thighs on your preheated grill or in the oven. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want to ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and that the skin is crispy and golden brown. Keep an eye on them to get that perfect char!
4. Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, carefully remove it from the grill or oven and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juices inside. When you’re ready, serve the chicken thighs drizzled with the delicious chimichurri sauce.
5. Enjoy:
Pair your flavorful chimichurri chicken thighs with your favorite side dishes, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Enjoy every bite of this vibrant meal!
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs will cook a bit faster, so grill them for about 5-6 minutes on each side. Just ensure they reach the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption.
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re looking for some heat, increase the amount of crushed red pepper flakes in the chimichurri sauce or add in some chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper on the chicken before cooking for an extra kick!
Can I Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce in Advance?
Yes! Chimichurri sauce can be made a day or two ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator. Just give it a good stir before serving as the ingredients may settle. If storage for longer, keep it in an airtight container and add a bit more olive oil if it thickens.
What Are the Best Side Dishes to Serve with Chimichurri Chicken?
Chimichurri chicken pairs wonderfully with sides like grilled asparagus, roasted potatoes, quinoa salad, or even a simple arugula salad drizzled with lemon. Feel free to mix and match according to your taste!
