These Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are juicy, tender, and full of zesty flavor. The mix of herbs, garlic, and lime brings a bright taste to every bite. Perfect for grilling, baking, or pan searing, this easy recipe makes dinner exciting again.
Why You Will Love This Recipe
- It’s quick to make with simple ingredients.
- The chimichurri sauce adds fresh, bold flavor.
- It’s perfect for grilling season or weeknight meals.
Ingredients
- Chicken thighs : main protein that stays juicy
- Fresh parsley : adds bright green flavor
- Garlic cloves : brings rich depth to the sauce
- Olive oil : helps with grilling and adds smooth texture
- Red wine vinegar : gives a little tang to balance flavors
- Lime juice : adds zesty freshness
- Salt and pepper : bring all the flavors together
- Crushed red chili flakes : add gentle heat
Step by Step Instructions
- Prepare the chimichurri sauce by blending parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, chili flakes, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth but still a bit chunky.
- Place chicken thighs in a bowl and coat them with half of the sauce. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat. Cook the chicken thighs for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
- Brush with extra chimichurri sauce right before serving for that rich, herby finish.
- Serve warm with a side of rice or fresh salad for a full meal.
Mistakes To Avoid
To make your Chimichurri Chicken Thighs perfect every time, avoid these easy mistakes that can dry or dull the flavor.
- Do not skip the marinating time. The chimichurri needs time to soak into the chicken for full taste.
- Avoid overcooking. Chicken thighs stay juicy when grilled just until done.
- Do not use bottled lime juice. Fresh lime adds a real zesty kick that makes a difference.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these grilled Chimichurri Chicken Thighs with warm rice or roasted veggies. You can also pair them with a creamy side like this creamy ground beef pasta for a hearty dinner. For more comfort meals, try the cracked out chicken tater tot casserole or the cheesy chicken cordon bleu casserole. These flavors mix well with the herby taste of chimichurri.
Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Equipment
- Grill
- Blender or Food Processor
Ingredients
Chimichurri Sauce
- 1 cup fresh parsley packed
- 4 cloves garlic
- 1/3 cup olive oil
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp lime juice fresh
- 1/2 tsp crushed red chili flakes
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
Chicken
- 8 chicken thighs boneless, skinless
Instructions
- Prepare the chimichurri sauce by blending parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, chili flakes, lime juice, salt, and pepper until smooth but still a bit chunky.
- Place chicken thighs in a bowl and coat them with half of the sauce. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes for the best flavor.
- Preheat the grill to medium heat. Cook the chicken thighs for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side until golden and cooked through.
- Brush with extra chimichurri sauce right before serving for that rich, herby finish.
- Serve warm with a side of rice or fresh salad for a full meal.
Notes
FAQs
Can I bake Chimichurri Chicken Thighs instead of grilling them?
Yes, you can easily bake them in the oven. Place the marinated chicken thighs on a baking sheet lined with foil and bake at 400°F for about 25 to 30 minutes. For a crisp top, switch to broil for the last 2 minutes. Baking keeps them juicy while the chimichurri adds flavor to every bite.
What should I serve with Chimichurri Chicken Thighs?
These chicken thighs go well with grilled veggies, mashed potatoes, or a simple green salad. You can also serve them with rice or quinoa to soak up the sauce. Try pairing them with a dish like Longhorn Steakhouse Chicken for a fun dinner spread with mixed flavors.
Can I use the same sauce for other chicken recipes?
Yes, chimichurri sauce is very flexible. You can use it on grilled chicken tenders, baked wings, or even as a topping for fish. Try it on Grilled Chicken With Chimichurri Sauce or Grilled Chili Lime Chicken Thighs for a twist. It brings the same bold and fresh flavor to many dishes.
Conclusion
These Chimichurri Chicken Thighs bring bright, bold, and juicy flavor to your table. The easy mix of garlic, lime, and herbs makes every bite pop. Save or pin this recipe to make your next dinner quick, delicious, and full of life.
