Chimichurri Chicken, oh, it’s more than a dish; it’s a flavor-packed journey through the heart of Argentine cuisine. Picture this: a vibrant burst of colors and a symphony of tastes that transport you straight to the lively streets of Buenos Aires. It’s a dish that speaks of gatherings, laughter, and the passion that defines Argentine culture.
In every bite, Chimichurri Chicken is a celebration of tradition, a nod to the gauchos (Argentine cowboys) who perfected the art of grilling, and a reminder that some of the best stories are told over a shared meal. It’s not just food; it’s an invitation to experience Argentina’s zest for life, one delicious morsel at a time.
Chimichurri Chicken Recipe
4
servings15
minutes20
minutes300
kcalIngredients
- For the Chimichurri Sauce:
1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 cup red wine vinegar
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 teaspoon dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
Salt and pepper to taste
- For the Chicken:
4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil (for cooking)
Directions
- For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- Preparation: In a bowl, combine chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, extra-virgin olive oil, dried oregano, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Mix well to form the chimichurri sauce. Allow it to sit for at least 15-20 minutes for the flavors to meld.
- For the Chicken:
- Preparation: Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper on both sides.
- Marinating: Spoon a generous amount of chimichurri sauce over each chicken breast, ensuring they are well-coated. Reserve some chimichurri for serving.
- Marination Time: Let the chicken marinate for at least 30 minutes to an hour in the refrigerator. This allows the flavors to infuse into the chicken.
- Cooking: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken breasts to the skillet.
- Searing: Sear the chicken for about 6-8 minutes per side or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Resting: Allow the chicken to rest for a few minutes before serving.
- Serving: Drizzle the reserved chimichurri sauce over the cooked chicken before serving.
Notes
- Grilling Option: For an extra layer of flavor, you can grill the chicken instead of pan-searing. Brush the grill with oil and cook the chicken over medium-high heat until fully cooked.
- Serving Suggestions: Serve the Chimichurri Chicken with sides like roasted vegetables, a simple salad, or rice.
- Extra Chimichurri: If you love the sauce (who wouldn’t?), make extra chimichurri to serve at the table for those who want an additional spoonful of flavor.
Nutrition Facts
4 servings per container
- Amount Per ServingCalories400
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat
28g
44%
- Saturated Fat 5g 25%
- Sodium 350mg 15%
- Potassium 550mg 16%
- Total Carbohydrate
2g
1%
- Dietary Fiber 1g 4%
- Sugars 0g
- Protein 35g 70%
- Vitamin A 500%
- Vitamin C 15%
- Calcium 40%
- Iron 2.5%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
Additional Information for Chimichurri Chicken Recipe:
- The nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and portion sizes.
- The dish is relatively low in carbohydrates and sugar, making it a suitable option for those following low-carb diets.
- It’s a rich source of protein, contributing to muscle health and satiety.
- The high content of healthy fats, particularly monounsaturated fats from olive oil, adds to the dish’s nutritional profile.
- The dish provides a moderate amount of potassium, supporting heart and kidney health.
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Alterations and Modifications for Chimichurri Chicken Recipe:
1. Spice Level:
- Original: The recipe includes red pepper flakes for a mild to moderate spice level.
- Modification: Adjust the quantity of red pepper flakes based on your spice preference. Increase for more heat, or omit for a milder version.
2. Herb Variations:
- Original: The chimichurri sauce uses parsley and cilantro.
- Modification: Experiment with different herbs like mint or oregano for a unique flavor twist.
3. Protein Choices:
- Original: The recipe features chicken breasts.
- Modification: Swap with chicken thighs or even pork chops for varied tastes. Adjust cooking times accordingly.
4. Grilling Option:
- Original: The recipe suggests pan-searing the chicken.
- Modification: Grill the chicken for a smokier flavor. Brush the grill with oil and cook over medium-high heat until fully cooked.
5. Vegetarian Version:
- Original: The recipe is meat-centric.
- Modification: Substitute chicken with grilled portobello mushrooms or tofu steaks marinated in chimichurri for a vegetarian alternative.
Storage and Freezing Instructions
1. Storage:
- Chimichurri Sauce: Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to a week.
- Marinated Chicken: Refrigerate in a sealed container for up to 24 hours.
2. Freezing:
- Chimichurri Sauce: Freeze in ice cube trays for easy portioning. Thaw as needed.
- Marinated Chicken: Freeze in a freezer bag with excess air removed. Thaw in the refrigerator before cooking.
3. Reheating:
- Chimichurri Sauce: Thaw in the refrigerator or at room temperature. Stir before using.
- Marinated Chicken: Allow the chicken to thaw in the refrigerator. Pan-sear or grill until fully reheated.
4. Meal Prep Tips:
- Pre-marinate Chicken: Marinate chicken in chimichurri sauce in advance for quick weekday meals.
- Freeze Ready-to-Cook Chicken: Freeze chicken in individual portions with the marinade for convenient cooking.
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