Can I use chicken breasts or drumsticks instead of chicken thighs for chimichurri chicken?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts or drumsticks, but cooking times vary. Chicken breasts should be pounded to about ½ inch thickness or butterflied for even cooking and typically take around 6 minutes per side on medium-high heat. Drumsticks and bone-in thighs require a bit longer, about 8-10 minutes per side, to reach an internal temperature of 165°F. Adjust grilling time accordingly to avoid undercooked meat or dryness.

How long should I marinate chicken thighs for the best flavor?

Marinate chicken thighs for at least 20-30 minutes at room temperature to allow the chimichurri flavors to penetrate. For deeper flavor, marinate covered in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Before cooking, take the thighs out for 10-15 minutes to reach room temperature, which helps them cook evenly.

What’s the best way to cook chimichurri chicken thighs indoors?

Using a grill pan or cast iron skillet on medium-high heat is ideal for indoor cooking. Preheat the pan well, then cook the chicken thighs for about 5-6 minutes per side until they reach an internal temp of 165°F. This method helps achieve a nice sear and juicy texture similar to grilling.

How do I know when chimichurri chicken thighs are fully cooked?

The safest way is to use a meat thermometer; the internal temperature should reach 165°F in the thickest part of the thigh. The juices should run clear, and the meat should feel firm but not dry. If no thermometer is available, check that the meat’s color transitions from pink to opaque.

Can chimichurri sauce be made ahead and stored?

Yes, chimichurri sauce can be prepared up to 3 days in advance and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Flavors often deepen with time. Bring the sauce to room temperature before serving or reheating chicken to maintain fresh, vibrant taste.

Chimichurri Chicken Thighs Recipe With Tangy Sauce

Name: Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Prep time: PT-488408H57M12S
Cook time: 12 min
Total time: 40 min
Cuisine: Argentine
Ingredients: – 1/2 cup fresh cilantro for vibrant, herby flavor; – 1/2 cup fresh Italian parsley to add a fresh, aromatic touch; – 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried) for earthy herbal notes; – 1 small peeled shallot provides a mild onion-like base; – 2 peeled garlic cloves offers pungent aroma and depth; – 1/2 seeded jalapeno pepper brings a subtle heat without overwhelming the dish; – 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice adds a bright, tangy acidity; – 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar enhances the tang and balances flavors; – 1/2 cup olive oil serves as the base for the marinade and adds heart-healthy fats; – 1 teaspoon kosher salt essential for seasoning and drawing out flavors; – Fresh ground pepper to taste for a touch of spice and seasoning; – 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs the main protein that absorbs the marinade beautifully

Description

🍗 This Grilled Chicken Thighs recipe features a flavorful chimichurri marinade that infuses the chicken with bright, tangy, and herbaceous notes.
🔥 Grilling the chicken creates a juicy, tender texture with a delicious smoky char, perfect for an easy yet impressive meal.

Ingredients

– 1/2 cup fresh cilantro for vibrant, herby flavor

– 1/2 cup fresh Italian parsley to add a fresh, aromatic touch

– 1 tablespoon fresh oregano (or 1 teaspoon dried) for earthy herbal notes

– 1 small peeled shallot provides a mild onion-like base

– 2 peeled garlic cloves offers pungent aroma and depth

– 1/2 seeded jalapeno pepper brings a subtle heat without overwhelming the dish

– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice adds a bright, tangy acidity

– 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar enhances the tang and balances flavors

– 1/2 cup olive oil serves as the base for the marinade and adds heart-healthy fats

– 1 teaspoon kosher salt essential for seasoning and drawing out flavors

– Fresh ground pepper to taste for a touch of spice and seasoning

– 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs the main protein that absorbs the marinade beautifully

Instructions

1-Getting started with chimichurri chicken thighs: Getting started with chimichurri chicken thighs is fun and straightforward, even if you’re new to grilling. Begin by pulsing the fresh ingredients in a food processor to create that vibrant marinade. This step ensures the flavors meld together perfectly before coating the chicken.

2-Once your marinade is ready: season the 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then let them soak up the goodness for 20 minutes up to 24 hours in the fridge. For the best results, grill them on medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes per side until they reach 165°F inside and the juices run clear. Remember, for indoor options, a grill pan works wonders to mimic that outdoor char.

3-After cooking: serve the chicken with extra chimichurri sauce on the side for an extra flavor burst. This recipe not only tastes great but also pairs well with sides like grilled corn or a fresh salad.

Notes

🌿 Make the chimichurri sauce ahead and store it in the fridge for up to two weeks or freeze for longer storage.
⏲️ Marinate chicken longer for more intense flavor, but at least 20 minutes is best.
🔥 Use a meat thermometer to check for 165°F internal temperature for safe, juicy chicken.

Prep Time: 10 minutes
Marinating time: 20 minutes to 24 hours
Cook Time: 12 minutes
Category: Main Course
Method: Grilling
Cuisine: Argentine

Nutrition

Serving Size: 1/2 pound chicken with sauce
Calories: 444 calories
Sugar: 1 gram
Sodium: 700 milligrams
Fat: 27 grams
Saturated Fat: 4 grams
Unsaturated Fat: 20 grams
Trans Fat: 0 grams
Carbohydrates: 3 grams
Fiber: 1 gram
Protein: 44 grams
Cholesterol: 120 milligrams

Keywords: Grilled, Chicken Thighs, Chimichurri, Tangy