Easy Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Easy Chimichurri Chicken Thighs (Juicy, Fresh & Full of Flavor!)
If you’re looking for a bold, fresh, and incredibly flavorful dinner, these Easy Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are going to be your new go-to. Made with juicy skinless chicken thighs and topped with a vibrant homemade chimichurri, this dish is packed with fresh herbs, garlic, and just the right amount of heat.
This chimichurri chicken recipe is perfect for grilling season, but it’s also versatile enough to make year-round. Whether you’re cooking on an outdoor grill or using a cast iron skillet, this recipe delivers juicy perfection every single time.
What is Chimichurri?
Chimichurri is a classic Argentinian sauce (or Argentinian condiment) made with fresh herbs, garlic, olive oil, and acidic ingredients like red wine vinegar and lemon juice. It’s bright, zesty, and one of the best ways to add bold flavor to grilled meats.
This green sauce is traditionally served with red meats, but it pairs just as perfectly with chicken.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Made with simple, fresh ingredients
- Packed with bold, herbaceous flavor
- Perfect for grilling or stovetop cooking
- A simple recipe that feels gourmet
- Great for meal prep and leftovers
The best part? It’s quick, easy, and incredibly delicious.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ½ cup olive oil
- ½ cup fresh cilantro
- ½ cup fresh parsley
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano (or 1 tsp dried)
- 1 small shallot
- 2 tsp minced garlic (cloves of garlic)
- ½ jalapeño, seeded
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ¼ tsp red pepper flakes (optional)
- Black pepper, to taste
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Buy Now → How to Make Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Step 1: Make the Chimichurri
In a food processor, combine:
- Cilantro
- Parsley
- Oregano
- Shallot
- Garlic
- Jalapeño
Pulse until roughly chopped.
Add the olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar, along with salt, paprika, and black pepper. Pulse again until combined but still slightly textured.
This creates your fresh, flavorful chimichurri recipe.
Step 2: Marinate the Chicken
Place the chicken in a large bowl or baking dish.
Spoon about ¼ cup of the delicious sauce over the chicken and toss until evenly coated.
Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes (or up to 24 hours for the best flavor).
Step 3: Preheat the Grill
Remove the chicken from the fridge and let it sit at room temperature while you preheat your outdoor grill to medium-high heat.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Place the chicken on the grill grate and cook for about 5–6 minutes per side.
Use an instant-read thermometer or meat thermometer to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F in the thickest part.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then serve with extra chimichurri spooned over the top.
Alternative Cooking Methods
Cast Iron Skillet
Heat a large skillet over medium heat with a little olive oil.
Cook chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until golden and fully cooked.
Oven Method
Bake in a preheated oven at 400°F for about 20–25 minutes, depending on thickness.
Tips for the Best Chimichurri Chicken
- Pat chicken dry with paper towels before cooking for better browning
- Don’t skip resting time—it keeps the chicken juicy
- Use fresh herbs for the best flavor
- Adjust spice level with jalapeño and red pepper flakes
What to Serve with Chimichurri Chicken
This dish pairs perfectly with:
- Cilantro lime rice
- Roasted vegetables
- Fresh salads
- Grilled corn
It’s a complete, balanced meal that works for any night of the week.
🍽️ More Dinner Recipes You’ll Love
If you loved these chimichurri chicken thighs, here are more delicious foods from my site to try next:
- My Garlic Parmesan Wings are crispy, flavorful, and perfect for a crowd.
- These Easy Cajun Shrimp Boil recipes are bold, fun, and great for gatherings.
- My Whole Roasted Chicken is a classic, juicy dinner option.
- Million Dollar Chicken is a creamy, comforting baked favorite.
- My Cheesy Chicken Alfredo Stuffed Shells are rich, cheesy, and perfect for family dinners.
These are all great additions to your weekly meal plan.
Easy Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Ingredients
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- ½ cup olive oil
- ½ cup fresh cilantro
- ½ cup fresh Italian parsley, chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, brighter flavor
- 1 tablespoon red wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, or 1 teaspoon dried
- 1 small shallot, roughly chopped
- 2 teaspoons minced garlic
- ½ jalapeño, seeded (leave some seeds for heat if desired)
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika, adds depth + color
- ¼ teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes, optional heat boost
- Freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Add the cilantro, parsley, oregano, shallot, minced garlic, and jalapeño to a food processor. Pulse a few times until everything is roughly chopped.
- Pour in the olive oil, lemon juice, and red wine vinegar. Add the kosher salt, smoked paprika, crushed red pepper flakes (if using), and black pepper. Pulse again until the mixture is well combined and finely chopped, but still has a little texture.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl or baking dish. Season lightly with salt and pepper, then spoon about ¼ cup of the chimichurri over the chicken. Toss until evenly coated. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, or up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
- Remove the chicken from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature while you preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Grill the chicken for about 5–6 minutes per side, or until fully cooked and the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes, then serve with the remaining chimichurri spooned over the top or on the side.
How to Store and Reheat
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days.
Reheat:
- In a skillet over medium heat
- Or microwave in short intervals
Store extra leftover chimichurri sauce in a glass jar in the fridge.
Can You Freeze Chimichurri?
Yes! Freeze in an ice cube tray, then transfer to a freezer-safe container or freezer bag.
This makes it easy to use later in small portions.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use chicken breasts instead?
Yes! Chicken breasts work well, but be careful not to overcook them.
Can I use bone-in thighs?
Absolutely. Bone-in thighs or skin-on chicken thighs will add more flavor, but adjust cooking time accordingly.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 20 minutes, but longer (up to 24 hours) gives deeper flavor.
What does chimichurri taste like?
It’s bright, herby, slightly tangy, and full of fresh garlic flavor.
Final Thoughts
These Easy Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are fresh, flavorful, and incredibly easy to make.
With juicy chicken and a bold chimichurri sauce, this dish is perfect for everything from weeknight dinners to weekend grilling.
Once you try it, it’s going to become one of your favorite ways to cook chicken!
