This Easy Chimichurri Chicken Thighs recipe is full of flavor! It features juicy chicken thighs marinated in a zesty chimichurri sauce made with herbs, garlic, and olive oil—so tasty!
Cooking it is a breeze: just marinate, grill or bake, and enjoy! I love serving this alongside rice for a delicious meal. You won’t believe how easy and yummy it is! 🍗🌿
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are fantastic for flavor and moisture. If you need a lighter option, boneless, skinless thighs or chicken breasts will work, but they may cook faster, so keep an eye on them!
Parsley and Cilantro: Fresh parsley is a must for chimichurri, but if you dislike cilantro, feel free to replace it with more parsley, or try using fresh basil for a different twist!
Red Wine Vinegar: This adds a nice tang to the sauce. If you don’t have it on hand, apple cider vinegar is a good substitute and provides a slightly different flavor profile.
Red Pepper Flakes: If you’re not into spicy, leave them out for a milder chimichurri. You can also adjust the amount based on your heat preference!
How Do You Get the Crispiest Chicken Skin?
Crispy skin on chicken thighs can be a real game changer! Here’s how to achieve that perfect crunch:
- Start with dry chicken thighs. Pat them thoroughly with a paper towel to remove excess moisture.
- Season well. Don’t skip the salt and pepper – it enhances flavor and helps with crisping.
- Use a hot skillet! Preheat your skillet over medium-high heat before adding oil and chicken. This helps create that golden crust.
- Cook skin-side down first. Allow it to cook undisturbed for 6-8 minutes before flipping. This encourages crispiness.
Easy Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking chicken)
- For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, packed
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves, packed
- 4 cloves garlic
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1/2 tsp red pepper flakes (optional, for heat)
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This whole dish takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes to cook, so you can have a delicious meal ready in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a weeknight dinner with minimal fuss!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce:
In a food processor or blender, combine the parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, and red pepper flakes if you’re using them. Pulse a few times to begin chopping everything. Then, while the processor is running, slowly drizzle in the olive oil until everything is finely chopped and well mixed but still slightly chunky. Taste and season with additional salt and pepper if needed. Set the sauce aside while you prepare the chicken.
2. Prepare the Chicken Thighs:
Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. This helps the skin get crispy when cooked! Generously season both sides of the chicken thighs with salt and black pepper for extra flavor.
3. Cook the Chicken:
In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. When hot, carefully add the chicken thighs, skin-side down. Cook for about 6-8 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp. Then, flip the thighs and cook for another 6-8 minutes. Make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for fully cooked chicken. Alternatively, you can grill the chicken for a smoky flavor if you prefer!
4. Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet and place it on a serving plate. Generously spoon the chimichurri sauce over the top of the chicken. Serve immediately alongside your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables, rice, or corn on the cob. Get ready to enjoy a tasty meal!
Enjoy your juicy, flavorful chimichurri chicken thighs!
FAQ about Easy Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Yes, you can! Boneless, skinless chicken thighs or chicken breasts will work perfectly. Just note that they will cook faster, so check the internal temperature early to avoid overcooking!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you’re looking to add some heat, increase the amount of red pepper flakes in the chimichurri sauce. You can also add other spicy elements like diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to taste. Enjoy the kick!
What If I Don’t Have Fresh Herbs?
If fresh herbs are unavailable, you can use dried herbs instead! Use about 1 tablespoon of dried parsley and 1/2 tablespoon of dried cilantro, though the flavor may differ slightly from fresh.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken and chimichurri sauce in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator. The chicken will last for up to 3 days, while the chimichurri sauce can last up to a week. Reheat the chicken gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, and stir the chimichurri sauce before serving.
