The sun begins to set, and the enticing aroma of marinated chicken fills the air; it’s a perfect evening for a flavorful adventure in the kitchen. Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri is not only a feast for the senses—it’s also your ticket to easy gourmet cooking at home. With just a handful of ingredients, this dish promises delightful taste and tenderness, making it an ideal choice for weeknight dinners or weekend gatherings. The vibrant chimichurri sauce, bursting with fresh herbs and zesty notes, takes your grilled chicken to new heights, ensuring every bite is a celebration of flavor. It’s versatile enough to adapt to whatever you have on hand, whether you’re serving it with a vibrant salad or hearty roasted veggies. Curious about how to bring a touch of Argentinian cuisine to your table? Let’s dive in!

Why Choose Grilled Chicken Thighs?

Juicy, Flavorful Delight: The grilled chicken thighs are marinated to perfection, ensuring every bite is bursting with flavor.
Vibrant Chimichurri: The herbaceous chimichurri sauce adds a zesty kick and vivid color, elevating your dish instantly.
Easy Preparation: This recipe is so simple to execute, making it perfect for busy weeknights or sunny barbecues.
Versatile Pairings: Whether served with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad, the options are endless!
Crowd-Pleasing Meal: Impress your guests or family with a dish that’s sure to please all palates. Try it alongside my Bang Bang Chicken for a delicious combo!

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri Ingredients

For the Chicken
• Chicken Thighs – For best flavor and juiciness, use boneless skinless thighs for even cooking.

For the Chimichurri Sauce
• Cilantro – A fresh, herbaceous note; substitute with parsley if you prefer a milder taste.
• Parsley – Enhances flavor; combine with cilantro for a well-rounded chimichurri.
• Oregano – Offers an earthy flavor; dried oregano works well as a substitute.
• Shallot – Adds a hint of sweetness; can be replaced with onion if needed.
• Garlic – Infuses a rich aroma; fresh garlic is recommended for the best taste.
• Jalapeño – Gives a spicy kick; adjust or omit based on your heat preference.
• Lemon Juice – Brightens the chimichurri; lime juice can serve as a tangy alternative.
• Red Wine Vinegar – Adds a zesty tang to the marinade; apple cider vinegar is a great substitute.
• Olive Oil – Ensures a smooth texture in the chimichurri; other oils can be used but may alter flavor.
• Salt & Pepper – Essential for enhancing flavor; adjust according to your personal preference.

Now you’re ready to create mouthwatering grilled chicken thighs with chimichurri! Enjoy the flavor adventure!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri

Step 1: Make Chimichurri
In a food processor, combine the fresh cilantro, parsley, dried oregano, shallot, garlic, and jalapeño. Pulse these ingredients together until finely chopped, ensuring they create a vibrant green mixture. This chimichurri sauce will infuse your grilled chicken thighs with an incredible flavor, setting the stage for a mouthwatering dish!

Step 2: Flavor Marinade
Add the lemon juice, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper to the chopped herb mixture in the food processor. Blend until everything is well incorporated into a smooth and vibrant sauce, which will serve as a delightful marinade for your chicken thighs. Set aside a 1/4 cup to marinate the chicken, and keep the rest for drizzling later.

Step 3: Marinate Chicken
Season the boneless skinless chicken thighs with salt and pepper on both sides to enhance their natural flavors. Coat each thigh with the prepared chimichurri marinade, ensuring they are evenly covered. Place the marinated chicken in the refrigerator for at least 20 minutes, or up to 24 hours for maximum flavor infusion, allowing the chimichurri to work its magic.

Step 4: Preheat Grill
While the chicken warms to room temperature, preheat your grill to medium-high heat—aim for about 375°F to 400°F for optimal cooking. This temperature will create beautiful grill marks while ensuring the chicken cooks evenly. Prepare your grill grates by lightly oiling them to prevent sticking.

Step 5: Grill the Chicken
Carefully place the marinated chicken thighs on the hot grill. Cook for 5-6 minutes on one side without moving them, allowing them to develop a golden-brown crust. Flip the chicken and cook for an additional 5-6 minutes on the other side. They’re done when the juices run clear, and an instant-read thermometer registers at least 165°F for safe consumption.

Step 6: Serve
Once the grilled chicken thighs are perfectly cooked, remove them from the grill and let them rest for a few minutes. Drizzle the reserved chimichurri sauce over the juicy thighs right before serving. This final touch enhances the flavor profile and adds a beautiful, fresh green color that’s irresistible!

What to Serve with Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri?

Imagine a table adorned with vibrant sides that perfectly complement the juicy, herb-infused chicken, creating a culinary symphony for your senses.

Grilled Vegetables: Smoky zucchini, bell peppers, and eggplant add depth and texture, beautifully enhancing the grilled flavors of your chicken.
Crispy Sweet Potato Fries: The sweetness and crunch of these fries provide a delightful contrast to the savory grilled chicken, making every bite a treat.
Refreshing Cucumber Salad: A light and zesty cucumber salad brightens the meal, mirroring the vibrant notes of chimichurri and cooling the palate.
Quinoa Salad: Packed with protein and nutrients, a quinoa salad with fresh veggies and a lemon vinaigrette offers a hearty yet light pairing.
Herbed Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice infused with herbs complements the richness of the chicken thighs, creating a balanced and satisfying side.
Savory Garlic Bread: Garlicky, buttery bread is perfect for sopping up any extra chimichurri, turning the meal into a delightful indulgence.
Chilled White Wine: A crisp Sauvignon Blanc perfectly balances the vibrant flavors of the chimichurri, enhancing your dining experience.
Chocolate Mousse: End on a sweet note with a rich chocolate mousse, a luxurious dessert that contrasts beautifully with the savory chicken.

How to Store and Freeze Grilled Chicken Thighs

Fridge: Store leftover grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. This way, you can enjoy the juicy flavors again throughout the week.

Freezer: If you want to extend freshness, freeze the chicken thighs for up to 3 months. Wrap each piece tightly in plastic wrap, then place them in a freezer bag to prevent freezer burn.

Reheating: When you’re ready to enjoy your grilled chicken thighs again, thaw them in the fridge overnight. For reheating, warm them in the oven at 350°F for about 15-20 minutes, or until heated through. This helps retain their moisture and flavor.

Chimichurri Storage: Keep any leftover chimichurri sauce in a jar in the fridge, where it will stay fresh for up to a week. A drizzle of this vibrant sauce will bring life and zest back to your chicken!

Make Ahead Options

These Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri are a fantastic option for busy weeknights! You can marinate the chicken thighs in chimichurri up to 24 hours in advance, allowing the flavors to deepen and infuse the meat beautifully. To prep ahead, simply prepare the chimichurri sauce, cover it tightly, and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When you’re ready to cook, simply preheat your grill, take the marinated thighs out of the fridge, and grill them as directed. This ensures a quick and seamless dinner without compromising on flavor or quality—these grilled chicken thighs will be just as delicious and juicy!

Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri Variations

Feel free to tweak this recipe to make it your own and savor every delicious bite with a personal touch!

Boneless Breasts: Substitute chicken thighs with boneless skinless breasts for a leaner option. They’ll marinate beautifully too!
Herb Mix-Up: Try using different herbs like basil or mint in the chimichurri for a refreshing twist. Each herb brings a new flavor experience!
Spice It Up: Replace jalapeño with red pepper flakes or sriracha for added heat. This will give your chimichurri a delightful kick!
Citrus Zing: Swap lemon juice for lime juice for a tangy fusion that brightens up the chimichurri sauce. You might love this bright and zesty change!
Vinegar Variation: Use balsamic vinegar instead of red wine vinegar for a sweeter, rich flavor in your marinade. This will give a unique depth to your dish.
Oil Alternatives: Opt for avocado oil in the chimichurri for a different texture and flavor profile. This adds an interesting twist while keeping things healthy!
Savory Add-ins: Add sun-dried tomatoes or feta cheese to the chimichurri for a Mediterranean flair. These ingredients lend bold flavors and a delightful texture!
Serving Suggestions: Pair with anything from a refreshing quinoa salad to the comforting flavor of Creamy Mushroom Orzo with Pan-Seared Chicken for a hearty meal you’ll love!

Expert Tips for Perfect Grilled Chicken Thighs

Marination Time: Longer marination enhances flavor. Aim for at least 1 hour, or overnight if possible, for truly juicy grilled chicken thighs.
Check Temperature: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches 165°F for optimum juiciness—this prevents dryness.
Avoid Overcrowding: Grill in batches if necessary. Overcrowding can lower the grill temperature and lead to uneven cooking.
Rest After Grilling: Allow the chicken thighs to rest for 5 minutes before serving—this retains juices for a tender, flavorful bite.
Season Generously: Don’t skimp on salt and pepper; these enhance the natural flavors of the chicken, making every bite delicious.
Customize Chimichurri: Feel free to adjust the chimichurri ingredients. Add fresh herbs or spices to create your own twist on this classic sauce!

Juicy Grilled Chicken Thighs with Chimichurri Recipe FAQs

How can I select the best chicken thighs?
Absolutely! Look for boneless, skinless chicken thighs that are plump and have a nice rosy color. Avoid any with dark spots or an off odor, as these may indicate they are past their prime. Fresh chicken should feel moist but not slimy.

What’s the best way to store leftover grilled chicken thighs?
Very simple! Store your leftover grilled chicken thighs in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. This keeps them juicy and delicious for quick meals. If you don’t plan to eat them soon, consider freezing them.

Can I freeze grilled chicken thighs for later use?
Of course! To freeze your grilled chicken thighs, first allow them to cool completely. Then, wrap each thigh individually in plastic wrap, followed by aluminum foil. Place them in a freezer-safe bag and label them. They can be frozen for up to 3 months.

How do I reheat frozen grilled chicken thighs properly?
To reheat frozen grilled chicken thighs, first, thaw them overnight in the refrigerator. Then, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the thighs on a baking tray and cover them with foil. Heat for about 15-20 minutes, or until they are warmed through and juicy again.

Are there dietary concerns to consider for this recipe?
Yes! If you’re prepping this meal for anyone with allergies, be cautious with the chimichurri sauce ingredients. Some individuals may be sensitive to garlic, jalapeños, or certain oils. Always check with your guests to ensure it aligns with their dietary preferences!

What should I do if my chicken turns out dry?
It happens to the best of us! If your chicken turns out a bit dry, next time, try marinating for a longer period—ideally, letting it sit overnight gives the flavors and moisture a chance to penetrate deeply. Also, using a meat thermometer to check for doneness can help ensure juiciness without overcooking. Aim for 165°F as your target.