Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers: Zesty and Delicious Recipe

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Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers are a delightful dish that captures the vibrant essence of Argentinian cuisine. This recipe features juicy chicken marinated in a zesty chimichurri sauce, bringing a burst of flavor to your palate. Not only are these skewers incredibly delicious, but they are also easy to prepare, making them perfect for outdoor grilling or a cozy dinner at home. Whether you’re hosting a barbecue or simply enjoying a weeknight meal, these skewers are sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers

This easy chimichurri chicken skewers recipe offers numerous benefits. Here are a few reasons to love it:

  • Quick and easy preparation, perfect for busy weeknights.
  • Rich in flavors from the homemade chimichurri, elevating your chicken dishes.
  • Healthy option with lean chicken and fresh herbs, ideal for a gluten-free diet.
  • Versatile; you can use it as a main dish or serve it as part of a buffet.
  • Customizable with various vegetables or spices for extra flair.
  • Great for meal prep; these skewers can be marinated in advance for added convenience.
  • Perfect for grilling enthusiasts who want to learn how to grill chicken skewers with chimichurri.

Ingredients for Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers

Gather these items:

  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 1 bunch fresh flat-leaf Italian parsley
  • 1/2 bunch fresh cilantro (optional)
  • 4-6 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)

How to Make Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers Step-by-Step

  1. Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri: Finely chop the fresh parsley and cilantro (if using). Mince the garlic cloves really well. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped herbs, minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Pour in the red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, stirring everything together well. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting until it’s just right. Set aside about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of this chimichurri in a separate small bowl for serving later.
  2. Step 2: Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces.
  3. Step 3: Marinate the Chicken: Place the cut chicken pieces into a large bowl. Pour the remaining chimichurri over the chicken. Toss the chicken thoroughly to ensure every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
  4. Step 4: Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, ensure they’ve been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the prepared skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
  5. Step 5: Cook the Skewers: For grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat, lightly oil the grill grates, and cook the chicken skewers for about 3-4 minutes per side until charred and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). For the oven/broiler method, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or set the broiler to high, and bake or broil the skewers until cooked through and nicely browned.
  6. Step 6: Serve: Remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the Chimichurri Chicken Skewers hot, drizzled generously with the reserved fresh chimichurri sauce.

Pro Tips for the Best Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers

Keep these in mind:

  • Let the chicken marinate for at least 2 hours to enhance flavor.
  • For maximum flavor, use freshly minced garlic and high-quality olive oil.
  • Experiment with different herbs in the chimichurri for unique flavors.
  • Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is fully cooked (165°F).
  • For a spicy kick, add more red pepper flakes to the marinade.
  • When grilling, monitor the skewers closely to prevent burning.

Best Ways to Serve Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers

Consider these serving ideas:

  • Pair the skewers with a fresh salad for a healthy meal.
  • Serve with grilled vegetables for a colorful, nutritious platter.
  • Try them with rice or quinoa for a wholesome, filling dish.

How to Store and Reheat Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers

To store leftovers, place the skewers in an airtight container in the refrigerator. They can be enjoyed cold or reheated. To reheat, simply place the skewers on a grill or in a broiler until warmed through, about 3-4 minutes. This technique helps maintain the juicy texture and flavors.

Frequently Asked Questions About Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers

What’s the secret to perfect Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers?

The secret lies in the marination. Allowing the chicken to soak in the chimichurri marinade for a few hours ensures that every bite bursts with flavor. This preparation method is essential for tasty chimichurri chicken on the grill.

Can I make Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken a day in advance and keep it in the refrigerator. This not only saves time but also enhances the flavors, making it a convenient option for busy days.

How do I avoid common mistakes with Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers?

Common mistakes include not marinating the chicken long enough or cooking it at too high a temperature, leading to dry meat. Make sure to monitor the grill heat and use a thermometer to check for doneness.

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers: Zesty and Delicious Recipe - Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers - additional detail

Variations of Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers You Can Try

Here are some flavorful variations:

  • Add bell peppers and onions for a colorful twist on your chicken kabobs.
  • Use shrimp instead of chicken for a seafood version of chimichurri skewers.
  • Incorporate different herbs like mint or basil in the chimichurri for a unique flavor profile.
  • Try marinating tofu for a vegetarian option, perfect for a gluten-free diet.

For more delicious recipes, check out our latest recipes, or try making cranberry orange pancakes for a delightful breakfast. If you’re interested in more grilling ideas, our South Carolina Bird Dog recipe is a must-try!

For additional information on the health benefits of herbs, you can visit Healthline.

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Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers: Zesty and Delicious Recipe


  • Author: basmer
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings 1x
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Experience the vibrant flavors of Chimichurri Chicken Skewers, a dish that brings sunshine to your plate! These skewers are not only delicious but also simple to prepare, making them perfect for any occasion.


Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs (or breasts)
  • 1 bunch fresh flat-leaf Italian parsley
  • 1/2 bunch fresh cilantro (optional)
  • 46 cloves fresh garlic, finely minced
  • 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
  • 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon dried oregano (or 1 tablespoon fresh oregano, finely chopped)
  • 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
  • Salt and black pepper to taste
  • Wooden or metal skewers (if using wooden, soak in water for 30 minutes)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chimichurri: Finely chop the fresh parsley and cilantro (if using). Mince the garlic cloves really well. In a medium bowl, combine the chopped herbs, minced garlic, dried oregano, and red pepper flakes. Pour in the red wine vinegar and extra virgin olive oil, stirring everything together well. Season generously with salt and freshly ground black pepper, tasting and adjusting until it’s just right. Set aside about 1/4 to 1/2 cup of this chimichurri in a separate small bowl for serving later.
  2. Prepare the Chicken: Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Cut the chicken into uniform 1-inch pieces.
  3. Marinate the Chicken: Place the cut chicken pieces into a large bowl. Pour the remaining chimichurri over the chicken. Toss the chicken thoroughly to ensure every piece is well coated. Cover the bowl and let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, up to 2 hours.
  4. Prepare the Skewers: If using wooden skewers, ensure they’ve been soaking in water for at least 30 minutes. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the prepared skewers, leaving a little space between each piece.
  5. Cook the Skewers: For grilling, preheat the grill to medium-high heat, lightly oil the grill grates, and cook the chicken skewers for about 3-4 minutes per side until charred and cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F/74°C). For the oven/broiler method, preheat the oven to 400°F (200°C) or set the broiler to high, and bake or broil the skewers until cooked through and nicely browned.
  6. Serve: Remove the skewers from the heat and let them rest for a few minutes. Serve the Chimichurri Chicken Skewers hot, drizzled generously with the reserved fresh chimichurri sauce.

Notes

    • Prep Time: 30 minutes
    • Cook Time: 5-8 minutes
    • Category: Main Course
    • Method: Grilling or Broiling
    • Cuisine: Argentinian

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: 1 skewer
    • Calories: 250
    • Sugar: 0 g
    • Sodium: 200 mg
    • Fat: 15 g
    • Saturated Fat: 2 g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 13 g
    • Trans Fat: 0 g
    • Carbohydrates: 5 g
    • Fiber: 1 g
    • Protein: 25 g
    • Cholesterol: 70 mg

    Keywords: Grilled Chimichurri Chicken Skewers

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