Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is your ticket to flavor town, where every bite brings a fiesta of fresh herbs and zesty goodness. Imagine tender, juicy chicken marinated in a vibrant chimichurri sauce, grilled to perfection, and served over a bed of fluffy rice. The aroma wafting through your kitchen will have your neighbors wondering if they should be invited for dinner.
If you’re anything like me, you might have fond memories of summer barbecues where the smell of grilled chicken filled the air. This dish takes me back to those carefree days, surrounded by friends and laughter. Whether it’s a casual family dinner or an outdoor gathering with friends, this bowl is perfect for any occasion. Get ready to tantalize your taste buds and impress your guests with an unforgettable flavor experience!
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl is simple to prepare and packed with flavor
- The vibrant colors make it visually appealing on any table
- Enjoy it as a meal prep option or serve it fresh at gatherings
- Customize your toppings based on seasonal ingredients for added versatility
Ingredients for Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: About 3-4 breasts are ideal; adjust based on the number of servings desired.
- Fresh Parsley: Use flat-leaf parsley for a bright flavor that pairs beautifully with the chicken.
- Fresh Cilantro: Adds a fresh note; feel free to substitute with additional parsley if cilantro isn’t your thing.
- Garlic Cloves: Fresh cloves bring an irresistible aroma and flavor; use more if you’re feeling adventurous!
- Red Wine Vinegar: Provides a tangy kick that complements the herbs perfectly.
- Olive Oil: Use high-quality extra virgin olive oil for drizzling and marinating.
For the Sauce:
- Mayonnaise: Acts as a creamy base for the garlic sauce; use full-fat for richer flavors.
- Lemon Juice: Freshly squeezed lemon juice brightens up the sauce and balances the richness.
- Garlic Powder: A sprinkle adds depth without overwhelming the other flavors.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prepare Your Marinade
In a blender or food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic cloves, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and olive oil. Blend until smooth but still slightly chunky; this will add texture.
Step 2: Marinate Your Chicken
Place those beautiful chicken breasts in a zip-top bag or shallow dish and pour half of your chimichurri marinade over them. Seal up tight or cover and let sit in the fridge for at least one hour—longer if you can resist!
Step 3: Grill Time
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat—about 375°F (190°C). Remove chicken from marinade and discard any leftover marinade (safety first!). Grill each breast for about six to seven minutes per side until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Step 4: Make Your Garlic Sauce
While your chicken grills away like royalty, whip up that garlic sauce! In a bowl, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper until smooth. Adjust seasoning according to taste—you know you want it just right!
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
Once the chicken has rested for five minutes (patience pays off!), slice it into strips. Serve over fluffy rice or quinoa in bowls topped with sliced avocado, fresh veggies like bell peppers or corn (because who doesn’t love color?), and drizzle generously with that creamy garlic sauce.
Step 6: Serve Up Those Flavors!
Transfer everything to plates and drizzle with extra chimichurri sauce from earlier for that finishing touch. Grab a fork (or maybe just dive in) because you’ve earned it!
Now you’re ready to dig into your Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce! Enjoy every flavorful bite as if you’re sitting at one of those summer barbecues—the good times are just beginning!
You Must Know
- This amazing chimichurri grilled chicken bowl with garlic sauce offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken in your chimichurri sauce for at least an hour. While it soaks up flavor, prepare your garlic sauce and chop veggies. Sear the chicken first, then grill or bake while you assemble the bowl for maximum efficiency.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap out the chicken for tofu or shrimp if you’re feeling fancy. You can add spices like smoked paprika or cayenne for a kick. Mix in roasted vegetables or quinoa to create a more hearty bowl that suits your taste.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, use a microwave or skillet over low heat to keep the chicken juicy and flavorful without drying it out.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- To achieve juicy chicken, always marinate overnight if possible; this allows flavors to fully penetrate
- Avoid crowding the grill; give each piece room to sear properly
- Lastly, let the chicken rest before slicing to retain its moisture
Cooking this chimichurri grilled chicken bowl always brings back fond memories of summer barbecues with friends, where laughter and delicious food filled the air—a perfect combination that makes every bite special!
FAQs :
What is a Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce?
A Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is a flavorful dish featuring marinated grilled chicken served over a bed of rice or greens. The chimichurri sauce, made from fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil, adds a vibrant kick. Topped with a creamy garlic sauce, this bowl combines protein and fresh flavors for a nutritious meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner.
How do I make the Chimichurri sauce?
To make the Chimichurri sauce for your grilled chicken bowl, blend fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and pepper in a food processor. Adjust the seasoning to taste. This herbaceous sauce not only enhances the chicken but also works well as a marinade. You can prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to one week.
Can I customize my Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl?
Yes! Customizing your Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl is easy and fun. You can add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or avocado for extra nutrition. Consider using quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option or adding black beans for more protein. Feel free to adjust the garlic sauce by adding lemon juice or spices to suit your taste preferences!
Is this recipe healthy?
Absolutely! A Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is packed with lean protein from the chicken and plenty of vitamins from fresh herbs and vegetables. The use of olive oil in the chimichurri adds healthy fats while keeping calories in check. This dish can be part of a balanced diet when enjoyed in moderation, making it an excellent choice for health-conscious eaters.
Conclusion for Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce :
In summary, the Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is a delicious and versatile meal option that brings bold flavors to your table. With its marinated grilled chicken paired with vibrant chimichurri sauce and creamy garlic dressing, this dish is sure to impress. It’s easy to customize based on your preferences and dietary needs while remaining healthy and satisfying. Enjoy this flavorful bowl as part of your weekly meal prep or serve it at gatherings!
Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is a vibrant and flavorful dish that brings a taste of summer to your table. Juicy, marinated chicken grilled to perfection is served over fluffy rice or quinoa, topped with a creamy garlic sauce and fresh vegetables. This bowl isn’t just a feast for the senses; it’s perfect for meal prep or impressing guests at gatherings. Each bite bursts with zesty goodness and herbaceous delight!
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup flat-leaf parsley, chopped
- ½ cup cilantro, chopped
- 4 garlic cloves
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
- ½ cup mayonnaise
- 2 tbsp lemon juice
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- In a blender, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, salt, pepper, and olive oil; blend until slightly chunky.
- Place chicken in a zip-top bag or dish; pour half of the chimichurri marinade over the chicken. Marinate in the fridge for at least one hour.
- Preheat grill to medium-high heat (375°F). Remove chicken from marinade and discard leftover marinade. Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
- For the garlic sauce, mix mayonnaise, lemon juice, garlic powder, salt, and pepper in a bowl until smooth.
- Let chicken rest for five minutes before slicing. Serve over rice or quinoa topped with sliced avocado and fresh veggies, drizzling generously with garlic sauce.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Latin
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approx. 400g)
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 800mg
- Fat: 30g
- Saturated Fat: 5g
- Unsaturated Fat: 25g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 35g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
