These Easy Chimichurri Chicken Thighs are juicy and packed with flavor! The bright green chimichurri sauce adds a fresh twist that makes dinner feel extra special.
Cooking these chicken thighs is a breeze! Just mix up the chimichurri, pour it over the chicken, and bake. It’s the perfect dish for busy weeknights or a cozy get-together!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Bone-in, skin-on thighs are perfect for juicy flavor. If you prefer, you can use boneless thighs or chicken breasts, but adjust cooking time accordingly since they cook faster.
Fresh Herbs: The combination of parsley and cilantro is key for chimichurri. If cilantro isn’t your favorite, you can replace it with more parsley or even basil for a different flavor twist.
Red Wine Vinegar: This adds a great tang to chimichurri. If you don’t have it, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can be used as substitutes.
Olive Oil: Use extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor. If you need a lighter option, avocado oil works well too.
How Do You Get the Perfectly Crispy Skin on Chicken Thighs?
Achieving that golden, crispy skin is all about the cooking method. Start by patting the chicken dry; moisture can prevent browning. Make sure your skillet is hot before adding the chicken. Here’s how:
- Heat olive oil over medium-high heat until it shimmers.
- Add chicken skin side down and don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure nice browning.
- Don’t move the chicken around; allow it to cook untouched for several minutes.
- Finish cooking it in the oven; this method keeps the skin crispy while ensuring the meat cooks evenly.
Following these steps will help you serve up chicken thighs with deliciously crispy skin every time!
Easy Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon olive oil (for cooking)
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves, chopped (or 2 teaspoons dried oregano)
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
- 3/4 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 30-35 minutes to cook. You’ll have delicious, juicy chicken thighs ready to enjoy in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Oven:
Set your oven to 400°F (200°C). This will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and gets a nice crispy skin.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Use paper towels to pat the chicken thighs dry. This makes sure they get crispy. Season each thigh on both sides with salt and black pepper.
3. Sear the Chicken:
In a large oven-safe skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, carefully lay the chicken thighs skin-side down in the pan. Cook for about 5-7 minutes, or until the skin is golden brown and crispy. Flip the chicken and sear the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
4. Roast in the Oven:
After searing, transfer the skillet to your preheated oven. Roast for about 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). This ensures the chicken is cooked through and safe to eat!
5. Make the Chimichurri Sauce:
While the chicken is roasting, prepare your chimichurri sauce. In a bowl, mix together fresh parsley, cilantro, oregano, minced garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes (if you like a bit of heat), salt, and pepper. Stir until everything is well combined.
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Once the chicken is done, take it out of the oven and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, generously spoon the chimichurri sauce over each thigh. Serve with your favorite sides, such as grilled vegetables or corn on the cob, for a delicious meal!
Enjoy your vibrant, flavorful Easy Chimichurri Chicken Thighs!
FAQ
Can I Use Boneless Chicken Thighs Instead?
Absolutely! Boneless chicken thighs can be used, but they’ll cook faster. Reduce the oven time to about 15-20 minutes or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. When reheating, gently warm them in the oven or microwave to keep the chicken tender.
Can I Make the Chimichurri Sauce Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can prepare the chimichurri sauce in advance and store it in the fridge for up to a week. This allows the flavors to meld even more, making it even tastier when served!
What Can I Serve with Chimichurri Chicken Thighs?
This dish pairs well with a variety of sides! Consider serving it with rice, quinoa, or roasted vegetables. It’s also delicious with a fresh salad or crusty bread to soak up the chimichurri sauce!
