Chimichurri Chicken Bowl

Experience a vibrant burst of Latin American flavor with this Chimichurri Chicken Bowl. This dish features succulent chicken breasts marinated in a zesty herb sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice and topped with a colorful array of fresh vegetables like cherry tomatoes, cucumber, and creamy avocado.

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The secret to the depth of flavor in this bowl is the homemade chimichurri. By blending fresh parsley, cilantro, and garlic with red wine vinegar and olive oil, you create a marinade that tenderizes the chicken while infusing it with bright, herbaceous notes that perfectly complement the fresh vegetable toppings.

Ingredients

• 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
• 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped (or 2 tsp dried)
• 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
• 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
• 1 tsp red pepper flakes
• 1/2 tsp kosher salt
• 1/4 tsp black pepper
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs / 700 g)
• 1/2 tsp salt (for chicken seasoning)
• 1/4 tsp black pepper (for chicken seasoning)
• 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
• 1 cup cucumber, diced
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lime wedges, to serve

Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri

In a bowl, mix parsley, cilantro, garlic, oregano, olive oil, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Reserve 1/3 cup of this mixture to use as a sauce for serving.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish and pour the remaining chimichurri over them. Ensure they are well coated and marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for deeper flavor.

Step 3: Prepare the Grill

Preheat a grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and season both sides with additional salt and pepper.

Step 4: Cook the Chicken

Grill or cook the chicken for 6-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the juices run clear. Let the chicken rest for 5 minutes before slicing.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowls

Divide the cooked rice among 4 bowls. Top with the sliced chicken, halved cherry tomatoes, diced cucumber, sliced avocado, and thin red onion slices.

Step 6: Final Touch

Drizzle the reserved chimichurri over the bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve immediately with lime wedges.

Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung

To ensure the chicken remains juicy, always let it rest for at least 5 minutes after cooking before slicing. If you have the time, marinating the chicken for the full 4 hours will maximize the herb and garlic infusion.

Varianten und Anpassungen

For a different flavor profile, you can swap the chicken breasts for chicken thighs. If you are looking for a low-carb alternative, replace the rice with cauliflower rice. You can also add extra toppings like crumbled feta or grilled corn for more variety.

Serviervorschläge

Serve this bowl fresh with a squeeze of lime to enhance the zesty notes. It pairs wonderfully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc for a complete dining experience.

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This Chimichurri Chicken Bowl is a perfect balance of protein, healthy fats, and fresh produce. Whether you're meal prepping for the week or serving a family dinner, this dish is sure to be a refreshing and satisfying favorite.

Recipe FAQ

→ What makes chimichurri sauce special?

Chimichurri combines fresh herbs like parsley and cilantro with garlic, olive oil, and vinegar to create a bright, tangy sauce that adds incredible depth to grilled meats. The herb blend perfectly complements the juicy chicken.

→ How long should I marinate the chicken?

Marinate for at least 30 minutes to infuse the chicken with flavor. For maximum taste, let it rest in the refrigerator up to 4 hours. The longer marination time allows the herbs and garlic to penetrate the meat fully.

→ Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?

Absolutely. Chicken thighs work wonderfully and stay even juicier during grilling. Adjust cooking time slightly—thighs typically need 7-8 minutes per side depending on thickness.

→ What can I substitute for rice?

Cauliflower rice makes an excellent low-carb alternative. Quinoa or farro also work well if you want different whole grain options with similar textures.

→ How do I store leftovers?

Keep components separate in airtight containers. The chicken stays fresh for 3-4 days. Store extra chimichurri sauce in a small jar—it actually tastes better after a day as flavors meld together.

→ Is this bowl spicy?

The red pepper flakes add mild warmth, but it's not overpowering. Adjust the amount or omit them entirely if you prefer a milder version without sacrificing the herb-forward flavor profile.