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Flavorful Grilled Chicken Breast Recipe with Easy Zesty Chimichurri Sauce

grilled chicken breast chimichurri sauce - featured image

A simple and healthy grilled chicken breast recipe paired with a zesty chimichurri sauce, perfect for quick weeknight dinners or meal prep. Packed with fresh herbs and bold flavors, this dish is juicy, flavorful, and adaptable for indoor or outdoor cooking.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6 ounces / 170 grams each)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil (extra virgin preferred)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup fresh parsley leaves, finely chopped (about 30 grams)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, finely chopped (optional)
  • 3 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
  • 1/2 teaspoon red chili flakes
  • 1/2 cup olive oil
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to help the marinade stick better and promote better searing (about 5 minutes).
  2. In a bowl, combine 2 tablespoons olive oil, lemon juice, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Whisk together until blended.
  3. Place the chicken breasts in the marinade, turning to coat evenly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes, up to 2 hours.
  4. While the chicken marinates, finely chop parsley, cilantro, and garlic. In a separate bowl, whisk together red wine vinegar, chili flakes, and olive oil. Stir in the herbs and garlic, seasoning with salt and pepper to taste. Set aside to let flavors marry (about 10 minutes).
  5. Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat until hot enough to sear but not burn the chicken.
  6. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 5-6 minutes per side, flipping once. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
  7. Transfer the cooked chicken to a plate and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
  8. Slice the chicken breasts against the grain and generously spoon the zesty chimichurri sauce over the top. Optionally, sprinkle extra fresh parsley for color and freshness.

Notes

Do not overcook the chicken to keep it juicy; use a meat thermometer to ensure internal temperature reaches 165°F. Marinate for at least 20 minutes but no longer than 2 hours to avoid mushy texture. Rest chicken for 5 minutes before slicing. Adjust chili flakes to taste. Fresh herbs are key for best flavor. If grill pan smokes too much, reduce heat slightly and avoid pressing down on chicken while cooking.

Nutrition

Keywords: grilled chicken, chimichurri sauce, easy dinner, healthy recipe, quick meal, boneless chicken breast, fresh herbs, zesty sauce