Save The Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl is a vibrant, protein-packed meal that brings together bold South American-inspired flavors with fresh, wholesome ingredients. This dish is defined by its juicy grilled chicken, topped with a zesty, herb-forward chimichurri and a silky garlic sauce that balances every bite. Whether you are looking for a nutritious weeknight dinner or a satisfying post-workout meal, this bowl delivers both on taste and texture.
Save The secret to this bowl's depth is the interplay between the smoky marinated chicken and the freshness of the homemade chimichurri. When paired with the caramelized sweetness of roasted red onions and the earthy tones of sautéed kale, it becomes a complete sensory experience. The creamy garlic sauce adds a final luxurious touch that ties the disparate elements together perfectly.
Ingredients
- Chicken & Marinade: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs, 2 tbsp olive oil, 1 tsp smoked paprika, 1/2 tsp ground cumin, salt and black pepper to taste.
- Chimichurri Sauce: 1 cup fresh parsley (finely chopped), 1 garlic clove (minced), 1 tbsp red wine vinegar, 1/2 tsp dried oregano, 1/4 tsp red chili flakes, 2 tbsp olive oil, salt and black pepper.
- Garlic Sauce: 1/4 cup mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, 1 garlic clove (minced), 1 tbsp lemon juice, 1 tsp olive oil, salt.
- Bowl Components: 2 cups chopped kale or mixed greens, 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes (diced), 1/2 cup roasted vegetables (4–5 garlic cloves and 1 small red onion), 1 tsp olive oil, 1 tsp lemon juice.
Instructions
- Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a bowl, mix 2 tbsp olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Coat the chicken evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes.
- Step 2: Prepare the Chimichurri
- Combine chopped parsley, 1 minced garlic clove, red wine vinegar, oregano, chili flakes, 2 tbsp olive oil, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Stir well and set aside.
- Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
- Mix mayonnaise or Greek yogurt, 1 minced garlic clove, lemon juice, 1 tsp olive oil, and a pinch of salt in a small bowl. Set aside.
- Step 4: Grill the Chicken
- Preheat the grill or a grill pan over medium-high heat. Grill marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, until cooked through. Transfer to a plate and let rest for 5 minutes, then slice.
- Step 5: Roast the Vegetables
- Toss chopped red onion and whole garlic cloves with a drizzle of olive oil, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes, flipping halfway until soft and caramelized.
- Step 6: Sauté the Greens
- Sauté the kale or greens in 1 tsp olive oil over medium heat for 2–3 minutes until wilted. Finish with 1 tsp lemon juice and a pinch of salt.
- Step 7: Assemble the Bowls
- Divide the sautéed greens between two bowls. Top each with sliced chicken, roasted vegetables, and diced tomatoes. Drizzle generously with chimichurri and finish with a spoonful of garlic sauce.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best flavor, allow the chicken to marinate for the full 30 minutes to let the spices penetrate the meat. When grilling, ensure your pan is hot before adding the chicken to achieve a beautiful sear, and always let the meat rest before slicing to keep it juicy.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can easily adapt this bowl to your preferences by substituting the chicken with tofu or tempeh for a vegetarian version. If you want to increase the carbohydrate content, try serving the ingredients over a bed of cooked quinoa or rice.
Serviervorschläge
Top your bowl with fresh avocado or pickled onions for extra flavor and texture. This meal pairs beautifully with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a light Malbec to complement the zesty and smoky notes of the dish.
Save This Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl is more than just a meal; it is a satisfying combination of textures and bold flavors that makes healthy eating feel like an indulgence. Enjoy this wholesome dish any day of the week!
Recipe FAQ Section
- → How long should the chicken marinate?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the spices and olive oil to deeply infuse the meat for maximum flavor.
- → Can I substitute the chicken with plant-based proteins?
Yes, tofu or tempeh are excellent alternatives; marinate and grill them similarly to maintain bold flavor and texture.
- → What is the best way to prepare the chimichurri sauce?
Combine finely chopped parsley, garlic, red wine vinegar, oregano, olive oil, and seasoning, stirring well to meld vibrant, herbaceous flavors.
- → How do I achieve perfectly roasted vegetables?
Toss garlic cloves and red onion with olive oil, salt, and pepper, then roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20 minutes until caramelized and tender.
- → What greens work best for sautéing in this bowl?
Kale or mixed greens sauteed briefly with olive oil, lemon juice, and salt add a fresh, slightly tangy balance to the dish.
- → Is this meal suitable for gluten-free diets?
Yes, the ingredients used are naturally gluten-free, but always check labels to avoid cross-contamination.