Chimichurri Chicken Bowl (Printable Version)

Herb-marinated chicken over rice with fresh vegetables and zesty sauce

# What You Need:

→ Chimichurri Marinade & Sauce

01 - 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
02 - 1/3 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
03 - 3 garlic cloves, minced
04 - 2 tablespoons fresh oregano, chopped or 2 teaspoons dried
05 - 1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
06 - 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
07 - 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
08 - 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
09 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Chicken

10 - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts, approximately 1.5 pounds
11 - 1/2 teaspoon salt
12 - 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

→ Bowl Components

13 - 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
14 - 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
15 - 1 cup cucumber, diced
16 - 1 avocado, sliced
17 - 1/2 cup red onion, thinly sliced
18 - 1/4 cup fresh cilantro or parsley, chopped for garnish
19 - Lime wedges for serving

# Step-by-Step Guide:

01 - Combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, oregano, olive oil, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper in a mixing bowl. Reserve one-third cup as sauce for serving.
02 - Place chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour remaining chimichurri over chicken, ensuring complete coating. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, up to 4 hours for enhanced flavor.
03 - Preheat grill, grill pan, or skillet to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and season both sides with additional salt and pepper.
04 - Grill or pan-cook chicken 6 to 7 minutes per side until cooked through and juices run clear. Allow to rest for 5 minutes, then slice into desired thickness.
05 - Distribute rice evenly among 4 bowls. Arrange sliced chicken on top, followed by cherry tomatoes, cucumber, avocado, and red onion.
06 - Drizzle reserved chimichurri sauce over assembled bowls. Garnish with fresh herbs and serve with lime wedges.

# Expert Advice:

01 -
  • The homemade chimichurri doubles as both a flavor-packed marinade and a bright finishing sauce.
  • It is a balanced, gluten-free meal that is quick enough for a weeknight yet impressive enough for guests.
  • Loaded with fresh vegetables like avocado and cucumber, it offers a satisfying variety of textures.
02 -
  • Reserve the serving sauce before adding the chicken to the marinade to prevent cross-contamination.
  • If you have time, marinating for the full 4 hours will significantly deepen the herbal flavor.
  • Slice the chicken against the grain for the most tender texture in your bowl.
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