CHIMICHURRI CHICKEN

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Chimichurri Chicken image

Green chimichurri, the classic Argentinian sauce often made with fresh herbs, garlic, red-pepper flakes and red-wine vinegar, livens up whatever it's spooned over: steak, chicken, tofu, fish or vegetables. In this simple recipe, boneless chicken gets three layers of zesty chimichurri flavor: First, it's marinated in the sauce. Then, it's sautéed, grilled or roasted, which further intensifies the flavors and encourages caramelization. Finally, just before serving, it's drizzled with fresh chimichurri for a bright finish. You can make the sauce in a food processor, but chopping the aromatics by hand makes it especially fragrant. Keep the extra to serve with the chicken, alongside fluffy white rice, crusty bread or creamy potatoes.

Provided by Ali Slagle

Categories     poultry, main course

Time 30m

Yield 4 servings

Number Of Ingredients 10

3 garlic cloves, peeled
1 1/2 teaspoons kosher salt
1 cup parsley leaves and stems
1/2 cup fresh oregano leaves
1/2 teaspoon red-pepper flakes
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
3 tablespoons red-wine vinegar
1/2 cup extra-virgin olive oil
1 1/2 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
1 tablespoon olive oil

Steps:

  • Make the sauce: On a cutting board, smash and coarsely chop the garlic with 1/2 teaspoon salt. Mash the mixture using the side of your knife until a coarse paste forms. Move the paste to the side of the cutting board, then chop the parsley and oregano together with the remaining 1 teaspoon salt. Combine the garlic paste and the chopped herbs and chop and mash until the herbs are bruised and fragrant.
  • Transfer to a medium bowl. Add the red-pepper flakes, black pepper, vinegar and extra-virgin olive oil; stir to combine. (You should have about 3/4 cup chimichurri. It can be prepared in advance and refrigerated in an airtight container up to 2 days.)
  • Make the chicken: Pat the chicken dry. If thickness varies greatly, pound to an even thickness, about 1/2-inch. Rub half the chimichurri all over the chicken and let sit for at least 10 minutes. (You could also refrigerate overnight; just let it come to room temperature before cooking.)
  • Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Wipe off excess marinade from the chicken and cook until juices run clear, about 5 minutes per side for thighs and 4 minutes per side for breasts. (For grilling and oven instructions, see Tips below.)
  • Serve with remaining chimichurri spooned over top.

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