Flavorful Chimichurri Chicken Thighs Pasta – Bold & Irresistible.
Are you ready to tantalize your taste buds with a dish that combines the bold flavors of South America with the comforting essence of Italian cuisine? Look no further than chimichurri chicken thighs pasta. This dish marries juicy, tender chicken thighs with a zesty Argentine chimichurri sauce, all tossed with perfectly cooked pasta.
Chimichurri, a staple in traditional Argentinian cuisine, is typically used as a condiment for asados. It flavors grilled meats and fish. In this recipe, the vibrant green sauce, made with parsley, cilantro, oregano, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar, takes center stage. It infuses the chicken thighs with its tangy, herbaceous notes.
The result is a dish that bursts with flavor in every bite. It’s perfect for a cozy weeknight meal or for entertaining guests at a dinner party.
With a marination time of just 20 to 30 minutes at room temperature or up to 2 hours in the fridge, this dish is easy to whip up. Grilling the chicken for 6 to 8 minutes per side ensures juicy, tender meat. It pairs perfectly with the al dente pasta and the bright, fresh chimichurri sauce.
Table of Contents
Introduction to Chimichurri Chicken Thighs Pasta
Chimichurri chicken thighs pasta is a bold and flavorful dish. It combines juicy chicken with a vibrant herb sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. This guide will help you make this mouthwatering meal, from understanding chimichurri to cooking tender chicken thighs.
The dish starts with the chimichurri sauce. It’s a tangy blend of fresh parsley, garlic, olive oil, and red wine vinegar. From Argentina and Uruguay, chimichurri is loved worldwide for its flavor. It pairs well with chicken thighs, making a perfect mix of taste and texture.
- 1 bunch of parsley
- 4 large garlic cloves
- 1/2 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/4 cup red wine vinegar
- 1 teaspoon each of dried oregano, red pepper flakes, and salt
- 2 pounds of skinless, boneless chicken thighs
Marinate the chicken thighs in the chimichurri sauce for at least 30 minutes, up to 24 hours. This adds a lot of flavor. Grill the chicken until it reaches 150 degrees F, then let it rest until it’s 165 degrees F. This keeps the chicken juicy and tender, ready to mix with pasta.
| Cooking Method | Temperature | Time |
|---|---|---|
| Grilling | 450-500°F | 10-12 minutes |
| Baking | 450°F | 40 minutes |
| Pan Frying | Medium-High Heat | 5-6 minutes per side |
This recipe takes 10 minutes to prepare and serves 8 people. It’s great for any meal, whether you grill, bake, or pan-fry. Each serving has just 344 calories, making it a delicious and healthy choice.
What is Chimichurri and Why is it Perfect for Chicken Thighs Pasta?
Chimichurri is a vibrant herb sauce from Argentina and Uruguay. It’s loved worldwide for making dishes like chicken thighs pasta taste better. The tangy flavor of chimichurri goes well with the juicy chicken, making the pasta dish unforgettable.
The Origin and History of Chimichurri
There’s a debate about where chimichurri sauce comes from, with Argentina and Uruguay both claiming it. But everyone agrees it’s been a key part of South American food for a long time. The name “chimichurri” might come from the Basque word “tximitxurri,” meaning “a mix of things.”
At first, people used chimichurri to marinate and season grilled meats, especially beef. Now, it’s enjoyed with chicken, fish, and veggies too.
Key Ingredients in Chimichurri Sauce for Pasta and Chicken
Chimichurri sauce is simple and uses fresh ingredients. The main parts are:
- Parsley: It gives the sauce a fresh taste and bright green color.
- Garlic: Minced garlic adds a strong, aromatic flavor.
- Olive oil: Good olive oil carries the flavors and helps mix the sauce.
- Red wine vinegar: It adds a tangy taste that balances the oil.
- Red pepper flakes: A little heat from these flakes adds to the flavor.
For making chimichurri sauce for chicken thighs pasta, use:
- 1 cup fresh parsley
- 6 minced garlic cloves
- ¼ cup red wine vinegar
- ⅓ cup extra virgin olive oil
- Juice of ½ lemon
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- ¼ teaspoon red pepper flakes
These ingredients make a chimichurri sauce that’s perfect with chicken and pasta. It makes the dish both tasty and memorable.
Why Chicken Thighs Elevate This Flavorful Dish
Choosing the right chicken cut is key to a great chicken pasta recipe. Boneless chicken thighs are the heroes here. They add depth of flavor and a tender, juicy texture. This makes any dish, especially with bold sauces like chimichurri, even better.
A Juicy, Flavorful Choice
Chicken thighs have more fat than chicken breasts. They have about 10-15% fat, while breasts have 3-5%. This extra fat makes thighs more succulent and flavorful. It also pairs well with the bright, herbaceous notes of chimichurri sauce.
Balancing Flavor and Nutrition
Chicken thighs have less protein than breasts but are still nutritious. They have around 26 grams of protein per 100 grams. When cooked to 165°F (74°C), they offer a good protein boost and delicious flavor.
Pairing Thighs with Chimichurri and Pasta
Chicken thighs with bold flavors like chimichurri are becoming more popular. In the last two years, online searches for these recipes have increased by about 35%. People love the taste of this combination.
| Ingredient | Quantity | Nutritional Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Boneless Chicken Thighs | 4 thighs | High in protein, juicy and flavorful |
| Al Dente Pasta | 1 lb (450 g) | Pleasant chewiness, complements tender chicken |
| Fresh Parsley (in Chimichurri) | 1 cup, finely chopped | Provides 3% of daily Vitamin K per cup |
With al dente pasta and vibrant chimichurri sauce, boneless chicken thighs become the star. This flavorful and wholesome chicken pasta recipe is a hit.
Choosing the Right Pasta for Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Choosing the right pasta is crucial for a great chimichurri chicken thighs dish. The best pasta for chimichurri chicken should hold the sauce well and match the chicken’s juiciness. Fettuccine, spaghetti, and linguine are top picks because they trap the sauce nicely.
Dry pasta works best because it stays firm under the sauce. Cooking it al dente, for 8-12 minutes, keeps it chewy. This texture goes well with the chicken.
“The ideal pasta shape for chimichurri chicken thighs should have ridges, twists, or curves to trap the flavorful sauce and create a delightful combination in every bite.”
Whole grain pasta is a healthier option, with up to 50% more fiber than regular pasta. It adds nutrition to the dish. Gluten-free pasta is also available for those with gluten intolerance.
| Pasta Shape | Cooking Time (al dente) | Sauce Retention |
|---|---|---|
| Fettuccine | 10-12 minutes | Excellent |
| Spaghetti | 8-10 minutes | Very Good |
| Linguine | 9-11 minutes | Very Good |
| Penne | 10-12 minutes | Good |
| Orzo | 8-10 minutes | Good |
For a family meal, use ½ lb of pasta. La Moderna’s Golden Harvest pasta is a favorite for its quality and sauce-holding ability.
Chimichurri Chicken Thighs Pasta Recipe
This chimichurri chicken pasta recipe is a quick and tasty dinner. The fresh chimichurri sauce goes well with the chicken and pasta. It’s easy to make and perfect for a family meal.
Ingredients
For the chimichurri sauce, you’ll need:
- 1 cup fresh parsley
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1/3 cup red wine vinegar
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 3/4 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon sea salt
For the chicken and pasta:
- 1.5 to 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts
- 24 ounces fettuccine pasta
- Salt and pepper to taste
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Make the chimichurri sauce by mixing all ingredients in a food processor or blender. Pulse until it’s well mixed but still a bit chunky. Set it aside.
- Season the chicken with salt and pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Cook the chicken for about 5 minutes per side (for thighs) or 4 minutes per side (for breasts) until it’s 165°F inside. Let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
- Cook the pasta in a large pot of salted water until it’s almost al dente. Save 1 cup of pasta water before draining.
- In the same skillet, add the sliced chicken, cooked pasta, and 1/2 cup of pasta water. Toss to mix and cook for 1-2 minutes more, adding more pasta water if needed.
- Remove from heat and stir in up to 1/2 cup of the chimichurri sauce. Serve right away, garnished with more chimichurri if you like.
| Nutrition Facts (per serving) | Amount |
|---|---|
| Total Calories | 537 |
| Total Fat | 39g |
| Saturated Fat | 6g |
| Trans Fat | 0g |
| Monounsaturated Fat | 25g |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 5g |
| Carbohydrates | 6g |
| Dietary Fiber | 3g |
| Sugars | 0g |
| Protein | 40g |
| Sodium | 613mg |
This chimichurri chicken pasta recipe makes 4 servings. It can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chimichurri sauce can be frozen for later use. This easy weeknight dinner is sure to be a hit with your family!
Creative Twists and Substitutions for a Flavorful Dish
The chimichurri chicken thighs pasta recipe is very flexible. You can change it to fit your taste and dietary needs. With a few tweaks, you can make this meal your own, so everyone enjoys it.
Protein Swaps to Suit Your Preferences
Chicken thighs are the main ingredient, but you can swap them for other proteins. Chicken breasts are leaner, or try shrimp, tofu, or tempeh for a plant-based option. This way, you can enjoy the chimichurri sauce with your favorite protein.
Alternative Herbs for Your Sauce
Chimichurri sauce usually has parsley, but you can try other herbs. Cilantro, basil, or mint can add fresh flavors. Feel free to mix herbs to find new recipe variations that excite your taste buds.
Pasta Options for Every Diet
There are many pasta choices for different diets. Gluten-free pasta is great for those with gluten issues. Whole-wheat pasta is nutritious, and low-carb options like zucchini noodles are lighter. Choose the pasta that fits your diet for a healthy meal.
Enhancements to Boost Flavor
To make your dish even better, add grilled vegetables or crumbled feta cheese. Grilled veggies add smokiness, while feta or Parmesan add tanginess. For a spicy touch, add red pepper flakes or diced jalapeños.
By trying these creative changes, you can make the chimichurri chicken thighs pasta your own. Whether you’re looking for recipe variations or dietary adaptations, this dish is perfect for customization. Every bite will be full of flavor and satisfaction.
Grilling Techniques for Juicy Chimichurri Chicken Thighs
Grilling is a great way to add a smoky taste to chimichurri chicken thighs. It also gives them a golden, crispy outside. To get juicy and tasty chicken, you need to prepare the grill right and cook the chicken correctly.
Preparing the Grill
Before grilling, make sure your grill is ready. Heat it up to 400-450 degrees Fahrenheit. Also, clean and oil the grates. This helps the chicken not stick and cook evenly.
Timing and Temperature for Perfect Results
Timing and temperature are crucial for grilling chicken thighs. Boneless, skinless thighs need 5-7 minutes per side, depending on their size. Use a meat thermometer to check if the chicken is done at 165 degrees Fahrenheit.
Here’s a table with some essential grilling guidelines for chimichurri chicken thighs:
| Grilling Parameter | Recommendation |
|---|---|
| Grill Temperature | 400-450°F |
| Cooking Time per Side | 5-7 minutes |
| Internal Temperature for Doneness | 165°F |
| Resting Time After Cooking | 5 minutes |
After grilling, let the chicken rest for at least 5 minutes. This makes the meat more flavorful and tender.
By using these grilling tips, you’ll make a delicious chimichurri chicken thighs pasta. It will be juicy and full of flavor.
Marinating Secrets for Maximum Flavor
Marinating chicken thighs in a flavorful chimichurri marinade is key. This marinade, made with fresh parsley, garlic, shallot, oregano, and red wine vinegar, makes the chicken taste amazing. It turns the chicken into a delicious centerpiece for your pasta.
The Ideal Marinating Time
Marinate your chicken thighs for 20 to 30 minutes at room temperature. Or, marinate for up to 2 hours in the fridge. This lets the marinade flavor the meat well without making it tough.
Tips for Even Coating and Absorption
Put your chicken thighs and marinade in a resealable bag or airtight container. This ensures the marinade coats the chicken evenly. Gently massage the bag or container to cover every part of the chicken.
| Ingredient | Amount |
|---|---|
| Chicken thighs | 6 medium bone-in, skin-on (approx. 2 lbs) |
| Salt | 3/4 tsp fine sea salt |
| Parsley leaves and tender stems | 2 cups (50g) |
| Garlic cloves, minced | 3 to 4 (1 tbsp) |
| Shallot, minced | 1 medium |
| Dried oregano | 1/2 tsp |
| Crushed red pepper flakes | 1/2 to 1 tsp |
| Extra-virgin olive oil | 1/2 cup (120ml) |
| Red wine vinegar | 1/4 to 1/3 cup (60-80ml) |
By using these marinating secrets, your chimichurri chicken thighs will be full of flavor. They’ll make your pasta dish even more delicious.
Serving Suggestions and Side Dish Pairings
There are many ways to serve chimichurri chicken thighs pasta. It goes well with vegetables, salads, breads, and grains. This makes for a meal that’s both tasty and healthy.
Complementary Vegetables and Salads
Adding grilled vegetables to your dish brings color and nutrition. Grilled bell peppers, zucchini, asparagus, or broccoli add smoky flavors. These enhance the tangy taste of the chimichurri sauce.
For a lighter option, try a fresh tomato and avocado salad. It makes your meal fresher and more enjoyable by 70%.
Bread and Grain Options
A good pasta dish needs a tasty bread or grain side. A crusty baguette is perfect for dipping into the sauce. Jasmine rice or cilantro lime rice soak up the sauce’s flavors, making them a great choice.
Quinoa salad is a healthier option. It has about 8 grams of protein per cup, making it great for those watching their diet.
| Side Dish | Calories per Serving | Protein per Serving | Carbohydrates per Serving |
|---|---|---|---|
| Grilled Vegetables | 100 kcal | 2 g | 20 g |
| Tomato Avocado Salad | 150 kcal | 2 g | 10 g |
| Jasmine Rice (1 cup) | 205 kcal | 4 g | 45 g |
| Quinoa Salad (1 cup) | 222 kcal | 8 g | 39 g |
Choosing the right side dishes for chimichurri chicken pasta is key. Look for nutritional value, flavor, and texture. The right mix of vegetables, salads, breads, and grains can take your dish to the next level.
Leftovers and Storage Tips
Keeping chimichurri chicken pasta fresh is key. Use an airtight container in the fridge to keep it moist. Food safety says you can store it for 4-5 days.
Freeze leftover grilled chicken for later. Cool it down first, then put it in a freezer-safe bag. This way, it stays good for up to 3 months.
This recipe makes about 4 servings and cooks in 30 minutes. Make sure the chicken hits 165°F to be safe to eat.
| Nutrition Facts | Per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 557 | – |
| Total Fat | 37g | 57% |
| Saturated Fat | 6g | 38% |
| Cholesterol | 151mg | 50% |
| Sodium | 1156mg | 50% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 4g | 1% |
| Protein | 51g | 102% |
For best taste, make the chimichurri sauce fresh. Store it in a glass with olive oil on top for up to two weeks. This keeps its color and flavor bright.
Nutritional Benefits of Chimichurri Chicken Thighs Pasta
Chimichurri chicken thighs pasta is not just tasty but also good for you. It has chicken, chimichurri sauce, and whole grain pasta. This mix makes it a great choice for a healthy meal.
Protein-Packed Chicken Thighs
Chicken thighs are full of protein, with 26 grams in a 4-ounce serving. This recipe uses 1.5 pounds of chicken thighs. They also have iron, zinc, and B vitamins, which are good for your health.
Herb-Infused Chimichurri Sauce
The chimichurri sauce is packed with nutrients. Parsley in the sauce gives you over 400% of Vitamin K in a cup. Garlic, cilantro, and red wine vinegar add antioxidants and fight inflammation. The olive oil in the sauce is good for your heart.
Whole Grain Pasta Possibilities
Choosing whole grain pasta makes the dish even healthier. It has 5-6 grams of fiber per serving, more than white pasta. This fiber helps with digestion, blood sugar, and keeps you full. Whole grain pasta also has B vitamins, iron, and magnesium.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 590 | – |
| Total Fat | 47g | 60% |
| Saturated Fat | 9g | 45% |
| Cholesterol | 215mg | 72% |
| Sodium | 973mg | 42% |
| Total Carbohydrates | 2g | 1% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 2% |
| Protein | 42g | 84% |
| Vitamin C | 13mg | 14% |
| Calcium | 40mg | 3% |
| Iron | 3mg | 15% |
| Potassium | 525mg | 11% |
Adding healthy chimichurri chicken pasta to your meals is a smart choice. It’s full of protein, healthy fats, fiber, and vitamins. This dish is great for a healthy lifestyle.
Variations and Adaptations for Different Diets
This chimichurri chicken pasta recipe is full of flavor and adaptable to many diets. It suits those on a gluten-free or low-carb diet, or anyone wanting to try something new. It’s a versatile dish for everyone.
For a gluten-free diet, try using chickpea, rice, or quinoa pasta instead. These options let you enjoy the chimichurri sauce and chicken without breaking your diet rules. It’s also low in carbs, making it great for a low-carb diet.
Vegetarians and vegans can make this recipe their own by using tofu, tempeh, or plant-based chicken. These ingredients soak up the chimichurri sauce’s flavors, making a filling meal. It’s packed with 23g of protein, ensuring you get enough nutrition.
To cut carbs even more, swap pasta for zucchini noodles (zoodles) or roasted spaghetti squash. These veggies add a nice texture and keep the dish light and tasty.
Whether you follow a specific diet or not, this recipe encourages you to be creative. Try adding different herbs to the chimichurri sauce, like cilantro or basil. With a bit of creativity, you can make a dish that’s both delicious and tailored to your dietary needs.
Chimichurri Chicken Thighs Pasta: A Crowd-Pleasing Dish for Entertaining
Finding a dish that everyone likes can be tough. Chimichurri chicken thighs pasta is a hit with its bold flavors. It’s perfect for any party, with its mix of juicy chicken, pasta, and tangy sauce.
Scaling the Recipe for Larger Groups
Chimichurri chicken pasta is easy to make for a big group. Just multiply the ingredients for your guest list. For 12 guests, double the recipe for plenty of food.
Here are tips for big groups:
- Marinate the chicken for at least 20 minutes, or overnight, for more flavor.
- Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes on each side for juiciness.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the chicken’s internal temperature at 165°F.
Presentation and Garnishing Ideas
To make your dish look as good as it tastes, try these ideas:
- Top with Parmesan cheese for flavor and looks.
- Add chopped parsley for color and freshness.
- For a kick, sprinkle chili flakes on the pasta.
The chimichurri sauce can be made ahead and kept in the fridge for two weeks. This makes entertaining with chimichurri chicken pasta easier, letting you enjoy your party more.
Making Ahead and Meal Prep Strategies
Chimichurri chicken thighs pasta is great for meal prep. It lets you enjoy its bold flavors all week. Preparing parts ahead saves time and makes delicious meals easy to grab.
The chimichurri sauce is the dish’s highlight. You can make it before time. Mix 1 cup of fresh parsley, 4 cloves of garlic, 1/2 cup of olive oil, and more in a food processor. Blend until smooth and chill for up to 2 hours or overnight.
For the chicken, marinate 2 pounds of chicken thighs in the sauce for 15 minutes to overnight. This makes the chicken taste amazing. Heat oil in a skillet, sauté shallots, then cook the chicken until done.
Cooking pasta ahead makes meal prep easier. Boil your favorite pasta, then drain and store in a container. Reheat with water or broth when you’re ready to eat.
| Component | Preparation Time | Storage |
|---|---|---|
| Chimichurri Sauce | 2 hours to overnight | Refrigerator, up to 4 days |
| Marinated Chicken Thighs | 15 minutes to overnight | Refrigerator, up to 4 days; Freezer, up to 3 months |
| Cooked Pasta | According to package instructions | Refrigerator, up to 4 days |
Preparing the sauce, marinating chicken, and cooking pasta ahead makes meal prep easy. This dish is not only tasty but also nutritious. It has 46g of protein, 4g of fiber, and vitamins A and C. Enjoy the flavors of chimichurri chicken thighs pasta whenever you want.
Troubleshooting Common Chimichurri Chicken Thighs Pasta Challenges
Making the perfect chimichurri chicken pasta is a fun cooking adventure. But, it comes with its own set of challenges. Here are some tips to help you overcome common issues and make a dish that’s both tasty and balanced.
Getting the chimichurri sauce just right is key. This sauce should be smooth, thanks to finely chopped herbs. You’ll need 1 1/2 oz (about 3/4 cup) of fresh parsley and 4 garlic cloves. Blend them with 1/2 cup of extra virgin olive oil, 2 tablespoons of white wine vinegar, and some dried oregano, sea salt, and crushed red pepper flakes. Tip: If you’re short on parsley, you can replace some with cilantro for a fresh twist.
Keeping the chicken thighs juicy and tender is another challenge. To avoid drying them out, don’t overcook. Marinate the chicken in chimichurri sauce for 2 hours, but no more than 8 hours. Cook the thighs in a skillet for 5-7 minutes per side (10-14 minutes total) until they reach 165°F.
Finally, cooking the pasta to the perfect al dente texture is important. Follow the package instructions closely, testing for doneness before draining. The recipe suggests using 2 pounds of boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 6-7 pieces) and serving it with your favorite pasta.
The chimichurri sauce, made with 2 cups of fresh herbs, ¾ cup of olive oil, 4 garlic cloves, 3 tablespoons of lime juice, and 2½ tablespoons of red wine vinegar, is the star of this dish. It adds a burst of fresh, zesty flavor.
By following these chimichurri chicken pasta tips, you’ll create a meal that’s both satisfying and impressive. With a sauce prep time of just 5 minutes and a total cooking time of 50 minutes, this dish is both easy to make and impressive to serve.
| Nutritional Info (per serving) | Value |
|---|---|
| Calories | 272 kcal |
| Carbohydrates | 3 g |
| Protein | 30 g |
| Fat | 15 g |
| Sugar | 0.3 g |
| Sodium | 921 mg |
| Cholesterol | 144 mg |
Conclusion
Flavorful chimichurri chicken pasta is a mix of juicy chicken, zesty sauce, and cooked pasta. It shows how versatile chimichurri is, a key part of Argentinian, Paraguayan, and Uruguayan cooking. The dish uses parsley, making the chicken tender and full of flavor.
This recipe can be made to fit many diets. Chicken thighs are a cheap but tasty protein, with 44 g of protein in an 8 oz serving. They also have iron and potassium. Vegetarians can use plant-based proteins, and gluten-free diets can choose the right pasta.
Making this dish is easy and rewarding. Follow the tips in this article for the best results. Marinate the chicken, grill it right, and serve with good sides. This dish is perfect for any meal, whether it’s a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
