Zesty Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Strips
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of these Zesty Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Strips, an exciting twist on a classic marinade often reserved for beef. This dish boasts a refreshing combination of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, and fresh parsley, creating a delightful balance that elevates chicken or seafood to new heights. The contrast of the tangy marinade and the smokiness from grilling brings out the dish's true essence. If you're short on time, a quick stovetop fry can also deliver mouthwatering results. Perfect for a summer barbecue or a quick weeknight meal, these chicken strips are sure to impress!
N/A
Servings
N/A
Calories
10
Ingredients
Ingredients
boneless skinless chicken breasts
1.5 lbs (cut into strips)
minced parsley
1 cup (about 1/2 bunch)
garlic
3 cloves (minced)
olive oil
1/3 cup
red wine vinegar
1/4 cup
lemon juice
2 tablespoons
salt
1/2 teaspoon
coarse grind black pepper
1/2 teaspoon
dried oregano
1/2 teaspoon (or 1 teaspoon fresh oregano)
cayenne pepper
1/4 teaspoon
Instructions
1
In a large mixing bowl, combine minced parsley, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, black pepper, oregano, and cayenne pepper. Stir well to create a smooth marinade.
2
Place the chicken strips in a large plastic zipper bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring all pieces are well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate.
3
Marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, allowing the flavors to infuse. For best results, marinate overnight.
4
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken strips from the marinade, discarding any remaining marinade.
5
Grill the chicken strips for about 5-7 minutes on each side or until they are fully cooked and have nice grill marks. Alternatively, heat a skillet over medium heat and pan-fry the chicken strips for about 5 minutes per side until golden brown and cooked through.
6
Remove from heat and let rest for a couple of minutes before serving. Enjoy with your favorite sides!
Nutrition Information
Frequently Asked Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
What are Zesty Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Strips?
This dish is a vibrant twist on a classic marinade typically used for beef, featuring fresh parsley, garlic, and lemon to elevate grilled chicken.
How long should I marinate the chicken for this recipe?
For the best infusion of flavor, marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, or ideally overnight.
What type of chicken should I use?
The recipe calls for 1.5 lbs of boneless skinless chicken breasts cut into strips.
Can I cook the chicken on a stovetop?
Yes, you can pan-fry the chicken strips in a skillet over medium heat for about 5 minutes per side.
How long does it take to grill the chicken strips?
Grill the chicken strips for about 5-7 minutes on each side over medium-high heat.
What are the primary herbs in the chimichurri?
The main herbs used are 1 cup of minced fresh parsley and 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano.
Can I substitute fresh oregano for dried?
Yes, you can use 1 teaspoon of fresh oregano instead of the 1/2 teaspoon of dried oregano.
What gives the marinade its zesty flavor?
The combination of 2 tablespoons of lemon juice and 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar provides the zest.
Is this recipe spicy?
It has a subtle heat from 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper, which balances the zesty and aromatic ingredients.
How much garlic is required?
The recipe requires 3 cloves of garlic, minced.
What kind of oil should I use for the marinade?
1/3 cup of olive oil is used to create a smooth marinade base.
How should I prepare the parsley?
You should mince enough parsley to fill 1 cup, which is approximately half a bunch.
Should I keep the leftover marinade?
No, you should discard any remaining marinade once the chicken has been removed for cooking.
Do I need to let the chicken rest after cooking?
Yes, let the chicken rest for a couple of minutes before serving to ensure it remains juicy.
How many ingredients are in this recipe?
There are 10 ingredients in total, including the chicken and spices.
Can this marinade be used for other proteins?
Yes, the description suggests this marinade also works exceptionally well with seafood.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, these chicken strips are a great option for a quick weeknight meal or a healthy lunch.
What is the recommended grill temperature?
The grill should be preheated to medium-high heat.
Is this recipe considered healthy?
Yes, it is tagged as a healthy dish featuring fresh herbs and lean protein.
What type of vinegar is used?
The recipe specifies 1/4 cup of red wine vinegar.
How do I ensure the chicken is well-coated?
Place the chicken and marinade in a large plastic zipper bag or shallow dish and ensure all pieces are covered.
What kind of pepper is best for this recipe?
The recipe calls for 1/2 teaspoon of coarse grind black pepper.
Can I serve this at a barbecue?
Absolutely, it is noted as being perfect for a summer barbecue.
Does this recipe contain salt?
Yes, it includes 1/2 teaspoon of salt in the marinade.
What are the main flavor profiles of this dish?
The flavor profile is a mix of zesty lemon, aromatic garlic, fresh parsley, and a hint of smoky grill flavor.
Is this a good recipe for beginners?
Yes, it involves simple mixing and grilling steps that are easy to follow.
Can I use lime instead of lemon?
While the recipe calls for lemon juice, lime would also provide a similar zesty citrus profile.
How much cayenne pepper should I use?
The recipe calls for 1/4 teaspoon of cayenne pepper.
What should I look for to know the chicken is done?
The chicken should have nice grill marks and be golden brown and cooked through internally.
How many servings does this make?
Based on 1.5 lbs of chicken, it typically serves 3 to 4 people depending on serving size.