Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
This Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is the perfect dish to enjoy at any time. Whether you’re planning a busy week ahead or want to impress guests at a dinner party, this vibrant meal brings together juicy grilled chicken, a zesty chimichurri drizzle, and creamy garlic sauce. Its blend of fresh ingredients ensures every bite is packed with flavor and nutrition.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights or spontaneous gatherings.
- Flavor Explosion: The combination of tangy chimichurri and creamy garlic sauce elevates grilled chicken to new heights.
- Versatile Meal Prep: Perfect for meal prepping, you can store components separately for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
- Fresh Ingredients: Packed with herbs and veggies, this bowl is as nutritious as it is delicious.
- Customizable: Easily swap out greens or add your favorite toppings to make it your own.
Tools and Preparation
To create this delightful Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce, having the right tools can make all the difference.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor (optional)
- Whisk
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken while keeping it juicy.
- Mixing bowls: Useful for marinating the chicken and mixing sauces without any mess.
- Food processor: Makes creating the chimichurri sauce quick and easy; alternatively, a simple bowl can work too.

Ingredients
This Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is loaded with juicy grilled chicken, a vibrant chimichurri drizzle, creamy garlic sauce, and fresh veggies. It’s the perfect meal prep idea or a balanced dinner bursting with herby, tangy, and savory flavors.
For the Chicken
- 2 Chicken breasts
For the Chimichurri Sauce
- 1 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- ¼ cup Red apple vinegar
- ½ cup Olive oil
- ½ teaspoon Red pepper flakes
For the Garlic Sauce
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- ½ cup Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
For Assembly
- 1 cup Diced tomatoes
- 2 cups Fresh greens (spinach or arugula)
- Salt and pepper to taste
How to Make Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Whisk together olive oil, garlic, parsley, red apple vinegar, salt, and pepper. Marinate chicken breasts in this mixture for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce
In a food processor or bowl:
1. Blend parsley,
2. Garlic,
3. Red pepper flakes,
4. Vinegar,
5. Olive oil,
6. Salt into a chunky chimichurri sauce.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
In a mixing bowl:
1. Combine mayonnaise,
2. Sour cream (or yogurt),
3. Lemon juice,
4. Garlic,
5. Herbs until smooth.
Refrigerate until ready to use.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat:
1. Grill marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side until charred and cooked through.
2. Let it rest before slicing.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowls
Layer greens in a bowl:
1. Top with sliced chicken,
2. Drizzle generously with chimichurri,
3. Spoon diced tomatoes,
4. Finish off with a scoop of garlic sauce.
Step 6: Serve or Store
Serve immediately for a fresh meal or store each component separately for meal prep convenience.
Enjoy your delicious Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce!
How to Serve Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
This Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is versatile and can be served in various ways. Whether for a casual dinner or a meal prep option, here are some serving suggestions to enhance your dining experience.
Serve with Fresh Greens
- Use a mix of spinach and arugula for a nutrient-packed base that complements the chicken and sauces beautifully.
Add Extra Veggies
- Incorporate diced cucumbers, bell peppers, or corn for added crunch and color in your bowl.
Top with Avocado
- Slice fresh avocado on top for creaminess and healthy fats that will elevate the dish’s flavor profile.
Garnish with Fresh Herbs
- Sprinkle additional parsley or cilantro over the top to enhance the fresh herb flavors in both the chimichurri and garlic sauce.
Pair with Whole Grains
- Serve over quinoa, brown rice, or farro to add texture and make the meal even more filling.
How to Perfect Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
To achieve a perfect Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce, consider these helpful tips.
-
Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight deepens the flavors and ensures juiciness.
-
Use High-Quality Olive Oil: A good-quality olive oil enhances the taste of both the chimichurri and garlic sauce significantly.
-
Grill at Proper Temperature: Ensure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat for perfect charring without drying out the chicken.
-
Experiment with Spice Levels: Adjust red pepper flakes according to your spice preference; this can change the dish’s kick dramatically.
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Chill Your Garlic Sauce: Letting it chill before serving allows all the flavors to blend together beautifully.
Best Side Dishes for Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
Pairing side dishes can elevate your Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl experience. Here are some excellent options:
-
Crispy Roasted Potatoes
Tossed in olive oil and herbs, they provide a satisfying crunch alongside tender chicken. -
Zesty Coleslaw
A tangy coleslaw adds brightness and freshness, balancing out the richness of the bowl. -
Garlic Breadsticks
Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make for a delightful accompaniment, perfect for dipping into sauces. -
Quinoa Salad
A light salad made with quinoa, cherry tomatoes, and cucumbers offers a refreshing contrast to the warm chicken bowl. -
Roasted Asparagus
Simple roasted asparagus drizzled with lemon complements the dish while adding vibrant color. -
Mediterranean Chickpea Salad
Packed with protein and flavor, this salad includes chickpeas, cucumber, tomatoes, and herbs for an extra nutritional boost. -
Steamed Broccoli
Lightly seasoned steamed broccoli provides a healthy side that pairs well without overpowering flavors. -
Sweet Potato Wedges
Oven-baked wedges offer natural sweetness that nicely contrasts with savory elements in your bowl.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When making the Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce, it’s easy to slip up. Here are some common mistakes and how to steer clear of them.
- Skipping the marinade: Not allowing the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Always marinate for at least 30 minutes, or even better, overnight.
- Overcooking the chicken: Cooking the chicken for too long can make it dry. Grill until it’s just cooked through, about 5–7 minutes per side.
- Ignoring ingredient freshness: Using wilted herbs or old ingredients can affect taste. Ensure all produce is fresh for vibrant flavors.
- Not letting the chicken rest: Cutting into chicken right after grilling can cause juices to run out. Let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Forgetting about seasoning: Skipping salt and pepper in your sauces can dull flavors. Taste as you go and adjust seasoning accordingly.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Keep components separate (chicken, veggies, sauces) for optimal freshness.
Freezing Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
- Freeze grilled chicken and chimichurri sauce in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Avoid freezing creamy garlic sauce; it may separate when thawed.
Reheating Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat chicken on a baking sheet until warmed through, about 10-15 minutes.
- Microwave: Place chicken in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in intervals of 1 minute until warm.
- Stovetop: Reheat in a skillet over medium heat until hot, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some commonly asked questions about the Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce.
What is Chimichurri?
Chimichurri is a vibrant sauce made from herbs like parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. It adds a fresh, tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled meats.
Can I customize the veggies?
Absolutely! You can use any fresh greens or vegetables you prefer. Bell peppers, cucumbers, or corn would add great texture and flavor.
How do I make this dish vegetarian?
To make a vegetarian version of the Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce, substitute grilled vegetables or marinated tofu for the chicken.
What should I serve this bowl with?
This bowl pairs wonderfully with rice or quinoa as a base. You can also serve it alongside crusty bread or a light salad for added texture.
Final Thoughts
The Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is not only delicious but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it with your favorite veggies or protein alternatives. Give this recipe a try; it’s perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner!
Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is a vibrant and delicious meal that brings together juicy grilled chicken, a zesty chimichurri drizzle, and creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for busy weeknights or impressing guests, this dish bursts with flavor from fresh herbs and vegetables. It’s an ideal choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy nutritious lunches or dinners throughout the week, all while keeping it customizable to suit your taste.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Latin American
Ingredients
- 2 chicken breasts
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup red apple vinegar
- ½ cup olive oil
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 2 cups fresh greens (spinach or arugula)
- Diced tomatoes
Instructions
- Marinate chicken in a mix of olive oil, garlic, parsley, red apple vinegar, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Blend parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, vinegar, olive oil, and salt to make chimichurri sauce.
- In a bowl, combine mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), lemon juice, garlic until smooth for the garlic sauce.
- Grill marinated chicken over medium-high heat for about 5–7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Assemble bowls by layering greens, sliced chicken, chimichurri drizzle, diced tomatoes, and a scoop of garlic sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (400g)
- Calories: 580
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 900mg
- Fat: 44g
- Saturated Fat: 7g
- Unsaturated Fat: 37g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 20g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 110mg