Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
This Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is a delightful dish that combines juicy grilled chicken with a vibrant chimichurri drizzle and a creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for both meal prep and family dinners, this bowl is packed with fresh veggies and bursting with herby, tangy, and savory flavors. Enjoy this wholesome recipe any night of the week!
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful Experience: The combination of chimichurri and garlic sauce adds a burst of flavor that elevates grilled chicken to new heights.
- Easy to Prepare: With simple ingredients and straightforward steps, you can whip up this dish without any fuss.
- Versatile Meal Option: Suitable for lunch or dinner, this bowl can be customized with your favorite vegetables or grains.
- Healthy Ingredients: Packed with lean protein and fresh greens, it’s a nutritious choice for health-conscious eaters.
- Great for Meal Prep: You can prepare each component ahead of time, making it easy to enjoy throughout the week.
Tools and Preparation
Having the right tools makes cooking easier and more efficient. Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Food processor (or chopping knife)
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Whisk
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Provides even cooking and adds those delicious grill marks to your chicken.
- Mixing bowls: Essential for marinating chicken and mixing sauces without making a mess.
- Food processor: Speeds up the process of making the chimichurri sauce by blending all ingredients quickly.

Ingredients
To create this flavorful Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce, gather the following ingredients:
For the Chicken
- 2 Chicken breasts
- ½ cup Olive oil
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup Red apple vinegar
- ½ teaspoon Red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Sauces
- 1 cup Mayonnaise
- ½ cup Sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
For the Bowl
- 1 cup Diced tomatoes
- 2 cups Fresh greens (spinach or arugula)
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, garlic, red pepper flakes, vinegar, olive oil, and salt until chunky but well combined.
2. Set aside for serving later.
Step 3: Create the Garlic Sauce
In another bowl:
1. Mix mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), lemon juice, garlic, and herbs until smooth.
2. Chill it in the fridge while you grill the chicken.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill over medium-high heat. Grill marinated chicken for about 5–7 minutes on each side until charred and cooked through. Once done:
1. Let it rest before slicing.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl
In a serving bowl:
1. Layer fresh greens.
2. Top with sliced grilled chicken.
3. Drizzle generously with chimichurri sauce.
4. Spoon diced tomatoes over everything.
5. Finish off with a generous scoop of garlic sauce.
Step 6: Serve or Store
Serve immediately or store each component separately in containers for meal prep throughout the week.
Enjoy your delicious Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce!
How to Serve Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
Serving your Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce can be as creative as you want! This dish is versatile and can be paired with various sides and garnishes to elevate its flavors. Here are some serving suggestions to consider.
Fresh Greens
- Use a mix of spinach and arugula for a peppery kick that complements the chicken perfectly.
Avocado Slices
- Add creamy avocado slices on top for a rich texture and added healthy fats.
Extra Chimichurri Sauce
- Drizzle more chimichurri over the bowl for an extra burst of flavor.
Lime Wedges
- Serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty finish that brightens the dish.
Crumbled Feta Cheese
- Sprinkle crumbled feta cheese on top for a salty contrast to the dish’s rich components.
Toasted Nuts
- Incorporate toasted pine nuts or almonds for an added crunch and nutty flavor.
How to Perfect Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
Perfecting your Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is all about technique and freshness. Here are some tips to ensure your dish turns out great every time.
-
Marinate Longer: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight instead of just 30 minutes.
-
Use Fresh Herbs: Always use fresh parsley for the best taste in your chimichurri sauce; dried herbs won’t give you the same vibrant flavor.
-
Monitor Grill Temperature: Ensure your grill is at medium-high heat before adding chicken to achieve perfect charring without drying it out.
-
Chill Your Sauces: Let your garlic sauce chill in the fridge for at least 30 minutes before serving; this enhances its flavors.
-
Slice Against the Grain: When slicing the chicken, cut against the grain to ensure tender pieces that are easier to chew.
Best Side Dishes for Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl can enhance the meal experience. Here are some fantastic options to consider:
- Grilled Vegetables: A mix of bell peppers, zucchini, and onions grilled until tender adds smokiness that complements the chicken.
- Quinoa Salad: A refreshing salad made with quinoa, cucumbers, and cherry tomatoes provides a light yet filling side.
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted with olive oil and spices offer a sweet contrast to the savory chicken bowl.
- Rice Pilaf: Fluffy rice pilaf mixed with herbs adds texture and absorbs any extra chimichurri sauce beautifully.
- Coleslaw: A tangy coleslaw made from cabbage and carrots brings crunch and acidity that balances the richness of garlic sauce.
- Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with olive oil makes a sweet side that pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken flavors.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many people make mistakes when preparing the Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce. Here are some common pitfalls and how to avoid them.
-
Neglecting Marination Time: Skipping the marination or not allowing enough time can result in bland chicken. Aim for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight for maximum flavor.
-
Using Dried Herbs: Fresh herbs provide a vibrant taste that dried herbs can’t match. Always opt for fresh parsley and garlic to enhance your chimichurri sauce.
-
Overcooking the Chicken: Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for juicy results.
-
Ignoring Ingredient Quality: Low-quality olive oil can impact the flavor of your sauce. Select high-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best taste.
-
Skipping the Garlic Sauce: The creamy garlic sauce adds an essential layer of flavor. Don’t skip this step; it complements the dish beautifully!

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
-
- Duration: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
-
- Best Practice: Keep chicken, vegetables, and sauces stored separately for optimal freshness.
Freezing Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
-
- Duration: Freeze for up to 2 months.
-
- Best Practice: Freeze chicken and sauce in separate containers or freezer bags to maintain quality.
Reheating Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C) and heat for about 20 minutes until warmed through.
- Microwave: Heat on medium power in short intervals, stirring occasionally until hot.
- Stovetop: Warm in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent drying out.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some frequently asked questions regarding the Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce.
What is chimichurri?
Chimichurri is a vibrant sauce made from fresh herbs, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. It adds a tangy flavor to grilled meats and is perfect as a drizzle over this chicken bowl.
Can I use other meats instead of chicken?
Yes! You can substitute chicken with beef, turkey, or lamb based on your preference. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.
How do I customize my Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce?
Feel free to add additional toppings like avocado, bell peppers, or corn. Experimenting with different greens can also change up the flavors!
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Swap the chicken for grilled mushrooms or tofu for a delicious vegetarian option while keeping all other ingredients intact.
Final Thoughts
The Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is not only delicious but also highly versatile. You can customize it according to your taste preferences by adding different vegetables or proteins. Try it today and enjoy a meal that is both flavorful and nutritious!
Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
Indulge in the vibrant flavors of our Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce, a delightful dish that brings juicy grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and zesty sauces together in one satisfying meal. This recipe is perfect for weeknight dinners or meal prep, making it easy to enjoy nutritious and delicious food throughout the week. The herby chimichurri drizzled over tender chicken combines beautifully with a creamy garlic sauce, ensuring each bite is packed with flavor. Customize your bowl with your favorite vegetables or grains to make it truly your own.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Dinner
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Argentinian
Ingredients
- 2 Chicken breasts
- ½ cup Olive oil
- 4 cloves Garlic, minced
- 1 cup Fresh parsley, chopped
- ¼ cup Red apple vinegar
- ½ teaspoon Red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 1 cup Mayonnaise or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon Lemon juice
- 1 cup Diced tomatoes
- 2 cups Fresh greens (spinach or arugula)
Instructions
- Marinate chicken: Whisk olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, red apple vinegar, salt, and pepper in a bowl. Coat the chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
- Prepare chimichurri sauce: Blend parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, vinegar, olive oil, and salt until chunky but combined.
- Make garlic sauce: Mix mayonnaise (or yogurt), lemon juice, minced garlic, and herbs until smooth; chill.
- Grill chicken: Preheat grill to medium-high heat and cook marinated chicken for 5–7 minutes on each side until cooked through. Let rest before slicing.
- Assemble: In bowls, layer fresh greens, sliced grilled chicken, chimichurri sauce, diced tomatoes, and garlic sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 serving
- Calories: 550
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 36g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 28g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 40g
- Cholesterol: 120mg