Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
This Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is a delightful blend of flavors and textures that makes it perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re preparing a quick weeknight dinner or meal prepping for the week ahead, this dish delivers on taste and nutrition. Juicy grilled chicken meets a vibrant chimichurri drizzle and creamy garlic sauce, creating a satisfying meal that’s both herby and tangy.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- Flavorful and Fresh: The combination of marinated chicken, chimichurri, and garlic sauce creates a burst of flavor in every bite.
- Easy Meal Prep: This recipe is perfect for making ahead. Store components separately for quick assembly on busy days.
- Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to swap out fresh greens or add your favorite veggies to suit your taste.
- Balanced Nutrition: Packed with protein from chicken and healthy fats from olive oil, this bowl supports a nourishing diet.
- Quick to Prepare: With only 35 minutes from start to finish, you can enjoy this delicious meal without spending hours in the kitchen.
Tools and Preparation
To create the Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce, you’ll need some essential kitchen tools. These tools will make your cooking experience smoother and more enjoyable.
Essential Tools and Equipment
- Grill or grill pan
- Mixing bowls
- Whisk
- Food processor
- Measuring cups and spoons
Importance of Each Tool
- Grill or grill pan: Essential for achieving that perfect char on the chicken, enhancing both flavor and texture.
- Food processor: Makes blending chimichurri sauce effortless, ensuring a consistent texture without much effort.

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
- Salt and pepper to taste
For the Chimichurri Sauce
- 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)
How to Make Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
Whisk together olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, red apple vinegar, salt, and pepper in a mixing bowl.
– Place the chicken breasts in the marinade.
– Ensure they are well-coated by turning them several times.
– Let marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight for deeper flavor.
Step 2: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce
In a food processor or bowl:
– Combine parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, red apple vinegar, olive oil, and salt.
– Blend until you achieve a chunky consistency.
– Adjust seasoning if necessary.
Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce
In another bowl:
– Mix mayonnaise, sour cream (or yogurt), lemon juice, minced garlic, and any additional herbs you desire.
– Chill in the fridge until ready to use.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat.
– Remove chicken from marinade and place it on the grill.
– Cook each side for about 5–7 minutes until charred and cooked through.
– Allow it to rest before slicing.
Step 5: Assemble Your Bowl
In serving bowls:
– Layer fresh greens as a base.
– Top with sliced grilled chicken breast.
– Drizzle generously with chimichurri sauce.
– Add diced tomatoes on top.
– Finish with a scoop of garlic sauce.
Step 6: Serve or Store
Enjoy immediately or store each component separately in airtight containers for meal prep throughout the week.
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 to suit your taste. Whether you’re enjoying it for lunch or dinner, here are some creative serving suggestions.
On a Bed of Greens
- Fresh Spinach or Arugula: Lay the grilled chicken on a bed of fresh greens for a vibrant, healthy meal.
- Mixed Lettuce: Combine different types of lettuce for added texture and flavor.
With Extra Toppings
- Avocado Slices: Add creamy avocado slices for richness and healthy fats.
- Crispy Tortilla Strips: Sprinkle some tortilla strips on top for crunch and extra flavor.
As a Wrap
- In a Whole Wheat Tortilla: Wrap the ingredients in a tortilla for a portable meal that’s easy to enjoy on the go.
- Lettuce Wraps: Use large lettuce leaves as wraps for a low-carb alternative.
In Meal Prep Containers
- Separate Components: Keep each ingredient in its own compartment to maintain freshness throughout the week.
- Pre-assembled Bowls: Assemble individual bowls for quick grab-and-go meals during busy days.
How to Perfect Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
To make sure your Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl turns out perfectly every time, follow these helpful tips.
- Marinate Longer: Allowing the chicken to marinate overnight enhances the flavors deeply.
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh parsley and garlic elevate the taste compared to dried alternatives.
- Adjust Spice Levels: Modify red pepper flakes based on your heat preference for a personalized kick.
- Let Chicken Rest: Allowing the grilled chicken to rest before slicing keeps it juicy and tender.
- Chill Your Sauces: Chill both chimichurri and garlic sauce in advance to enhance their refreshing taste when served.
Best Side Dishes for Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
Pairing side dishes with your Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl can elevate your meal. Consider these delicious options that complement the main dish beautifully.
- Quinoa Salad: A light quinoa salad with cucumbers, tomatoes, and lemon dressing adds freshness and fiber.
- Roasted Vegetables: Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, and carrots provide a colorful and nutritious side.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime offers a zesty contrast to the bowl’s flavors.
- Garlic Breadsticks: Soft breadsticks brushed with garlic butter make for a comforting addition.
- Chickpea Salad: A protein-packed chickpea salad with herbs and lemon brightens up your plate.
- Sweet Potato Fries: Crispy sweet potato fries add sweetness while balancing savory notes from the chicken.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Avoiding common pitfalls can ensure your Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce turns out perfectly.
- Skipping the Marinade Time: Not allowing enough time for the chicken to marinate can lead to bland flavors. Aim for at least 30 minutes, but overnight is best for maximum taste.
- Using Low-Quality Ingredients: Cheap oils and herbs can diminish the dish’s overall quality. Always choose fresh herbs and good-quality olive oil for a vibrant chimichurri.
- Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking chicken too long can make it dry. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
- Ignoring the Sauce Balance: If your garlic sauce is too strong or too weak, it can overpower the dish. Taste and adjust ingredients until you achieve a harmonious flavor.
- Neglecting Vegetable Freshness: Using wilted greens or old tomatoes will detract from the freshness of your bowl. Always select crisp, fresh vegetables for a satisfying crunch.

Storage & Reheating Instructions
Refrigerator Storage
- Store leftovers in airtight containers for up to 3 days.
- Make sure the chicken is fully cooled before sealing to avoid condensation.
Freezing Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
- Freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Label each container with the date to keep track of freshness.
Reheating Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
- Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish covered with foil for about 15-20 minutes until heated through.
- Microwave: Heat in short intervals, about 1-2 minutes, stirring in between until warm.
- Stovetop: Warm on medium heat in a skillet, adding a splash of broth if needed to prevent sticking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is chimichurri sauce?
Chimichurri sauce is a vibrant Argentine condiment made from parsley, garlic, vinegar, and olive oil. It adds a fresh, herby flavor to grilled meats and vegetables.
How can I customize my Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce?
You can personalize your bowl by adding your favorite veggies such as bell peppers or cucumbers. Additionally, try different sauces like tahini or yogurt-based dressings for variety.
Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Yes! Substitute grilled vegetables or tofu for chicken and use plant-based mayonnaise to create a delicious vegetarian option.
How long does it take to prepare this recipe?
Preparation takes about 20 minutes, with an additional 15 minutes of cooking time. It’s perfect for quick meal prep!
Final Thoughts
The Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce offers a delightful blend of flavors and textures that are sure to please any palate. This versatile recipe allows you to mix and match ingredients based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Give it a try and discover your favorite variations!
Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce
Discover the vibrant flavors of the Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce—a perfect dish for any occasion that effortlessly combines taste and nutrition. Juicy grilled chicken, marinated to perfection, is topped with a refreshing chimichurri drizzle and a creamy garlic sauce, creating a satisfying meal that’s both herby and tangy. This bowl is not only quick to prepare but also highly customizable, making it ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prepping. With its fresh ingredients and balanced nutrition, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
- Category: Main
- 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
- Salt and pepper to taste
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes
- 1 cup mayonnaise
- ½ cup sour cream or Greek yogurt
- 1 tablespoon lemon juice
- 1 cup diced tomatoes
- 2 cups fresh greens (spinach or arugula)
Instructions
- Marinate chicken with olive oil, garlic, parsley, vinegar, salt, and pepper for at least 30 minutes.
- Blend parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, vinegar, olive oil, and salt to make chimichurri.
- Mix mayonnaise, sour cream or yogurt, lemon juice, and garlic for the garlic sauce.
- Grill marinated chicken for 5-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Assemble bowls with fresh greens, sliced chicken, chimichurri drizzle, diced tomatoes, and garlic sauce.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (approximately 400g)
- Calories: 540
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 38g
- Saturated Fat: 6g
- Unsaturated Fat: 32g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 18g
- Fiber: 5g
- Protein: 33g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
