Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad: An Incredible Ultimate Recipe

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad is a delightful dish that combines bold flavors and fresh ingredients. This recipe not only tantalizes your taste buds but also offers a healthy and colorful addition to your dining table. Imagine succulent, marinated chicken bursting with the zesty notes of chimichurri, paired beautifully with a vibrant couscous salad. It truly is an amazing experience for any meal, from casual family dinners to elegant gatherings.
Let’s talk about chimichurri. Originating from Argentina, this herbaceous sauce primarily comprises parsley, garlic, olive oil, and vinegar, which gives your chicken a refreshing zing. When grilled to perfection, the chicken becomes juicy and tender, marrying harmoniously with the light and fluffy couscous. This dish isn’t just about fulfilling your hunger; it’s about creating a culinary adventure, immersing yourself in textures, colors, and flavors that excite and satisfy.
In this article, you’ll discover all the essential elements that make Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad a must-try recipe. The preparation steps are straightforward, and you’ll find that even novice cooks can master this dish with ease. Get ready to impress your family and friends with a meal that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also packed with nutrients and surprises.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad is a dish that brings together a medley of flavors and textures. Here are compelling reasons why you will love this recipe:
1. Quick and Easy to Prepare: This recipe can be ready in less than an hour, making it perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.
2. Healthful Ingredients: Including lean chicken, fresh herbs, and vegetables means you can enjoy this dish guilt-free.
3. Flavor Explosion: The combination of grilled chicken and chimichurri delivers a zesty punch that is utterly irresistible.
4. Beautiful Presentation: With its vibrant colors, this dish is a feast for the eyes and will elevate any dining setting.
5. Versatile Recipe: You can easily adjust the ingredients according to your taste preferences. Swap chicken for shrimp or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
6. Great for Meal Prep: Leftovers taste fantastic and can be used for lunches, making it a practical choice for meal prep enthusiasts.
With these enticing qualities, it’s clear why Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad is a favorite in many households. The layers of flavor and the mindfulness in its preparation make it a memorable culinary experience.

Preparation and Cooking Time

To whip up this delicious dish, here’s a breakdown of the time involved:
– Preparation Time: 15-20 minutes
– Marinating Time: 30 minutes (optional, but recommended for bursting flavors)
– Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
– Total Time: Approximately 1 hour
This structure makes it convenient whether you are cooking for yourself or for a gathering. The waiting time is well worth it, as it allows the flavors to meld beautifully.

Ingredients

– For the Chimichurri Marinade:
– 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
– ¼ cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, minced
– ½ cup olive oil
– ¼ cup red wine vinegar
– 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– For the Chicken:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tablespoons olive oil (for grilling)
– For the Couscous Salad:
– 1 cup couscous
– 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth (for flavor)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1 cucumber, diced
– ½ red onion, finely chopped
– ½ cup feta cheese, crumbled (optional)
– 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh herbs (basil or mint) for garnish
The ingredients list is simple yet loaded with flavor. By using fresh herbs and high-quality oil, you’re setting yourself up for a success that should not be overlooked.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Follow these steps to make Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad.
1. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce: In a bowl, whisk together parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Set aside half of the mixture for serving later.
2. Marinate the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts in a sealable plastic bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the chimichurri sauce over the chicken, ensuring it’s well-coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish. Marinate for at least 30 minutes in the refrigerator.
3. Cook the Couscous: In a saucepan, bring the chicken or vegetable broth to a boil. Once boiling, add couscous, stir, and remove from heat. Cover and let sit for about 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
4. Add Salad Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the fluffed couscous, cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, feta cheese (if using), lemon juice, salt, and pepper. Toss to mix well.
5. Grill the Chicken: Preheat your grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Lightly brush the grates with olive oil. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting excess drip off. Grill for 6-7 minutes on each side, or until fully cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
6. Rest the Chicken: Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before slicing.
7. Plate the Dish: Slice the grilled chicken and place it over a bed of couscous salad. Drizzle with the reserved chimichurri sauce for extra flavor.
By following these steps, you can create a dish that is not only stunning but also bursting with flavor and nutrition.

How to Serve

To elevate the Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad experience, consider the following tips:
1. Plate Presentation: Use a large serving platter to arrange the chicken over the couscous salad. Drizzle with chimichurri to add visual appeal.
2. Garnishing: Fresh herbs like basil or mint can add a pop of color and freshness to the dish. A sprinkle of extra feta cheese can enhance flavor and presentation.
3. Serving Size: Offer generous portions, but also consider individual servings in smaller bowls for an elegant touch.
4. Complementary Side Dishes: Pair with a light side like grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad to round out the meal.
5. Beverage Pairing: Serve with a chilled white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, or sparkling water with lemon for a refreshing contrast.
With these serving suggestions, your Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad will be both visually appealing and delicious, delighting your guests and family alike.

Additional Tips

– Use Fresh Herbs: The freshness of herbs in the chimichurri sauce can significantly elevate the flavor of your Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad. Always opt for fresh instead of dried herbs for the best results.

– Control the Heat: When grilling, it’s essential to maintain medium-high heat. This allows the chicken to receive proper searing while remaining juicy inside.
– Marinate Longer for More Flavor: While 30 minutes of marinating is sufficient, letting the chicken marinate for a few hours or overnight will intensify the flavors.
– Serve with a Squeeze of Lemon: A touch of fresh lemon juice just before serving adds brightness that enhances the dish.
– Experiment with Add-Ins: Add ingredients like bell peppers or avocados to the couscous salad for extra flavor and texture.

Recipe Variation

Get creative! Here are several variations to consider for your Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad:
1. Vegetarian Option: Substitute the chicken with grilled eggplant or zucchini for a hearty, meat-free version.

2. Mediterranean Twist: Use orzo pasta instead of couscous and toss in olives and sun-dried tomatoes for a Mediterranean flair.
3. Grilled Shrimp: Swap the chicken for shrimp marinated in the chimichurri sauce. Grill until they turn pink and just cooked through.
4. Spicy Kick: Add chopped jalapeños or serrano peppers to the chimichurri sauce to turn up the heat in this dish.
5. Pesto Couscous: Incorporate basil pesto into the couscous for a funky twist that pairs wonderfully with the chimichurri chicken.

Freezing and Storage

– Storage: Store leftover chicken and couscous salad in airtight containers in the refrigerator. They should last about 3-4 days, but best eaten fresh.
– Freezing: You can freeze the chicken separately from the salad for up to 2 months. Reheat the chicken in the oven or the grill and serve with fresh couscous salad upon defrosting.

Special Equipment

To prepare the Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad successfully, gather the following tools:
– Mixing bowl for preparing the chimichurri sauce.
– Sealable plastic bag or shallow dish for marinating the chicken.
– Grill or grill pan for cooking the chicken.
– Saucepan for cooking couscous.
– Large serving platter for an elegant presentation of the dish.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Can I use a different type of vinegar for chimichurri?
Yes! While red wine vinegar is traditional, white wine vinegar or apple cider vinegar can also work well.
2. What can I serve alongside the chicken and couscous salad?
Consider pairing this dish with grilled asparagus or a light summer salad for an additional touch.
3. Can I make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time?
Absolutely! Chimichurri can be made a few days in advance and stored in the refrigerator. The flavors will develop beautifully over time.
4. Should I remove the skin from chicken thighs?
This recipe specifically uses boneless, skinless chicken breasts. However, if you prefer chicken thighs, trimming the skin is optional based on your preference.
5. Can I prepare this recipe on the stovetop?
Yes! If grilling isn’t an option, you can sear the chicken in a skillet over medium-high heat until cooked through.

Conclusion

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad is a vibrant, flavorful option for any meal. It combines nutritious ingredients with bold flavors, making it a perfect dish for health-conscious food lovers. Whether for a casual weeknight dinner or an elegant gathering, this recipe will surely impress.

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