Grilled Chicken Heart Skewers with Chimichurri Sauce: A Bold and Flavorful Delight

If you’re looking to expand your culinary horizons and embrace the nose-to-tail philosophy of cooking, this Chicken Heart Recipe with Chimichurri Sauce is the perfect place to start. Not only are chicken hearts incredibly affordable and packed with protein and essential nutrients, but when grilled to perfection and served with a zesty homemade chimichurri, they become a gourmet dish worthy of any table. Whether you’re new to offal or already a fan of organ meats, this recipe is a bold, savory adventure that delivers both texture and flavor.

Often found in Brazilian churrascarias and beloved in many global cuisines, chicken hearts are a hidden gem of the culinary world. They are tender yet slightly chewy with a rich, meaty taste, and they soak up marinades and seasonings beautifully. Paired with the herbaceous and garlicky brightness of chimichurri sauce, this dish strikes a perfect balance between rustic and refined.

Who This Recipe is For

This recipe is ideal for:

  • Adventurous eaters looking to try new cuts of meat

  • Fans of grilling and smoky charred flavors

  • Anyone interested in sustainable eating and reducing food waste

  • Home cooks aiming to impress with something unique yet approachable

  • Those following low-carb, paleo, or keto-friendly diets

It’s perfect for backyard BBQs, tapas-style dinners, or even a quick protein-packed snack.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

  • Quick to Make: From prep to plate in under 30 minutes (plus optional marinating time)

  • Budget-Friendly: Chicken hearts are one of the most affordable protein options

  • Full of Flavor: Bold seasoning, char from the grill, and a vibrant chimichurri sauce

  • Nutrient-Dense: High in iron, B12, and protein

  • Versatile: Works as a main dish, appetizer, or party platter

Ingredients You’ll Need

For the Chicken Hearts:

  • 1 lb (450g) chicken hearts

  • 2 tbsp olive oil

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

For the Chimichurri Sauce:

  • 1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped

  • 4 cloves garlic, minced

  • 2 tbsp fresh oregano (or 2 tsp dried oregano)

  • ½ cup olive oil

  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar

  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust to taste)

  • Salt and pepper, to taste

Kitchen Equipment Needed

  • Sharp knife and cutting board

  • Mixing bowls

  • Grill or grill pan

  • Metal or soaked wooden skewers

  • Measuring spoons and cups

  • Tongs

  • Serving platter or dish

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken Hearts

Rinse the chicken hearts thoroughly under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Trim any visible fat or connective tissue for a cleaner texture.

Place the hearts in a bowl and toss with olive oil, salt, and pepper until evenly coated. Thread them onto skewers, leaving a small gap between each for even cooking.

Step 2: Make the Chimichurri

In a medium bowl, combine finely chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Add salt and black pepper to taste. Mix well and let it sit at room temperature for at least 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.

Pro Tip: Make the chimichurri up to a day in advance and refrigerate. Just bring it to room temp before serving.

Step 3: Grill the Chicken Hearts

Preheat your grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.

Grill the skewered hearts for 3-4 minutes per side, or until browned on the outside and just cooked through. Avoid overcooking to maintain tenderness.

Once done, let the skewers rest for a few minutes before serving.

Step 4: Serve

Plate the grilled hearts and serve immediately with chimichurri sauce on the side or drizzled over the top. Garnish with fresh parsley or lemon wedges for a bright touch.

Storage Tips for Leftovers

  • Refrigerator: Store cooked chicken hearts in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Chimichurri will keep for up to 5 days.

  • Freezer: Freeze grilled hearts in a zip-top bag for up to 2 months. Reheat by gently pan-searing or microwaving.

  • Reheating: To retain their tenderness, reheat over medium-low heat with a splash of water or olive oil.

Food and Drink Pairings

Perfect Sides:

  • Grilled vegetables (zucchini, peppers, onions)

  • Garlic rice or herbed couscous

  • Crusty bread or flatbreads for scooping chimichurri

  • Pickled onions or a cucumber salad to cut through the richness

Drink Pairings:

  • Red wine: Try a Malbec or Cabernet Sauvignon

  • Beer: A smoky porter or crisp lager

  • Cocktails: Caipirinha or a classic mojito

  • Non-alcoholic: Sparkling water with lime or a chilled hibiscus tea

Tips, Shortcuts, and Variations

Shortcuts:

  • Buy pre-cleaned chicken hearts to save prep time

  • Use a mini food processor for chopping chimichurri ingredients

Flavor Variations:

  • Spicy Version: Add fresh chopped chili or cayenne to the chimichurri

  • Citrus Twist: Add lemon or lime zest to the chicken marinade

  • Sweet & Smoky: Add a dash of smoked paprika and honey to the hearts before grilling

  • Asian-Inspired: Swap chimichurri for a soy-sesame dipping sauce and sprinkle with sesame seeds

Frequently Asked Questions

Are chicken hearts tough or chewy?

If cooked properly, they are tender with a pleasant bite. Avoid overcooking as that can make them rubbery.

Can I use other sauces besides chimichurri?

Yes! Garlic aioli, spicy mayo, or even a teriyaki glaze all work beautifully.

Where can I buy chicken hearts?

Look for them at your local butcher, ethnic markets (especially Latin American or Asian), or well-stocked supermarkets in the offal section.

Can I cook these in the oven or stovetop?

Yes. You can roast them at 400°F (200°C) for about 10 minutes or pan-sear in a cast iron skillet.

Are chicken hearts healthy?

Absolutely. They’re rich in iron, zinc, B vitamins, and protein while being relatively low in fat.

Final Thoughts

Grilled chicken hearts with chimichurri sauce might not be your everyday dinner choice, but it’s one of those dishes that surprises and satisfies with every bite. The rich umami of the hearts, combined with the brightness of chimichurri, creates a harmony of flavors that’s both rustic and sophisticated. It’s a fantastic recipe to bring out for adventurous eaters or to introduce someone to the world of organ meats in a familiar and delicious way.

If you’re ready to move beyond the basics and embrace bolder cooking, this dish is your gateway to culinary confidence.

Enjoyed this recipe? Don’t keep it to yourself—share it with your foodie friends, grill-loving family, or anyone looking for their next flavor-packed adventure. And don’t forget to subscribe to the blog for more unique recipes, grilling guides, and kitchen inspiration every week. Happy cooking!

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here