Chimichurri Chicken and Rice: A Flavorful One-Pan Meal

If you’re looking for a dish that balances bold flavors with the ease of a one-pan meal, Chimichurri Chicken and Rice is the perfect answer. This dish is vibrant, satisfying, and brings a burst of herbaceous goodness to your dinner table. Whether you’re a busy home cook or someone who loves exploring Latin-inspired cuisine, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• One Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean less cleanup, making this ideal for busy weeknights.
• Packed with Flavor: The chimichurri sauce adds a bright, tangy kick that pairs beautifully with tender chicken and fluffy rice.
• Nutrient-Rich: With lean chicken, veggies, and fresh herbs, you get a wholesome meal in every bite.
• Customizable: Swap out proteins, adjust the spices, or add extra veggies to make it your own.

Ingredients

Chimichurri:

• 1/4 cup extra virgin olive oil ($0.52)
• 2 Tbsp red wine vinegar ($0.20)
• 1/2 tsp dried oregano ($0.05)
• 1/4 tsp cumin ($0.03)
• Pinch red pepper flakes ($0.02)
• 1/4 tsp salt ($0.02)
• 1 clove garlic, minced ($0.08)
• 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped ($0.30)
• 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped ($0.25)

Chicken and Rice:

• 1 Tbsp olive oil ($0.13)
• 1 boneless, skinless chicken breast (3/4 lb.) ($1.42)
• Pinch salt and pepper ($0.05)
• 1 yellow onion, diced ($0.41)
• 2 Roma tomatoes, diced ($1.00)
• 1/2 cup frozen peas ($0.21)
• 1 cup long grain white rice* ($0.66)
• 1.5 cups water ($0.00)
• 1/4 tsp salt ($0.02)

Kitchen Equipment Needed

• Deep skillet with a lid
• Cutting board and knife
• Mixing bowl
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Instructions

1. Prepare the Chimichurri:
   • Combine olive oil, red wine vinegar, oregano, cumin, red pepper flakes, and salt in a bowl.
   • Pull parsley and cilantro leaves from the stems and finely chop. Mince the garlic.
   • Stir parsley, cilantro, and garlic into the oil mixture. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
2. Cook the Chicken:
   • Cut chicken into small pieces and season with a pinch of salt and pepper.
   • Heat 1 Tbsp olive oil in a deep skillet over medium heat. Add chicken and sauté until golden brown, then remove from the skillet.
3. Sauté the Veggies:
   • In the same skillet, add diced onion and sauté until soft (about 5 minutes).
   • Add diced tomatoes and cook for another 2 minutes until they start to break down.
4. Combine Ingredients:
   • Return chicken to the skillet and add peas, rice, water, and salt. Stir to combine.
   • Cover with a lid, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15 minutes.
5. Let it Rest:
   • After 15 minutes, turn off the heat and let the rice rest with the lid on for 10 minutes.
6. Finish with Chimichurri:
   • Fluff the rice with a fork, then drizzle the chimichurri over the top.
   • Gently fold in the chimichurri to avoid making the rice sticky. Taste and adjust salt if needed.
7. Serve:
   • Garnish with extra parsley or cilantro and serve immediately.

Tips and Variations

• Swap the Protein: Try shrimp, tofu, or even steak for a different spin.
• Add More Veggies: Bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach would make delicious additions.
• Make it Spicier: Add more red pepper flakes or a chopped jalapeño for extra heat.

How to Store Leftovers

Cool leftovers completely before transferring to an airtight container. Refrigerate for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 2 months. To reheat, microwave in 30-second intervals or warm in a pan with a splash of water to revive the rice.

Perfect Pairings

• Beverage: A crisp white wine, like Sauvignon Blanc, balances the herbaceous chimichurri.
• Side Dish: Serve with warm tortillas or a fresh green salad.
• Dessert: Finish with a light citrus sorbet to cleanse the palate.

FAQ

Can I use brown rice? Yes, but increase the cooking time to 40 minutes and add more water (about 2 cups total).

What if I don’t like cilantro? Simply double the parsley or use a combination of parsley and fresh basil.

Can I make the chimichurri in advance? Absolutely! It tastes even better after a few hours and will keep in the fridge for up to a week.

Final Thoughts

Chimichurri Chicken and Rice is a celebration of bold flavors and simple cooking techniques. It’s perfect for weeknights, yet impressive enough for guests. Whether you’re craving comfort food or a new go-to dinner, this dish delivers every time.

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