Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce

Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce

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This Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is what happens when bold flavors meet meal prep perfection. Tender, juicy grilled chicken breasts are marinated in a zesty chimichurri blend, charred to perfection, then layered over vibrant cherry tomato salad and leafy greens. And the star that ties it all together? A creamy, tangy garlic sauce that you’ll want to drizzle on everything.

Whether you’re planning a healthy lunch, looking for a high-protein dinner option, or craving a colorful dish that’s packed with freshness and flavor, this bowl delivers. It’s balanced, vibrant, and seriously satisfying. And the best part? It tastes just as incredible cold as it does hot.


Why You’ll Love This Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce

  • Explosive Flavor: The chimichurri marinade infuses every bite with fresh herbs, garlic, and citrusy zing.
  • Meal Prep Friendly: Stores beautifully and can be enjoyed cold, making it perfect for on-the-go meals.
  • Nutritious & Satisfying: Lean grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and healthy fats make this bowl a complete and filling meal.
  • Versatile: Swap in your favorite grains, greens, or veggies.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before diving in, here’s what you need to have ready:

Essential Tools and Equipment

  • Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill: To give the chicken its smoky, charred finish.
  • Blender or Food Processor: Perfect for blending the chimichurri and garlic sauce to creamy perfection.
  • Mixing Bowls: For marinating and tossing the fresh veggie salad.
  • Sharp Knife & Cutting Board: For precise slicing of veggies and chicken.
  • Meat Thermometer: Ensures your chicken is cooked to a safe 165°F without drying it out.

Ingredients for the Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce

  • Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts: The lean protein star of the bowl.
  • Fresh Parsley & Cilantro: The herbaceous base of the chimichurri, bright and earthy.
  • Garlic Cloves: Adds bold depth to both the marinade and the creamy sauce.
  • Olive Oil: Helps emulsify the chimichurri and adds healthy fat.
  • Red Wine Vinegar: Provides acidity that balances the richness of the oil and chicken.
  • Lemon Juice: Brightens up the chimichurri and gives the garlic sauce a zingy kick.
  • Cherry Tomatoes: Juicy and sweet, they balance the savory elements.
  • Red Onion: Adds sharpness and crunch to the fresh veggie mix.
  • Greek Yogurt or Mayo: Creamy base for the garlic sauce with a cooling effect.
  • Fresh Greens (Spinach or Kale): A sturdy bed to hold all the flavor-packed toppings.
  • Salt & Pepper: Essential seasonings that enhance every layer.
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How To Make the Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Blend the Chimichurri Marinade

Add parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to a blender or food processor. Pulse until a vibrant, slightly chunky sauce forms.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken breasts in a bowl or bag, and pour half of the chimichurri over them. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for max flavor).

Step 3: Grill the Chicken

Preheat your grill or grill pan. Grill the marinated chicken until golden and slightly charred on both sides, about 6-8 minutes per side depending on thickness. Use a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

Step 4: Make the Garlic Sauce

In a bowl, mix Greek yogurt or mayo with minced garlic, lemon juice, salt, and a splash of water if needed. Blend or whisk until smooth and creamy.

Step 5: Prep the Salad Base

In a bowl, combine halved cherry tomatoes, finely chopped red onion, and chopped cilantro. Toss with a pinch of salt and lemon juice.

Step 6: Assemble the Bowl

Layer your serving bowl with fresh greens, a scoop of the tomato-onion salad, and sliced grilled chicken. Drizzle with garlic sauce and a spoonful of remaining chimichurri.


Serving and Storing This Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl

This bowl is best served warm right off the grill, but it truly shines as a make-ahead meal. Let the flavors meld in the fridge overnight and enjoy it cold or reheated.

For storage, place the chicken, salad, greens, and sauces in separate airtight containers. They stay fresh for up to 4 days. Assemble when ready to eat to preserve the textures.


Frequently Asked Questions

How spicy is chimichurri?

Chimichurri is more herbaceous than spicy, but you can add a pinch of red pepper flakes for heat.

Can I use chicken thighs instead?

Absolutely. Thighs are juicier and add more richness. Just adjust the cook time slightly.

Is the garlic sauce dairy-free?

Use a dairy-free mayo or coconut yogurt if you want a dairy-free version.

What can I serve with this bowl?

It pairs great with rice, quinoa, or even roasted sweet potatoes.

Can I grill the chicken in advance?

Yes, grilled chicken can be stored and reheated or served cold.


Want More Chicken Bowl Ideas?

If you love this Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl, here are more flavor-packed dishes you’ll enjoy:


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📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest meal prep or dinner ideas board so you can come back to it anytime.

And let me know in the comments how yours turned out! Did you mix up the chimichurri herbs? Add grains or roasted veggies? I love hearing how you make these recipes your own.

Follow along on Pinterest for more daily recipe inspiration: Kitchen By Kate on Pinterest


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Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce

Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce


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  • Author: Kate Walton
  • Total Time: 35 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

This Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is a vibrant, high-protein meal featuring zesty herb-marinated grilled chicken, fresh veggies, and a creamy garlic sauce. Perfect for meal prep, low-carb diets, and flavorful weeknight dinners.


Ingredients

1 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts

1 cup fresh parsley

1 cup fresh cilantro

4 garlic cloves

½ cup olive oil

3 tbsp red wine vinegar

2 tbsp lemon juice

1 cup cherry tomatoes

½ red onion

½ cup Greek yogurt or mayo

4 cups fresh spinach or kale

Salt and pepper to taste


Instructions

1. Add parsley, cilantro, garlic, olive oil, red wine vinegar, lemon juice, salt, and pepper to a blender or food processor. Pulse into a vibrant chimichurri.

2. Place chicken breasts in a bowl and coat with half of the chimichurri. Marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.

3. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high. Grill chicken 6–8 minutes per side until cooked through.

4. Mix Greek yogurt or mayo with minced garlic, lemon juice, and salt for the garlic sauce.

5. Combine halved cherry tomatoes, chopped red onion, and cilantro in a bowl. Toss with lemon juice and salt.

6. Assemble bowls with spinach or kale, tomato salad, grilled chicken slices, garlic sauce, and remaining chimichurri.

Notes

Marinating the chicken overnight boosts flavor intensity.

Use a meat thermometer to avoid overcooking.

Chimichurri can be made 2–3 days in advance and stored in the fridge.

  • Prep Time: 20 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15 minutes
  • Category: Chicken
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Fusion

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 bowl
  • Calories: 420
  • Sugar: 3g
  • Sodium: 520mg
  • Fat: 28g
  • Saturated Fat: 4g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 22g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 8g
  • Fiber: 2g
  • Protein: 35g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg

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