Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad is a fresh and flavorful dish perfect for any occasion. The vibrant chimichurri sauce complements the smoky grilled chicken, while the couscous salad provides a hearty and refreshing base. It’s a meal that feels fancy yet is incredibly easy to prepare.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Bursting with flavor: The chimichurri sauce is a tangy, herbaceous accompaniment that takes the grilled chicken to the next level.
• Easy to make: Simple ingredients and straightforward steps make this recipe approachable for all skill levels.
• Healthy and balanced: Packed with protein and paired with a nutrient-rich couscous salad, this dish is both satisfying and nutritious.
• Great for meal prep: It stores well and can be enjoyed as leftovers, making it perfect for busy weeks.
• Customizable: You can switch up the herbs, add your favorite vegetables, or even swap the protein for variety.

Ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

For the Chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• Fresh parsley
• Fresh cilantro
• Garlic cloves
• Red wine vinegar
• Olive oil
• Red pepper flakes
• Salt and pepper

For the Couscous Salad:

• Couscous
• Cherry tomatoes
• Cucumber
• Red onion
• Fresh mint
• Lemon juice
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Directions

1. Prepare the chimichurri sauce: Combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper in a blender or food processor. Blend until smooth. Reserve some sauce for serving.
2. Marinate the chicken: Coat the chicken breasts with half of the chimichurri sauce. Let them marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook the couscous: Prepare couscous according to package instructions. Fluff with a fork and let it cool slightly.
4. Assemble the salad: Mix couscous with cherry tomatoes, cucumber, red onion, fresh mint, lemon juice, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Toss well to combine.
5. Grill the chicken: Heat a grill or grill pan to medium-high. Cook the chicken for 5–7 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
6. Serve: Plate the chicken with a generous helping of couscous salad. Drizzle with reserved chimichurri sauce and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Preparation Time: 20 minutes
• Marinating Time: 30 minutes
• Cooking Time: 20 minutes
• Total Time: Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes

Variations

• Protein alternatives: Substitute chicken with grilled shrimp, steak, or tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Grain swaps: Use quinoa, bulgur, or farro in place of couscous.
• Vegetable mix-ins: Add bell peppers, zucchini, or roasted chickpeas for extra texture and flavor.
• Spicy kick: Increase the red pepper flakes or add a diced jalapeño to the chimichurri sauce.
• Dairy boost: Crumble feta or goat cheese into the couscous salad for a creamy touch.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store leftover chicken and couscous salad in separate airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: Reheat the chicken in a skillet over medium heat or in the microwave. Serve the couscous salad cold or at room temperature.
• Freezing: The grilled chicken can be frozen for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

FAQs

How can I make the chimichurri sauce in advance?

Prepare the chimichurri sauce up to 3 days ahead and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator.

Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh ones?

Fresh herbs are recommended for authentic flavor, but you can use dried herbs in a pinch. Use half the quantity as dried herbs are more concentrated.

What can I serve with this dish?

Pair this meal with a simple green salad, grilled vegetables, or a slice of crusty bread for a complete meal.

How do I ensure the chicken is juicy?

Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and avoid overcooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Substitute couscous with a gluten-free grain like quinoa to make this recipe gluten-free.

Can I use bottled chimichurri sauce?

Yes, but homemade chimichurri sauce offers fresher flavors and allows you to customize it to your taste.

What type of couscous works best?

Any type works, but pearl (Israeli) couscous adds a lovely texture to the salad.

Can I grill the chicken on a stovetop?

Absolutely! Use a grill pan over medium-high heat for similar results.

How can I make this dish kid-friendly?

Reduce the amount of red pepper flakes in the chimichurri sauce and serve the salad with mild dressing options.

How long should I marinate the chicken?

While 30 minutes is sufficient, you can marinate it for up to 24 hours for more intense flavor.

Conclusion

Grilled Chimichurri Chicken with Couscous Salad is a vibrant, nutritious, and crowd-pleasing meal that’s perfect for any occasion. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or prepping meals for the week, this recipe delivers bold flavors and satisfying textures. Customize it to suit your preferences, and enjoy a wholesome dish that’s sure to impress!

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