This easy Chimichurri Sauce is bright and zesty, making it the perfect flavorful addition to grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even a simple sandwich! Made with fresh parsley, thyme, red chili, and a few pantry staples! Comes together in under 10 minutes!

chimichurri sauce in a white bowl with a gold spoon.

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    Kelley Simmons Kelley’s Tips

    Before You Get Started

    • Adjust the spice level. Red chili peppers can vary in heat. Start with a small one, and add more if you like it to be spicier.
    • Don’t over-blend the sauce. Pulse the ingredients until they are just combined. You want a slightly chunky texture, not a smooth puree.
    • Let it rest. For the best flavor, let the chimichurri sit for at least 30 minutes or even longer before using. It gives the flavors time to meld, making the sauce even tastier!
    Kelley
    Ingredients for chimichurri sauce placed on a white surface.

    Ingredients

    • Garlic – Adds a bold, savory kick to the chimichurri. It’s strong in this sauce, so a little goes a long way!
    • Red chili pepper – Brings a little heat and a pretty pop of color. You can adjust the amount used depending on how spicy you like it.
    • Parsley – The base ingredient in chimichurri! It gives the sauce its vibrant green color and fresh flavor.
    • Fresh oregano – Adds an earthy, slightly bitter flavor. I recommend using fresh oregano as it gives the sauce a more robust flavor than dried does. If you don’t have fresh oregano you can add more parsley or substitute another fresh herb like green onion, cilantro or basil.
    • Red wine vinegar – Gives the chimichurri its signature tang. You could use lemon juice instead however red wine vinegar is more traditional.
    • Olive oil – Turns the chimichurri into a silky, spoonable sauce, perfect for drizzling over Skirt Steak or Chicken Thighs. Use a good-quality extra virgin olive oil for the best flavor.

    How to Make Chimichurri Sauce

    1. Pulse: Add all of the ingredients to a food processor and pulse to combine.
    Ingredients for chimichurri sauce in a food processor.
    1. Give it a taste and add any additional salt and pepper to taste.This sauce keeps really well! The longer it sits the more the flavors develop.
    Chimichurri sauce blended in a food processor.

    What to Serve with Chimichurri

    • Grilled steak – The classic pairing! Spoon it over sliced Skirt Steak, ribeye, or flank steak.
    • Chicken or pork – Drizzle it over grilled or roasted chicken thighs to make Chimichurri chicken or pork chops.
    • Roasted vegetables – Try it on Roasted Sweet Potatoes or Roasted Cauliflower.
    • Fish – Chimichurri is especially good with grilled white fish like cod, halibut, or tilapia.
    • Sandwiches and wraps – Use it as a spread to add flavor to a sandwich or veggie wrap.
    • Grain bowls – Mix it into rice, quinoa, or couscous bowls with your favorite protein and veggies, like this Savory Quinoa Breakfast Bowl.
    • Dipping sauce – Serve it as a dip for crusty bread, empanadas, or even Homemade French Fries.

    Frequently Asked Questions

    Can I make chimichurri without a food processor?

    Yes! You can finely chop all the ingredients by hand and stir them together in a bowl. It takes a bit more time and effort, but it still works! You could also use a mortar and pestle to grind up the sauce.

    How long does chimichurri last in the fridge?

    Chimichurri will keep for up to 5 days in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The flavor actually gets better the longer it sits!

    Can I freeze chimichurri sauce?

    Yes! Freeze it in an ice cube tray, then transfer to a freezer bag. Just thaw a cube or two when you need a quick flavor boost.

    Can I use dried herbs instead of fresh?

    Fresh herbs give the best flavor, but if needed, you can substitute 1 tablespoon dried oregano. Parsley needs to be fresh for the best color and texture; dried doesn’t work well in this recipe.

    Chimichurri sauce spooned over chicken thighs.

    More Easy Sauces to Try

    Recipe

    Chimichurri Sauce

    This easy Chimichurri Sauce is bright and zesty, making it the perfect flavorful addition to grilled meats, roasted veggies, or even a simple sandwich! Made with fresh parsley, red chili, and a few pantry staples, it comes together in just minutes in your food processor. And the flavors get better the longer it sits, so it can easily be made ahead of time!
    Author: Kelley Simmons
    Prep Time: 10 minutes
    Total Time: 10 minutes
    Serves 6 servings
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    Save this Recipe

    Enter your email to get it straight in your inbox! Plus, receive new recipes weekly!

      Ingredients 

      Instructions

      • Add all of the ingredients to a food processor and pulse to combine.
      • Give it a taste and add any additional salt and pepper to taste.
        This sauce keeps really well! The longer it sits the more the flavors develop.

      Nutrition Information

      Calories: 176kcalCarbohydrates: 4gProtein: 1gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 3gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 13gSodium: 202mgPotassium: 120mgFiber: 2gSugar: 1gVitamin A: 957IUVitamin C: 25mgCalcium: 58mgIron: 2mg

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