This sheet-pan chimichurri chicken recipe combines tender, juicy chicken with a fresh, garlicky herb sauce for a flavorful meal that is easy to prepare.
Made with three pounds of chicken tenders, fresh parsley, oregano, jalapeño, lemon juice, and olive oil, this dish is baked in the oven until perfectly cooked and served with an extra spoonful of vibrant chimichurri.
With just 20 minutes of preparation and approximately 20 minutes of cooking, this recipe makes 10 servings in about 40 minutes.
Each portion contains approximately 253 calories and 32 grams of protein, making it a practical option for family dinners, weekly meal preparation, or feeding a crowd.
Recipe Overview
- Preparation Time: 20 minutes
- Cooking Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Servings: 10
- Oven Temperature: 375°F (190°C)
- Chicken: 3 pounds of chicken tenders
- Cooking Method: Sheet-pan baking
Ingredients for Chimichurri Chicken
The ingredients are divided into two groups: the fresh chimichurri sauce and the seasoned chicken. Use fresh herbs and good-quality olive oil to achieve the best flavor.
For the Chimichurri Sauce
- 1 cup packed fresh parsley leaves
- 2 tablespoons fresh oregano leaves
- 1 tablespoon minced garlic
- ½ cup chopped green onion, including the green tops
- 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded, membranes removed, and diced
- 2 tablespoons white wine vinegar
- 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
- ½ cup olive oil
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For the Chicken
- 3 pounds fresh chicken tenders
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- 1½ teaspoons smoked paprika
- Half of the prepared chimichurri sauce
Essential Kitchen Equipment
Gather the necessary tools before starting to make the preparation process easier.
- Food processor: Chops the herbs, garlic, green onion, and jalapeño.
- Small mixing bowl: Holds the chopped herb mixture while you incorporate the liquids.
- 12 × 18-inch sheet pan: Provides enough room to arrange the chicken in a single layer.
- Parchment paper or aluminum foil: Lines the pan to simplify cleanup.
- Instant-read thermometer: Checks the chicken’s internal temperature for safe doneness.
- Measuring cups and spoons: Help ensure accurate ingredient quantities.
How to Make Chimichurri Chicken
Step 1: Prepare the Fresh Chimichurri Sauce
Start by washing and drying the parsley and oregano. Remove any tough stems and prepare the garlic, green onion, and jalapeño.
Place the parsley, oregano, minced garlic, chopped green onion, and diced jalapeño into a food processor. Pulse several times until the ingredients are finely chopped but still retain some texture.
Avoid blending the mixture into a smooth puree, as a slightly coarse consistency gives the sauce its characteristic appearance.
Transfer the chopped herbs and vegetables to a small mixing bowl. Add the white wine vinegar, fresh lemon juice, and olive oil. Stir thoroughly until the ingredients are evenly combined.
Season the sauce with salt and freshly ground black pepper according to your preference. Divide it into two equal portions. One half will coat the chicken before baking, while the remaining portion will be refrigerated and served fresh.
Step 2: Prepare the Oven and Chicken
Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12 × 18-inch sheet pan with parchment paper or aluminum foil to prevent sticking and make cleanup easier.
Pat the chicken tenders dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture. Arrange them in a single layer on the prepared pan, leaving a little space between the pieces so they cook evenly.
Sprinkle the chicken with salt, black pepper, and smoked paprika. Turn the tenders as needed to distribute the seasonings across their surfaces.
Step 3: Coat the Chicken with Chimichurri
Spoon half of the prepared chimichurri sauce over the seasoned chicken tenders. Use a spoon or clean brush to spread the sauce evenly, making sure the pieces are coated.
Cover the remaining sauce and place it in the refrigerator. Keep this reserved portion separate from the raw chicken and its utensils so it can be safely served as a fresh topping.
Step 4: Bake Until Fully Cooked
Place the sheet pan in the preheated oven and bake the chicken for approximately 18 minutes. Cooking time may vary depending on the thickness of the tenders and the accuracy of your oven temperature.
Check the largest piece using an instant-read thermometer. Insert the probe into the thickest part without touching the pan. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) before it is removed from the oven.
If the tenders have not reached the required temperature, continue baking and check again after a short interval. Avoid relying on color or clear juices alone to determine doneness.
Step 5: Finish and Serve
Once the chicken is cooked through, remove the pan from the oven and let the tenders rest briefly. Transfer them to a serving platter or serve directly from the sheet pan.
Retrieve the reserved chimichurri from the refrigerator and spoon it over the warm chicken just before serving. The fresh sauce adds a tangy, herbal finish that complements the smoky seasoning and tender meat.
Tips for Making the Best Chimichurri Chicken
- Use fresh herbs: Fresh parsley and oregano provide the distinctive flavor and texture of chimichurri. Wash and dry them thoroughly before chopping.
- Avoid overprocessing: Pulse the sauce ingredients rather than blending continuously. A slightly chunky texture helps preserve the character of the fresh herbs.
- Adjust the heat: Remove the jalapeño seeds and membranes for a milder sauce. For more heat, retain some of the seeds or add a little more jalapeño.
- Arrange chicken evenly: Keep the tenders in a single layer to encourage consistent cooking. Avoid overcrowding the sheet pan.
- Reserve clean sauce: Set aside the serving portion before it comes into contact with raw chicken. This keeps the fresh topping separate and safe to eat.
- Check the temperature: Use an instant-read thermometer to verify that the thickest part of each large piece reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Don’t overcook: Chicken tenders are relatively thin and can dry out if baked too long. Begin checking for doneness around the estimated cooking time.
What to Serve with Chimichurri Chicken
The bright, tangy herb sauce pairs well with a variety of simple sides. Choose dishes that complement the garlic, lemon, and oregano without overpowering the chicken.
Mexican Rice
Serve the chicken with a generous portion of warm Mexican rice. The fluffy rice absorbs the juices and extra chimichurri, creating a satisfying base for the meal.
Warm Black Beans
Black beans make a hearty side dish that complements the chicken’s lean protein. Season them with a little garlic, cumin, or lime juice for a flavorful addition.
Fresh Green Salad
A simple salad made with leafy greens, cucumber, and tomatoes provides a crisp contrast to the warm chicken. A light lemon dressing works particularly well with the fresh herbs in the chimichurri.
Roasted Vegetables
Roasted zucchini, bell peppers, broccoli, or carrots make an easy side. Their natural sweetness balances the tanginess of the sauce while adding variety to the plate.
Nutrition Facts per Serving
The following estimated nutritional values are based on 10 equal servings.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving | % Daily Value |
|---|---|---|
| Calories | 253 | — |
| Total Fat | 13g | 16% |
| Saturated Fat | 2g | 10% |
| Cholesterol | 79mg | 26% |
| Sodium | 94mg | 4% |
| Potassium | 415mg | 9% |
| Total Carbohydrate | 2g | 1% |
| Dietary Fiber | 1g | 2% |
| Protein | 32g | 64% |
Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000-calorie diet. Actual nutritional values may vary depending on ingredient brands, portion sizes, and preparation methods.
Final Thoughts
This chimichurri chicken recipe is a practical way to prepare a fresh, herb-filled dinner with minimal effort.
The combination of juicy baked chicken, smoky paprika, and tangy green sauce creates a versatile meal that works for both everyday family dinners and meal preparation.
Serve it with rice, black beans, or a fresh salad for a balanced plate. By preparing the sauce ahead of time and storing leftovers properly, you can enjoy the same bright flavors on busy days without starting from scratch.
