Imagine a dinner that transports you straight to the vibrant streets of Argentina with just one bite - without the stress of complicated cooking! This Chimichurri Chicken Freezer Meal is your secret weapon for a mouthwatering, restaurant-quality dish that can be prepared in advance and ready in under 45 minutes. Whether you're a busy professional, a meal-prep enthusiast, or simply someone who craves bold, fresh flavors, this recipe is about to become your new culinary obsession.
Prep Time: 15 mins
Cook Time: 30 mins
Total Time: 45 mins
Cuisine: Argentinian
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/2 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/4 cup olive oil
- 2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon red pepper flakes
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Begin by gathering all your ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs, 1/2 cup of fresh parsley, 1/4 cup of olive oil, 2 tablespoons of red wine vinegar, 2 cloves of garlic, 1 teaspoon of red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper.
- In a medium bowl, prepare the chimichurri sauce by combining the chopped fresh parsley, olive oil, red wine vinegar, minced garlic, red pepper flakes, and a pinch of salt and pepper. Mix well until all ingredients are thoroughly combined.
- Place the chicken thighs in a large resealable freezer bag or a suitable freezer-safe container. Pour the chimichurri sauce over the chicken, ensuring that each piece is well coated.
- Seal the bag or container tightly, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. Label the bag or container with the date and the contents for easy identification later.
- Store the chicken in the freezer for up to 3 months. When ready to cook, remove the chicken from the freezer and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight.
- Once thawed, preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Transfer the chicken thighs and chimichurri sauce to a baking dish.
- Bake the chicken in the preheated oven for about 30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
- Remove the chicken from the oven and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. This allows the juices to redistribute, ensuring moist and flavorful chicken.
- Serve the chimichurri chicken with your choice of sides, such as rice, roasted vegetables, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your Argentinian-inspired meal!
Tips
- For maximum flavor, marinate the chicken in the chimichurri sauce for at least 4-6 hours before freezing to allow the herbs and spices to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Use fresh parsley for the most vibrant chimichurri sauce - dried herbs simply can't compare to the bright, fresh taste of freshly chopped parsley.
- When freezing, consider using a vacuum sealer if possible to prevent freezer burn and maintain the sauce's quality.
- Always check the internal temperature of the chicken with a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- For a more intense flavor, you can briefly broil the chicken for 2-3 minutes after baking to create a slightly crispy exterior.
Nutrition Facts
Calories: 250kcal
Carbohydrates: 1g
Protein: 25g
Fat: 17g
Saturated Fat: 4g
Cholesterol: 120mg
