A good chimichurri recipe is one of the easiest ways to add fresh, bold flavour to everyday meals. Made with herbs, garlic, vinegar and oil, chimichurri is bright, savoury and incredibly versatile. It is traditionally associated with Argentinian cooking, especially grilled meats, but it also works beautifully with chicken, fish, vegetables, potatoes, sandwiches and more.

The best part is that you do not need complicated ingredients or special cooking skills. With a few fresh ingredients and a little chopping, you can make a delicious homemade chimichurri in minutes.

What Is Chimichurri?

Chimichurri is a fresh herb sauce commonly linked with Argentina and other parts of South America.

A traditional chimichurri recipe usually includes parsley, garlic, oregano, vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper. Some versions also include chilli or red pepper flakes for a little heat.

Unlike creamy sauces, chimichurri is light, fresh and full of herbal flavour. It is normally chopped rather than blended completely smooth, which gives it a slightly coarse texture.

Ingredients for a Classic Chimichurri Recipe

For a simple homemade version, you will need:

• 1 bunch fresh flat-leaf parsley

• 2 to 3 garlic cloves

• 1 teaspoon dried oregano

• 3 tablespoons red wine vinegar

• 6 tablespoons olive oil

• salt to taste

• freshly ground black pepper

• optional chilli flakes or fresh red chilli

• optional squeeze of lemon juice

These ingredients create a balanced sauce with freshness, acidity and plenty of flavour.

How to Make Chimichurri

Making chimichurri is straightforward.

Step 1: Prepare the Herbs

Wash the parsley thoroughly and dry it well.

Remove any thick stems and finely chop the leaves.

Step 2: Chop the Garlic

Peel the garlic cloves and chop them finely.

If you are using fresh chilli, chop that as well.

Step 3: Combine the Ingredients

Place the parsley, garlic, oregano, chilli, salt and black pepper into a bowl.

Add the red wine vinegar and mix well.

Step 4: Add the Olive Oil

Pour in the olive oil and stir until everything is evenly combined.

Step 5: Let the Sauce Rest

Allow the chimichurri to sit for around 20 to 30 minutes before serving.

This gives the herbs, garlic and vinegar time to blend together and develop a fuller flavour.

What Should Chimichurri Taste Like?

A well-balanced chimichurri recipe should taste fresh, herby and slightly tangy.

The parsley provides the fresh green flavour, garlic adds depth, vinegar brings acidity and olive oil helps everything come together.

If chilli is included, there should be a little heat, but it should not overpower the herbs.

The key is balance. The sauce should not taste too oily, too sour or too spicy.

Should Chimichurri Be Blended?

Traditionally, chimichurri is finely chopped rather than completely blended.

This gives the sauce a slightly rustic texture and keeps the herbs visible.

You can use a food processor, but it is better to pulse the ingredients briefly rather than blend them into a smooth paste.

That way, the sauce keeps the texture most people associate with classic chimichurri.

What Can You Serve with Chimichurri?

One of the best things about chimichurri is how many foods it works with.

You can serve it with:

• steak

• grilled beef

• chicken

• fish

• prawns

• roasted vegetables

• grilled vegetables

• potatoes

• burgers

• sandwiches

• wraps

• bread

A simple chimichurri recipe can quickly become one of the most useful sauces in your kitchen.

Chimichurri with Steak

Steak and chimichurri are a classic combination.

The fresh herbs and vinegar cut through the richness of the beef, while garlic and seasoning add extra flavour.

You can spoon the sauce directly over the steak or serve it on the side.

It works especially well with ribeye, rump steak, sirloin and fillet.

Chimichurri with Chicken

Chimichurri is also excellent with chicken.

You can use it after cooking as a finishing sauce or use it before cooking as a marinade.

It pairs well with grilled chicken breasts, thighs, skewers and chicken burgers.

The sauce helps bring freshness to milder meats without making them feel heavy.

Chimichurri with Vegetables

You do not need meat to enjoy chimichurri.

It works especially well with:

• courgette

• peppers

• aubergine

• mushrooms

• broccoli

• sweet potatoes

• corn

• roasted potatoes

Drizzle the sauce over grilled or roasted vegetables just before serving for extra flavour.

Can You Use Chimichurri as a Marinade?

Yes. Chimichurri makes an excellent marinade.

You can coat meat, fish or vegetables in the sauce and allow them to rest before cooking.

For the best result, keep some fresh chimichurri separate so you can add it after cooking as well.

This gives you both cooked-in flavour and a fresh herbal finish.

Easy Variations of a Chimichurri Recipe

There are many ways to customise your chimichurri.

Spicy Chimichurri

Add more fresh chilli or chilli flakes.

Smoky Chimichurri

Add a small amount of smoked paprika.

Citrusy Chimichurri

Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice.

Chimichurri with Coriander

Replace part of the parsley with fresh coriander for a different herbal flavour.

How to Store Homemade Chimichurri

Fresh chimichurri should be stored in a clean, airtight container in the refrigerator.

Because it contains fresh herbs and garlic, it is best used while fresh.

Always use a clean spoon when serving.

Before using it again, give the sauce a good stir and let it sit at room temperature for a few minutes if the oil has thickened in the fridge.

Make Chimichurri Part of Everyday Meals

Chimichurri is not just for special barbecues.

You can use it during the week with:

• sandwiches

• wraps

• rice bowls

• eggs

• grilled cheese

• roasted potatoes

• salads

• leftovers

A spoonful can make a simple meal taste much more interesting.

Discover Chimmy’s Chimichurri

If you enjoy the flavour of a homemade chimichurri recipe but do not always have time to prepare fresh herbs, ready-made chimichurri can be a convenient option.

Chimmy’s offers versatile chimichurri sauces that can be used for grilling, dipping, marinating and everyday meals.

Try Chimmy’s Chimichurri

Explore Chimmy’s chimichurri range and find a sauce for steak, chicken, vegetables, BBQ dishes, marinades and dips.

Frequently Asked Questions About Chimichurri Recipe

What is a traditional chimichurri recipe made from?

A traditional chimichurri usually includes parsley, garlic, oregano, vinegar, olive oil, salt and pepper.

Can I make chimichurri without chilli?

Yes. Chilli is optional and can be left out for a milder sauce.

What vinegar is best for chimichurri?

Red wine vinegar is commonly used because it adds a sharp, balanced acidity.

Can chimichurri be used as a marinade?

Yes. It works very well as a marinade for meat, fish and vegetables.

Does chimichurri need to be cooked?

No. Chimichurri is normally served fresh and does not need cooking.

What food goes best with chimichurri?

It pairs especially well with steak, chicken, grilled vegetables, potatoes, fish and BBQ dishes.