If you’re craving a meal that’s vibrant, fresh, and packed with bold flavors, this Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce will hit the spot. Perfectly charred and juicy chicken is drizzled with a zesty homemade chimichurri, served over greens and veggies, and paired with a creamy, tangy garlic sauce that adds just the right punch. It’s a colorful, nutritious bowl that’s both hearty and refreshing—ideal for a weeknight dinner or meal prep for busy days.

Every bite delivers a balance of smokiness from the grill, the herbaceous brightness of the chimichurri, and the creamy richness of the garlic sauce. Whether you’re trying to eat cleaner or just want to enjoy a beautifully layered bowl of goodness, this recipe is guaranteed to become a favorite in your rotation.

Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Before you dive into cooking, having the right tools will make all the difference in both flavor and ease:

Grill Pan or Outdoor Grill – This gives the chicken those iconic grill marks and a deep smoky flavor that elevates the dish.
Blender or Food Processor – Essential for blending the chimichurri and garlic sauce to a smooth consistency.
Sharp Chef’s Knife – Makes clean, even cuts through the grilled chicken and vegetables.

Mixing Bowls – Helpful for marinating the chicken and tossing other bowl components.
Cutting Board – Choose one for meat and another for veggies to prevent cross-contamination.
Meat Thermometer – Ensures the chicken is perfectly cooked and juicy at 165°F internal temperature.

With these tools on hand, you’ll breeze through the preparation and set yourself up for a beautiful, flavorful result.

Ingredients for the Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce

Let’s take a look at what makes this bowl so flavorful and balanced:

Chicken Breasts – Lean, protein-rich, and perfect for soaking up marinade and grill flavors.

Fresh Parsley & Cilantro – The bright, herbal foundation of the chimichurri, adding both freshness and color.
Garlic – Bold and aromatic, it plays a central role in both the chimichurri and the garlic sauce.
Red Wine Vinegar – Adds tang and balances the oil in the chimichurri.

Olive Oil – Brings everything together and helps infuse richness.
Red Pepper Flakes – For a slight kick that doesn’t overpower.
Greek Yogurt or Mayo – Creates the creamy base for the garlic sauce.

Lemon Juice – Adds brightness and acidity to the sauce.
Tomatoes & Red Onion – For a fresh, juicy contrast in the bowl.
Spinach or Mixed Greens – A nourishing bed that balances the dish with color and nutrients.

Each of these ingredients has a role in creating the bold contrast of flavors and textures that make this bowl special.

How To Make the Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, minced garlic, chopped parsley, chopped cilantro, red wine vinegar, salt, and red pepper flakes. Coat chicken breasts with this mixture and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably 2 hours.

Step 2: Prepare the Chimichurri

In a blender or food processor, blend together fresh parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, salt, and a pinch of red pepper flakes. Pulse until finely chopped but not pureed.

Step 3: Make the Garlic Sauce

Whisk together Greek yogurt (or mayo), minced garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and chopped parsley. Adjust salt and lemon to taste. Chill until ready to serve.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Heat a grill pan or outdoor grill over medium-high heat. Grill chicken for 5–7 minutes per side until internal temp reaches 165°F. Let it rest before slicing.

Step 5: Assemble the Bowl

In serving bowls, layer a base of spinach or mixed greens. Add chopped tomatoes and red onions. Top with sliced grilled chicken, drizzle with chimichurri, and serve the garlic sauce on the side or dolloped on top.

How to Serve and Store Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce

Serve the bowl warm or at room temperature. It’s best enjoyed fresh off the grill when the chicken is still juicy and warm, allowing the chimichurri to slightly melt into the meat. Pair it with a fresh squeeze of lemon and a generous spoonful of garlic sauce for the ultimate experience. It also works beautifully as a packed lunch or post-workout meal when stored cold.

For storing, keep components separate if possible: sliced chicken, garlic sauce, and veggies each in their own airtight containers in the fridge. This helps preserve texture and flavor. Consume within 3 to 4 days for best quality. The garlic sauce can last slightly longer—up to a week.

Frequently Asked Questions

What type of chicken works best for this bowl?

Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are ideal, but boneless thighs work too if you prefer a juicier, richer flavor.

Can I make the chimichurri and garlic sauce ahead of time?

Yes! Both sauces can be prepared up to 3 days ahead and stored in the fridge. This actually enhances the flavor.

Can I grill the chicken indoors?

Absolutely. A stovetop grill pan works great and still gives those beautiful grill marks.

What can I substitute for Greek yogurt in the garlic sauce?

You can use mayonnaise for a richer version or sour cream for a similar tangy effect.

Is this bowl meal prep friendly?

Definitely. Keep all elements in separate containers and assemble when ready to eat to maintain freshness.

How spicy is the chimichurri?

It’s mildly spicy. You can increase or reduce the red pepper flakes based on your preference.

Want More Chicken Bowl Ideas?

If you’re a fan of bold, satisfying chicken recipes like this one, here are some more delicious options to explore from Life With Olivia:

These recipes are full of flavor and perfect for any day of the week.

Save This Recipe for Later

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest meal prep or healthy bowls board so you can find it anytime: Follow Life With Olivia on Pinterest

And let me know how yours turned out in the comments! Did you try extra lemon? Did you grill indoors or out?

Your feedback is always welcome. Let’s help each other make every meal better.

Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce

Author: Olivia McKenney
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: 2 bowls

Print Recipe

Description

This Chimichurri Grilled Chicken Bowl with Garlic Sauce is a vibrant, flavor-packed meal that balances smoky grilled chicken, zesty chimichurri, and creamy garlic sauce on a bed of fresh greens and vegetables. Perfect for lunch, dinner, or meal prep, it’s fresh, nourishing, and satisfying every time.

Instructions

1. In a mixing bowl, combine olive oil, garlic, parsley, cilantro, red wine vinegar, salt, and red pepper flakes. Coat chicken and marinate for 30 minutes (up to 2 hours).

2. To make the chimichurri, blend parsley, cilantro, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, salt, and red pepper flakes until finely chopped.

3. For garlic sauce, whisk Greek yogurt or mayo with garlic, lemon juice, olive oil, and parsley. Chill until serving.

4. Grill the marinated chicken over medium-high heat for 5–7 minutes per side or until internal temperature hits 165°F. Let it rest, then slice.

5. In a bowl, add spinach or greens. Top with tomatoes, red onions, and sliced chicken. Drizzle chimichurri over and serve with garlic sauce.