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Quick Juicy Chimichurri Steak Recipe 20-Minute Easy Dinner

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A quick and easy chimichurri steak recipe that delivers juicy, tender steak with a bright, herby chimichurri sauce in under 20 minutes. Perfect for busy weeknights or entertaining guests.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 lb flank steak or skirt steak (choose a cut with good marbling for juiciness)
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper (to taste)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil (for searing)
  • 1 cup fresh parsley, packed (flat-leaf preferred for flavor)
  • ½ cup fresh cilantro, packed (optional)
  • 4 garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
  • ½ cup extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 tsp red pepper flakes
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce (10 minutes): In a food processor or mixing bowl, combine the parsley, cilantro (if using), minced garlic, red wine vinegar, red pepper flakes, salt, and pepper. Pulse or stir while slowly drizzling in the olive oil until you reach a slightly chunky but well-mixed sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. Set aside to let flavors meld.
  2. Season the Steak (5 minutes): Pat the flank steak dry with paper towels. Generously season both sides with salt and freshly ground black pepper.
  3. Heat the Pan: Place your cast iron skillet or heavy pan over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil and let it heat until shimmering but not smoking (about 2 minutes).
  4. Sear the Steak (5-7 minutes): Place the steak in the hot pan. Cook without moving for about 3-4 minutes for medium-rare, then flip and cook the other side for another 3-4 minutes. Adjust time for thicker cuts or preferred doneness. Use a meat thermometer if desired (130°F/54°C for medium-rare).
  5. Rest the Steak (5 minutes): Remove the steak from the pan and transfer to a cutting board. Tent loosely with foil and let rest to allow juices to redistribute.
  6. Slice and Serve: Slice the steak thinly against the grain. Spoon chimichurri sauce over the top or serve on the side for dipping. Enjoy immediately.

Notes

Dry the steak before seasoning to ensure a good sear. Rest the steak after cooking to keep it juicy. Make chimichurri sauce at least 10 minutes ahead for best flavor. Slice steak against the grain for tenderness. For thicker steaks, sear then finish in a 400°F oven for 5 minutes. Avoid overcrowding the pan.

Nutrition

Keywords: chimichurri steak, quick steak recipe, easy dinner, flank steak, skirt steak, chimichurri sauce, juicy steak, weeknight dinner, herby sauce