Let’s talk about a recipe that’s guaranteed to satisfy your taste buds and bring some serious flavor to the table—Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri Sauce. Imagine tender, juicy skirt steak resting on a bed of fluffy rice, all topped with a vibrant, tangy chimichurri sauce that’ll have you swooning after the first bite. It’s a dish that’s simple yet packed with bold, punchy flavors, perfect for both busy weeknights or a laid-back weekend dinner. Trust me, you’re going to love this one!
Why You’ll Love Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri Sauce
This recipe is the definition of comfort food meets exciting, fresh flavors. Here’s why you’re going to keep coming back for more:
Versatile
Whether you’re making dinner for yourself or for a crowd, these steak bowls are perfect. The combination of juicy steak, fluffy rice, and zesty chimichurri is sure to please everyone. Plus, the bowls are customizable, so you can add extra veggies or toppings to suit your taste.
Budget-Friendly
Skirt steak is flavorful yet affordable compared to other cuts of beef. The chimichurri sauce is made from simple ingredients you likely already have in your kitchen, making this recipe a great choice when you’re looking to enjoy something delicious without breaking the bank.
Quick and Easy
This recipe comes together in under 30 minutes! From the sear of the steak to the fresh flavors of the chimichurri, it’s an easy, flavorful meal you can make any day of the week. No complicated steps here—just good food made simple.
Customizable
Not a fan of cilantro? No problem—swap it out for parsley in the chimichurri. Want more heat? Toss in some red pepper flakes or a spicy jalapeño. The best part is, you can tweak the recipe to match your cravings.
Crowd-Pleasing
Skirt Steak Rice Bowls are perfect for gatherings or a cozy night in. The steak is juicy, the rice is comforting, and the chimichurri packs a punch—everyone will be asking for the recipe.
Ingredients
Skirt Steak
The star of this dish! Skirt steak is super flavorful and tender when cooked just right. Slice it thin against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Rice
Fluffy white rice is the base of the bowl. You could also use brown rice, quinoa, or even cauliflower rice for a low-carb twist. The rice soaks up all the delicious chimichurri sauce—yum!
Chimichurri Sauce
This is where the magic happens. Fresh parsley, garlic, vinegar, olive oil, and a little kick of red pepper flakes create the perfect balance of tangy, garlicky, and spicy notes that elevate the steak and rice.
Olive Oil
You’ll need some olive oil to sear the steak to golden perfection and to mix with the chimichurri ingredients.
Garlic
A must-have in both the steak and the chimichurri sauce. Garlic adds that irresistible depth of flavor that’s just chef’s kiss.
Lime
Fresh lime juice brings a little zest to the chimichurri sauce, balancing out all the flavors with a tangy twist.
(Note: the full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.)
Nutrition Facts
Servings: 2
Calories per serving: ~550 kcal
Protein: 40g
Fat: 30g
Carbohydrates: 45g
Fiber: 4g
Sugar: 4g
Preparation Time
Prep Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 15 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Instructions
Step 1: Cook the Rice
Start by cooking your rice according to the package instructions. While it’s cooking, you can prep the steak and chimichurri sauce. Once the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and set it aside.
Step 2: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce
In a small bowl, combine fresh parsley, garlic, red pepper flakes, lime juice, vinegar, and olive oil. Stir everything together and season with salt and pepper to taste. If you like your chimichurri with a little more heat, feel free to add extra chili flakes. Set aside to let the flavors meld.
Step 3: Sear the Skirt Steak
Heat a drizzle of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season your skirt steak generously with salt and pepper. Sear the steak for about 3-4 minutes on each side for medium-rare, or adjust the time depending on your preferred level of doneness. Once cooked to your liking, remove the steak from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing against the grain.
Step 4: Assemble the Rice Bowls
To assemble, place a scoop of rice into each bowl. Top with slices of skirt steak, and drizzle generously with chimichurri sauce. Add any optional toppings like avocado, grilled veggies, or a sprinkle of extra cilantro for that finishing touch.
Step 5: Serve and Enjoy!
Serve your rice bowls warm, with the chimichurri sauce on the side for extra zing. Get ready for a flavorful experience that’s sure to impress!
How to Serve Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri Sauce
These rice bowls are a meal all on their own, but here are a few ways to make it even more special:
Grilled Vegetables
Serve with some grilled veggies, like bell peppers, zucchini, or onions, to add even more flavor and color to the bowl.
Avocado Slices
Top with creamy avocado for a buttery contrast to the tangy chimichurri sauce.
Fresh Salad
Pair it with a light salad of mixed greens and a simple vinaigrette to balance out the richness of the steak and rice.
Tortillas
If you want to go the extra mile, serve this as a burrito bowl and add some warm tortillas on the side for wrapping up the steak and rice. Yum!
Additional Tips
- Prep Ahead: You can make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time and store it in the fridge for up to a week. The flavors only get better as they sit.
- Spice It Up: Want more spice? Add a diced jalapeño to the chimichurri sauce for an extra kick.
- Storage: Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat the steak and rice in the microwave or on the stovetop for the best results.
- Double the Batch: Make extra chimichurri sauce and rice for an easy lunch the next day. The steak reheats beautifully too!
FAQ Section
Q1: Can I substitute skirt steak with another cut of beef?
A1: Absolutely! Flank steak or hanger steak would work just as well. Just make sure to slice it thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
Q2: Can I make this dish ahead of time?
A2: You can prep the chimichurri sauce and cook the rice in advance. The steak is best cooked fresh, but you can also slice and store the steak in the fridge for a quick meal later.
Q3: How do I store leftovers?
A3: Store the steak and rice separately in airtight containers in the fridge for up to 3 days. The chimichurri sauce can be kept in the fridge for up to a week.
Q4: Can I freeze this dish?
A4: You can freeze the steak and rice separately. Just store them in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. When ready to eat, reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Q5: What’s the best way to reheat the steak?
A5: To keep the steak juicy, reheat it on the stovetop with a little olive oil or butter. Don’t overcook it, or it may become tough.
Q6: Can I double the recipe?
A6: Definitely! This recipe scales up easily. Just be sure to have a larger skillet for searing the steak and enough rice to go around.
Q7: Is this recipe suitable for a gluten-free diet?
A7: Yes, it’s naturally gluten-free. Just be sure your chimichurri vinegar is gluten-free if you’re sensitive.
Q8: What sides go well with this dish?
A8: Roasted vegetables, a side salad, or even crispy fried plantains would be great accompaniments to these rice bowls.
Q9: How can I make this dish healthier?
A9: You can use cauliflower rice instead of white rice for a lower-carb option, or add more veggies for extra nutrients.
Q10: What’s the best cookware to use for this recipe?
A10: A cast-iron skillet is perfect for searing the skirt steak, as it gives a beautiful crust and retains heat well.
Conclusion
Skirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri Sauce are a meal that’s both satisfying and bursting with flavor. From the tender, juicy steak to the zesty, garlicky chimichurri sauce, each bite is a little piece of heaven. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a group, this recipe is a winner every time. So go ahead, try it out, and get ready to fall in love with this delicious dish!
PrintSkirt Steak Rice Bowls with Chimichurri Sauce Recipe
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
A flavorful and vibrant dish featuring tender skirt steak, perfectly cooked rice, and a zesty chimichurri sauce. This bowl combines smoky, savory steak with fresh, tangy herbs for a satisfying meal.
Ingredients
For the Skirt Steak:
- 1 lb skirt steak
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
For the Rice:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups water or broth (for extra flavor)
- Salt, to taste
For the Chimichurri Sauce:
- 1 cup fresh parsley, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp fresh oregano, chopped (or 1 tsp dried oregano)
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/2 cup olive oil
- 1 tsp red pepper flakes (adjust for heat preference)
- Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions
- Cook the Rice:
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a saucepan, bring the water (or broth) to a boil. Add the rice and a pinch of salt, then reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 18–20 minutes until the rice is tender and the water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. - Prepare the Skirt Steak:
Pat the skirt steak dry with paper towels. Season both sides generously with salt, pepper, smoked paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder.
Heat a cast-iron skillet or grill pan over medium-high heat. Add the olive oil, then cook the skirt steak for 3–4 minutes per side, or until it reaches your desired level of doneness (medium-rare is recommended). Let the steak rest for 5 minutes before slicing it thinly against the grain. - Make the Chimichurri Sauce:
In a bowl, combine the chopped parsley, minced garlic, oregano, red wine vinegar, olive oil, and red pepper flakes. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Stir well and set aside for the flavors to meld. - Assemble the Rice Bowls:
Divide the cooked rice between bowls. Top with the sliced skirt steak, then drizzle with chimichurri sauce. You can garnish with extra fresh parsley or a squeeze of lime if desired. - Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the rice bowls immediately, and enjoy this delicious, fresh, and flavorful meal!
Notes
- You can use brown rice or cauliflower rice for a different variation.
- For extra flavor, marinate the skirt steak in some chimichurri sauce for 30 minutes before cooking.
- Chimichurri sauce can be made ahead of time and stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Latin, Argentine
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 bowl (steak + rice + chimichurri sauce)
- Calories: 450 kcal
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 24g
- Saturated Fat: 4g
- Unsaturated Fat: 19g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 38g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 27g
- Cholesterol: 55mg