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This chimichurri steak skewer recipe transforms simple ingredients into a flavor explosion that's perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend entertaining. The vibrant green chimichurri sauce adds a burst of freshness to juicy steak pieces, creating a restaurant-quality dish with minimal effort.
I first created these skewers when hosting an impromptu summer gathering with friends. The combination was such a hit that it's become my signature dish whenever anyone asks for something impressive but easy to prepare.
Ingredients
- Fresh herbs: parsley, oregano, basil, cilantro, and thyme create the backbone of authentic chimichurri flavor
- Extra virgin olive oil: provides the perfect rich base for the herbs to infuse
- Red wine vinegar: adds brightness and helps tenderize the meat
- Shallot and jalapeño: bring subtle complexity and gentle heat
- Quality steak: preferably top sirloin or ribeye ensures tender juicy bites
- Wooden skewers: make for easy handling and beautiful presentation
How To Make Chimichurri Steak Skewers
- Prepare the chimichurri:
- Combine all sauce ingredients in a large bowl stirring thoroughly to integrate the herbs and oil. Allow the mixture to rest at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. This resting period is crucial as it allows the flavors to meld and intensify creating a more complex sauce.
- Prep the skewers:
- Soak wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. This step ensures your skewers remain intact during cooking and won't char or catch fire in the high heat of the air fryer.
- Season and marinate:
- Season steak cubes generously with salt and pepper before tossing with about a quarter cup of the chimichurri sauce. The acid in the sauce begins tenderizing the meat while the herbs and oil infuse flavor into every piece.
- Thread the skewers:
- Carefully thread seasoned steak pieces onto soaked skewers leaving small spaces between each piece. These spaces allow hot air to circulate around the meat resulting in even cooking and better browning on all sides.
- Air fry to perfection:
- Preheat your air fryer to 400°F before arranging skewers in a single layer. Cook for 4 to 6 minutes turning halfway through until the steak reaches your preferred doneness. The high heat quickly sears the outside while keeping the inside tender and juicy.
- Finish with fresh sauce:
- Immediately brush cooked skewers with additional chimichurri sauce while still hot. This fresh application of sauce creates a flavor contrast with the cooked marinade providing bright herbal notes against the rich meat.
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The fresh herbs in this chimichurri are what make it truly special. I grow most of them in my kitchen window garden which means I can make this sauce year round regardless of season. My husband claims he would happily drink the chimichurri with a straw if I would let him!
Make Ahead Options
The chimichurri sauce actually improves with time as the flavors continue to develop. Make it up to 3 days in advance and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator. The oil may solidify slightly when cold but will quickly return to normal consistency when brought to room temperature. For maximum convenience you can even prepare the steak cubes and store them separately until ready to marinate and cook.
Cooking Alternatives
While the air fryer produces excellent results you can easily adapt this recipe for other cooking methods. For traditional grilling preheat your grill to medium high heat and cook skewers for 2 to 3 minutes per side for medium rare. If using a cast iron skillet heat it until smoking before adding the skewers cooking for about 90 seconds per side for a beautiful sear. Broiling is another great option place skewers on a sheet pan under a preheated broiler for 3 to 4 minutes per side.
Serving Suggestions
These chimichurri steak skewers pair beautifully with simple sides that complement without competing. Serve alongside fluffy white rice that will absorb extra chimichurri sauce or crusty bread for dipping. For a complete meal add a simple green salad with lemon vinaigrette or grilled vegetables like zucchini bell peppers and red onions. When entertaining consider serving these as passed appetizers at your next gathering removing the steak pieces from skewers and providing toothpicks for easy eating.
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Cultural Context
Chimichurri sauce originates from Argentina and Uruguay where it traditionally accompanies grilled meats at asados Argentine barbecues. Its bright herbaceous flavor provides the perfect counterpoint to rich smoke flavored meats. This recipe honors that tradition while adapting it for modern quick cooking methods. The combination of herbs varies by region and family recipe but the core elements of parsley garlic oil and vinegar remain consistent throughout South America.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → How can I prevent wooden skewers from burning?
Soak the wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes before using them. This helps prevent burning during cooking.
- → What is the best cut of steak for skewers?
Top sirloin and ribeye are excellent options for skewers. These cuts are tender, flavorful, and cook beautifully on skewers.
- → Can I prepare the chimichurri sauce in advance?
Yes, you can make the chimichurri sauce up to a week in advance. Store it in a sealed container in the fridge, and stir well before using.
- → What is the ideal cooking time for steak skewers in an air fryer?
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F and cook the skewers for 4-6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until they reach your desired doneness.
- → How can I ensure tender and juicy steak cubes?
Season the steak cubes generously, marinate briefly with some chimichurri sauce, and avoid overcooking to keep them tender and juicy.