If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavor-packed dish that’s both simple and impressive, the Chimichurri Steak Skewers Recipe is an absolute winner. Juicy cubes of seasoned steak get the royal treatment, marinating in a fresh, zesty chimichurri sauce bursting with herbs and just the right kick of spice. Whether you’re firing up the air fryer for a quick meal or entertaining friends, these skewers offer a marvelous combination of tender meat and punchy, herbaceous sauce that will have everyone asking for seconds.

Chimichurri Steak Skewers Recipe - Recipe Image

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple yet essential, each adding a unique touch that builds together to create the unmistakable taste, texture, and inviting color of this dish. Fresh herbs bring brightness, the olive oil smoothness, and the jalapeño just enough heat to keep things exciting.

Extra virgin olive oil (½ cup, 107 g): The rich base that melds all chimichurri flavors beautifully.
Red wine vinegar (¼ cup, 60 g): Adds a sharp tang that balances the oil and herbs perfectly.
Shallot (½ medium, finely diced): Offers a mild, sweet onion flavor to deepen the sauce’s complexity.
Jalapeño (1 small, seeded and finely diced): Brings a gentle heat that awakens the palate.
Fresh parsley (½ cup, minced): Brightens the sauce with its clean, peppery notes.
Garlic (1 teaspoon, minced): Provides that punchy aromatic essential to chimichurri.
Fresh oregano (1 ½ teaspoons, minced): Offers earthiness that complements the steak wonderfully.
Fresh basil (1 teaspoon, minced): Adds a subtle sweetness and peppery aroma.
Fresh cilantro (1 teaspoon, minced): Infuses a fresh, citrusy undertone.
Fresh thyme (½ teaspoon, minced): Imparts gentle floral earthiness.
Kosher salt (¼ teaspoon and 1 teaspoon): Essential for seasoning both the sauce and the steak itself.
Red pepper flakes (1 pinch): Introduces a smoky heat layer that enlivens the sauce.
Wooden skewers (soaked for 30 minutes): Prevents burning and makes grilling easy and safe.
Steak (1 pound, cut into 1-inch cubes): Choose top sirloin or ribeye for tender, flavorful meat perfect for skewers.
Black pepper (½ teaspoon): Adds subtle pungency to the steak.
Chimichurri sauce (1 cup, divided): The star marinade and finishing sauce that ties everything together.

How to Make Chimichurri Steak Skewers Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Chimichurri Sauce

Begin by combining olive oil, red wine vinegar, diced shallot, jalapeño, minced parsley, garlic, oregano, basil, cilantro, thyme, kosher salt, and red pepper flakes in a large bowl. Stir everything thoroughly and let this vibrant mixture rest at room temperature for 1 to 2 hours. This rest period is crucial because it allows all the fresh herb, spice, and acid notes to harmonize beautifully. If you’ve got leftovers, keep it sealed in the refrigerator for up to a week, just be sure to stir before using as the ingredients may separate.

Step 2: Soak the Skewers

While the sauce rests, submerge your wooden skewers in water for at least 30 minutes. This simple step prevents the skewers from catching fire while cooking and keeps your meat nicely centered on each skewer.

Step 3: Season and Marinate the Steak

Dry your steak cubes gently with paper towels to ensure a nice sear, then sprinkle with kosher salt and black pepper. Toss the cubes with ¼ cup of your freshly made chimichurri sauce, making sure each piece is evenly coated. This light marinating step only takes moments and gears up the meat for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Thread the Skewers

Next, take the soaked skewers and carefully thread the seasoned steak cubes onto them. Don’t crowd the pieces; leave a little bit of space between each cube so that they cook uniformly and develop that perfect caramelized crust.

Step 5: Cook the Skewers

Preheat your air fryer to 400 degrees Fahrenheit (200 degrees Celsius). Lay the skewers in a single layer inside the basket—work in batches if you need to keep everything evenly spaced. Air fry for 4 to 6 minutes, flipping halfway through, until the steak has that gorgeous browned finish and your desired doneness. The quick, high heat seals in juices while giving you that grill-like experience at home.

Step 6: Finish and Serve

Once cooked, immediately brush the warm skewers with some of the reserved chimichurri sauce. This final touch elevates every bite with fresh brightness. Serve the remaining chimichurri on the side for dipping, making each skewer as saucy as you like. It’s pure deliciousness.

How to Serve Chimichurri Steak Skewers Recipe

Garnishes

Freshness is everything here. Sprinkle chopped parsley or cilantro over the skewers just before serving to amplify their bright, herbal aroma. A wedge of lime on the side can add an extra zesty pop that wakes up all the flavors.

Side Dishes

Chimichurri Steak Skewers pair wonderfully with light, vibrant sides. Think buttery grilled corn, a simple quinoa salad dressed with lemon, or even crispy roasted potatoes. A fresh green salad with a citrus dressing is also a great way to balance out the richness of the meat and sauce.

Creative Ways to Present

Feeling festive? Serve the skewers over a bed of fluffy rice or grilled veggies for a colorful, inviting platter. You could also slide the steak off the skewers into warm pita bread with some extra chimichurri for a fun taco-style treat that’s perfect for casual gatherings.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover chimichurri steak skewers keep well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. To keep the steak from drying out, drizzle a bit of reserved chimichurri over the pieces before sealing the container.

Freezing

While these skewers are best enjoyed fresh, you can freeze cooked steak cubes separately (without the skewers). Place them in a freezer-safe container and they’ll hold their flavor for up to two months. Reheat gently to avoid overcooking.

Reheating

To reheat, use a quick warm-up in the air fryer or a skillet over medium heat just until warmed through. Brush with extra chimichurri sauce to restore that fresh, zesty character and avoid drying out the steak.

FAQs

Can I make the chimichurri sauce ahead of time?

Absolutely! Making the chimichurri sauce ahead is even better because it gives the flavors time to meld. Store it in the fridge and stir well before using.

What cut of steak works best for skewers?

Top sirloin and ribeye are great choices due to their tenderness and flavor. Avoid tougher cuts unless you marininate longer or cook very carefully.

Can I grill these skewers instead of using an air fryer?

Definitely! Grilling will impart a smoky flavor that complements the herbaceous chimichurri beautifully. Just keep an eye on the cook time to avoid overcooking.

Is it necessary to soak wooden skewers?

Yes, soaking prevents them from burning or catching fire during cooking. If you don’t have wooden skewers, metal ones are a great alternative that don’t need soaking.

How spicy is the chimichurri sauce?

The heat level is mild and adjustable. The small jalapeño and red pepper flakes add just a touch of warmth—the perfect balance that doesn’t overpower the fresh herbs.

Final Thoughts

I hope you’re as excited to try this Chimichurri Steak Skewers Recipe as I am to share it with you. It’s one of those dishes that effortlessly impresses and satisfies, whether you’re cooking for friends or a cozy dinner at home. The vibrant chimichurri sauce brings steak skewers to life in a way that’s fresh, bright, and totally crave-worthy. Give it a go—you’ll quickly find it becoming a regular in your recipe lineup!