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This “Mexican chimichurri” adds cilantro to the mix giving it a fresh and citrusy flavor that’s simply amazing over everything!

What is Mexican Chimichurri
Mexican Chimichurri is a spin on classic chimichurri, a chunky green sauce made of cilantro and parsley, garlic, oregano, vinegar, and oil, mild in spice and usually served to drizzle over grilled meat.
The Mexican version adds cilantro, yielding a more tangy, citrusy, and fresh sauce. You can use it as a dressing for grilled meats and veggies, but also for tacos, salads, fried eggs, and baked potatoes.
Does Classic Chimichurri Contain Cilantro?
Classic chimichurri from Argentina doesn’t contain cilantro. While it looks green like this Mexican chimichurri, it exclusively uses parsley.
Cilantro Chimichurri Ingredients
With cilantro as the star of this show, the other ingredients add more and more delicious flavors to this amazing sauce. You don’t need anything fancy:
- Cilantro: what makes this chimichurri so epic!
- Italian parsley: it’s fresh, slightly peppery and bitter.
- Lime juice: use fresh lime juice to yield better results.
- Olive oil: adds flavor and helps to combine the ingredients.
- Onion: any kind. Delicious and a must!
- Garlic cloves: aroma, flavor… it always makes things better!
- Ground cumin: adds a slightly smoky taste.
- Kosher salt: to enhance all the flavors.
- Jalapeño pepper: adds some heat!
You’ll find the ingredient measurements in the printable recipe card below.

How to Make Cilantro Chimichurri
Pulse. Pulse. And then pulse again. That’s all you need to do to turn tasty staples into irresistible homemade cilantro chimichurri. Check how ridiculously easy it is to make it:
- Pulse until chopped
In a food processor, place jalapeno, garlic, onion, and pulse several times until chopped. - Add cilantro and parsley
Add cilantro (stems are fine) and Italian parsley (again, thin stems are fine), and pulse again. - Add liquid and seasonings
Add oil, lime juice, cumin, and salt. Pulse until combined. - Refrigerate
Transfer to an airtight container or glass jar and refrigerate up to one week.
Storing Leftovers
Store leftovers in a glass jar or an airtight container and refrigerate for up to one week. You’d better make this cilantro chimichurri in bulk because I bet the jar will be empty fast!
How to Use Cilantro Chimichurri
You can drizzle Cilantro Chimichurri over all kinds of meals but let me tell you my favorite one: Steak Tacos! They are meant to each other! Of course, this gal loves using Mexican chimichurri to top ANY taco!
And that’s just one epic idea to use it. This sauce is foundational to my chimichurri chicken thighs, perfect to serve over baked salmon, pan-seared chicken breasts, salads, fried eggs, baked sweet potatoes, and roasted veggies. What about dipping carrot fries or fish sticks? SOOO good!
Pssst, Super Mom, find this recipe on page 27 in The Taco Tuesday Cookbook!
Cilantro Chimichurri

Ingredients
- 1 bunch cilantro, about 1 cup (20 g) packed
- 1 bunch Italian Parsley, about 1 cup (20 g) packed
- ¼ cup (60 ml) fresh lime juice, (1-2 limes)
- ½ cup (120 ml) olive oil
- ¼ cup (40 g) chopped onion
- 2 garlic cloves
- 2 teaspoons ground cumin
- ¾ teaspoon kosher salt
- ½ jalapeño pepper, stems removed optional
Instructions
- In a food processor, place jalapeno, garlic, onion, and pulse several times until chopped.
- Add cilantro (stems are fine) and Italian parsley (again, thin stems are fine), pulse again.
- Add oil, lime juice, cumin, and salt. Pulse until combined.
- Transfer to an airtight container or glass jar and refrigerate up to one week.
Ann says
I love Cilantro, so I want to put this on everything. Thanks!
DK says
This cilantro chimichurri was so savory! It was perfect for my steak and I also put it on my burgers!
Charah says
I love this recipe, delicious and easy to make. thanks for sharing
Vicky says
I know not everyone is a fan of cilantro, but I love it! This recipe rocks! It’s the perfect addition to grilled steak (or anything, really!)