These air fryer steak bites are tender, juicy, and packed with bold flavor, finished with a vibrant homemade chimichurri sauce. Quick to prepare and cooked in minutes, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or an impressive yet effortless meal.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll love this recipe because it delivers restaurant-quality steak with minimal effort. The air fryer cooks the steak bites quickly while keeping them juicy inside with a lightly crisp exterior. The fresh chimichurri adds a bright, herby contrast that elevates every bite. It’s simple, fast, and full of flavor without requiring complicated techniques.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
For the steak bites
1 lb (450 g) sirloin steak or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the chimichurri
1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Directions
In a medium bowl, add the steak cubes, olive oil, minced garlic, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. Toss well until the steak is evenly coated. Let the steak marinate at room temperature for 15 minutes.
Preheat the air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for about 3 minutes.
Place the marinated steak bites in the air fryer basket in a single layer, making sure they are not overcrowded. Cook for 4 minutes, then shake the basket to ensure even cooking. Cook for another 4 minutes or until the steak reaches your preferred doneness.
While the steak is cooking, prepare the chimichurri. In a food processor, combine parsley, cilantro, garlic, red wine vinegar, olive oil, red pepper flakes, salt, and black pepper. Pulse until the mixture is well combined but still slightly textured.
Remove the steak bites from the air fryer and let them rest for 1 to 2 minutes. Serve hot with chimichurri drizzled on top or on the side for dipping.
For a spicier version, add extra red pepper flakes or a pinch of cayenne pepper to the steak marinade.
You can substitute parsley or cilantro in the chimichurri with fresh basil for a different herbal profile.
For a citrus twist, add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice to the chimichurri.
Use tenderloin steak for an even more tender bite, adjusting cooking time slightly to avoid overcooking.
Storage/Reheating
Store leftover steak bites in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Store chimichurri separately to preserve its fresh flavor.
To reheat, place the steak bites in the air fryer at 350°F (175°C) for 2 to 3 minutes until warmed through. Avoid overheating to keep the steak tender. Chimichurri is best served at room temperature and should not be reheated.
FAQs
Can I use a different cut of steak?
Yes, sirloin, ribeye, or tenderloin work best. Avoid very tough cuts, as they won’t be as tender with quick cooking.
How do I know when the steak bites are done?
Steak bites are done when they reach your preferred doneness. For medium doneness, the internal temperature should be about 145°F (63°C).
Do I need to marinate the steak?
Marinating adds flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can cook the steak immediately after seasoning.
Can I cook these without an air fryer?
Yes, you can pan-sear the steak bites in a hot skillet over medium-high heat for about 2 to 3 minutes per side.
Why shouldn’t I overcrowd the air fryer basket?
Overcrowding prevents proper air circulation, which can result in uneven cooking and less browning.
Can I make the chimichurri ahead of time?
Yes, chimichurri can be made up to 24 hours in advance and stored in the refrigerator.
Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?
Yes, the steak bites store well for a few days, making them a good option for meal prep.
Can I reduce the oil in the chimichurri?
You can slightly reduce the oil, but enough is needed to create the classic sauce texture.
What side dishes go well with this recipe?
This dish pairs well with roasted vegetables, mashed potatoes, rice, or a fresh green salad.
Can I freeze the steak bites?
Freezing is not recommended, as it can affect the texture of the cooked steak.
Conclusion
Air fryer steak bites with chimichurri are a quick, flavorful, and satisfying dish that fits effortlessly into a busy schedule. With tender steak, bold seasoning, and a fresh herb sauce, this recipe is sure to become a favorite for both weeknight dinners and special occasions.
Air Fryer Steak Bites with Chimichurri are juicy, bite-sized pieces of seasoned steak cooked quickly in the air fryer and topped with a vibrant, garlicky herb sauce for a bold and satisfying meal.
Author:Sophia
Prep Time:10 minutes
Cook Time:8 minutes
Total Time:33 minutes
Yield:4 servings
Category:Main Course
Method:Air Fryer
Cuisine:South American-Inspired
Ingredients
For the steak bites:
1 lb (450 g) sirloin or ribeye steak, cut into 1-inch cubes
2 tablespoons olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
1 teaspoon smoked paprika
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon black pepper
For the chimichurri:
1 cup fresh parsley, finely chopped
1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
3 garlic cloves, minced
2 tablespoons red wine vinegar
1/2 cup olive oil
1/2 teaspoon red pepper flakes
1/4 teaspoon salt, or to taste
1/4 teaspoon black pepper, or to taste
Instructions
In a bowl, mix steak cubes with olive oil, garlic, paprika, salt, and pepper. Marinate for 15 minutes at room temperature.
Preheat air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 3 minutes.
Place steak in a single layer in the basket. Cook for 4 minutes, shake the basket, then cook 4 minutes more or until desired doneness.
While steak cooks, combine chimichurri ingredients in a food processor or bowl and mix until well combined but still textured.
Let steak bites rest 1–2 minutes, then serve with chimichurri drizzled on top or on the side.
