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Air Fryer Brazilian-Style Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Sauce
By Airfryfeast Test KitchenReviewed by Airfryfeast Editorial TeamPublished Apr 3, 2026 · Updated Jun 16, 2026
Brazilian
25 mins
air-fryer-friendlyhealthyeasygluten-freehigh-proteincrispfamily-friendlyweeknight-dinnersavory30-minutes-or-lessv2
Savor tender picanha steak cooked to crispy perfection in your air fryer, paired with a zesty homemade chimichurri sauce bursting with fresh herbs and garlic. This quick, healthy, and gluten-free Brazilian beef recipe is perfect for family dinners or anytime you crave bold, savory flavors.
Prep
10 min
Cook
15 min
Total
25 min
Servings
4
Difficulty
easy
Cuisine
Brazilian
Ingredients
Servings
4
- 1.5 lb (700g) picanha steak (top sirloin cap), trimmed and scored
- 1 tsp kosher salt
- 1/2 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp olive oil (for steak)
- For the Chimichurri Sauce
- 1 cup fresh flat-leaf parsley, finely chopped
- 1/4 cup fresh oregano leaves, finely chopped
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 small red chili or fresh red pepper, finely chopped (optional for mild heat)
- 2 tbsp red wine vinegar
- 1/3 cup extra virgin olive oil
- 1/2 tsp kosher salt
- 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper
Instructions
-
Preheat your air fryer to 400°F (200°C) for 5 minutes.
-
Score the fat cap of the picanha steak in a crisscross pattern about 1/4-inch deep, being careful not to cut into the meat.
-
Pat the steak dry with paper towels before rubbing with olive oil.
-
Rub the steak all over with olive oil, then season generously with kosher salt and freshly ground black pepper.
-
Place the steak fat-side up in the air fryer basket. Cook at 400°F (200°C) for 12-15 minutes for medium-rare, flipping halfway through cooking. Adjust the time for your preferred doneness.
-
While the steak cooks, prepare the chimichurri sauce: In a bowl, combine parsley, oregano, minced garlic, chopped chili (if using), red wine vinegar, extra virgin olive oil, salt, and pepper. Stir well and taste to adjust seasoning.
-
Once the steak is cooked to your liking, remove it from the air fryer and let it rest for 5 minutes to allow juices to redistribute.
-
Slice the picanha steak thinly against the grain for maximum tenderness.
-
Serve the sliced steak with generous spoonfuls of chimichurri sauce on top or on the side.
-
Enjoy your crispy, flavorful Brazilian-style picanha steak with fresh, vibrant chimichurri!
Tips
Air Fryer Model Notes
Cook Air Fryer Brazilian-Style Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Sauce in a single layer when possible. Basket models may need batches; oven-style models may need a tray rotation halfway through for even browning.
Crispiness Control
Pat the picanha steak dry, avoid crowding, and use only a light coat of oil or sauce before cooking. Add wet sauces near the end when you want the outside to stay crisp.
Doneness Cues
Look for browned edges, a hot center, and the texture described in the instructions. For meat or seafood, confirm doneness with a thermometer instead of relying only on color.
Reheat In The Air Fryer
Reheat leftovers at 325 F to 350 F in a single layer until hot and crisp again. Add fresh herbs, citrus, or sauce after reheating.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I make Air Fryer Brazilian-Style Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Sauce ahead of time?
- You can prep the ingredients and seasoning ahead, but air fry close to serving for the best texture.
- How do I keep this recipe from turning soggy?
- Cook in a single layer, leave space for airflow, and avoid adding too much oil or sauce before the food has crisped.
- Can I adjust the seasoning?
- Yes. Keep the same cooking method and adjust salt, spice, herbs, citrus, or sauce to match your taste.
- How do I know the (700g) picanha steak (top sirloin cap) is done?
- Use the visual cues in the instructions first: the outside should be browned or crisp and the center should be hot and tender. For meat or seafood, confirm doneness with a food thermometer.
Ingredient Replacements
If you need to customize this Air Fryer Brazilian-Style Picanha Steak recipe to suit ingredient availability or dietary preferences, consider these substitution options while maintaining its bold flavor profile:
- Picanha steak: Substitute with top sirloin, ribeye, flank, or sirloin steak for similar taste and texture.
- Kosher salt: Sea salt or Himalayan pink salt work equally well.
- Fresh flat-leaf parsley: Swap for cilantro, basil, or a combination for a fresh herbaceous twist in the chimichurri.
- Fresh oregano leaves: Use dried oregano (about 1 tbsp) or marjoram as alternatives.
- Red chili or fresh red pepper: Omit for milder chimichurri or replace with crushed red pepper flakes or a few drops of hot sauce for heat.
- Red wine vinegar: Apple cider vinegar or white wine vinegar provide good tangy substitutes.
- Extra virgin olive oil: Avocado oil or light vegetable oil are suitable substitutes, excellent for air frying and sauce consistency.
These replacements help keep the recipe easy, healthy, gluten-free, and family-friendly while allowing flexibility with pantry or dietary needs.
Storage
Store leftover Air Fryer Brazilian-Style Picanha Steak with Chimichurri Sauce in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Cool the food before sealing so excess steam does not soften the texture.
Freeze only if the main ingredient and coating are freezer-friendly. Wrap tightly and freeze for up to 1 month, then thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheat in the air fryer at 325 F to 350 F in a single layer until hot and crisp again. Add fresh herbs, citrus, or sauce after reheating for the best flavor.
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