This Easy Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken is packed with flavor! Topped with zesty salsa verde and melty pepper jack cheese, it’s a tasty treat for your taste buds.
Honestly, this dish is so simple to make, you’ll want to have it every week! I love serving it with rice or tortillas for a quick and satisfying meal.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use bone-in chicken thighs for more flavor or even grilled tofu for a vegetarian option.
Salsa Verde: Store-bought salsa verde saves time, but homemade is delicious too! You can substitute with other salsas if you like a different flavor; try pineapple salsa for a sweet twist.
Pepper Jack Cheese: I love the spice of pepper jack, but if it’s too spicy for you, Monterey Jack or even cheddar will melt beautifully while keeping the flavor mild.
Spices: The combination of cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder is fantastic, but feel free to swap them out. Taco seasoning can work in a pinch, or add some smoked paprika for a great smoky flavor.
How Can I Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Getting perfectly grilled chicken can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you’ll nail it every time. First, make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high. A hot grill seals in juices!
- Season your chicken evenly, allowing the spices to meld with the meat.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken is safe to eat at 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest after grilling to keep it juicy. Cover it with foil for a few minutes before slicing.
With these tips, your grilled salsa verde chicken will be a hit every time! Just serve with lime wedges for that burst of freshness.
Easy Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This tasty dish comes together pretty quickly! You’ll need about 10 minutes for prep plus around 15-20 minutes for grilling. In total, you’re looking at about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect weeknight meal!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures a nice sear on your chicken and keeps it juicy inside.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this flavorful mixture generously over both sides of the chicken breasts. This spice blend will give your chicken a yummy flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Now, place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Let them grill for about 6-7 minutes on one side. You want to see those beautiful grill marks and for the chicken to start cooking through.
4. Flip and Continue Cooking:
Carefully flip the chicken breasts over and grill for another 5-6 minutes. We want them almost cooked through by this point.
5. Add Salsa Verde and Cheese:
Once flipped, spoon a generous amount of salsa verde over each chicken breast. Next, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on top of the salsa. Yum!
6. Finish Cooking:
Close the grill lid or cover the chicken with foil to help the cheese melt. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) and the cheese is melted.
7. Rest and Garnish:
When finished cooking, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Then, slice the chicken breasts and sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and freshness.
8. Serve:
Serve your delicious grilled salsa verde chicken with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze a little lime juice over for an added zing!
Enjoy this flavorful, juicy grilled chicken with melted pepper jack and tangy salsa verde! It pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken thighs will add more flavor and moisture. Just adjust the grilling time, as they may take a little longer to cook thoroughly. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Can I Make This Recipe Spicy?
Yes! To add some heat, consider using spicy salsa verde or adding chopped jalapeños to the chicken before grilling. You can also top it with sliced jalapeños before serving for an extra kick!
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of salsa verde to keep it moist.
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Definitely! If pepper jack isn’t your favorite, Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even a combination of cheeses would work well. Just make sure to choose a cheese that melts nicely!
