This grilled chicken is juicy and packed with flavor, topped with zesty salsa verde and melted pepper jack cheese. It’s a fun mix that’s sure to please your taste buds!
Honestly, who can resist that cheesy goodness? I love serving this with a side of rice or fresh veggies. Just a heads-up, you might want extra napkins! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless is the way to go for ease and even cooking! If you prefer, chicken thighs can be a great substitute. They stay juicier on the grill.
Olive Oil: This helps keep the chicken moist while grilling. If you’re out of olive oil, any neutral oil like canola or avocado oil works too!
Salsa Verde: This tangy topping is key for flavor. You can make your own by blending tomatillos, cilantro, lime juice, garlic, and a little jalapeño. If you’re short on time, store-bought is just fine!
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese adds a nice kick. If you’re looking for something milder, Monterey Jack or a slice of cheddar does the job. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken Is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can sometimes be tricky, but with a few tips, you can avoid the dry, overcooked problem!
- Make sure the grill is preheated. This helps achieve a nice sear on the chicken.
- Keep the heat on medium-high to cook the chicken quickly. Cooking too slowly can dry it out.
- Use a meat thermometer! Check that the internal temperature is 165°F (75°C) for juicy chicken.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after grilling to lock in moisture before serving.
Grilled Chicken with Salsa Verde and Pepper Jack
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and black pepper, to taste
- For the Topping:
- 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges, for serving (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This grilled chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook, making it a quick and tasty option for a weeknight dinner or weekend barbecue. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in about 25 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Set your grill to medium-high heat. This step is important for ensuring your chicken gets a nice sear while keeping it juicy inside.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps them get that beautiful grilled finish. Then, brush both sides with olive oil and season generously with salt and black pepper. Make sure every piece is well seasoned!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts directly on the preheated grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on one side. After that, flip them over and grill the other side for another 6-7 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). This is key to ensuring they are safely cooked through!
4. Add the Toppings:
In the last 2 minutes of grilling, spoon some salsa verde over each chicken breast. Then, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on top of the salsa. Close the lid of the grill to help the cheese melt perfectly.
5. Finish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted and the chicken is fully cooked, carefully remove the chicken from the grill. Let it rest for a minute or two for the juices to redistribute.
6. Garnish and Enjoy:
Top your grilled chicken with fresh cilantro leaves if you like, and serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. This dish is perfect on its own or paired with some rice or veggies!
Now, dig in and enjoy your delicious grilled chicken with salsa verde and melted pepper jack cheese!
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can use Monterey Jack or even cheddar cheese. For a spicy twist, try a chipotle gouda or pepper jack alternative. Just make sure it melts well!
What If I Don’t Have Salsa Verde?
No problem! You can substitute it with other sauces like pico de gallo, fresh guacamole, or even a store-bought barbecue sauce for a different flavor profile. Just adjust the amount to your taste!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can also slice it up and use it in salads or wraps!
Can I Grill the Chicken in a Pan Instead?
Yes! If you don’t have a grill, you can use a grill pan or a regular skillet. Heat the pan over medium-high heat and proceed with the same cooking instructions, flipping the chicken halfway through for even cooking.
