Get ready for a tasty dinner with Easy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken! This dish features juicy chicken topped with zesty salsa verde and creamy pepper jack cheese.
It’s a fun way to spice up chicken night! I love grabbing those leftovers for a quick taco or salad the next day—nothing goes to waste around here! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe since they cook evenly on the grill. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work well here too. Just keep an eye on the cooking time as they can take longer.
Salsa Verde: You can use store-bought salsa verde for convenience, but making your own can be even better! Blend roasted tomatillos, jalapeños, onion, and cilantro for a fresh flavor. You can also use green enchilada sauce if that’s what you have.
Pepper Jack Cheese: Pepper jack adds a delightful kick. For a milder taste, swap it with Monterey Jack or mozzarella. If you want even more heat, consider using a spicy cheese blend.
How Do I Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with these tips, you’ll nail it every time! Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the chicken cooks evenly without drying out.
- Use the seasoning mixture effectively by evenly coating both sides of the chicken. This helps with flavor.
- Cook the chicken for 5-7 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F (75°C) is the safe spot!
- For added flavor, spoon salsa verde on during the last few minutes of grilling. This prevents it from burning and keeps the fresh taste.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute, making for a juicier bite.
Easy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken
Ingredients:
- 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 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious recipe takes about 15 minutes of prep time and about 15 minutes to grill, making a total of 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend cookout!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken Seasoning:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This spicy mixture will give your chicken lots of flavor!
2. Coat the Chicken:
Brush both sides of each chicken breast with the olive oil seasoning. Make sure they are evenly coated for a delicious taste.
3. Get the Grill Ready:
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures the chicken cooks nicely without being undercooked or burnt.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You want them to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they are fully cooked.
5. Add Salsa Verde:
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, generously spoon salsa verde over each chicken breast. This adds a tasty, zesty flavor!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Top each chicken breast with a slice of pepper jack cheese. Close the grill lid to let the cheese melt beautifully over the chicken.
7. Let It Rest:
After removing the chicken from the grill, let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the chicken juicy!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your chicken with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. It pairs wonderfully with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal!
Enjoy your flavorful grilled chicken!
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Use Different Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute the pepper jack cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella. For an extra kick, consider using a spicy cheese blend or even jalapeño cheddar.
What Can I Substitute for Salsa Verde?
If you don’t have salsa verde on hand, you can use green enchilada sauce or even a homemade version made from blending roasted tomatillos, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice for a fresh taste.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled salsa verde pepper jack chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through.
Can I Grill the Chicken in the Oven?
Yes, you can! Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C) and place the chicken on a baking sheet. Bake for about 20-25 minutes or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Add the salsa verde and cheese during the last few minutes of cooking for best results.
