This tasty grilled chicken is topped with zesty salsa verde and melted pepper jack cheese. It’s fresh, spicy, and perfect for a summer cookout or a weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are a great choice for this recipe as they cook quickly and stay juicy. If you’re looking for a change, try thighs—they offer more flavor.
Salsa Verde: You can use store-bought salsa verde for convenience, but making it at home is easy and gives you control over the spice level. If you’re seeking alternatives, green salsa or tomatillo salsa works too!
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese adds a nice spicy kick. If you’re not a fan, Monterey Jack is a milder option. For something even cheesier, try a blend with mozzarella too.
Spices: Ground cumin gives a warm flavor, but if you don’t have it, try taco seasoning instead. Garlic powder can be swapped with fresh minced garlic for a stronger taste.
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but these steps will help you achieve perfectly cooked, juicy meat:
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. A hot grill ensures a nice sear.
- Pat chicken dry before seasoning. This helps spices stick and promotes even cooking.
- Don’t rush the cook time. Grill for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Check temperature (165°F) to ensure doneness.
- Add salsa and cheese near the end of grilling. This keeps flavors fresh without burning.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after grilling. This allows juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
Happy grilling! Your chicken will be full of flavor and super juicy. Enjoy!
How to Make 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)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to grill, totaling about 25 minutes. Quick and easy for a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium-high. A hot grill is key for getting those lovely grill marks and excellent flavor!
2. Make the Spice Rub:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, ground cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This will be the magic that flavors your chicken.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take the chicken breasts and pat them dry with paper towels. This helps the spices stick. Now, rub the spice mixture all over each chicken breast, making sure every side is covered for maximum flavor!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want the chicken to reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) for it to be safely cooked.
5. Add the Salsa Verde:
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, spoon salsa verde over each chicken breast. This allows the salsa to warm up without losing its fresh flavor.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Top each chicken breast with a slice of Pepper Jack cheese. Close the grill lid and let it sit for about 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts perfectly over the chicken.
7. Let It Rest:
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This helps keep the juices inside so your chicken stays nice and moist!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish your chicken with fresh chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some lime juice over the top for an extra burst of flavor!
Enjoy your flavorful and juicy grilled chicken topped with zesty salsa verde and melted Pepper Jack cheese! It’s perfect for a weeknight meal or a fun gathering!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative if you prefer more flavor and juiciness. Just keep in mind that they may require a few extra minutes of cooking time to reach the proper internal temperature.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stove until heated through. Add a splash of salsa verde if you want to freshen it up!
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
You can marinate the chicken in the spice mixture and salsa verde a few hours ahead or even the night before. Just cover and refrigerate until you’re ready to grill. This makes for easier cooking and enhances the flavors!
What Should I Serve with This Chicken?
This grilled salsa verde chicken pairs beautifully with warm tortillas, rice, or a fresh side salad. You can also serve it with grilled vegetables or black beans for a complete meal!
