This Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a mouthwatering treat! It features juicy chicken breasts topped with spicy pepper jack cheese and zesty salsa verde for a flavor punch.
It’s easy to make and perfect for summer cookouts. I love serving it with fresh veggies or in a taco! Just be ready for your taste buds to dance with joy! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and grill nicely. You can use chicken thighs for more flavor and moisture, but adjust grilling time since they may take a bit longer.
Salsa Verde: A key element for flavor. If you don’t have salsa verde, tomatillo salsa or even a green chili sauce can work. Homemade is great too—just blend tomatillos, jalapeños, onion, and cilantro for a fresh version!
Pepper Jack Cheese: This gives a nice kick! If it’s too spicy for your taste, you can substitute Monterey Jack or even mild cheddar cheese, which melts well without the heat.
Spices: Cumin adds a warm flavor. If you don’t have it, try chili powder or smoked paprika for a different twist. Garlic and onion powders are basic staples, but you can use fresh minced garlic or onions if you prefer.
How Do I Grill the Chicken Perfectly?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but following a few simple steps makes it easier. First, make sure your grill is preheated—this helps get nice grill marks and keeps the chicken juicy.
- After seasoning, let the chicken rest for about 15 minutes; this helps the flavors absorb.
- Grill the chicken on medium-high heat for 6-8 minutes on each side. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness—165°F is your goal.
- While the salsa verde and cheese melt, make sure to keep the grill lid closed to ensure even cooking.
Letting the chicken rest after grilling is important, too—it allows the juices to redistribute for a tender result!
How to Make Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups pepper jack cheese, shredded
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp cumin
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 15 minutes to grill the chicken. In total, you’ll need around 25 minutes to enjoy this delicious meal from start to finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to a medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken will cook evenly and get those lovely grill marks!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Mix well. Rub this tasty seasoning all over the chicken breasts, making sure they are coated nicely.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for about 6 to 8 minutes on each side. You want to grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (use a meat thermometer if you have one to be sure). This will ensure your chicken is fully cooked and safe to eat!
4. Add Salsa Verde and Cheese:
When the chicken is almost done cooking, spoon the salsa verde over each piece. Then sprinkle the shredded pepper jack cheese on top. Close the grill lid and let it sit for about 2 to 3 minutes, so the cheese melts beautifully!
5. Let the Chicken Rest:
Once the chicken is cooked through, take it off the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This makes it juicier and easier to slice.
6. Serve It Up:
Slice the chicken and arrange it on a platter. Sprinkle some fresh chopped cilantro over the top, and serve with lime wedges on the side for that extra zesty flavor!
7. Enjoy!
Now you’re ready to dig in! Enjoy your Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken with your favorite sides like rice, salad, or grilled veggies!
Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, Monterey Jack or mozzarella would work well. For a sharper taste, try cheddar or a sliced provolone. Just ensure it melts well for the best texture!
How Do I Make This Dish Spicier?
If you like a kick, you can add some diced jalapeños or chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the salsa verde. Another option is to sprinkle red pepper flakes on the flavored chicken before grilling for extra heat!
Can I Make This Recipe Without a Grill?
Yes! You can use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake the chicken in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes, adding the salsa verde and cheese in the last 5 minutes of cooking for a delicious melt!
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To maintain moisture, reheat in the microwave with a splash of water, covering it with a damp paper towel to avoid drying out!
