This Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is packed with flavor! Juicy chicken is topped with zesty salsa verde and melts in your mouth pepper jack cheese. Yum!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe as they grill evenly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey cutlets work great too!
Salsa Verde: This adds a fresh, zesty kick! You can use store-bought for convenience, or make your own if you have tomatillos, jalapeños, and cilantro. If you prefer less heat, try mild green enchilada sauce.
Pepper Jack Cheese: It’s super melty and spicy, but if you want a milder cheese, Monterey Jack or even mozzarella would work. You can also go vegan with plant-based cheese!
Spices: Garlic powder, cumin, and chili powder bring great flavor. Feel free to adjust or swap them with taco seasoning for a different taste.
How Can I Grill Chicken So It’s Juicy and Flavorful?
Getting juicy, flavorful grilled chicken is all about seasoning and temperature management. Here are some tips to ensure success:
- Marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture for at least 30 minutes before grilling to enhance the flavor.
- Preheat your grill properly, so the chicken gets nice grill marks and seals in moisture.
- Cook over medium-high heat for even cooking. Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. You want 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Rest your chicken for a few minutes post-grilling. This helps redistribute juices, keeping it tender.
Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 8 slices pepper jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This scrumptious dish takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 14-15 minutes to grill. So plan for around 25-30 minutes total from start to finish. It’s quick enough for a weeknight dinner but delicious enough for company!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. It’s important to get it hot enough to nicely sear the chicken and keep those juices inside!
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Brush this tasty coating evenly over both sides of each chicken breast. This will add tons of flavor as they cook!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Now it’s time to grill! Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill and let them cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. Make sure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) to ensure they’re safe to eat.
4. Add Salsa Verde:
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, spoon about 2 tablespoons of salsa verde over each chicken breast. This will give your chicken a fantastic zesty flavor!
5. Melt the Cheese:
Right after adding the salsa, top each breast with two slices of pepper jack cheese. Close the grill lid to help that cheese melt down and become gooey. Cook until it’s nice and bubbly!
6. Rest and Garnish:
Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a couple of minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Then, transfer to a serving plate.
7. Serve with Style:
Garnish your cheesy grilled chicken with chopped fresh cilantro, and squeeze some lime juice over the top. Serve with lime wedges on the side for an extra kick. Enjoy every bite of this delightful dish!
Dig into your cheesy, tangy, and flavorful grilled chicken! Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal. Enjoy! 🍽️
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add extra flavor to the dish. Just be aware that they may take a couple of extra minutes to cook through, so check that they reach the same internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can season the chicken and even grill it a few hours in advance. Just reheat on the grill or in the oven until warmed through, and then add the salsa verde and cheese for a fresh touch!
What Can I Substitute for Pepper Jack Cheese?
If you prefer a milder flavor, feel free to use Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even cheddar cheese. For a dairy-free option, try a plant-based cheese that melts well.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. For best results, reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop to maintain the chicken’s moisture.
