This Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a flavorful treat that’s perfect for dinner! Tender chicken is topped with spicy pepper jack cheese and zesty salsa verde for a tasty twist.
I love how easy it is to make – just grill the chicken and melt the cheese on top. It’s so good, you might find yourself dancing in the kitchen! 🕺
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep this dish light and cook evenly on the grill. If you’re looking for a different protein, turkey cutlets or even firm tofu can work well! Just keep an eye on cooking times.
Salsa Verde: This adds a zesty kick! If you can’t find it, try using a mild green salsa or even homemade tomatillo salsa. For a twist, mix in some diced jalapeños for extra heat!
Pepper Jack Cheese: The creamy spice of pepper jack takes this dish up a notch. If you want something milder, mozzarella or Monterey Jack are good substitutes. Vegan cheese can also work if you’re keeping it plant-based.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds brightness. If you’re not a fan, try fresh parsley or even a squeeze of fresh lime juice to keep that fresh flavor profile going!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken Is Grilled to Perfection?
Getting that chicken just right on the grill can be a bit tricky. Here are some steps to make it easier:
- Make sure your grill is properly heated before placing the chicken on it. Medium-high heat is ideal.
- Season the chicken well with your spice mix; this adds flavor right to the meat!
- Grill each side until the chicken is charred and has nice grill marks, about 6-7 minutes per side.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. It should read 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s cooked through.
- Let the chicken rest a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute within the meat, keeping it moist!
How to Make Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- ½ tsp cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 30 minutes to prepare and cook. You’ll need around 10 minutes for prep and about 20 minutes for grilling. Easy and delicious in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure your chicken gets that perfect grilled flavor and nice char.
2. Season the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. This aromatic mixture will add great flavor! Rub it evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts, making sure each piece is nicely coated.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on one side. Then flip the chicken over and grill for another 5-6 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked and reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
4. Add the Tasty Toppings:
During the last few minutes of grilling, spoon some salsa verde over each chicken breast. Then, sprinkle a generous amount of shredded pepper jack cheese on top. This will make the chicken extra flavorful!
5. Melt the Cheese:
Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt for about 2-3 minutes. You’ll know it’s ready when it’s all gooey and delicious!
6. Let It Rest:
Once the cheese is melted and the chicken is cooked through, remove the chicken from the grill. Let it rest for a few minutes so the juices can redistribute, keeping the chicken tender and juicy.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the chicken and garnish it with chopped cilantro for a fresh touch. Serve with lime wedges on the side for that zesty flavor. Enjoy your flavorful and cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken!
Can I Use Bone-in Chicken Breasts Instead?
Absolutely! Just keep in mind that bone-in chicken breasts may take longer to cook. You’ll want to check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C). Try grilling for about 10-12 minutes on the first side before flipping, and then grill for an additional 8-10 minutes, checking the temperature as you go.
What If I Don’t Have Salsa Verde?
No problem! You can make a quick substitution using regular salsa or even a homemade version. For a similar flavor, mix diced tomatillos or green tomatoes with onions, jalapeños, and lime juice. Adjust to your taste!
How to Store Leftovers
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it up in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat until heated through. You can add a splash of salsa verde to keep it juicy!
Can I Substitute the Pepper Jack Cheese?
Definitely! If you prefer a milder cheese, Monterey Jack or mozzarella works great. For a bolder flavor, you could also use sharp cheddar or even crumbled feta for a different twist!
