This Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is full of flavor! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with zesty salsa verde and melted pepper jack cheese—perfect for a fun and tasty meal.
This dish makes dinner exciting and is super easy to whip up on the grill. Pair it with rice or a fresh salad, and you’ll have a winning dinner! Trust me, you’ll want seconds! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for this recipe because they cook quickly and evenly. If you’re looking for a leaner option, turkey breasts can work too! You could also use thighs for a juicier bite.
Salsa Verde: You can use store-bought salsa verde for ease, but homemade is always a tasty option! If you want a milder flavor, use green tomatillos. In a pinch, try using regular salsa or even pico de gallo, adjusting the spices to match.
Pepper Jack Cheese: While pepper jack gives a nice kick, feel free to replace it with Monterey Jack for a milder version. Cheddar adds a great flavor too, but it won’t melt as smoothly.
Spices: Garlic powder, cumin, and smoked paprika are key for flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika on hand, regular paprika is fine. You can also swap in chili powder for a different spice profile.
Fresh Cilantro: For a unique twist, get creative with your garnish! Chopped green onions or parsley deliver fresh brightness if you’re not a cilantro fan.
How Do You Ensure the Chicken is Perfectly Cooked?
Cooking chicken on the grill takes a bit of attention to ensure you don’t end up with dry meat. Here’s how to do it right:
- Preheat your grill well to create those nice grill marks on the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken should hit 165°F (74°C) at the thickest part.
- Let it rest after grilling! This helps redistribute juices, keeping it moist.
- Remember to flip the chicken only once halfway through grilling for even cooking.
These steps help you serve juicy chicken every time, making your grilled salsa verde chicken extra delicious!
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 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 15 minutes to cook, so you’ll need around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s quick to make and perfect for a tasty weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that the chicken cooks evenly and gets those nice grill marks.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This flavorful blend will give the chicken a tasty kick! Rub this mixture all over both sides of the chicken breasts, making sure they are well-coated.
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You’ll know they’re done when the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This ensures they are fully cooked and safe to eat.
4. Add Salsa Verde and Cheese:
When the chicken is almost finished grilling, spoon a generous amount of salsa verde over each breast. Then sprinkle the shredded pepper jack cheese over the top. Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt, which should take about 2-3 minutes.
5. Rest and Serve:
Once the chicken is cooked and the cheese is melted, remove the chicken from the grill. Let it rest for a few minutes—this helps keep it juicy. After resting, slice the chicken and garnish with fresh chopped cilantro. Serve it up with lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze over your delicious chicken. Enjoy your meal!
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pepper jack, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even cheddar for a different flavor profile. Just ensure that the cheese you choose melts well for that gooey topping!
How Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
If you love heat, try adding diced jalapeños or using a spicier salsa verde. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes or cayenne pepper into the seasoning mix for an extra kick!
What’s the Best Way to Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, place it in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat. You can add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out.
Can I Use Thicker Chicken Cuts?
If you’re using thicker chicken breasts or thighs, you may need to adjust the grilling time to ensure they cook through. Aim for around 8-10 minutes per side. Always check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safety!
