Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken

Category:Chicken Recipes

Juicy grilled chicken topped with zesty salsa verde and melted pepper jack cheese is a must-try! This Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is perfect for summer barbecues or a quick weeknight dinner. With bold flavors and easy prep, it's bound to be a family favorite. Save this recipe for your next cookout or meal prep!

This Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is bursting with flavor! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with zesty salsa verde and gooey pepper jack cheese for a delightful twist.

It’s super easy to make and perfect for warm days! I love serving it with rice or tacos. Trust me, the cheesy goodness makes dinner feel like a treat! 😋

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for grilling. If you want, you can swap them for chicken thighs for more flavor and juiciness. Just remember that thighs may take a little longer to cook.

Salsa Verde: While store-bought salsa verde is super convenient, making your own can really level up the flavor. If you don’t have salsa verde, you can try green enchilada sauce as a substitute. It will add a different twist.

Pepper Jack Cheese: I love using pepper jack for its creamy texture and mild heat. If you want a milder option, you could use Monterey Jack or mozzarella. For more spice, try extra sharp cheddar or even a spicy queso.

Olive Oil: Olive oil does the job well, but you can use other oils like avocado oil or canola oil. Both work just fine and have a high smoke point for grilling.

Spices: Garlic and onion powders are easy to use, but you can freshen things up with minced garlic and finely chopped onions if you have them on hand. For the paprika, smoked paprika can add a nice depth!

How Do You Make Sure Your Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?

Marinating the chicken is an essential step that adds flavor and helps keep the meat juicy. Here’s how to do it right:

  • Combine olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper in a bowl. This is your chicken marinade.
  • Place the chicken in a bag or dish, and pour the marinade over it. Seal or cover tightly.
  • Marinate in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but if you have time, let it sit for 2 hours. This allows flavors to penetrate the meat better!

Remember, before grilling, preheat your grill to medium-high heat and lightly grease the grates to avoid sticking. Grilling the chicken for just the right time—about 6-7 minutes per side—ensures it’s perfectly cooked and doesn’t dry out.

How to Make Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
  • 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil

For Seasoning:

  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1/2 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

For Garnish:

  • Fresh cilantro, chopped
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This recipe takes about 10 minutes for preparation, plus at least 30 minutes for marinating the chicken. The grilling itself takes around 15 minutes. So you’ll be enjoying your delicious grilled chicken in about 55 minutes!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Prepare the Marinade:

Start by grabbing a medium bowl. Mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir them well to combine and create a tasty marinade for your chicken.

2. Marinate the Chicken:

Take the chicken breasts and place them in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour your freshly made marinade over the chicken. Seal the bag or cover the dish and pop it into the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes. If you have time, letting it sit for up to 2 hours will enhance the flavor even more!

3. Grill the Chicken:

When you’re ready to cook, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. It’s important to get it nice and hot! Before putting the chicken on, lightly grease the grill grates with a little oil to prevent sticking.

Once the grill is hot, take the chicken out of the marinade (discard the leftover marinade) and place it on the grill. Grill each chicken breast for about 6-7 minutes on each side. You want to make sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) to ensure it’s fully cooked.

4. Add the Salsa and Cheese:

In the last minute of cooking, top each chicken breast with salsa verde and sprinkle the shredded pepper jack cheese on top. Close the grill lid for a moment to help melt the cheese to gooey perfection!

5. Serve and Enjoy:

Once the cheese is melted and bubbly, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy! Slice the grilled chicken, sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro, and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over. Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken!

Can I Use a Different Type of Cheese?

Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pepper jack cheese or want to switch things up, feel free to use Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even mozzarella for a milder flavor. Just keep in mind that the taste and creaminess may vary slightly with each cheese.

Can I Marinate the Chicken Overnight?

Definitely! Marinating the chicken overnight can enhance the flavor even more. Just be cautious not to exceed 24 hours, as the acidity in the marinade can make the chicken mushy. Aim for about 12 to 24 hours for the best results!

How to Store Leftovers

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply microwave on medium power or warm it in a skillet over low heat until heated through. Adding a splash of salsa verde can help retain moisture!

What Should I Serve With This Chicken?

This chicken pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with warm tortillas for a delicious wrap or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal. Don’t forget the lime wedges for an extra zesty kick!

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