This Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a crowning glory! Tender chicken is topped with spicy pepper jack cheese and zesty salsa verde, giving it a flavorful punch.
Every bite is a cheesy delight that makes dinner time exciting. I like to serve it with rice or on buns—perfect for a tasty twist! What a way to please the crowd! 🎉
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are easy and cook quickly on the grill. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier option or even turkey breast for a leaner meat.
Salsa Verde: This adds a tangy kick! If you can’t find it, you can make your own with tomatillos, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and garlic, or substitute with mild salsa for a different flavor.
Pepper Jack Cheese: It provides spice and creaminess. If you want milder cheese, use Monterey Jack or mozzarella. Add jalapeños to mozzarella for a spicy twist.
Spices: Cumin and chili powder are key for the flavor. You can try smoked paprika for a different taste or adjust the chili powder for less heat.
How Do You Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Getting perfectly grilled chicken takes a little practice, but it’s worth it! Here are tips to ensure juicy and flavorful results.
- First, start with even-sized chicken breasts for uniform cooking.
- Let the chicken marinate with the oil and spices for at least 30 minutes if possible—this adds extra flavor and moisture.
- Preheat your grill well. This helps with those beautiful grill marks and prevents sticking.
- Cook the chicken without flipping too often. Ideally, grill for 6-8 minutes per side, until the internal temperature hits 165°F (74°C).
- In the last minutes of grilling, add your toppings. This way, everything melts together nicely without overcooking the chicken.
By following these tips, you’ll end up with perfectly grilled chicken every time! Enjoy!
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 ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Time Estimate:
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of grilling time. You’ll be enjoying a delicious meal in just around 30-35 minutes!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Grill
First, preheat your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures your chicken gets those nice grill marks and cooks evenly.
2. Mix the Spices
In a small bowl, mix together the ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This combination will give your chicken a delicious flavor!
3. Season the Chicken
Take the chicken breasts and rub them on both sides with olive oil. Then evenly coat them with the spice mixture you just made. Make sure they are well covered for the best taste!
4. Grill the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 6-8 minutes on each side, or until they are fully cooked and have nice grill marks. You want the internal temperature to reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Add the Salsa Verde
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, spoon the salsa verde evenly over each chicken breast. This adds a tasty zing to your chicken!
6. Melt the Cheese
Top each piece of chicken with two slices of pepper jack cheese. Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt for about 1-2 minutes. It should be ooey-gooey delicious!
7. Serve and Enjoy!
Remove the chicken from the grill and place it on a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the top. Enjoy your mouthwatering cheesy grilled chicken!
Happy cooking and enjoy every bite of your juicy, spicy, cheesy dish!
FAQ About Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but be sure to thaw it completely before grilling. To thaw quickly, place the sealed chicken in cold water for about an hour, or leave it in the refrigerator overnight. Pat it dry before seasoning to avoid excess moisture on the grill.
What Can I Substitute for Salsa Verde?
If you don’t have salsa verde, you can use regular salsa or even make a quick sauce with blended tomatillos, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño. For a milder option, consider using a chunky tomato salsa or blended green sauce.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm them in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken moist.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Absolutely! You can marinate the chicken and prepare the spice mix ahead of time. Store the seasoned chicken in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours. Just grill it right before serving for a fresh and tasty meal.
