This easy grilled chicken is packed with flavor! Topped with zesty salsa verde and melty pepper jack cheese, it’s sure to make your taste buds dance.
Cooking this dish is a breeze! I love how simple it is to grill the chicken and add those tasty toppings. Perfect for summer nights or a quick weeknight dinner!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here because they cook evenly on the grill. Feel free to use thighs if you prefer dark meat; they tend to stay juicier during grilling.
Salsa Verde: I love using store-bought salsa verde for convenience. However, homemade salsa verde with tomatillos and fresh herbs can really elevate the dish! If you want a milder flavor, consider using a mild green sauce.
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese adds a nice kick to the dish. If you want less heat, try using Monterey Jack or mozzarella instead. For something zesty, consider cheddar or even a flavored goat cheese!
Spices: The combination of cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, and paprika brings great flavor. If you don’t have these on hand, Italian seasoning or taco seasoning can work in a pinch!
How Do I Grill Chicken to Get It Just Right?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few simple tips, you can achieve perfectly cooked, juicy chicken every time!
- Make sure your grill is preheated to medium-high heat. This helps to sear the chicken nicely.
- Brush the chicken with the olive oil and spice mix evenly to ensure flavor all around.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side and use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Look for 165°F (74°C).
- For melted cheese, spoon on salsa verde before adding the cheese in the last minutes of cooking—this melts it just right!
- Resting the chicken for a few minutes before slicing helps keep the juices in. Enjoy it sliced or whole!
Easy Grilled Chicken with Salsa Verde and Pepper Jack
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delightful grilled chicken recipe takes about 15 minutes of preparation and 15-20 minutes of cooking time. In total, you’ll have a delicious meal ready in just 30-35 minutes, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that your chicken will get a nice sear while cooking, keeping it juicy and flavorful!
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, ground cumin, garlic powder, chili powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This fragrant spice mix will add a lovely flavor to your chicken!
3. Season the Chicken:
Brush the chicken breasts on both sides with the spice mixture. Make sure they are evenly coated so every bite is bursting with flavor!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, until the chicken is fully cooked. You can check for doneness by using a meat thermometer – the internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
5. Add Salsa Verde:
During the last 2 minutes of grilling, spoon a generous amount of salsa verde over each chicken breast. This adds a burst of flavor just before finishing!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Top each grilled breast with a slice of pepper jack cheese. Close the grill lid for about 1-2 minutes to let the cheese melt beautifully over the chicken.
7. Finish and Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, carefully remove the chicken from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro for a pop of color and freshness. Serve with lime wedges on the side!
8. Enjoy!
Slice the chicken if you prefer, and enjoy hot with your favorite sides like rice, beans, or a fresh salad. Enjoy your delicious grilled chicken with salsa verde and pepper jack!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken with Salsa Verde and Pepper Jack
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great alternative as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a few extra minutes to grill thoroughly.
Is There a Way to Make This Dish Spicier?
If you want to kick up the heat, you can add diced jalapeños to the salsa verde or sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the spice mix. You could also consider using a spicier cheese, like habanero jack, in place of the pepper jack.
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Leftover grilled chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat it gently in the microwave or on a skillet to enjoy again! If it seems a bit dry, adding a splash of water or salsa during reheating can help keep it moist.
Can I Prepare the Salsa Verde at Home?
Definitely! Homemade salsa verde is easy to make and tastes fresh! Simply blend tomatillos, fresh cilantro, jalapeños, garlic, lime juice, and salt to taste. Adjust the ingredients based on your preferred heat level!
