This grilled chicken is juicy and flavorful, topped with zesty salsa verde and melted pepper jack cheese. It’s like a fiesta on your plate!
Who knew chicken could be this fun? I love serving it with a side of rice or veggies for a tasty meal. Just be ready to enjoy every bite! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken is perfect for this dish since it cooks evenly and is easy to handle. If you’re looking for something leaner, turkey cutlets can work as a substitute!
Olive Oil: This is a great oil for grilling because it has a high smoke point. You can substitute it with avocado oil if you want a slightly different flavor.
Salsa Verde: You can use store-bought salsa verde for convenience, but homemade is a rewarding option! For a twist, try mango salsa for added sweetness.
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese gives a nice kick, but if you prefer a milder flavor, Monterey Jack or Cheddar are excellent alternatives. You could even use a dairy-free cheese for a vegan option.
How Do You Grill Chicken to Perfection?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with a few simple steps, you can make it great every time. Here’s how:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high. This ensures the chicken sears nicely without drying out.
- Seasoning is key! Make sure to coat the chicken well with the olive oil mixture to enhance flavor and moisture.
- Cook the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving it, to achieve those lovely grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check doneness; it should read 165°F (74°C). This keeps your chicken juicy and safe to eat.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, making it even more tender.
Grilled Chicken with Salsa Verde and Pepper Jack
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
For Topping:
- 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Total Time Needed:
This delicious grilled chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and about 20 minutes to cook. In total, you’ll need around 30 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal perfect for busy evenings!
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 Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Mix it well so everything is nicely blended.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take your chicken breasts and brush each one evenly with the olive oil spice mixture. Make sure each piece is well coated for maximum flavor.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Now, place the chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on one side until you see nice grill marks. Then, flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes.
5. Add Salsa Verde and Cheese:
Spoon the salsa verde evenly over each chicken breast. Next, add a slice of Pepper Jack cheese on top of the salsa to give it that creamy, spicy flavor.
6. Finish Cooking:
Close the grill lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, just until the cheese melts and the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
7. Rest and Serve:
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This allows the juices to settle back into the meat. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for a burst of freshness.
Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Chicken with Salsa Verde and Pepper Jack! Perfect for any day of the week.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are juicier and can add a richer flavor. Just adjust the cooking time; thighs may need a bit longer to reach the desired internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Substitute for Salsa Verde?
If you don’t have salsa verde on hand, you can use regular salsa or even pico de gallo for a fresh and chunky topping. You could also make a quick cilantro-lime dressing as an alternative!
How Should I Store Leftover Chicken?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on a skillet until heated through. Add a splash of lime juice for extra flavor!
Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?
Definitely! If you want more heat, consider adding chopped jalapeños to the salsa verde or using a spicier cheese. You can also sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the chicken before grilling.
