This Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a fun and tasty dish! It’s juicy chicken topped with spicy pepper jack cheese and zesty salsa verde.
You’ll love how easy it is to make on the grill. Just toss it on, let it sizzle, and feel free to sneak bites before it’s all done—I won’t tell! 😄
It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ party. Serve it with a side of rice or fresh veggies, and you’re all set for a delicious meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless is ideal for quick grilling. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work well too and can stay juicy longer!
Salsa Verde: You can use store-bought for convenience or make your own using tomatillos and herbs. If you’re not a fan of the tang, a red salsa can be a yummy substitute.
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese adds a spicy kick! If you want something milder, try Monterey Jack or regular mozzarella. For a stronger flavor, jalapeño cheese is a spicy option!
Olive Oil: This helps to keep the chicken moist and adds flavor. Feel free to swap it for avocado oil or melted butter if desired.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Perfectly Grilled?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but a few tips can help ensure success:
- Preheat the grill! A hot grill helps sear the chicken and prevent sticking.
- Cook on one side without moving it for even grill marks. This seals in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
These steps will help you grill juicy chicken every time! Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t hesitate to experiment with timing based on your grill type.
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 garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon 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 of prep time and approximately 15 minutes for grilling, making the total time around 30 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). A hot grill is key to getting those tasty grill marks and juicy chicken.
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cumin, garlic powder, paprika, and a pinch of salt and pepper. This mixture will give your chicken lovely flavor!
3. Season the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and brush both sides with the olive oil spice mixture. Make sure they’re nicely coated to lock in that delicious flavor!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on one side without moving them, so they can get those beautiful grill marks.
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
After the first side is cooked, flip the chicken breasts over and continue grilling for another 5-6 minutes, or until their internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
6. Add Salsa Verde:
Once the chicken is cooked, spoon approximately 2 tablespoons of salsa verde onto each chicken breast. Spread it out evenly to ensure every bite is flavorful!
7. Top with Cheese:
Now, place two slices of pepper jack cheese on top of the salsa verde on each piece of chicken. This is where the magic happens!
8. Melt the Cheese:
Close the grill lid and let the chicken cook for another 1-2 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and gooey. You want it to be perfectly melty!
9. Serve and Enjoy:
Remove the chicken from the grill and place it on a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and add lime wedges on the side for an extra burst of flavor.
10. Dig In!
Enjoy your Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken right away, with sides like rice, grilled veggies, or a fresh salad. It’s sure to be a hit!
FAQ for Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken
Can I Use Other Types of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pepper jack cheese, you can opt for Monterey Jack for a milder flavor, or even cheddar for a sharp bite. For a spicy kick, consider using jalapeño cheese!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy?
To keep the chicken juicy, make sure not to overcook it. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute before slicing.
What Should I Serve with This Dish?
This dish pairs well with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad. You could also serve it with tortillas for a fun twist or alongside a cool avocado salsa!
Can I Make This Ahead of Time?
You can prepare the chicken breasts with the spice mixture ahead of time and store them in the fridge for up to 24 hours before grilling. Just make sure to grill them fresh to enjoy the cheesy goodness!
