Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a delightful twist on the traditional grilled chicken. Marinated in tangy salsa verde, cumin, and lime juice, this dish is bursting with flavor. Topping the chicken with pepper Jack cheese adds a delicious, spicy finish. This recipe is perfect for those who love bold flavors and appreciate the simplicity of a quick meal. It’s gluten-free, easy to prepare, and works well as a standalone meal or paired with sides like rice or grilled vegetables.

Ingredients

1 ½ pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)

12 ounces salsa verde (Trader Joe’s recommended)

3 tablespoons olive oil

2 tablespoons lime juice

1 teaspoon cumin

1 teaspoon salt (or more, to taste)

1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

4 slices pepper Jack cheese (or as desired)

Fresh cilantro, finely minced (optional, for garnishing)

Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine salsa verde, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper.

Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.

Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.

Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade.

Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).

During the last minute of grilling, place a slice of pepper Jack cheese on each chicken breast and close the grill lid to melt the cheese.

Remove the chicken from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.

Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges, if desired.

Servings and Timing

Yield: 4 servings

Prep time: 10 minutes

Cook time: 12 minutes

Total time: 22 minutes

Variations

Adjust the heat level: You can tweak the heat by using more or less salsa verde depending on your spice tolerance.

Cheese options: If you prefer a milder cheese, swap the pepper Jack for Monterey Jack or mozzarella.

Add extra toppings: Garnish with sliced avocado or a drizzle of sour cream for added richness.

Storage/Reheating

Storage: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Reheating: Reheat the chicken in the microwave for 1-2 minutes, or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.

FAQs

1. Can I use bone-in chicken for this recipe?

Yes, you can use bone-in chicken, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time. Bone-in chicken takes longer to cook, so be sure the internal temperature reaches 165°F before serving.

2. Can I make the marinade ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare the marinade and store it in the fridge for up to 2 days before using it on the chicken.

3. Is it necessary to grill the chicken?

While grilling gives the chicken a nice smoky flavor, you can also cook it in a skillet over medium-high heat for 5-7 minutes per side.

4. Can I use store-bought salsa verde, or should I make my own?

Store-bought salsa verde works perfectly for this recipe! However, if you prefer homemade, you can make your own salsa verde using tomatillos, cilantro, lime, and spices.

5. How can I make this recipe less spicy?

To reduce the spice level, use a mild salsa verde or substitute with a less spicy cheese like mozzarella.

6. Can I serve this with sides?

Yes, this dish pairs wonderfully with rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad for a balanced meal.

7. How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F. You can check using a meat thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked.

8. Can I freeze the chicken after grilling?

While it’s best to enjoy this dish fresh, you can freeze the grilled chicken for up to 2 months. Be sure to store it in an airtight container or freezer bag.

9. Can I use chicken thighs instead of chicken breasts?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs for a juicier, richer flavor. Just be sure to adjust the cooking time as needed.

10. Can I add other toppings to this dish?

Feel free to add toppings like guacamole, diced tomatoes, or a sprinkle of cheese for extra flavor!

Conclusion

Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is the perfect combination of smoky, spicy, and cheesy. The tangy salsa verde marinade elevates the chicken’s flavor, while the melted pepper Jack cheese adds an irresistible finish. Whether served as a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal for a weekend BBQ, this dish will become a new favorite in your recipe collection!

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