Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken

Key Ingredients & Substitutions

Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this recipe. If you prefer, you can use thighs for a juicier option. They can handle more heat without drying out.

Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese brings a nice heat to the dish. If you’re looking for something milder, try Monterey Jack or even cheddar. For a dairy-free option, vegan cheese can work too!

Salsa Verde: Store-bought salsa verde is super convenient. If you’re up for it, homemade adds a personal touch. Blend tomatillos with jalapeños, lime juice, and cilantro for a fresh flavor.

Cilantro: Fresh cilantro brightens the dish. If you’re not a fan, parsley or even green onions can be a good switch. Just chop them finely for a nice garnish!

How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly Without Overcooking?

Grilling chicken can be tricky, but with the right technique, you’ll have juicy, flavorful results! Here’s how:

• Preheat your grill to medium-high. This helps get that nice char without overcooking.
• Use even heat—if your grill has hot spots, rotate the chicken halfway through cooking.
• Check the temperature! Use a meat thermometer; 165°F (75°C) means perfectly cooked chicken.
• Let it rest after grilling for a few minutes. This keeps the juices locked in.

These tips will ensure your chicken is cooked just right, every time! Happy grilling!

How to Make Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken

Ingredients You’ll Need:

For the Chicken:

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
• Salt and black pepper, to taste

For Topping:

• 6 slices pepper jack cheese
• 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
• 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped (plus extra for garnish)
• 1 lime, cut into wedges
• Cherry tomatoes, halved (optional, for garnish)

How Much Time Will You Need?

This delicious dish takes about 15 minutes of prep time and around 15-20 minutes of cooking time. You’ll be enjoying a flavorful meal in about 30-35 minutes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend BBQ!

Step-by-Step Instructions:

1. Preheat the Grill:

Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help sear the chicken, giving it a beautiful char and keeping it juicy.

2. Prepare the Seasoning:

In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, garlic powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This will bring a wonderful flavor to your chicken!

3. Season the Chicken:

Rub each chicken breast with olive oil to help the spice mix stick. Then, coat them evenly with the seasoning mix you just prepared.

4. Grill the Chicken:

Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill them for about 6-7 minutes on one side until they are nicely charred. Be sure to keep an eye on them!

5. Add the Cheese:

Flip the chicken breasts over and place a slice (or 1 ½ slices) of pepper jack cheese on top of each piece. Cover the grill with a lid to help the cheese melt as the chicken cooks for an additional 5-6 minutes.

6. Check for Doneness:

You’ll want the internal temperature of the chicken to reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer to be sure!

7. Serve and Enjoy:

Once done, remove the grilled chicken from the heat and place it on a serving platter. Warm the salsa verde slightly in a small saucepan or microwave. Spoon the salsa verde over the cheesy chicken.

8. Garnish:

Sprinkle freshly chopped cilantro on top of the chicken for a fresh touch. Garnish with lime wedges and cherry tomatoes if you’d like.

Now, dig into this scrumptious grilled chicken that’s packed with smoky, spicy, cheesy, and tangy flavors—your taste buds will thank you!

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?

Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great substitute and can be even juicier than breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly, as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.

What Can I Substitute for Salsa Verde?

If you don’t have salsa verde on hand, you can use your favorite salsa or even a homemade tomatillo sauce. A mild green salsa or even a pico de gallo will add a nice flavor, just ensure it has the right consistency to pour over the chicken.

How Do I Store Leftovers?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. If the chicken seems dry, add a splash of salsa verde or chicken broth.

Can I Make This Recipe Spicier?

Definitely! To amp up the spice, you can add some diced jalapeños to the salsa verde or sprinkle some crushed red pepper flakes over the chicken before grilling. If you like it really hot, consider swapping pepper jack for a spicier cheese, like habanero jack!