This Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a tasty treat! Juicy chicken is topped with zesty salsa verde and melted pepper jack cheese for a flavor explosion.
The best part? It’s super easy to make! Just grill the chicken, add your toppings, and enjoy a cheesy delight that’ll impress everyone at the dinner table.
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect here for their quick grilling nature. If you prefer, chicken thighs can be a juicier alternative.
Salsa Verde: This gives a fresh flavor. If you can’t find salsa verde, you could use your favorite green salsa or even a homemade version with tomatillos. A good hint is to look for brands that have fresh ingredients as the primary components.
Pepper Jack Cheese: It’s creamy and has a nice kick. If you prefer a milder flavor, Monterey Jack or mozzarella can work better. For a dairy-free option, use a plant-based cheese that melts well.
Olive Oil: This adds flavor and helps the marinade stick. You can substitute it with avocado oil for a higher smoke point or even a flavored oil like garlic oil for extra taste.
How Can I Marinate Chicken Like a Pro?
Marinating chicken is key to infusing flavor and ensuring it’s juicy. Here’s how to do it right:
- Mix your marinade well to combine spices with oil and lime juice. You want every bite to be flavorful.
- Use a resealable bag for easy mixing and marinating. Press out the air before sealing it. This allows the marinade to reach all surfaces.
- Marinate chicken in the fridge for at least 30 minutes, but ideally up to 2 hours. Remember, the longer it sits, the more flavor it builds!
- Always discard the leftover marinade to avoid contamination.
How to Make Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 cup pepper jack cheese, shredded
For the Marinade:
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 teaspoons lime juice
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
For Garnish:
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time, plus at least 30 minutes (up to 2 hours) to marinate the chicken, and around 15 minutes to grill. Overall, plan for about 1 hour to prepare and enjoy this delicious dish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This will ensure that your chicken cooks evenly and gets those lovely grill marks.
2. Make the Marinade:
In a small mixing bowl, combine the olive oil, lime juice, minced garlic, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well until everything is mixed together to create a flavorful marinade.
3. Marinate the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts in a resealable plastic bag, or in a shallow dish. Pour your freshly made marinade over the chicken, making sure every piece is coated well. Seal the bag or cover the dish, then put it in the refrigerator. Let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for best flavor, up to 2 hours.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the chicken has marinated, take it out of the fridge. Discard any leftover marinade. Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side. The chicken is ready when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
5. Add the Salsa Verde and Cheese:
In the last few minutes of grilling, spoon some salsa verde over each chicken breast. Then, sprinkle the shredded pepper jack cheese over the top. Close the grill lid so the cheese can melt nicely.
6. Let It Rest:
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep the juicy flavor locked in!
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Slice the grilled chicken and arrange it beautifully on a serving platter. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve alongside lime wedges. Enjoy your amazing Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken!
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe and will be even more tender due to their higher fat content. Just follow the same marinating and grilling times, ensuring they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C).
What if I Don’t Have Salsa Verde?
No problem! You can easily make a quick substitute by mixing together some green tomatillos (if you have them), cilantro, a jalapeño (for heat), lime juice, and salt. Alternatively, any green salsa or even a mild salsa can work in a pinch!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, but be careful not to dry it out. You can add a splash of water or broth when reheating to keep it moist.
Can I Grill This Chicken Indoors?
Yes, if you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use a stovetop grill pan or an electric grill. Just ensure you use medium-high heat and monitor the cooking time, as indoor grilling can vary. Keep a close eye on the cheese to prevent it from burning!
