Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken Recipe
Introduction
This Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a quick and flavorful meal that combines smoky grilled chicken with a tangy salsa verde and melted pepper jack cheese. Perfect for weeknight dinners or casual gatherings, it offers a delicious twist on a classic grilled chicken dish.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Season the chicken breasts with salt and pepper if desired.
- Step 2: Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) and the chicken is cooked through.
- Step 3: During the last few minutes of grilling, spoon salsa verde evenly over each chicken breast.
- Step 4: Place a slice of pepper jack cheese on top of the salsa verde-covered chicken and close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt, about 2 minutes.
- Step 5: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in salsa verde for 30 minutes before grilling.
- Substitute pepper jack with mozzarella or Monterey Jack cheese for a milder taste.
- Serve with grilled vegetables or a fresh salad to complete the meal.
Storage
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or oven until warmed through to avoid drying out the chicken.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Yes, boneless chicken thighs work well and tend to stay juicier. Adjust grilling time accordingly, typically about 5-6 minutes per side depending on thickness.
Is salsa verde the same as green salsa?
Salsa verde generally refers to a tangy, green sauce made from tomatillos, green chilies, and fresh herbs, which differs slightly from other green salsas that may use different ingredients.
PrintGrilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken Recipe
This Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a quick and flavorful dish perfect for a weeknight dinner. Juicy grilled chicken breasts are topped with zesty salsa verde and melted pepper jack cheese, creating a delicious blend of smoky, spicy, and creamy flavors that will satisfy your taste buds.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
Toppings
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
Instructions
- Preheat the grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C), to ensure the chicken cooks evenly and develops a nice char.
- Prepare the chicken: Season the chicken breasts lightly with salt and pepper or your favorite seasoning blend to enhance flavor.
- Grill the chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C), turning once during cooking.
- Top with salsa verde and cheese: During the last 2 minutes of grilling, spoon salsa verde evenly over each chicken breast, then place a slice of pepper jack cheese on top. Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt.
- Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill once the cheese is melted and the chicken is fully cooked. Let it rest for a few minutes before serving to retain juices.
Notes
- For extra flavor, marinate chicken in salsa verde for 30 minutes before grilling.
- If you don’t have a grill, you can cook the chicken in a grill pan or under the broiler.
- Adjust the amount of pepper jack cheese to your preference for heat and creaminess.
- Serve with rice, beans, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Keywords: grilled chicken, salsa verde, pepper jack cheese, Mexican chicken, easy dinner
