This easy grilled chicken recipe is perfect for a quick meal! It features juicy chicken breasts topped with zesty salsa verde and gooey pepper jack cheese. Yum!
Honestly, who doesn’t love a melty layer of cheese on anything? I usually serve this with rice or a simple salad for a tasty dinner. You’ll want seconds, trust me! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts keep the dish lean and easy to cook. If you prefer dark meat, thighs work well too. Just adjust cooking time since they can take a bit longer!
Olive Oil: This helps prevent the chicken from sticking and adds flavor. You can swap it for avocado oil or vegetable oil if you need a different option.
Salsa Verde: This bright, tangy sauce is key! Store-bought is super convenient, but homemade is great if you have the time. Consider using tomatillos or green tomatoes for a fresh taste.
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese adds a nice kick! If you’re looking for non-spicy options, Monterey Jack or a mild cheddar are tasty substitutes.
How Do I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Cooked Perfectly?
Getting a juicy chicken breast takes some attention, but it’s worth it! Firstly, patting the chicken dry helps the spices stick and promotes browning. Use medium-high heat for the grill and don’t rush flipping the chicken; wait for those grill marks!
- Cook the first side for 6-7 minutes without moving it; this seals in juices.
- Use a meat thermometer to check that it’s at 165°F (75°C) for safe eating.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This helps the juices redistribute.
Easy Grilled Chicken with Salsa Verde and Pepper Jack
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lime, cut into wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
The total time for this recipe is about 25-30 minutes. You will need around 10 minutes for prep work like seasoning the chicken, followed by about 15-20 minutes to grill it. It’s quick and easy for a delicious dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium-high. This will ensure the chicken cooks evenly and gets nice grill marks.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels to remove any moisture. In a small bowl, mix together salt, pepper, garlic powder, and cumin. Sprinkle this seasoning generously on both sides of the chicken breasts to add flavor.
3. Add Olive Oil:
Drizzle the olive oil over the seasoned chicken. Use your hands to rub the oil into the chicken, making sure it’s well coated. This helps keep the chicken juicy while grilling.
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the hot grill. Let them cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side. Don’t move them around; this allows the grill to create those lovely sear marks!
5. Flip and Finish Cooking:
Carefully flip the chicken breasts using tongs. Grill for another 5-7 minutes. Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safety and juiciness.
6. Add Salsa Verde:
While the chicken is still on the grill, spoon salsa verde evenly over each piece. This adds a fresh, zesty flavor as it warms up.
7. Melt the Cheese:
Place a slice of Pepper Jack cheese on top of each chicken breast, then close the grill lid. Let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Serve:
Carefully remove the chicken from the grill and place it on a serving plate. Sprinkle with freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of color and flavor.
9. Enjoy!
Serve your delicious grilled chicken with lime wedges on the side. Squeeze some lime juice over the chicken for a fantastic flavor kick!
Dig in and enjoy your flavorful creation of grilled chicken with zesty salsa verde and melty Pepper Jack cheese!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken with Salsa Verde and Pepper Jack
Can I Use Frozen Chicken for This Recipe?
No, it’s best to use thawed chicken for even cooking. If you have frozen chicken, make sure to thaw it in the fridge overnight or by placing it in a sealed plastic bag submerged in cold water before using it in the recipe.
What Can I Substitute for Salsa Verde?
If you’re out of salsa verde, you can use a store-bought green enchilada sauce or make your own by blending fresh tomatillos, cilantro, lime juice, and green chilies. Alternatively, a fresh pico de gallo can also work well for a different flavor profile.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. If you want to keep the cheese fresh, consider adding it during the reheating process.
Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can season the chicken and make the salsa verde ahead of time. Just grill the chicken and assemble the dish when you’re ready to serve. The flavors meld beautifully if you let them sit for a little while before grilling!
