This easy grilled chicken is tasty and packed with flavor! Topped with zesty salsa verde and melty pepper jack cheese, it’s a crowd-pleaser at any meal.
I love how quick this dish comes together! Just grill the chicken, add the toppings, and enjoy a delicious, cheesy bite. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a sunny weekend BBQ!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are great for a quick cook and juicy results. If you’re looking for something different, try thighs for extra flavor and tenderness!
Salsa Verde: Store-bought salsa verde is a time-saver. If you want to DIY, blend tomatillos, cilantro, garlic, and jalapeños. Can’t find tomatillos? Green tomatoes or even green salsa can work in a pinch!
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese adds nice heat and creaminess. If it’s too spicy for you, try Monterey Jack or mild cheddar for a similar texture without the kick.
Spices: The spice blend here enhances flavor beautifully, but feel free to adjust! Adding a pinch of cayenne can intensify the heat, or skip it if you’re cooking for kids.
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Well-Cooked?
Getting perfectly cooked chicken can be tricky. Here’s how to nail it:
- Preheat the grill! This helps create a nice sear, sealing in juices.
- Don’t flip too soon! Let the grill do its work for 6-7 minutes on each side.
- Check doneness with a meat thermometer; 165°F (75°C) is your goal!
- Add salsa verde and cheese in the final two minutes—this ensures the chicken stays juicy while flavors blend nicely.
With these tips, your grilled chicken will be deliciously juicy and packed with awesome flavors!
Easy Grilled Chicken with Salsa Verde and Pepper Jack
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 4 slices pepper jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and about 14 minutes to cook, for a total time of around 24 minutes. Quick and worth the wait for that cheesy, flavorful finish!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by heating your grill to medium-high heat. This will help you get nice grill marks on the chicken and lock in the juices.
2. Mix the Spices:
In a small bowl, combine garlic powder, cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and pepper. This spice mix will give your chicken a delicious kick of flavor!
3. Prepare the Chicken:
Drizzle olive oil over the chicken breasts, making sure they are coated nicely. Then, season both sides of the chicken evenly with your spice mixture to ensure full flavor!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken on the grill. Grill each side for 6-7 minutes until you see nice grill marks and the chicken is cooked all the way through (internal temp should be 165°F or 75°C).
5. Add Salsa Verde:
In the last 2 minutes of grilling, take the salsa verde and spoon it generously over each chicken breast. This will add a fresh, zesty layer of flavor.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Top each chicken breast with a slice of pepper jack cheese. Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt—this should only take about a minute.
7. Serve and Enjoy:
Carefully remove the grilled chicken from the grill and place it on a serving platter. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges for a splash of extra zest!
Enjoy your easy grilled chicken with salsa verde and pepper jack! It’s a tasty meal that pairs wonderfully with rice, a fresh salad, or even some grilled veggies.
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken with Salsa Verde and Pepper Jack
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will work great in this recipe and can be even juicier than breasts. Just cook them until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). The grilling time may vary slightly, so keep an eye on them!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through, but for the best taste, try to eat it fresh!
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
For a spicier kick, consider adding more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños to the salsa verde. You could also use a hotter variety of pepper jack cheese to ramp up the heat!
What Can I Serve with This Grilled Chicken?
This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, quinoa, or a simple side salad. For a low-carb option, serve it with grilled vegetables or even in lettuce wraps for a fresh twist. Enjoy your meal!
