Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken: A Flavorful, Easy-to-Make Dish
If you’re in search of a quick, delicious grilling recipe, this Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a fantastic choice! Marinated in salsa verde, lime juice, and spices, the chicken is full of tangy, zesty flavors. Topped with melty pepper Jack cheese, each bite has a kick that’s perfect for summer grilling or a flavorful weeknight dinner. Here’s how to make this crowd-pleasing dish.
Recipe: Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds thin-sliced boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)
- 12 ounces salsa verde (Trader Joe’s recommended)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt (or more, to taste)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 slices pepper Jack cheese (or as desired)
- Fresh cilantro, finely minced (optional, for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine the chicken breasts, salsa verde, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
- Seal the bag, then gently massage the ingredients together to evenly coat the chicken with the marinade.
- Place the bag in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes (for optimal flavor, marinate up to overnight).
Step 2: Preheat and Prepare the Grill
- Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Step 3: Grill the Chicken
- Place the marinated chicken on the preheated grill and close the lid.
- Grill for about 5 minutes on the first side, then flip and cook for an additional 4 minutes on the other side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked and has reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
Step 4: Add the Cheese
- Reduce the grill heat to medium-low.
- Add a slice of pepper Jack cheese on top of each chicken breast, close the lid, and allow the cheese to melt for about 1 minute.
Step 5: Serve
- Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges, if desired.
- Adjust the seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or extra salsa verde to taste.
Tips and Serving Suggestions
- Spice Level: For a spicier dish, use a hot salsa verde or add extra pepper Jack cheese. You can also sprinkle some red pepper flakes into the marinade.
- Serving Ideas: Serve this chicken alongside rice, grilled vegetables, or in a tortilla wrap with your favorite toppings for a fun taco twist.
- Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently to keep the chicken tender.
Recipe Summary
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Marinating Time: 30 minutes
- Cooking Time: 10 minutes
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Servings: 4 servings
- Calories: 285 kcal per serving
This Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a simple, flavorful recipe that brings a burst of zest to any meal. The tangy salsa verde marinade and creamy, spicy pepper Jack cheese make for a winning combination. Perfect for grilling season or any time you want a fresh, satisfying meal with a bit of kick. Enjoy each flavorful bite!
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Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 1x
Description
Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken brings together a zesty salsa verde marinade, juicy chicken, and creamy, melted pepper Jack cheese for a simple yet mouthwatering dish. The salsa verde infuses the chicken with a tangy, slightly spicy flavor, balanced by a squeeze of lime juice, making it ideal for a flavorful summer dinner. Finished off with melted cheese, this dish is as satisfying as it is easy to prepare.
Ingredients
1 ½ pounds thin-sliced boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)
12 ounces salsa verde (Trader Joe’s recommended)
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon salt (or more, to taste)
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
4 slices pepper Jack cheese (or as desired)
Fresh cilantro, finely minced (optional, for garnish)
Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine the chicken breasts, salsa verde, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper. Seal the bag and gently mix everything together to evenly coat the chicken.
Place the bag in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.
Lightly oil the grill grates and preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
Place the marinated chicken on the grill, close the lid, and grill for about 5 minutes on the first side. Flip and grill for an additional 4 minutes on the other side, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked.
Reduce the heat to medium-low, add a slice of pepper Jack cheese to each chicken breast, close the lid, and let the cheese melt for about 1 minute.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges if desired. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or salsa to taste.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 10 minutes
Nutrition
- Calories: 285