This easy grilled chicken is super juicy and packed with flavor, topped with zesty salsa verde and melty pepper jack cheese. Perfect for any meal!
You won’t believe how simple this is to whip up on a grill! I like to serve it with rice or a fresh salad. It’s my go-to for impressing friends without a ton of effort!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts work best for this dish, as they grill quickly and stay juicy. If you prefer, you can use chicken thighs for extra flavor and tenderness.
Salsa Verde: A blend of tomatillos, green chiles, and herbs gives this dish its fresh kick. If you can’t find it, you can substitute with green sauce or a homemade blend using cilantro and lime juice.
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese adds a nice spice and creaminess. For a milder option, try Monterey Jack or even mozzarella. If you’re dairy-free, you can use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
Spices: The cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika create depth. Feel free to tweak the spices to your liking; chili powder or taco seasoning can also work nicely!
How Do I Grill Chicken Perfectly Every Time?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but here are some tips to ensure you get it right every time:
- Preheat your grill properly. A hot grill helps to sear the chicken, locking in juices.
- Don’t skip the seasoning! It really adds flavor; be generous with it when rubbing on the chicken.
- Use a meat thermometer. It’s the best way to ensure your chicken is cooked to the right temperature without drying out.
- Let the chicken rest after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, making your chicken juicy and tender.
- To avoid sticking, oil your grill grates or brush the chicken with oil before grilling.
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)
- 8 slices pepper jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. With a total time of about 25 minutes, you’ll have a flavor-packed meal ready in no time!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Begin by preheating your grill to medium-high heat, around 400°F (200°C). This step is important for ensuring a nice sear on the chicken.
2. Make the Seasoning Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, ground cumin, garlic powder, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. This mixture will infuse the chicken with a delicious flavor.
3. Season the Chicken:
Take each chicken breast and rub the seasoning mixture evenly over them, ensuring that they are well coated with all the tasty spices.
4. Start Grilling the Chicken:
Carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on each side, or until they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) and have lovely grill marks.
5. Add Salsa Verde:
In the final 2 minutes of cooking, generously spoon salsa verde over each chicken breast. The heat will help enhance the flavors of the salsa.
6. Top with Pepper Jack Cheese:
Now, add two slices of pepper jack cheese to each chicken breast on top of the salsa. Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt, which should take about 2 minutes.
7. Let It Rest:
Once done, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 5 minutes. This allows the juices to redistribute, making the chicken tender and juicy.
8. Slice and Serve:
Slice the chicken breasts and arrange them on a serving platter. If there’s any leftover salsa or melted cheese, drizzle it over the chicken for extra flavor.
9. Garnish:
Finish off by garnishing with fresh, chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze right before eating.
Enjoy your flavorful and easy grilled chicken with vibrant salsa verde and creamy pepper jack cheese! It’s sure to impress everyone at your table!
FAQ for Easy Grilled Chicken with Salsa Verde and Pepper Jack
Can I Use Another Type of Cheese?
Absolutely! If you prefer a milder flavor, you can substitute pepper jack with Monterey Jack, mozzarella, or even a sharp cheddar. Just keep in mind that the texture and taste may vary slightly.
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can easily cook this chicken in a grill pan or skillet on the stove. Simply heat it over medium-high heat and follow the same cooking instructions, adjusting time as necessary. The goal is to achieve a nice golden brown and cooked-through chicken.
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, use a microwave or place under the broiler for a few minutes until warmed through. If it seems dry, add a splash of salsa verde on top before reheating!
Can I Marinate the Chicken Ahead of Time?
Yes! For even more flavor, you can marinate the chicken in the seasoning mixture for 1-2 hours or overnight in the refrigerator. Just be sure to bring it to room temperature before grilling for even cooking.
