This grilled chicken dish is bursting with flavor! Topped with zesty salsa verde and melted pepper jack cheese, it’s sure to be a hit.
The combination of savory chicken and spicy cheese makes every bite exciting. I love serving it with fresh veggies or a simple salad for a tasty meal!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are perfect for this dish because they cook quickly and stay juicy. For a healthier option, you could use thighs or even turkey breast if you prefer.
Salsa Verde: This adds a fresh, vibrant flavor! You can use store-bought for convenience, but homemade is easy too. If you want it milder, try using tomatillos instead of green chilies.
Pepper Jack Cheese: This cheese gives a lovely spice to the dish. If you can’t find it, try Monterey Jack with a bit of jalapeño or even cheddar for a different flavor dimension.
Spices: The combination of cumin, garlic powder, and smoked paprika enhances the chicken’s flavor. If you like it spicy, you could add a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili powder!
How Can I Ensure My Chicken is Juicy and Flavorful?
To keep the chicken juicy and packed with flavor, marinating or seasoning well is key. Here’s how to do it:
- Mix olive oil with spices, ensuring every piece is coated. This helps tenderize the chicken.
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute.
- Always check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C). A meat thermometer is your best friend!
- Be sure not to overcook the chicken, as that can make it dry.
These simple steps will enhance your grilled chicken experience. Enjoy your cooking!
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 ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prep and around 15 minutes to cook. Altogether, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to serving! Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures that the chicken sears nicely and cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, ground cumin, garlic powder, smoked paprika, salt, and black pepper. This spice blend will add fantastic flavor to your chicken!
3. Season the Chicken:
Brush the spice mixture onto both sides of each chicken breast. Make sure they are well-coated for maximum flavor!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Once the grill is hot, place the chicken breasts on it. Grill for 6-7 minutes on one side. Then flip the chicken and grill for an additional 6-7 minutes, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). This is key to ensuring they are safe to eat!
5. Add Salsa Verde and Cheese:
In the last 2 minutes of grilling, carefully spoon some salsa verde over each chicken breast and top them with a slice of pepper jack cheese. Close the lid to let the cheese melt nicely.
6. Rest Before Serving:
Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for about 3-5 minutes. This resting period allows the juices to redistribute for even juicier chicken!
7. Garnish and Serve:
Before serving, sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro over the top. Serve with lime wedges on the side for a zesty kick. Enjoy your flavorful Grilled Chicken with Salsa Verde and Pepper Jack!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I Use Other Cheeses Instead of Pepper Jack?
Absolutely! If you’re not a fan of pepper jack, you can substitute it with Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even mozzarella. Each will add a different flavor profile, but all will work well with the seasoned chicken and salsa verde!
What If I Don’t Have a Grill?
No worries! You can cook the chicken in a skillet on the stove over medium-high heat or bake it in the oven at 375°F (190°C) for about 25-30 minutes. Just be sure to use a little oil to prevent sticking, and follow the same steps for adding the salsa and cheese!
Can I Prepare This Dish Ahead of Time?
Yes! You can marinate the chicken in the spice mixture for a few hours or overnight in the fridge to enhance the flavors. Cooked chicken can also be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
How Should I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover grilled chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or grill briefly until heated through. Add a bit more salsa verde on top for extra moisture!
