Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a delightful and easy-to-make dish that bursts with flavor. This recipe combines the zesty tang of salsa verde with the creamy spice of Pepper Jack cheese, all atop juicy grilled chicken breasts. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue, this dish will become a staple in your household.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
Instructions
- Prepare the Chicken: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, garlic powder, onion powder, ground cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this mixture evenly over the chicken breasts.
- Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill for 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165Ā°F (74Ā°C) and the chicken is no longer pink in the center.
- Add Salsa Verde and Cheese: During the last 2 minutes of grilling, spoon salsa verde over each chicken breast and sprinkle with shredded Pepper Jack cheese. Close the grill lid to melt the cheese.
- Garnish and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Tips for the Best Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken
- Marinate for Extra Flavor: For even more flavor, marinate the chicken in salsa verde for at least 30 minutes before grilling.
- Use a Meat Thermometer: To ensure your chicken is perfectly cooked, use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165Ā°F (74Ā°C).
- Adjust the Spice Level: If you prefer a milder dish, use Monterey Jack cheese instead of Pepper Jack. For extra heat, add some sliced jalapeƱos on top.
Why Youāll Love This Recipe
- Quick and Easy: This recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or a last-minute BBQ, as it comes together in under 30 minutes.
- Flavorful and Spicy: The combination of salsa verde and Pepper Jack cheese adds a delicious kick to the juicy grilled chicken.
- Versatile: Serve this chicken with a side of rice, in tacos, or on top of a salad for a versatile meal option.
FAQs
Q: Can I use store-bought salsa verde?
A: Yes, store-bought salsa verde works perfectly for this recipe. If you have time, you can also make homemade salsa verde for an extra fresh taste.
Q: What can I serve with this chicken?
A: This dish pairs well with Mexican rice, black beans, or a fresh garden salad. You can also use it as a filling for tacos or burritos.
Q: Can I cook this chicken in the oven?
A: Yes, if you donāt have a grill, you can bake the chicken in a preheated oven at 375Ā°F (190Ā°C) for about 25-30 minutes, adding the salsa verde and cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking.
Q: How do I store leftovers?
A: Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven until warmed through.
Q: Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
A: Yes, boneless, skinless chicken thighs can be used. Adjust the grilling time as needed to ensure they are fully cooked.
Q: What other cheeses can I use?
A: Feel free to experiment with other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or queso fresco for different flavor profiles.
Conclusion
Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a delicious, spicy, and incredibly easy dish to make. Perfect for any occasion, this recipe will quickly become a favorite in your household. Give it a try and enjoy the vibrant flavors of this simple yet satisfying meal.