Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a flavorful and juicy dish that combines the smoky goodness of grilled chicken with the zesty heat of salsa verde and the creamy melt of pepper jack cheese. The marinade, featuring lime juice, cumin, and olive oil, infuses the chicken with bold flavors while keeping it tender. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. It’s simple to prepare, yet packed with vibrant flavors that will leave everyone coming back for more.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is an explosion of flavor with every bite. The tangy salsa verde marinade enhances the chicken’s natural juiciness, while the cumin and lime juice add depth and brightness. The final touch of melted pepper jack cheese brings creaminess and a touch of spice, making this chicken dish irresistible. It’s quick to make, customizable in terms of spice level, and perfect for pairing with a variety of sides like rice, grilled veggies, or a light salad.

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 garnishing)
Lime wedges (optional, for serving)

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

In a large bowl, combine salsa verde, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Mix well to combine.
Add the chicken breasts to the bowl, tossing to coat them evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, to let the chicken marinate and absorb the flavors.
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade.
Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through, reaching an internal temperature of 165°F.
During the last minute of grilling, place a slice of pepper jack cheese on each chicken breast. Close the grill lid to melt the cheese.
Once the chicken is cooked and the cheese has melted, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an added burst of flavor.

Servings and Timing

This recipe serves 4. The total time for preparation, marinating, and grilling is about 45-60 minutes, depending on how long you allow the chicken to marinate.

Variations

Spicy Version: Increase the heat by adding a few sliced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
Cheese Variety: Swap the pepper jack cheese for another cheese like cheddar or Monterey Jack if you prefer a milder flavor.
Add Veggies: Grill some sliced bell peppers or onions alongside the chicken for an added veggie component to the dish.
Use Chicken Thighs: If you prefer dark meat, you can use boneless skinless chicken thighs instead of breasts. They will stay juicier and have a deeper flavor.

Storage/Reheating

Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, you can microwave it or warm it up in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. If you prefer to keep the cheese melted, consider covering the chicken with foil when reheating in the oven.

FAQs

1. Can I use a different type of cheese?

Yes! While pepper jack cheese adds a nice spicy kick, you can use other cheeses like cheddar, mozzarella, or even a smoky gouda if you prefer a different flavor.

2. How do I know when the chicken is fully cooked?

The chicken is fully cooked when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F. You can use a meat thermometer to check the temperature in the thickest part of the chicken breast.

3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

You can marinate the chicken ahead of time, up to 2 hours, to let the flavors develop. However, it’s best to grill the chicken fresh for the best texture and flavor.

4. How do I adjust the heat level of this recipe?

You can adjust the heat level by adding more or less salsa verde. If you want it spicier, you can add some finely chopped jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.

5. Can I cook this chicken in the oven instead of on the grill?

Yes, you can bake the chicken in the oven. Preheat your oven to 375°F and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the chicken reaches 165°F internally. Add the cheese during the last 5 minutes of cooking to melt it.

6. Can I use bone-in chicken breasts for this recipe?

While bone-in chicken breasts can be used, they will require a longer cooking time. Make sure to check the internal temperature with a thermometer to ensure it’s fully cooked through.

7. How can I serve this chicken?

This grilled salsa verde pepper jack chicken pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides, including rice, grilled vegetables, or a light salad. You can also serve it in tacos or wraps for a fun twist.

8. Is there a substitute for salsa verde?

If you can’t find salsa verde, you can substitute it with green enchilada sauce or make your own by blending tomatillos, cilantro, lime juice, and green chilies.

9. Can I make the chicken spicier with extra seasoning?

Yes! To kick up the spice, try adding extra cayenne pepper, chili powder, or chopped fresh chili peppers to the marinade.

10. Can I use a different oil in the marinade?

Yes, you can substitute the olive oil with another oil such as avocado oil or vegetable oil, though olive oil adds a nice depth of flavor to the marinade.

Conclusion

Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a simple yet flavorful dish that packs a punch. With its smoky grilled chicken, zesty salsa verde marinade, and melty pepper jack cheese, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Whether served with your favorite sides or in a wrap, it’s a versatile and satisfying meal that will have everyone asking for seconds. Enjoy the fresh flavors, the heat, and the perfect combination of cheese and spice!