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Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken


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  • Author: Ezabella
  • Total Time: 45-60 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings
  • Diet: Gluten Free

Description

Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken combines smoky grilled chicken, tangy salsa verde, and creamy melted pepper jack cheese for a flavorful and juicy meal. Perfect for weeknight dinners or weekend barbecues, this dish is quick, customizable, and packed with vibrant flavors


Ingredients

For the Marinade:

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

For the Topping:

4 slices pepper jack cheese (or as desired)

Fresh cilantro, finely minced (optional, for garnishing)

Lime wedges (optional, for serving)


Instructions

  1. Make the Marinade:In a large bowl, combine salsa verde, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir to mix well.
  2. Marinate the Chicken:Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for maximum flavor absorption.
  3. Preheat the Grill:Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the Chicken:Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard any remaining marinade. Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.
  5. Melt the Cheese: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.
  6. Rest and Serve:Once the chicken is fully cooked and the cheese has melted, remove it from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for extra zing.

Notes

Storage: Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm in a skillet over medium heat.

Customization:

  1. Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or extra hot sauce to the marinade for more heat.
  2. Cheese Options: Swap pepper jack cheese for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even smoky gouda for a different flavor profile.
  3. Grill Veggies: Grill sliced bell peppers or onions alongside the chicken for an added veggie side.
  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish, Grilled
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican-inspired, American