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
- Make the Marinade:In a large bowl, combine salsa verde, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir to mix well.
- 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.
- Preheat the Grill:Heat your grill to medium-high heat.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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:
- Spicy Version: Add chopped jalapeños or extra hot sauce to the marinade for more heat.
- Cheese Options: Swap pepper jack cheese for cheddar, Monterey Jack, or even smoky gouda for a different flavor profile.
- 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