Name: Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: PT-491578H49M35S
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Southwestern
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder; Salt and pepper, to taste; 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade); 8 slices pepper jack cheese; Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish); Lime wedges (for serving)

Introduction

This Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a flavorful and easy meal that combines spicy, tangy salsa verde with melty pepper jack cheese. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue, it takes about 30 minutes from start to finish. Get ready for a delicious dish with a smoky grilled touch and cheesy goodness.

A white plate with a bright blue and red patterned rim holds five thick slices of grilled chicken breast arranged in a neat row. The chicken is golden brown with charred grill marks, covered in a light yellow creamy sauce that pools slightly around the meat, fresh green chopped herbs sprinkled on top and around the plate. At the back of the plate, a slice of lime and some leafy green cilantro add fresh color contrast. The plate sits on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts

1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)

8 slices pepper jack cheese

2 tablespoons olive oil

1 teaspoon ground cumin

1 teaspoon chili powder

1/2 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and pepper, to taste

Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)

Lime wedges (for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat to ensure even cooking and those perfect grill marks.

Step 2: In a small bowl, combine the ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to create your spice mix.

Step 3: Rub the chicken breasts with olive oil on both sides, then coat them evenly with the spice mixture for maximum flavor.

Step 4: Place the chicken on the grill and cook for 6-8 minutes on each side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and grill marks appear.

Step 5: In the last 2 minutes of grilling, spoon salsa verde evenly over each chicken breast to infuse a zesty taste.

Step 6: Top each chicken breast with two slices of pepper jack cheese. Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt for about 1-2 minutes until gooey and delicious.

Step 7: Remove the chicken from the grill, garnish with chopped fresh cilantro, and serve with lime wedges for squeezing on top. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For extra smoky flavor, try using a charcoal grill or add wood chips to a gas grill.

If you prefer less heat, substitute pepper jack with mild Monterey Jack or mozzarella cheese.

Make your own salsa verde with tomatillos, jalapeños, cilantro, and lime juice for a fresher taste.

Serve alongside rice, grilled vegetables, or a fresh salad to round out the meal.

FAQs

Can I bake this chicken instead of grilling it?

Yes, you can bake the seasoned chicken at 400°F (200°C) for about 20-25 minutes, then add the salsa verde and cheese during the last few minutes under the broiler until melted.

Is salsa verde spicy?

Salsa verde typically has a mild to moderate heat depending on the recipe and peppers used. Store-bought versions vary, so taste before using or adjust to your heat preference.