Name: Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts; 1 cup fresh tomatillos, husked and rinsed; 1/2 cup cilantro, roughly chopped; 2 jalapenos, seeded and roughly chopped; 2 cloves garlic; 1/4 cup white onion, roughly chopped; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 4 slices pepper jack cheese; Optional: avocado slices, sour cream, chopped cilantro for topping

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Crisp, smoky char on the outside gives way to juicy, tender chicken infused with a vibrant, tangy salsa verde, all topped with melted, slightly spicy pepper jack cheese. This grilled salsa verde chicken is the perfect weeknight meal. The combination of fresh tomatillos, fiery jalapenos, and fragrant cilantro in the salsa verde perfectly complements the smoky grilled chicken, creating a flavor explosion that’s both refreshing and satisfying. The pepper jack cheese adds a creamy, melty layer with a subtle kick that ties everything together. Ready in under 40 minutes, this recipe is a surefire hit for a quick and delicious dinner.

Why you’ll love this Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack

It’s a quick and easy weeknight dinner ready in under 40 minutes.
The homemade salsa verde adds a burst of fresh, vibrant flavor to the chicken.
The pepper jack cheese creates a creamy, slightly spicy element that perfectly complements the grilled chicken.
This recipe uses simple ingredients and straightforward grilling techniques.
Enjoy a healthy and delicious meal with this recipe for grilled salsa verde chicken.
It’s easily customizable to your spice preference by adjusting the amount of jalapeno.

Ingredients & Substitutions

Ingredients for Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack

4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
1 cup fresh tomatillos, husked and rinsed
1/2 cup cilantro, roughly chopped
2 jalapenos, seeded and roughly chopped
2 cloves garlic
1/4 cup white onion, roughly chopped
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
4 slices pepper jack cheese
Optional: avocado slices, sour cream, chopped cilantro for topping

Grilled salsa verde chicken makes every moment feel energetic. For a milder flavor, be sure to remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos. If you can’t find fresh tomatillos, you can use canned, but the flavor won’t be quite as bright. A little bit of apple cider vinegar will add a similar tang if no lime juice is available.

How to make Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack

Step 1: Prepare the salsa verde

In a blender or food processor, combine the tomatillos, cilantro, jalapenos, garlic, onion, lime juice, olive oil, and cumin. Blend until smooth. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Step 2: Marinate the chicken

Place the chicken breasts in a resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour half of the salsa verde over the chicken, ensuring it’s evenly coated. Reserve the remaining salsa verde for serving. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours.

Chef’s Tip: Don’t marinate the chicken for longer than 4 hours, as the acidity of the lime juice can start to break down the chicken’s texture, making it mushy.

Step 3: Grill the chicken

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade.

Step 4: Cook the chicken

Grill the chicken for 6-8 minutes per side, or until cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).

Chef’s Tip: Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe internal temperature.

Step 5: Add the cheese

During the last minute of grilling, top each chicken breast with a slice of pepper jack cheese. Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt.

Step 6: Serve

Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes before serving. Top with the reserved salsa verde, avocado slices, sour cream, and chopped cilantro, if desired.

Tips for Success

Preheat your grill properly to ensure even cooking and prevent sticking.
Don’t overcrowd the grill. Cook the chicken in batches if necessary to maintain consistent heat.
Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to allow the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful final product.
Adjust the amount of jalapeno in the salsa verde to suit your spice preference.

Serving Suggestions

This grilled salsa verde chicken pairs perfectly with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with rice, beans, or grilled vegetables. A simple side salad with a lime vinaigrette would also complement the flavors nicely. For a heartier meal, try serving it with smothered chicken and rice. To complement the Mexican flavors, you can also serve it with your favorite Mexican vegetable broth or a refreshing margarita. For a delightful dessert, consider baked apple fritters to complete your meal.

Storage & Reheating

Leftover grilled salsa verde chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or oven until heated through. Be careful not to overcook, as the chicken can dry out. It’s best to reheat the chicken without the toppings to maintain their freshness.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use store-bought salsa verde?

Yes, you can use store-bought salsa verde if you’re short on time. However, the flavor will be more authentic and vibrant if you make it fresh.

Can I freeze this chicken?

It’s best to freeze the chicken before grilling. Marinate the chicken, then freeze it in a freezer-safe bag. When ready to cook, thaw completely and grill as directed. Cooked chicken can become dry when frozen and reheated.

Is this recipe spicy?

The spice level depends on the jalapenos. If you want a milder flavor, remove the seeds and membranes from the jalapenos before blending the salsa verde. You can also use fewer jalapenos or substitute a milder pepper.

This grilled salsa verde chicken with pepper jack is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser. The zesty salsa verde, combined with the smoky grilled chicken and melty pepper jack cheese, creates an unforgettable flavor experience. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for a summer weeknight meal. Give it a try and let us know what you think in the comments below!

Delicious Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken With Pepper Jack Recipe