Save Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a zesty and vibrant Tex-Mex dish that brings bold flavors to your table with minimal effort. This quick recipe features tender chicken breasts infused with tangy salsa verde and topped with a creamy layer of melted pepper Jack cheese, making it a perfect choice for summer cookouts or easy weeknight dinners.
Save Marinading the chicken for at least 30 minutes allows the lime, cumin, and salsa verde to deeply penetrate the meat, ensuring every bite is zesty. Whether you are grilling outdoors or using a grill pan inside, this dish delivers a fresh and vibrant flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
Ingredients
- 1 ½ pounds (680 g) thin-sliced boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 12 ounces (340 g) salsa verde
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
- 4 slices pepper Jack cheese (about 100 g total)
- Fresh cilantro, finely minced (optional)
- Lime wedges (optional, for serving)
Instructions
- Step 1
- In a large bowl, whisk together the salsa verde, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and pepper to make the marinade.
- Step 2
- Add the chicken breasts, turning to coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours.
- Step 3
- Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
- Step 4
- Remove chicken from the marinade, allowing excess to drip off. Discard any leftover marinade.
- Step 5
- Grill chicken for 4–5 minutes per side, or until cooked through and internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C).
- Step 6
- In the last minute of grilling, top each breast with a slice of pepper Jack cheese. Close the grill lid to melt the cheese.
- Step 7
- Transfer chicken to a plate and let rest for a few minutes.
- Step 8
- Serve garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges if desired.
Zusatztipps für die Zubereitung
For the best texture, avoid marinating the chicken for longer than 2 hours as the lime juice can begin to change the texture of the meat. Always use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches exactly 165°F (74°C) without overcooking.
Varianten und Anpassungen
You can substitute Monterey Jack or cheddar for the pepper Jack cheese if you prefer a milder flavor. To add more depth or heat, try adding a pinch of smoked paprika or minced jalapeños to the marinade, or use a hot variety of salsa verde.
Serviervorschläge
Garnish your chicken with fresh cilantro and extra lime wedges for a bright finish. This versatile chicken is delicious when served sliced in warm corn tortillas as tacos, over a fresh garden salad, or alongside grilled seasonal vegetables.
Save This easy-to-follow recipe is a crowd-pleaser that fits perfectly into a gluten-free lifestyle. With its bold Tex-Mex flavors and simple preparation, it is sure to become a favorite in your recipe rotation for any occasion.
Recipe FAQs
- → How long should I marinate the chicken?
Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes and up to 2 hours. Longer marinating time allows the salsa verde flavors to penetrate deeper into the meat, resulting in more flavorful chicken.
- → Can I use regular salsa instead of salsa verde?
While you can substitute regular red salsa, salsa verde provides a unique tangy flavor from tomatillos that complements the pepper Jack cheese perfectly. Red salsa will give you a different flavor profile but will still work.
- → What temperature should the grilled chicken reach?
The chicken is safe to eat when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). Use an instant-read thermometer inserted into the thickest part of the breast to ensure it's fully cooked.
- → Can I make this indoors without a grill?
Yes! Use a grill pan on the stovetop or cook the chicken in a regular skillet. You may need to finish under the broiler for a minute to melt the cheese if your skillet isn't oven-safe.
- → What sides pair well with this chicken?
This versatile dish works beautifully with grilled vegetables, Mexican rice, refried beans, or a fresh corn salad. It's also delicious sliced and served in warm tortillas as tacos or over mixed greens for a lighter meal.
- → How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or a low-temperature oven to prevent the cheese from separating. The chicken also tastes great cold in salads or sandwiches.