Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken

Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken

Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken

Introduction

Ready to kick your grilled chicken game up a notch? This Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken combines smoky char, zesty salsa verde, and melty pepper jack cheese for a bold, flavor-packed dish. It’s quick, crowd-pleasing, and perfect for warm-weather grilling or easy weeknight meals.

Spicy, cheesy, and tangy with every bite — your taste buds will thank you.

Ingredients List

Main Ingredients:

  • 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/2 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Topping:

  • 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
  • 4 slices pepper jack cheese
  • Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
  • Lime wedges (for serving)

Optional Add-Ons:

  • Sliced avocado
  • Sour cream or Greek yogurt
  • Warm tortillas or rice

Timing

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 15–20 minutes
  • Total Time: ~30 minutes

Instructions

Step 1: Prep the Chicken

Pound chicken breasts to even thickness. Rub with olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Let rest while grill preheats.

Step 2: Grill

Heat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken 6–8 minutes per side or until internal temperature reaches 165°F.

Step 3: Add Salsa Verde & Cheese

During the last 2 minutes of grilling, top each chicken breast with salsa verde and a slice of pepper jack cheese. Close lid to melt the cheese.

Step 4: Serve

Remove chicken from grill. Garnish with cilantro and a squeeze of lime. Serve with sides of your choice.

Try it taco-style in tortillas or over a bed of cilantro-lime rice.

Tips for Success

  • Don’t overcook chicken — use a meat thermometer for perfect doneness.
  • Use thick salsa verde to avoid it sliding off the chicken.
  • Pepper jack can be swapped for Monterey jack or cheddar for milder spice.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving, serves 4)

  • Calories: 310
  • Protein: 35g
  • Carbs: 4g
  • Fat: 17g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Sodium: 480mg

A low-carb, high-protein dish with a spicy, satisfying kick.

Variations & Swaps

  • Make it dairy-free: Use a dairy-free cheese alternative.
  • Use thighs instead of breasts: For extra juicy flavor.
  • Oven-bake option: Bake at 400°F for 20–25 minutes, then broil briefly with toppings.

Storage & Reheating

  • Refrigerate: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
  • Reheat: Warm in oven at 300°F or microwave until heated through.
  • Freeze: Wrap cooled chicken in foil and freeze for up to 2 months.

Serving Suggestions

  • With black beans and Spanish rice
  • Tucked into tacos or burrito bowls
  • With a fresh corn and avocado salad

Conclusion

This Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is everything you want in a summer meal — quick, flavorful, and endlessly customizable. From backyard barbecues to easy weeknight dinners, it’s a guaranteed win.

Don’t forget the extra salsa verde for drizzling — it’s too good to waste!

FAQs

Can I use store-bought salsa verde?

Absolutely. Choose a thicker variety for best results.

Can I grill indoors?

Yes. Use a grill pan on medium-high heat and ventilate well.

Is this recipe spicy?

Mild to medium. Use mild cheese and salsa for less heat.

Can I meal prep this?

Yes! Cook chicken in advance and reheat before serving.

What other cheeses work?

Monterey Jack, cheddar, or mozzarella work well as alternatives.