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Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken: A Spicy, Cheesy Delight


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  • Author: Paula
  • Total Time: 22 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Description

Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a vibrant and flavorful dish with tender, grilled chicken marinated in tangy salsa verde, cumin, and lime. Topped with melty pepper Jack cheese, this dish offers a perfect balance of heat and cheesiness. It’s a quick, easy, and delicious meal that will spice up your weeknight dinner.


Ingredients

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

4 slices pepper Jack cheese (or as desired)

Fresh cilantro, finely minced (optional, for garnish)

Lime wedges (optional, for serving)


Instructions

  1. In a large bowl, combine salsa verde, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper.
  2. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl and toss them to coat evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours for deeper flavor.
  3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding any excess marinade.
  5. Grill the chicken for 4-5 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F).
  6. 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.
  7. Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes.
  8. Garnish with freshly minced cilantro and serve with lime wedges, if desired.

Notes

Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for a juicier, richer flavor.

For a milder version, use a mild salsa verde or reduce the amount used in the marinade.

Experiment with other cheeses like Monterey Jack, Cheddar, or Gouda for different flavors.

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

  • Prep Time: 10 minutes
  • Cook Time: 12 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican-American

Nutrition

  • Serving Size: 1 serving
  • Calories: 300
  • Sugar: 2g
  • Sodium: 780mg
  • Fat: 18g
  • Saturated Fat: 8g
  • Unsaturated Fat: 9g
  • Trans Fat: 0g
  • Carbohydrates: 3g
  • Fiber: 1g
  • Protein: 33g
  • Cholesterol: 90mg