© Original Recipe By Serena Recipes ©
Flavor-Packed Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken 🌶️🍗🔥
1. Introduction
Discover the ultimate recipe for grilled salsa verde chicken, a spicy grilled chicken dish bursting with flavor and cheesy goodness. This salsa verde chicken recipe combines crispy, seasoned chicken breasts with a vibrant green salsa and melted pepper jack cheese, making it perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful weekend cookout. Whether you’re a fan of spicy grilled chicken or looking to elevate your usual grilling routine, this recipe will leave your taste buds craving more.
2. Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges (for serving)
3. Step-by-step Instructions
Preparation of the Chicken
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then brush each piece with olive oil. In a small bowl, mix the cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken breasts for a flavorful crust.
Grilling the Chicken
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook for approximately 6-7 minutes per side, or until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy. Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes before topping with salsa verde and cheese.
Adding Salsa Verde and Cheese
Transfer the grilled chicken to a baking dish or grill-safe pan. Spread a generous layer of salsa verde over each piece. Top with shredded pepper jack cheese, ensuring even coverage. For a melty, cheesy finish, you can place the chicken under a broiler for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is bubbly and golden.
Serving and Garnishing
Garnish the spicy grilled chicken with freshly chopped cilantro and lime wedges. Serve hot, paired with your favorite sides like grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. For more inspiration on side dishes, visit our French onion soup pizza or our chocolate croissant breakfast bake.
4. Storage Tips
Leftover salsa verde chicken can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, simply warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop until heated through. For longer storage, you can wrap individual portions tightly in plastic wrap and freeze for up to 2 months.
5. Serving Suggestions
This spicy grilled chicken pairs beautifully with a variety of sides. Consider serving it with fluffy rice, roasted vegetables, or in warm tortillas for flavorful tacos. For a cool contrast, add a side of Mexican street corn or a fresh mango salsa. And if you want to upgrade your cookout, check out the Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer for crispy sides or snacks.
6. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about Salsa Verde Chicken
Can I use skinless, boneless chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs will give you a juicier, more flavorful result. Adjust cooking time to about 8-9 minutes per side on the grill.
What are good substitutions for salsa verde?
If you can’t find salsa verde, substitute with tomatillo salsa, or blend cooked tomatillos with lime juice, garlic, and cilantro for a fresh homemade version.
Is this dish suitable for a low-carb diet?
Yes, it’s a great low-carb option, especially if served with vegetables or on its own. Just be mindful of the sides you choose.
How long does it take to prepare this spicy grilled chicken?
The total prep and grilling time is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it perfect for a quick yet flavorful meal.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer — Elevate your grilling game with this versatile appliance, perfect for achieving that perfect char on your salsa verde chicken.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set — Ensure easy cooking and cleanup while preparing your spicy grilled chicken.
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer — For crispy sides or reheating leftovers to perfection.
8. Conclusion
Enjoying grilled salsa verde chicken with a spicy twist and cheesy Pepper Jack topping is a fantastic way to impress family and friends at your next cookout or family dinner. This dish combines the smoky flavors of grilling with the vibrant taste of salsa verde and the gooey richness of melted cheese. Once you try this recipe, it will become a staple in your repertoire of flavorful grilled chicken dishes. For more delicious recipes and kitchen tips, explore our site and get inspired to cook your best meals yet!
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Flavor-Packed Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken
A quick and flavorful grilled chicken recipe topped with salsa verde and pepper jack cheese, perfect for a satisfying dinner.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill chicken for 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through and juices run clear.
- During the last few minutes of grilling, top each piece with salsa verde and shredded pepper jack cheese, allowing the cheese to melt.
- Remove from grill, garnish with cilantro, and serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- You can substitute with chicken thighs for extra juiciness.
- Serve with your favorite side dishes like rice, salads, or roasted vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320 Kcal
- Sugar: 3g
- Sodium: 600mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 4g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 38g
- Cholesterol: 95mg
