© Original recipe by Savor & Snap ©
Flavorful Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken Dinner 🍗🌶️🧀
1. Introduction
If you’re craving an easy chicken dinner that bursts with flavor, this Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken recipe is perfect for you. Combining juicy chicken breasts with zesty salsa verde and melted Pepper Jack cheese, this dish offers a smoky, cheesy delight that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. Whether you’re hosting a quick weeknight meal or impressing guests, this Salsa Verde Chicken recipe delivers a punch of flavor with minimal effort.
2. Ingredients for Your Pepper Jack Chicken
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin powder
- 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
3. Step-by-Step Instructions for Perfect Salsa Verde Chicken
Preparing the Chicken
Start by patting the chicken breasts dry with paper towels. Then, season them generously with salt, black pepper, cumin, and smoked paprika on both sides. This seasoning enhances the smoky flavor that pairs perfectly with salsa verde and Pepper Jack cheese.
Prepping the Grill or Grill Pan
Preheat your grill to medium-high heat. If using a grill pan, warm it over the stove. Brush the grill grates or pan with olive oil to prevent sticking.
Grilling the Chicken
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F). Remove from the grill and let rest for a few minutes.
Adding Salsa Verde and Cheese
Once the chicken is grilled, spoon salsa verde generously over each piece. Then, top with shredded Pepper Jack cheese. You can place the chicken back on the grill or under a broiler for 2-3 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
Serving Your Pepper Jack Chicken
Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges for an extra zing. This easy chicken dinner goes perfectly with rice, tortillas, or a side of roasted vegetables.
4. Storage Tips for Leftover Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken
Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, microwave or warm gently in the oven until heated through. For best results, add a little salsa verde on top before reheating to keep the chicken moist.
5. Serving Suggestions to Elevate Your Meal
- Serve with a side of creamy parmesan spinach mushroom pasta for a hearty combo.
- Pair with a fresh mixed greens salad drizzled with lime vinaigrette.
- Place inside warm tortillas for a delicious taco-style meal.
- Add a dollop of sour cream or guacamole for extra richness.
6. Frequently Asked Questions about Salsa Verde Chicken
Can I substitute the Pepper Jack cheese?
Yes! You can use shredded Monterey Jack, Mexican blend cheese, or even mozzarella if you prefer a milder flavor. For a spicy kick, Pepper Jack adds a delightful heat.
Is this dish suitable for gluten-free diets?
Absolutely. As long as your salsa verde and other ingredients are gluten-free, this recipe is perfect for gluten-sensitive eaters.
How long does it take to prepare and cook?
The total time from start to finish is approximately 30-40 minutes, making it an easy chicken dinner for busy weeknights.
7. Kitchen tools that you might need for this recipe
- Compact 6-in-1 Digital Air Fryer by Amazon Basics – Perfect for quickly reheating leftovers or even cooking side dishes with less oil.
- T-fal 14-Piece Hard Anodized Nonstick Cookware Set – Ensures nonstick, easy-to-clean cookware for grilling and preparation.
- Ninja Foodi Smart XL Indoor Grill & Air Fryer Combo – Ideal for indoor grilling if outdoor space isn’t available.
8. Final Tips for a Flavorful Salsa Verde Chicken
For extra flavor, consider marinating the chicken in salsa verde and spices for a few hours before grilling. Use fresh ingredients for the salsa verde to maximize zestiness. Remember, a well-rested chicken retains juiciness and flavor.
9. Conclusion
This Flavorful Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken Dinner is a vibrant, easy-to-make dish that combines smokiness, spice, and cheese for a truly satisfying meal. Perfect for weeknights or weekend gatherings, it’s a versatile recipe that everyone will love. So fire up your grill, gather your ingredients, and enjoy a delicious Salsa Verde Chicken experience that’s both quick and unforgettable!
Print
Flavorful Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken Dinner
Juicy grilled chicken smothered with tangy salsa verde and gooey pepper jack cheese, served with fresh garnishes for a delightful meal.
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 cup shredded pepper jack cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- Fresh cilantro and lime for garnish
Instructions
- Preheat the grill to medium-high heat.
- Brush chicken breasts with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
- Grill chicken 6-7 minutes per side until cooked through.
- Top with salsa verde and cheese, then cover until cheese melts.
- Garnish with cilantro and lime slices before serving.
Notes
- Adjust salsa and cheese amounts to taste.
- Best served hot with side dishes like rice or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 15 minutes
- Method: Grilling
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Gluten-Free
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 chicken breast
- Calories: 320 Kcal
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 550mg
- Fat: 18g
- Saturated Fat: 8g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 6g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 35g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
