This cheesy grilled salsa verde chicken is packed with flavor! It’s juicy chicken topped with melted cheese and a zesty green salsa that will make your taste buds dance.
Grilling it brings a lovely smokiness that pairs perfectly with the vibrant salsa. I like serving it with some warm tortillas—talk about a delicious meal! 🌶️
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are the go-to for this recipe because they grill nicely and stay juicy. If you’re looking for alternatives, thighs can add more flavor, or you could use tofu for a plant-based option.
Salsa Verde: The salsa verde adds a tangy, fresh kick! You can use store-bought for convenience, or make your own with tomatillos, jalapeños, and cilantro. If you want a milder flavor, try green enchilada sauce instead.
Cheese: Pepper jack gives a nice spicy flavor, but Monterey Jack provides a milder creaminess. If you’re avoiding dairy, vegan cheese options work well too. Just ensure it’s a melting kind!
How Do I Get the Chicken Grilled Just Right?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but a few tips can help you achieve perfectly cooked chicken every time:
- Preheat your grill well. A hot grill locks in juices and creates those beautiful grill marks.
- Use a meat thermometer to check for doneness. Chicken is safe to eat at 165°F (74°C).
- Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
These tips will help you serve a juicy grilled chicken that everyone will love!
Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 8 slices pepper jack or Monterey Jack cheese
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- 1 lime, halved (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes for prep and around 15 minutes for grilling, totaling about 25 minutes from start to finish. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s bursting with delicious flavors!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat Your Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This ensures your chicken gets that perfect golden finish while staying juicy inside.
2. Prepare the Spice Mixture:
In a small bowl, combine olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Stir it all together until mixed well!
3. Season the Chicken:
Rub the spice mixture all over each chicken breast. Make sure they’re well coated to get maximum flavor!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Now, place the chicken on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6-7 minutes on one side. Then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes. The chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
5. Add Salsa Verde:
In the last 2 minutes of grilling, spoon salsa verde generously over each chicken breast. It will warm up and soak into the chicken.
6. Melt the Cheese:
Quickly place 2 slices of cheese on top of each breast. Close the grill lid and let them cook for about 1-2 minutes until the cheese melts beautifully.
7. Remove and Garnish:
Carefully take the chicken off the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. Sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top and add lime halves for a bright garnish.
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve the chicken warm, squeezing fresh lime juice over each piece if you’d like a zesty kick. This dish is great with warm tortillas, rice, or a refreshing salad.
Enjoy your flavorful and cheesy grilled salsa verde chicken!
FAQ for Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can! Just make sure to adjust the cooking time as bone-in chicken takes longer to cook. Grill for about 10-12 minutes per side or until it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
What Can I Use If I Don’t Have Salsa Verde?
If you don’t have salsa verde on hand, you can substitute with a green enchilada sauce or homemade tomatillo salsa. Both options will provide a similar zesty flavor!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of water or broth to keep it moist.
Can I Grill This Chicken Indoors?
Absolutely! If you don’t have an outdoor grill, you can use an indoor grill pan or a cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. Just ensure good ventilation, as cooking can produce smoke!
