The bold flavor of grilled chicken meets the tangy brightness of salsa verde in this vibrant Tex-Mex-inspired dish. The creamy melt of Pepper Jack cheese gives it just the right kick of spice, making this a mouthwatering option for any backyard barbecue or quick weeknight dinner.
Not only does this recipe come together in under 30 minutes, but it also checks all the boxes for flavor, simplicity, and crowd appeal. It’s naturally low in carbs, gluten-free, and bursting with fresh herbs and citrus. Whether you’re hosting a summer gathering or simply spicing up your dinner rotation, this grilled chicken will have everyone asking for seconds.
Full Recipe:
Ingredients:
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4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
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1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
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1 cup shredded Pepper Jack cheese
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2 tablespoons olive oil
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1 teaspoon garlic powder
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1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
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Salt and black pepper to taste
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Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
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Lime wedges (for serving)
Directions:
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Preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
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Pat the chicken breasts dry with paper towels, then drizzle with olive oil.
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Season the chicken with garlic powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper on both sides.
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Grill the chicken for about 6-7 minutes per side, or until fully cooked through and charred lightly.
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In the last 2 minutes of grilling, spoon salsa verde generously over each piece and sprinkle Pepper Jack cheese on top.
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Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt.
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Once melted, remove the chicken from the grill and let rest for 5 minutes.
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Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Prep Time: 10 minutes | Cooking Time: 15 minutes | Total Time: 25 minutes
Kcal: 320 kcal | Servings: 4 servings
Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken: A Bold Fusion of Smoke, Spice, and Zest
When it comes to making a chicken dish that’s easy, flavorful, and crowd-pleasing, nothing beats the combination of salsa verde and melted Pepper Jack cheese over a smoky grilled chicken breast. This recipe for Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is a game-changer for home cooks who want a balance of bold flavor and simplicity. Whether you’re preparing a weeknight dinner or impressing guests at a summer cookout, this dish is packed with spicy tang, cheesy richness, and grilled perfection.
This fusion dish draws inspiration from Tex-Mex and Southwestern cuisines, blending traditional elements like salsa verde with the creamy heat of Pepper Jack cheese. Salsa verde, often made with tomatillos, garlic, cilantro, and jalapeños, gives the chicken a bright, zesty flavor that’s slightly tart and wonderfully fresh. Pepper Jack, on the other hand, contributes a kick of spice and creaminess that melts beautifully over hot-off-the-grill chicken. It’s a combination that sings with every bite.
The Heart of the Dish: Salsa Verde
Salsa verde is what sets this dish apart from traditional grilled chicken recipes. Unlike tomato-based red salsas, salsa verde uses tomatillos, which are small green fruits with a tangy flavor. Roasting or blending them with garlic, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeños results in a green sauce that’s complex and refreshing. In this recipe, the salsa verde acts as both a topping and a flavor enhancer, soaking into the grilled chicken and balancing the spice of the Pepper Jack cheese.
If you’re short on time, store-bought salsa verde can work wonderfully. But making your own allows you to control the heat level and freshness. Homemade salsa verde also tends to be less processed and adds a rustic charm to the overall flavor profile.
A Cheese That Melts and Bites Back
Pepper Jack cheese, a descendant of Monterey Jack, incorporates spicy chili peppers and herbs into the creamy cheese base. It melts exceptionally well, making it a top choice for grilling and baking recipes where gooey cheese is desired. In this grilled chicken dish, the Pepper Jack is added during the final minutes on the grill, just as the salsa verde starts to bubble over the chicken. The result is a luscious, spicy coating that clings to the meat and adds richness without overpowering the salsa.
The contrast between the fresh brightness of the salsa and the creaminess of the cheese elevates this dish from ordinary grilled chicken to something that feels gourmet, yet is incredibly easy to prepare.
Grilling: The Secret Ingredient
Grilling adds another layer of flavor that cannot be understated. The char and smoky undertones from the grill complement the zesty salsa verde and balance the spicy, creamy Pepper Jack cheese. Grilled chicken breasts tend to be lean and cook quickly, making them ideal for high-heat cooking methods like grilling.
To keep the chicken juicy, it’s important not to overcook it. A quick marinade with olive oil and spices helps lock in moisture while enhancing the flavors. You’ll want to ensure the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C), but not go too far past that mark. Letting the chicken rest before serving helps redistribute the juices, resulting in tender, succulent meat every time.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
There’s so much to love about Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken, and here’s why it might just become your new favorite chicken dish:
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Fast and Simple: With a cook time under 20 minutes and minimal prep, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights or spontaneous grilling sessions.
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Customizable Heat: Adjust the spice by selecting a mild or spicy salsa verde, or add extra jalapeños for a kick.
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Low-Carb Friendly: Naturally low in carbohydrates, this dish fits perfectly into keto, paleo, or gluten-free meal plans.
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Flavor Packed: Each bite bursts with tangy, smoky, cheesy goodness, making it incredibly satisfying.
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Versatile: Pair it with grilled veggies, Spanish rice, tortillas, or even use it to top a salad or grain bowl.
Serving Suggestions
The beauty of this dish lies in its flexibility. Here are a few ways to enjoy Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken:
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Taco Night: Slice the grilled chicken and tuck it into warm corn tortillas with avocado, pickled onions, and extra salsa verde.
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Over Rice or Quinoa: Serve atop a bed of cilantro-lime rice or fluffy quinoa for a hearty and healthy meal.
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Salad Topper: Add slices of the chicken to a fresh green salad with black beans, corn, and a lime vinaigrette.
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Loaded Sandwich: Place it in a toasted ciabatta roll with lettuce, tomato, and chipotle mayo for a Tex-Mex sandwich.
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Meal Prep: This dish holds up well in the fridge, making it great for prepping lunches ahead of time.
Make It Your Own
The base recipe is incredibly flavorful as-is, but it also invites experimentation. Here are a few creative variations:
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Add Heat: Mix in chopped jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the salsa before topping the chicken.
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Smoky Twist: Use smoked paprika in your seasoning blend for a deeper, more complex flavor.
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Vegetable Boost: Top with grilled onions, bell peppers, or sautéed mushrooms.
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Cheese Swap: Try other melt-friendly cheeses like Oaxaca, Monterey Jack, or even a smoky provolone.
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Herbal Touch: Finish with fresh chopped cilantro, scallions, or a squeeze of fresh lime juice for brightness.
Nutrition and Dietary Considerations
This recipe is a protein-packed powerhouse. A single serving provides about 320 kcal, mostly from lean protein and a modest amount of fat from the cheese and olive oil. It’s low in carbs and free from gluten, making it a great option for people with dietary restrictions.
To make the dish even leaner, you can use less cheese or opt for reduced-fat versions. For a dairy-free version, substitute Pepper Jack with plant-based cheese alternatives that melt well. The salsa verde can be made without oil or salt for a lower-sodium version.
A Perfect Dish for Every Season
While grilling is often associated with summer, this recipe can be adapted for year-round enjoyment. Use a grill pan on the stovetop or bake the chicken in the oven if outdoor grilling isn’t an option. The flavors remain just as dynamic and satisfying. The freshness of the salsa verde and the warming spice of Pepper Jack make this a versatile dish for both warm and cooler months.
Conclusion
Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken is more than just another grilled chicken recipe, it’s a celebration of bold flavors, vibrant colors, and culinary simplicity. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep, this dish delivers a meal that looks impressive, tastes incredible, and keeps people coming back for more. Whether you’re a seasoned grill master or a weeknight home cook looking to shake things up, this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen.
From its juicy grilled chicken base to its vibrant green salsa and gooey layer of spiced cheese, every element of this dish is carefully balanced to delight the palate. Serve it up as the star of your next dinner, and let the flavors speak for themselves.