This Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken is a crowd-pleaser! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with flavorful salsa verde and melted cheese, making it super tasty and colorful.
It’s easy to whip up and perfect for those summer barbecues. I love how the cheese gets all bubbly and gooey—it’s hard not to sneak extra bites off the grill! 😄
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless, skinless chicken breasts are lean and easy to grill. You can use thighs for more flavor or even shrimp if you’re looking for a lighter option.
Salsa Verde: Store-bought salsa verde is convenient, but homemade tastes amazing! You can blend tomatillos, jalapeños, onion, and cilantro for a fresh touch. If you’re not a fan of verde, try tomato salsa instead.
Cheese: Monterey Jack is creamy and melts beautifully. Pepper Jack adds a nice kick. If you prefer a milder cheese, use mozzarella or even a dairy-free option – just check that it melts well.
Spices: Cumin and chili powder add depth. Feel free to swap these out for taco seasoning or even a sprinkle of smoked paprika for a different twist!
How Do You Grill Chicken Perfectly Without Drying It Out?
Grilling chicken can be tricky, but following a few simple tips makes it easier to achieve juicy results. Here’s how:
- Preheat your grill to medium-high to get nice grill marks.
- Let the chicken come to room temperature before grilling to ensure even cooking.
- Cook on one side without moving it for 5-7 minutes. Flip only once!
- Always check the internal temperature. Chicken is done at 165°F (74°C).
- Let it rest for a few minutes after grilling to seal in juices.
Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
- 1 ½ cups shredded Monterey Jack or Pepper Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Lime wedges, for serving
How Much Time Will You Need?
This delicious grilled chicken recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and around 15 minutes to cook on the grill. In total, you’re looking at about 25 minutes from start to finish, so it’s a quick meal option for busy days!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This helps get those lovely grill marks on your chicken and ensures it cooks evenly.
2. Prepare the Chicken:
In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mixture all over both sides of the chicken breasts—this adds awesome flavor!
3. Grill the Chicken:
Place the chicken breasts on the grill and cook them for about 5-7 minutes on each side. You’ll want to keep an eye on them—look for nice grill marks and use a meat thermometer to check that they’ve reached an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
4. Add Salsa Verde:
In the last 2 minutes of grilling, spoon the salsa verde over each chicken breast. This will give the chicken a nice zesty flavor and keep it juicy.
5. Cheese It Up:
Sprinkle the shredded cheese on top of the salsa-covered chicken. Close the grill lid and let the cheese melt, which should only take about 1-2 minutes. Yummy!
6. Time to Serve:
Once the cheese is melted, carefully take the chicken off the grill and place it on a serving plate. Garnish with freshly chopped cilantro to add some color and flavor.
7. Enjoy:
Serve your Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with lime wedges on the side for an extra zing. Enjoy this tasty dish with your favorite sides!
Happy grilling! 🍗🌮
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs are a great option if you prefer darker meat, as they tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Just keep an eye on the cooking time, as thighs might take slightly longer to reach the safe internal temperature.
What Can I Serve with Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken?
This dish pairs well with various sides like rice, quinoa, or a fresh salad. You can also serve it with tortilla chips and more salsa for a fun twist!
Can I Make This Recipe in the Oven?
Yes! Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C), place the seasoned chicken in a baking dish, and bake for about 25-30 minutes, or until cooked through. Add the salsa and cheese during the last 5 minutes of baking to melt the cheese.
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or oven, adding a splash of water to keep the chicken moist. Enjoy it in a salad or as a taco filling for another meal!
