Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack

Name: Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 9 min
Total time: 14 min
Yield: Serves approximately four people
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 1/2 pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts; 12 ounces salsa verde; 3 tablespoons olive oil; 2 tablespoons lime juice; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon salt; 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper; 4 slices pepper Jack cheese

Posted on October 3, 2025

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Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack is an irresistible dish that brings together the vibrant flavors of a zesty marinade and rich melted cheese. Perfect for family dinners, weekend barbecues, or casual gatherings, this recipe is sure to impress. The EASIEST salsa verde marinade keeps the chicken juicy and tender while the pepper Jack cheese adds a creamy touch that elevates the entire meal. Whether served with rice, in tacos, or alongside fresh salads, this dish is a versatile favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick Preparation: With just 5 minutes of prep time, you can have your chicken marinating and ready to go.
Flavor Packed: The combination of salsa verde and spices ensures each bite bursts with flavor.
Versatile Serving Options: Enjoy it as a main dish, in tacos, or on top of salads for a delicious twist.
Crowd-Pleaser: This dish is perfect for gatherings, making it easy to please a variety of palates.
Healthy Ingredients: Packed with protein and nutrients, this meal fits well into balanced diets.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience seamless, gather these essential kitchen tools before starting. They help ensure that every step goes smoothly.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Grill
Zip-top plastic bag
Tongs
Measuring spoons
Cooking spray or oil brush

Why These Tools Matter

Grill: Provides even cooking and enhances the flavor with that delicious charred finish.
Zip-top plastic bag: Perfect for marinating chicken evenly without making a mess.
Tongs: Ideal for flipping chicken on the grill safely without losing juices.

Ingredients

The EASIEST salsa verde marinade keeps this chicken so juicy and tender!! Melted pepper Jack cheese on top takes an already awesome piece of chicken and makes it that much BETTER!!

For the Chicken

1 1/2 pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts (I had 4 breasts)
12 ounces salsa verde (I use Trader Joe’s)
3 tablespoons olive oil
2 tablespoons lime juice
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon salt (or more, to taste)
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

For Topping

4 slices pepper Jack cheese (or as desired)
Fresh cilantro finely minced (optional for garnishing)
Lime wedges (optional for serving)

How to Make Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

To a large zip-top plastic bag, add all ingredients except the cheese and cilantro. Seal the bag tightly and smoosh around to evenly coat the chicken.

Step 2: Refrigerate

Place the bag in the fridge for at least 30 minutes or overnight to let those flavors meld beautifully.

Step 3: Preheat the Grill

Lightly oil grill grates and preheat your grill to medium-high heat.

Step 4: Grill the Chicken

Add the marinated chicken to the grill. Cook each side:
1. Grill for about 5 minutes on one side with lid closed.
2. Flip and cook for about 4 minutes on the other side until fully cooked through.

Step 5: Add Cheese

Reduce heat to medium-low. Place one slice of cheese on top of each chicken breast, close the lid, and wait about 1 minute until melted.

Step 6: Serve

Optionally garnish with cilantro and serve with lime wedges. Season further as desired with additional salt, pepper, or salsa. Enjoy your delicious Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack!

How to Serve Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack

Serving your Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack can elevate the meal experience. There are many delicious ways to complement this juicy dish, making it even more enjoyable for you and your guests.

Fresh Salad

Crisp Garden Salad: Toss together mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette for a refreshing side.
Avocado Salad: Combine diced avocado, red onion, and lime juice for a creamy and zesty accompaniment.

Rice or Grain Options

Cilantro Lime Rice: Cook rice with cilantro and lime juice for a fragrant base that pairs perfectly with the chicken.
Quinoa Salad: Mix cooked quinoa with black beans, corn, and a squeeze of lime for a nutritious side dish.

Tortillas

Soft Flour Tortillas: Serve warm tortillas on the side for wrapping bites of chicken and toppings.
Corn Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips can be served with salsa verde or guacamole for dipping.

Grilled Veggies

Grilled Bell Peppers: Slice bell peppers and grill them alongside the chicken for added color and flavor.
Zucchini Spear Skewers: Marinated zucchini skewers provide a tasty vegetable option that complements the meal beautifully.

How to Perfect Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack

To ensure your Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken is succulent and full of flavor, consider these handy tips.

Bold Marinade: Allow the chicken to marinate longer than 30 minutes if possible. This enhances flavor absorption.
Preheat Grill Properly: Make sure your grill is at medium-high heat before placing the chicken. This helps achieve nice grill marks.
Use a Meat Thermometer: Check that the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C) for safe consumption without overcooking.
Rest Before Serving: Let the chicken rest for a few minutes after grilling to keep it juicy and tender.
Experiment with Toppings: Try adding sliced jalapeños or fresh diced tomatoes as toppings along with the cheese for extra flavor.
Adjust Seasonings: Taste the marinade before adding it to the chicken. Feel free to adjust salt, pepper, or lime juice to your preference.

Best Side Dishes for Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack

Choosing the right side dishes can enhance your meal’s overall flavor profile. Here are some fantastic options that pair beautifully with Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken.

Mexican Street Corn Salad: A delightful mix of grilled corn, mayonnaise, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime.
Black Beans and Rice: A classic combination that adds heartiness and pairs well with Mexican flavors.
Guacamole with Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served alongside crunchy tortilla chips makes an irresistible appetizer or side.
Roasted Sweet Potatoes: Sweet potatoes roasted until crispy provide a sweet contrast to savory chicken flavors.
Coleslaw: A light cabbage slaw dressed in tangy vinaigrette offers crunch and freshness alongside grilled meats.
Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime create a zesty salsa that brightens up any plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Many home cooks can encounter pitfalls while preparing Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack. Here are some common mistakes to be mindful of:

Skipping the marinade time: Marinating the chicken is essential for flavor and tenderness. Always allow at least 30 minutes, or even overnight, for the best results.
Not preheating the grill: Failing to preheat your grill can lead to uneven cooking. Ensure the grill is hot before adding the chicken to achieve those perfect grill marks.
Overcrowding the grill: Placing too much chicken on the grill at once can lower the temperature. Grill in batches if necessary to ensure even cooking.
Ignoring internal temperatures: Always check that your chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Using low-quality cheese: Not all pepper Jack cheeses melt well. Choose a high-quality cheese for better melting and flavor enhancement.

Refrigerator Storage

Store Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack in an airtight container.
It can last up to 3–4 days in the refrigerator.

Freezing Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack

Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.
Wrap each piece in plastic wrap and place in a freezer-safe bag or container.
It can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack

Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the chicken in a baking dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warmed through.
Microwave: Place chicken on a microwave-safe plate, cover, and heat on medium power for about 1-2 minutes or until warm.
Stovetop: Heat a skillet over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth, then place chicken in the pan, covering it until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do you grill chicken?

Grill chicken breasts for about 5 minutes on one side and then flip for another 4 minutes. Always ensure it’s cooked through.

What temp to grill chicken?

For optimal grilling, heat your grill to medium-high, around 375°F to 450°F (190°C to 230°C).

Can I use other cheeses instead of pepper Jack?

Yes! You can substitute pepper Jack with Monterey Jack, cheddar, or any cheese that melts well.

What sides go well with Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack?

This dish pairs excellently with grilled vegetables, rice, or a fresh salad. Feel free to get creative!

Conclusion

Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with Pepper Jack is not only delicious but also versatile. With its zesty flavors and cheesy goodness, this recipe will surely impress. Customize it by adding your favorite spices or garnishes for an even more personal touch!