This Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken is a mouthwatering dish that’s easy to make! Juicy chicken breasts are topped with creamy cheese and zesty salsa verde for a burst of flavor.
You can’t go wrong with this dish! I love throwing it on the grill for a quick dinner. Serve it with rice or tortillas and watch everyone enjoy every bite! 🌮
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Breasts: Boneless and skinless are the best for even cooking. If you prefer dark meat, chicken thighs work nicely and can keep the dish juicy.
Salsa Verde: This is where the flavor comes in! You can buy it pre-made or whip up your own using tomatillos, jalapeños, and lime juice. If spicy isn’t your thing, consider a milder green sauce.
Cheese: Monterey Jack adds creaminess, but white cheddar offers a bolder flavor. Feel free to swap for pepper jack for a kick or even a dairy-free cheese if needed!
Spices: The cumin and chili powder give warmth and depth. You can try smoked paprika for a different taste or Italian seasoning if you prefer a lighter flavor.
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Juicy and Cooked Right?
Perfectly grilled chicken involves a few key steps. First, ensure your grill is hot enough to cook the chicken effectively. Here’s how to check:
- Before grilling, preheat for at least 10-15 minutes.
- Use a meat thermometer to check the internal temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C).
- Avoid flipping the chicken too often; let it sear properly for great flavor.
Letting the chicken rest after cooking is important too! It allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist. Enjoy your grilled chicken with those zesty toppings!
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 cheese or white cheddar 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 delightful dish takes about 15 minutes to prep and 14 minutes to grill, so you’re looking at around 30 minutes total! Perfect for a quick dinner that still feels special.
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Preheat the Grill:
Start by preheating your grill to medium-high heat. This is important for getting nice grill marks and juicy chicken!
2. Prepare the Seasoning Blend:
In a small bowl, mix together the olive oil, ground cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. This blend will add great flavor to your chicken!
3. Season the Chicken:
Brush the seasoning mixture generously over both sides of each chicken breast. Make sure they are well-coated to soak up all that yummy flavor!
4. Grill the Chicken:
Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the grill. Cook them for about 6-7 minutes on one side, then flip and cook for another 6-7 minutes. Keep an eye on the temperature; it should reach 165°F (74°C) for safety.
5. Add Salsa Verde:
In the last 2 minutes of grilling, spoon the salsa verde over the top of each chicken breast. This adds a zesty kick that enhances the dish!
6. Melt the Cheese:
Next, sprinkle the shredded cheese generously over the salsa verde. Close the grill lid and let it cook for an additional 1-2 minutes until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
7. Rest and Garnish:
Once cooked, remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. This helps keep it juicy. Then, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro!
8. Serve and Enjoy:
Serve your Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken with lime wedges on the side for an extra splash of freshness! Pair it with rice, tortillas, or a fresh salad for a complete meal.
Enjoy every bite of this delicious dish! 🎉
FAQ for Cheesy Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken
Can I Use Chicken Thighs Instead of Breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs can make the dish even juicier, as they have more fat than breasts. Just adjust the cooking time slightly; they may take a few minutes longer to cook through.
Can I Make This Dish Spicier?
Yes! To add more heat, consider using spicy salsa verde or topping the chicken with sliced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper in the seasoning mix. Enjoy experimenting!
How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store any leftover chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, gently warm it in the microwave or on the stove, adding a splash of salsa verde to keep it moist.
Can I Grill This Indoors?
If you don’t have an outdoor grill, feel free to use a grill pan on your stovetop! Just make sure to achieve a good sear and to maintain the same cooking times. You could also use an oven broiler as an alternative method!
