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Grilled Chicken with Salsa Verde Marinade and Melted Pepper Jack Cheese Recipe

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4 from 2 reviews

This easy and flavorful salsa verde marinated grilled chicken is juicy, tender, and topped with melted pepper Jack cheese for an irresistible finish. The marinade infuses the chicken with zesty lime, cumin, and salsa verde, making it a perfect quick and delicious meal.

  • Total Time: 45 minutes
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Chicken and Marinade

  • 1 ½ pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 4 breasts)
  • 12 ounces salsa verde (Trader Joe’s recommended)
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt, or more to taste
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

Toppings and Garnish

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

Instructions

  1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large zip-top plastic bag, combine the chicken breasts with salsa verde, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Seal the bag and massage the marinade all over the chicken to ensure it is well coated.
  2. Refrigerate to Marinate: Place the sealed bag in the fridge for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld and chicken to tenderize. For best results, marinate overnight if time allows.
  3. Preheat the Grill: Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking, then preheat your grill to medium-high heat.
  4. Grill the Chicken: Remove chicken from marinade and place on the grill. Cook with the lid closed for about 5 minutes on the first side until grill marks appear and the chicken starts to cook through.
  5. Flip and Continue Cooking: Flip the chicken pieces and cook for an additional 4 minutes on the second side with the lid closed or until chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and is fully cooked.
  6. Melt the Cheese: Reduce the grill heat to medium-low. Place one slice of pepper Jack cheese on each chicken breast. Close the lid and let the cheese melt for about 1 minute.
  7. Garnish and Serve: Optionally, sprinkle finely minced fresh cilantro on top for freshness and serve with lime wedges on the side. Adjust seasoning with additional salt, pepper, or salsa verde if desired.

Notes

  • Marinating overnight intensifies flavors and tenderness.
  • Ensure grill grates are well oiled to prevent sticking.
  • Thin-sliced chicken breasts cook quickly and evenly on the grill.
  • If you do not have a grill, you can use a grill pan or skillet on the stovetop over medium-high heat.
  • Check chicken doneness with a meat thermometer to ensure safe cooking.
  • For a milder flavor, substitute pepper Jack cheese with Monterey Jack or mozzarella.
  • Author: Daisy
  • Prep Time: 5 minutes
  • Cook Time: 10 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Grilling
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Find it online: https://dishiary.com/grilled-chicken-with-salsa-verde-marinade-and-melted-pepper-jack-cheese-recipe/