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Grilled salsa verde pepper jack chicken on hot grill with melted cheese

Grilled Salsa Verde Pepper Jack Chicken

Tender grilled chicken marinated in tangy salsa verde with cumin and lime, topped with melted pepper Jack cheese for a quick and flavorful weeknight meal
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 12 minutes
Marinating Time 30 minutes
Total Time 52 minutes
Servings: 4 portions
Course: Dinner, Main Course
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 285

Ingredients
  

  • 1.5 pounds thin-sliced boneless skinless chicken breasts about 4 breasts, approximately 1/2 inch thick
  • 12 ounces salsa verde Trader Joe's recommended
  • 3 tablespoons olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons lime juice freshly squeezed preferred
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon salt or more, to taste
  • 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
  • 4 slices pepper Jack cheese Tillamook brand recommended for better melting
  • fresh cilantro finely minced, optional for garnishing
  • lime wedges optional, for serving

Equipment

  • Grill
  • Large mixing bowl or gallon ziplock bag
  • Meat thermometer
  • Tongs
  • Paper towels

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl or gallon-sized ziplock bag, combine salsa verde, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Whisk or shake until well blended and the oil is fully incorporated.
  2. Add the chicken breasts to the bowl or bag and toss or massage thoroughly to ensure every piece is completely coated with marinade. If using a bag, squeeze out excess air and seal. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap if using that method. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours. Flip the chicken halfway through marinating time for even flavor distribution.
  3. About 10 minutes before cooking, preheat the grill to 400-425°F (medium-high heat). Clean the grates and lightly oil them with a paper towel dipped in vegetable oil.
  4. Remove the chicken from the marinade, let excess drip off, and discard remaining marinade. Pat chicken lightly with paper towels to remove excess moisture for better grill marks.
  5. Place chicken on the preheated grill and cook for 4-5 minutes without moving. Flip when edges turn white and chicken releases easily from grates. Cook another 4-5 minutes until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Avoid pressing down on the chicken.
  6. During the final minute of cooking, place one slice of pepper Jack cheese on each chicken breast and immediately close the grill lid. Cook for 45-60 seconds until cheese is fully melted and just starting to bubble.
  7. Remove chicken from grill and transfer to a clean plate. Let rest for 3-4 minutes before serving to allow juices to redistribute. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges if desired.

Notes

Total time includes 30 minutes minimum marinating time plus 22 minutes active time. You can adjust heat level by using mild or spicy salsa verde. For best results, use a meat thermometer to ensure chicken reaches 165°F. Can substitute chicken thighs for breasts (add 1-2 minutes per side). This dish pairs wonderfully with rice, grilled vegetables, or a simple salad. Leftovers can be sliced for tacos, diced for salads, or chopped for quesadillas.