Description
This Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken is a vibrant Mexican-inspired dish featuring thinly sliced boneless chicken breasts marinated in a tangy salsa verde mixture infused with lime, cumin, and black pepper. Grilled to juicy perfection, each piece is topped with creamy, melted pepper Jack cheese, garnished with fresh cilantro and served with lime wedges for an added zesty kick. Perfect for a flavorful, low-carb, and gluten-free main dish.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken and Marinade
- 1.5 pounds boneless chicken breasts, sliced thin (about 4 breasts)
- 3 tablespoons olive oil
- 12 ounces salsa verde
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon salt, or to taste
- 1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Toppings and Garnish
- 4 slices pepper Jack cheese
- Chopped fresh cilantro, for garnish
- Lime wedges, for serving
Instructions
- Prepare the Salsa Verde Marinade: In a large bowl, combine the salsa verde, olive oil, lime juice, cumin, salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Marinate the Chicken: Submerge the thinly sliced chicken breasts into the marinade, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 2 hours, allowing the flavors to fully penetrate the chicken.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat, making sure it is hot and ready to cook the chicken evenly.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, discarding the leftover liquid. Place the chicken pieces on the grill and cook for about 4 to 5 minutes per side, flipping once. Grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) for safe consumption.
- Add the Pepper Jack Cheese: With about one minute remaining on the grill, place a slice of pepper Jack cheese on top of each piece of chicken. Close the grill lid to allow the cheese to melt and become bubbly.
- Rest and Garnish: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for a few minutes. Sprinkle chopped fresh cilantro on top and serve with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the chicken, according to your taste.
Notes
- For best results, slice the chicken breasts thin to ensure quick and even cooking.
- Adjust salt and pepper levels in the marinade to suit your personal preference.
- Covering the grill when melting the cheese ensures it melts quickly and evenly.
- This recipe can be prepared ahead by marinating the chicken overnight for enhanced flavor.
- Serve with a side of grilled vegetables or a fresh green salad to complete your meal.
