Ingredients
Scale
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (6–8 oz each)
- 1 cup jarred or homemade Salsa Verde
- 4 slices Pepper Jack cheese
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
- Step 1: Preheat grill to medium-high heat (about 400°F). Pat the chicken breasts dry and lightly coat them with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. In a small bowl, combine the cumin, kosher salt, and a pinch of black pepper, then rub the seasoning mixture evenly over both sides of the chicken.
- Step 2: Lightly oil the grill grates. Place the seasoned chicken breasts on the hot grill. Cook for 5 to 7 minutes per side, depending on thickness, until the internal temperature reaches 165°F.
- Step 3: During the last 2 minutes of cooking, spoon 1 tablespoon of the Salsa Verde onto the top of each chicken breast. Place one slice of Pepper Jack cheese over the salsa verde.
- Step 4: Close the grill lid for 1 to 2 minutes, allowing the cheese to fully melt and the salsa verde to warm through. Be careful not to overcook the chicken once the cheese is added.
- Step 5: Carefully remove the grilled chicken from the grates and let it rest on a cutting board for 5 minutes. Garnish generously with the fresh chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
- Keep any leftovers in a sealed container in the fridge for up to three days, though the salsa verde moisture might slightly soften the cheesy topping upon chilling.
- To avoid drying out, reheat slices in a covered skillet over medium-low heat, adding a spoonful of fresh salsa verde if needed for moisture, but avoid using the microwave for the entire breast.
- For a complete meal, serve this savory chicken alongside lime-infused black beans and warm tortillas, or shred the leftovers and use them as a filling for quick enchiladas the next day.
- Chef's Tip: If you are worried about the Pepper Jack sliding off the sauced chicken while melting, turn off the burner directly beneath the chicken before you add the cheese and close the lid.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American