Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken: Easy Recipe & Flavorful Marinade

Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken: Prepare to embark on a culinary adventure that will tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving more! Imagine sinking your teeth into juicy, perfectly grilled chicken, bursting with the vibrant flavors of a tangy, herbaceous salsa verde. This isn’t just another chicken recipe; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen.

Salsa verde, meaning “green sauce” in Spanish, has roots that stretch back centuries, with variations found throughout Latin America and Italy. Each region boasts its own unique twist, but the common thread is a celebration of fresh herbs, zesty acidity, and a touch of spice. Our version draws inspiration from traditional Mexican recipes, using tomatillos, cilantro, and jalapeños to create a bright and flavorful sauce that perfectly complements the smoky char of grilled chicken.

What makes Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken so irresistible? It’s the perfect balance of flavors and textures. The tender, succulent chicken provides a satisfying base, while the salsa verde adds a refreshing burst of acidity and herbaceousness. It’s quick, easy to prepare, and incredibly versatile. Whether you’re hosting a summer barbecue, looking for a healthy weeknight dinner, or simply craving a taste of sunshine, this recipe is guaranteed to become a new favorite. The vibrant green sauce also makes it visually appealing, adding a touch of elegance to any plate.

this Recipe

Ingredients:

• For the Salsa Verde:
• 1 1/2 pounds tomatillos, husked and rinsed
• 2-3 serrano peppers, stemmed (adjust to your spice preference!)
• 1/2 white onion, roughly chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, peeled
• 1 cup packed cilantro leaves
• 1/4 cup packed parsley leaves
• 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt, or more to taste
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
• For the Chicken:
• 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 6-8 ounces each)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
• Optional Garnishes:
• Lime wedges
• Fresh cilantro leaves
• Crumbled cotija cheese

Making the Salsa Verde

Okay, let’s start with the star of the show – the Salsa Verde! This vibrant sauce is what makes this chicken dish so incredibly flavorful. Don’t be intimidated; it’s surprisingly easy to make.

1. Roast the Tomatillos and Peppers: Preheat your broiler. Place the husked and rinsed tomatillos and stemmed serrano peppers on a baking sheet lined with foil. Broil for about 5-7 minutes, or until the tomatillos are softened and slightly charred, flipping halfway through. Keep a close eye on them, as they can burn quickly! The charring adds a wonderful smoky flavor to the salsa.
2. Cool Slightly: Remove the baking sheet from the oven and let the tomatillos and peppers cool slightly. This will prevent splattering when you blend them.
3. Blend the Ingredients: In a blender or food processor, combine the roasted tomatillos and peppers, white onion, garlic cloves, cilantro, parsley, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and cumin. Blend until smooth, but still slightly textured. You don’t want it to be completely pureed.
4. Taste and Adjust: Taste the salsa and adjust the seasoning as needed. You might want to add more salt, lime juice, or even a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors. If you want it spicier, add another serrano pepper or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Remember, you can always add more, but you can’t take it away!
5. Refrigerate: Transfer the salsa verde to an airtight container and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow the flavors to meld. It’s even better if you can let it sit for a few hours or overnight. The longer it sits, the more flavorful it becomes.

Preparing the Chicken

While the salsa verde is chilling, let’s get the chicken ready for the grill. This is a simple process, but proper seasoning is key to a delicious result.

1. Pound the Chicken Breasts (Optional): If your chicken breasts are very thick, you can pound them to an even thickness using a meat mallet. This will help them cook more evenly on the grill. Place the chicken breasts between two sheets of plastic wrap and gently pound them until they are about 1/2 inch thick.
2. Season the Chicken: In a small bowl, combine the olive oil, salt, black pepper, garlic powder, onion powder, and smoked paprika. Mix well.
3. Marinate the Chicken: Rub the olive oil mixture all over the chicken breasts, making sure to coat them evenly. This will help the chicken stay moist and flavorful during grilling. For the best flavor, let the chicken marinate in the refrigerator for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours. If you’re short on time, you can skip the marinating step, but the flavor will be even better if you let it sit.

Grilling the Chicken

Now for the fun part – grilling the chicken! Grilling gives the chicken a wonderful smoky flavor and beautiful grill marks. Make sure your grill is clean and properly heated before you start.

1. Preheat the Grill: Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375-450°F). Make sure the grates are clean and lightly oiled to prevent the chicken from sticking.
2. Grill the Chicken: Place the chicken breasts on the preheated grill. Grill for about 5-7 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature.
3. Don’t Overcook: Be careful not to overcook the chicken, as it will become dry and tough. The chicken is done when it is no longer pink inside and the juices run clear when pierced with a fork.
4. Rest the Chicken: Once the chicken is cooked through, remove it from the grill and let it rest for 5-10 minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.

Serving the Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken

Finally, it’s time to enjoy your delicious Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken! There are so many ways to serve this dish. Here are a few of my favorites:

1. Slice and Serve: Slice the chicken breasts and serve them with a generous dollop of the salsa verde. Garnish with lime wedges, fresh cilantro leaves, and crumbled cotija cheese, if desired.
2. Tacos or Burritos: Shred the chicken and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos. Top with the salsa verde, your favorite taco toppings, and a squeeze of lime juice.
3. Salad Topper: Add the sliced or shredded chicken to a salad for a protein-packed and flavorful meal. The salsa verde makes a great dressing!
4. Rice Bowls: Serve the chicken over rice with black beans, corn, and the salsa verde for a complete and satisfying meal.
5. Sandwiches or Wraps: Use the sliced chicken in sandwiches or wraps with your favorite toppings and a generous spread of the salsa verde.

Tips for Success

• Spice Level: Adjust the amount of serrano peppers in the salsa verde to your spice preference. If you’re sensitive to heat, start with one pepper and add more as needed.
• Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the best flavor.
• Don’t Overcook the Chicken: Overcooked chicken is dry and tough. Use a meat thermometer to ensure the chicken is cooked to a safe temperature without overcooking it.
• Let the Chicken Rest: Letting the chicken rest before slicing allows the juices to redistribute, resulting in a more tender and flavorful chicken.
• Make Ahead: The salsa verde can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. This is a great way to save time on busy weeknights.

Variations

• Different Protein: You can use this recipe with other proteins, such as pork tenderloin, shrimp, or tofu.
• Different Peppers: Experiment with different types of peppers in the salsa verde, such as jalapeños or poblano peppers.
• Add Avocado: Add diced avocado to the salsa verde for a creamy and delicious twist.
• Grill the Tomatillos: Instead of broiling the tomatillos, you can grill them for an even smokier flavor.

Conclusion:

This Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken recipe isn’t just another chicken dish; it’s a flavor explosion waiting to happen! The vibrant salsa verde, with its tangy tomatillos, spicy peppers, and fresh herbs, transforms ordinary grilled chicken into something truly extraordinary. I’ve made this countless times, and it’s always a crowd-pleaser, whether it’s a casual weeknight dinner or a weekend barbecue. The simplicity of the preparation, combined with the complex and satisfying taste, makes it a must-try for anyone looking to elevate their grilling game.

But the best part? It’s incredibly versatile! Serve this Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken sliced over a bed of fluffy cilantro-lime rice for a complete and satisfying meal. Or, shred it and use it as a filling for tacos or burritos – the possibilities are endless! For a lighter option, toss it into a vibrant salad with black beans, corn, avocado, and a drizzle of lime vinaigrette. If you’re feeling adventurous, try marinating the chicken for a longer period – up to 24 hours – for an even more intense flavor. You could also experiment with different types of peppers in the salsa verde to adjust the heat level to your liking. Want to add a smoky depth? Try grilling the tomatillos and peppers before blending them into the salsa.

And don’t forget the sides! Grilled corn on the cob, a simple green salad, or some roasted vegetables would perfectly complement the chicken. For a truly festive meal, serve it with some homemade guacamole and tortilla chips. If you’re looking for a heartier side, consider some grilled potatoes or sweet potato fries. The key is to choose sides that won’t overpower the bright and bold flavors of the salsa verde.

I truly believe that this recipe will become a staple in your kitchen. It’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor – everything you could want in a weeknight meal. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to impress your friends and family at your next gathering.

So, what are you waiting for? Fire up that grill and give this Grilled Salsa Verde Chicken a try! I’m confident that you’ll love it as much as I do. And when you do, I’d absolutely love to hear about your experience. Did you make any variations? What sides did you serve with it? What did your family and friends think? Share your photos and stories in the comments below! I’m always looking for new ideas and inspiration, and I can’t wait to see what you create. Happy grilling! I am sure that you will enjoy this recipe as much as I do. It is a great way to add some flavor to your grilling routine.