Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not just easy to make; it’s also packed with flavor and protein. Perfect for busy weeknights or family gatherings, this recipe brings everyone together around the table. Plus, it’s an all-in-one dish, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal!

What makes this dish truly special is its vibrant salsa verde and the tender chicken that make each bite a delight. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just whipping up something comforting for yourself, this recipe never disappoints.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will devour this flavorful dish!
• Nutritious Ingredients: Packed with wholesome ingredients like chicken, beans, and veggies.
• Versatile Options: Easily customize with your favorite toppings or add-ins.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time to relax after dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You won’t believe how simple these wholesome ingredients are! Gather them up, and you’ll be well on your way to creating a comforting meal that everyone will rave about.

Ingredients:
– 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
– 1 cup yellow onion, diced
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
– 15.5oz salsa verde
– 1 can (4oz) diced green chiles
– 1 cup white long grain rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
– 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/2 cup roasted corn
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1 tsp sea salt
– 1/2 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– dash of black pepper
– 3 tbsp cilantro
– optional toppings: avocado, red pepper flakes

Variations

The beauty of this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet lies in its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal tastes.

• Swap the protein: Use cooked turkey or even tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for an extra boost of nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Try using pepper jack for a spicy kick!
• Make it spicy: Add fresh jalapeños or extra chili powder if you like heat.

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by adding olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial as it helps sauté the garlic and onions evenly, enhancing their flavors before they mingle with the rest of the ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Once the oil is heated, toss in your minced garlic and diced yellow onion. Sauté them until fragrant and translucent. This brings out their natural sweetness and sets a delicious base for your dish.

Step 3: Add Spices

In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and a dash of black pepper. Sprinkle this spice blend into the pan with garlic and onions. Stir it well so everything gets coated; this step ensures every bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Now it’s time to add the star players! Pour in the rinsed black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, diced green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Mix everything together until fully combined; you want all those ingredients to get cozy!

Step 5: Cook It Up

Bring your mixture to a gentle boil for about 2–3 minutes. Then reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and set a timer for 15 minutes. This simmering stage allows the rice to absorb all those wonderful flavors.

Step 6: Check Your Rice

When the timer goes off, take a peek at your rice. If it’s not quite done yet, give it some extra time until it’s tender and has soaked up all that savory liquid.

Step 7: Melt That Cheese

Once your rice is perfectly cooked through, turn off the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and let it sit covered for another 2–3 minutes. The warmth will melt that cheese into gooey perfection!

Step 8: Finish It Off

Finally, garnish your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet with fresh cilantro, creamy avocado slices (if using), and red pepper flakes for an optional spicy touch. Serve warm straight from the skillet—everyone will be digging in!

Enjoy!

Now sit back and enjoy this delightful dish! It’s hearty enough to please everyone at the table while being simple enough to whip up any night of the week. Happy cooking!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Making this dish is a breeze, but a few tips can help you elevate it even further!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions can significantly enhance the flavor profile of your dish, giving it that homemade touch that makes it feel special.

• Experiment with rice types: While long grain rice works wonderfully, you could also try brown rice or even quinoa for a heartier option. Just remember to adjust the cooking time according to your choice.

• Don’t skimp on cheese: Shredded Monterey Jack cheese melts beautifully and adds a creamy texture. Feel free to sprinkle extra on top for an indulgent finish.

• Add more veggies: Consider mixing in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor. The more colorful your skillet, the more appealing it will be!

• Let it sit before serving: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking allows the flavors to meld together beautifully, creating a more cohesive taste experience.

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This dish is not only delicious but visually appealing as well! Here are some fun ways to present your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet that will impress family and friends.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the salsa verde perfectly.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado not only looks beautiful but also enhances the richness of the dish.
• Red pepper flakes: A dash of red pepper flakes gives an extra kick and color contrast that makes your skillet pop!

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a citrus vinaigrette balances out the hearty skillet nicely.
• Mexican street corn salad: This sweet and spicy corn salad is vibrant and pairs wonderfully with the flavors of the chicken and rice.
• Guacamole and tortilla chips: Creamy guacamole served alongside crispy tortilla chips is always a hit and brings extra Mexican flair to your meal.
• Steamed vegetables: A side of lightly steamed broccoli or green beans provides a fresh touch that rounds out this comforting dinner.

With these tips and serving suggestions, you’re all set to create an unforgettable dining experience with your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! Enjoy every flavorful bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it in advance and enjoy it throughout the week, saving you time and effort on busy nights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skillet to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool before freezing.
• Portion the skillet into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months. Remember to label with the date!

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this tasty recipe:

Can I use fresh chicken instead of shredded rotisserie chicken in the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! Simply cook your chicken beforehand (grilling, baking, or sautéing works well) and shred it before adding it to the skillet.

How can I make my own salsa verde for the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

You can blend together tomatillos, jalapeños, cilantro, lime juice, and garlic for a homemade salsa verde that’s fresh and flavorful!

What can I substitute for rice in the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

If you prefer a different grain, quinoa or cauliflower rice would be fantastic substitutes that maintain a similar texture while providing unique flavors.

Can I add more vegetables to the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Definitely! Feel free to toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition and flavor.

How do I spice up my Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

For added heat, consider mixing in diced jalapeños or spicing up your toppings with spicy salsa or hot sauce!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet as comforting and satisfying as I do! It’s not just an easy weeknight meal; it’s a dish that brings joy with every bite. Enjoy making it for yourself or share it with loved ones. Happy cooking!