Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that’s bursting with flavor, this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is your answer. It’s one of those recipes I keep coming back to because it’s so easy to throw together after a long day. Plus, it combines delicious ingredients into one comforting dish that everyone in the family will love.

This skillet meal is perfect for busy weeknights or even casual family gatherings. With just a few simple steps, you’ll have a hearty dinner on the table that feels special without all the fuss. Trust me, once you try this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, it’ll become a go-to recipe in your kitchen!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With a total cook time of just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those evenings when time is short.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavors and textures, this meal is sure to please both kids and adults alike.
• Nutritionally Balanced: Loaded with protein and veggies, it offers a wholesome option for dinner that doesn’t skimp on taste.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax with loved ones!
• Versatile Ingredients: You can easily modify this recipe to suit your pantry or personal tastes.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our ingredients! This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet uses simple, wholesome items that you might already have on hand. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is how flexible it can be! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or what you’re in the mood for. Here are some ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even cooked quinoa for a vegetarian option.
• Change up the beans: Swap black beans for pinto beans or chickpeas according to your preference.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutrient boost!
• Try different cheeses: If Monterey Jack isn’t your favorite, cheddar or pepper jack would work wonderfully as well.

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by adding olive oil to a large pan over medium heat. Heating the oil first ensures that when we add our aromatics, they sauté nicely without absorbing too much oil right away.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Next, add the minced garlic and diced yellow onion to the pan. Sauté these until they become fragrant and the onions turn translucent—this step brings out their natural sweetness and sets a flavorful base for our dish.

Step 3: Add Spices

In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle this spice blend over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir them together until everything is well-coated and aromatic—it really boosts the flavor profile of your meal!

Step 4: Combine Everything

Now it’s time to pour in the drained black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, diced green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice into the pan. Mix everything together gently but thoroughly—this ensures each grain of rice absorbs all those wonderful flavors.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Bring everything to a gentle boil for about 2-3 minutes before reducing the heat to low. Cover with a lid and set your timer for 15 minutes. This simmering process allows the rice to cook perfectly while soaking up all that delicious liquid.

Step 6: Check Your Rice

Once your timer goes off, peek inside! Make sure the rice is fully cooked through; if not quite done yet, give it an extra minute or two. The goal here is fluffy rice that has absorbed all that tasty broth.

Step 7: Melt That Cheese

Once everything looks great and cooked through, turn off the heat. Top your skillet with shredded cheese and cover again for about 2–3 minutes until melted—it’s worth waiting for that gooey goodness!

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Finally, remove from heat and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top along with any optional toppings like avocado slices or red pepper flakes if you desire some heat.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Scoop yourself a generous portion of this delightful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet onto your plate and dig in! You’ve made something truly special that I know you’ll love.

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Making this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet can be a breeze with a few handy tips!

• Use pre-cooked chicken: Using shredded rotisserie chicken saves you time and adds incredible flavor, making your meal come together quickly.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer less heat, opt for mild salsa verde and reduce the chili powder. This way, everyone at the table can enjoy the dish without overwhelming flavors.

• Let it rest: After cooking, allow the skillet to sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This helps the rice finish absorbing any remaining moisture and enhances the overall texture.

• Experiment with toppings: Don’t hesitate to get creative with your toppings! Ingredients like diced red onion or a dollop of sour cream can add extra flavor and visual appeal.

• Double the recipe: This dish is great for meal prep! Making extra means you’ll have delicious leftovers ready for lunch or dinner throughout the week.

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This vibrant dish not only tastes amazing but also looks fantastic on the table! Here are some fun ideas to enhance your presentation.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the flavors beautifully.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide a rich texture that balances the spiciness of the dish.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving can brighten up all the flavors and add a delightful zing.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a tangy vinaigrette offers a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This flavorful salad made with grilled corn, lime juice, and cheese pairs perfectly with the savory chicken and rice.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: The creaminess of guacamole alongside crispy chips makes for a fun appetizer that complements this main dish.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and carrots adds color and nutrition while keeping it simple and delicious.

With these serving suggestions in hand, you’re all set to enjoy your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet in style. Happy cooking!

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 ahead of time, making your weeknight dinners a breeze.

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 completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen skillet in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Reheat in a pan over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes or until hot.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries:

Can I use a different type of chicken for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! You can use grilled chicken, poached chicken, or even shredded turkey if you prefer. Just ensure it’s cooked and shredded before adding it to the skillet.

How can I customize my Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini. You can also try different beans or spices based on your taste preferences!

Is Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish stores well and makes excellent leftovers, perfect for meal prepping your week’s lunches or dinners.

What can I serve with Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Consider pairing it with a fresh salad or some tortilla chips on the side. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole would also complement it beautifully!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet as much as I do! It’s a fantastic way to bring flavor and ease into your weeknight meals. With its vibrant ingredients and simple preparation, it’s perfect for busy evenings when you still want something hearty and satisfying. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share this recipe with friends and family—you might just become their new favorite chef!