Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty dinner that the whole family will love, you’ve come to the right place! This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is one of my go-to recipes for busy weeknights. It combines tender chicken, flavorful rice, and zesty salsa verde all in one pan. Not only is it easy to whip up, but it also brings a comforting warmth that makes any dinner feel special.

This dish is perfect for family gatherings or when you want to impress your friends without spending hours in the kitchen. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a meal that’s bursting with flavor and nutrition. Trust me, once you try this recipe, it will become a treasured part of your meal rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With only 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish fits perfectly into your busy schedule.
• Family-friendly: Kids and adults alike will adore the delicious flavors packed into every bite.
• One-pan wonder: Less cleanup means more time spent enjoying your meal!
• Versatile ingredients: You can easily customize it with whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand.
• Make-ahead option: Prepare it in advance and simply reheat for an effortless dinner.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather our simple, wholesome ingredients! These items come together beautifully to create a hearty and flavorful meal that everyone will enjoy.

Main 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

Spices

• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• dash of black pepper

Toppings

• 3 tbsp cilantro
• optional toppings: avocado, red pepper flakes

Variations

One of the best things about this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is how flexible it is! Feel free to get creative and adjust the recipe according to your taste preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded turkey or tofu for a different twist!
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: If you like heat, add jalapeños or use a spicier salsa verde.
• Go vegetarian: Substitute the chicken with chickpeas for a hearty plant-based option.

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by adding the olive oil to a skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial as it helps create a nice base for our dish. Once heated, we’ll bring out the flavors of our aromatics.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the minced garlic and diced yellow onion. Sauté until they are soft and fragrant; this usually takes about 3-4 minutes. The sweetness from the onion combined with garlic creates an irresistible aroma that sets the stage for our skillet.

Step 3: Mix in Spices

In a small bowl, mix together your spices: chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle this mixture into your skillet over the sautéed onions and garlic. Stir everything together until well combined—this adds depth to our dish.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time for the fun part! Pour in the drained black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, diced green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Mix everything well so that all those delightful flavors meld together.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Raise the heat slightly to bring your mixture to a gentle boil for about 2-3 minutes. Afterward, reduce heat to low and cover with a lid. Set your timer for 15 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all those fantastic flavors!

Step 6: Check Your Rice

When your timer goes off, give everything a quick check to ensure that the rice is cooked through. If not quite ready yet, simply set your timer for additional time until it’s perfect!

Step 7: Melt That Cheese

Once your rice has soaked up all that delicious liquid and is cooked through, turn off the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover again with the lid for about 2-3 minutes so it melts beautifully.

Step 8: Finish It Off

Finally—time to make this dish shine! Top with fresh cilantro along with optional avocado slices and red pepper flakes if desired. Now you’re ready to dig into this mouthwatering Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet!

Step 9: Enjoy!

Serve hot and enjoy every bite! This dish is sure to become a favorite at your table just like it has at mine!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Cooking can be a delightful experience, and with a few simple tips, you can elevate your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet to perfection!

• Prep Ahead: Preparing your ingredients in advance can save time during cooking. Chop the onions and garlic, shred the chicken, and measure out the spices so you can easily add them as needed.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh produce and high-quality chicken broth will enhance the flavor of your dish. Opting for fresh herbs like cilantro will also add a bright pop to your skillet.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you like it spicy, feel free to add some diced jalapeños or extra chili powder. This dish is very adaptable, so make it suit your taste!

• Let It Rest: After cooking, letting the skillet sit for about 5 minutes before serving allows the flavors to meld together beautifully. This small step makes a big difference in taste!

• Experiment with Cheese: While Monterey Jack is delicious, try using pepper jack or even a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re looking for something different or have dietary restrictions.

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This dish is not only hearty but also visually appealing! You can easily present it in a way that impresses family and friends while keeping it cozy and inviting.

Garnishes

• Fresh Cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds freshness and color, brightening up each serving.
• Sliced Avocado: Adding creamy avocado slices provides a rich texture that complements the spiciness of the salsa verde.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A dash of red pepper flakes can elevate the heat level for those who enjoy an extra kick!

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A refreshing green salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette balances out the richness of the skillet.
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with the spicy flavors in this dish and adds a comforting touch.
• Steamed Vegetables: Broccoli or zucchini lightly steamed will contribute nutrients without overshadowing the main flavors of your meal.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: For an extra treat, serve with guacamole and tortilla chips; they make for perfect appetizers while waiting for dinner.

Now that you’ve got all these tips and serving suggestions at your fingertips, get ready to enjoy a delicious meal that everyone will love! 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 a batch ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Make sure to label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• To freeze, let the dish cool completely, then portion it out into freezer-safe containers.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• When ready to eat, thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Reheating

• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe dish, covering it loosely with a lid or microwave-safe wrap until heated through.

FAQs

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

Can I use different proteins in Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! You can substitute shredded turkey or even cooked beans for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

How do I make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet spicier?

For an extra kick, add more diced green chiles or sprinkle in some red pepper flakes during cooking. Adjust according to your spice preference!

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

Yes! This dish stores well and is perfect for meal prepping. Enjoy quick lunches or dinners throughout the week!

Can I make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet without rice?

Yes! You can omit the rice and serve it over greens or with tortillas for a low-carb alternative.

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet as much as I do! It’s such a comforting dish that’s packed with flavor and nutrition. Whether you’re feeding a family or preparing meals for yourself, this recipe is sure to bring joy to your dinner table. Don’t hesitate to try it out and make it your own; happy cooking!