Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious dinner that the whole family will love, let me introduce you to my favorite Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! This dish is not only bursting with flavor but also incredibly simple to make. The combination of shredded chicken, zesty salsa verde, and wholesome rice creates a comforting meal that feels like a warm hug on a busy weeknight. It’s perfect for gatherings or just a cozy night in.

This recipe has become a staple in my kitchen because it brings everyone together around the table, and I love how easily it comes together in just one pan. Whether you’re feeding little ones or hosting friends, this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is sure to impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 10 minutes of prep time, you can have a hearty meal ready in about 30 minutes!
• Family-friendly: The mild flavors and colorful ingredients make this dish appealing for all ages.
• One-pan wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax.
• Customizable: You can easily swap in your favorite veggies or proteins, making it versatile for any palate.
• Delicious leftovers: This dish tastes even better the next day, so you can enjoy the flavors all over again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple and wholesome ingredients makes cooking all the more enjoyable! Here’s what you’ll need to whip up this delightful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet:

For the Skillet

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, 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 is! You can adapt it based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even cooked quinoa for a vegetarian option!
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach to pack in additional nutrients.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, try adding jalapeños or use spicy salsa verde for an extra kick.
• Go dairy-free: Omit the cheese or substitute with a plant-based alternative to make it suitable for dairy-free diets.

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by adding olive oil to your pan over medium heat. Heating the oil helps create a nice base for sautéing our vegetables while preventing them from sticking.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Once the oil is warm, add in the minced garlic and diced yellow onion. Sauté them until they’re fragrant and the onions are translucent. This step brings out their sweetness and adds depth to our dish.

Step 3: Mix in Spices

In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add these spices to the pan with the garlic and onion until everything is well-seasoned.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to bring everything together! Pour in your drained black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice into the pan. Stir everything together until nicely combined.

Step 5: Bring to Boil

Raise the heat slightly and bring your mixture to a boil for about 2-3 minutes. Afterward, reduce it back down to simmering heat; cover with a lid and set a timer for 15 minutes. This allows the rice to cook perfectly while soaking up all those delicious flavors!

Step 6: Check Your Rice

When the timer goes off, check if your rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If not quite done yet, give it a few more minutes with the lid on.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

Once your rice is cooked through and fluffy, turn off the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top of your skillet and replace the lid for about 2-3 minutes until melted. This creates that gooey goodness we all love!

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Finally, top your skillet with fresh cilantro along with optional avocado slices and red pepper flakes if desired. Now it’s time for everyone to dig in!

Step 9: Enjoy!

Sit back and enjoy this vibrant Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet with family or friends—you’ve earned it!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This dish is not just easy to make but also incredibly versatile, and with a few pro tips, you can elevate it even more!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onions will bring a vibrant flavor that dried alternatives can’t match, enhancing the overall taste of the dish.
• Customize your spice level: If you prefer a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a few dashes of hot sauce. This will add depth and excitement to every bite!
• Experiment with cheese: While Monterey Jack is delicious, feel free to try pepper jack for a spicy kick or even cheddar for a sharper flavor. Mixing different cheeses can create a delightful layer of taste.
• Make it ahead: This dish stores well in the refrigerator, making it perfect for meal prep. Just reheat when ready to serve, and you’ll enjoy a home-cooked meal even on your busiest days.
• Add seasonal vegetables: Feel free to throw in some seasonal veggies like zucchini or bell peppers. They not only add nutrition but also color and texture to your skillet.

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Presenting your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet beautifully can transform an ordinary meal into an extraordinary dining experience. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish:

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds brightness and enhances the flavors of the salsa verde.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado complements the spices perfectly while adding a luxurious touch.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving adds acidity that balances the richness of the dish beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette pairs well as it provides a refreshing contrast to the rich chicken skillet.
• Mexican-style Corn on the Cob: Grilled corn brushed with lime and sprinkled with chili powder offers a sweet and spicy side that complements the flavors of your main dish perfectly.
• Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: The creamy guacamole alongside crunchy chips creates a fun appetizer that guests will love before diving into their main course.
• Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables seasoned with olive oil and spices make for a colorful side that adds both nutrition and flavor to your meal.

With these serving tips, you can turn your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet into an unforgettable feast! Enjoy every delicious bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only a delicious meal but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and store it for busy days. Here’s how to handle leftovers and ensure you can enjoy this dish even later.

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

• Portion out the chicken and rice skillet into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 2-3 months.
• Ensure to leave some space in containers as the rice may expand when frozen.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating if frozen.
• Reheat on the stove over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through (about 5-10 minutes).
• Alternatively, microwave in a microwave-safe bowl, adding a splash of water to retain moisture, and heat until warm.

FAQs

Have questions about this delightful recipe? Here are some answers!

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

Absolutely! You can substitute shredded rotisserie chicken with cooked chickpeas or another favorite protein alternative. Just adjust cooking times accordingly.

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

Feel free to add extra spices like cayenne pepper for heat or lime juice for added zest. Fresh herbs like parsley or more cilantro can also brighten the flavors!

Can I use brown rice in my Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Yes, you can! Just be aware that brown rice typically requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust the broth quantity and cooking time as needed.

How long does it take to prepare Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

This recipe takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a quick option for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet as comforting and satisfying as I do! It’s not just easy to make but also brings vibrant flavors together in one dish. Whether you’re enjoying it at dinner with family or prepping meals for the week ahead, I’m sure you’ll love every bite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience with me!