Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a delightful and simple dinner that the whole family will love, this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is your answer. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate, bringing together tender chicken, zesty salsa verde, and comforting rice—all in one skillet! Perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back family gatherings, this dish makes the cooking process feel effortless while delivering on flavor.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those nights when you’re short on time but still want something hearty and delicious. Plus, it’s packed with protein and all the good stuff to keep everyone satisfied.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll be enjoying this tasty meal in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will be asking for seconds with this flavorful dish!
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time spent enjoying your meal and less time doing dishes.
• Customizable: Switch up ingredients easily to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• Meal Prep Friendly: Make it ahead of time and reheat for quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet uses simple, wholesome ingredients that you might already have in your kitchen. They come together so beautifully to create a dish that’s not only filling but also bursting with flavor!

For the Skillet

• 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

For Seasoning

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

For Topping

• 3 tbsp cilantro
• Optional: avocado, red pepper flakes

Variations

One of the great things about this recipe is how flexible it is! You can mix and match ingredients based on what you have or what you’re craving.

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or cooked chickpeas instead of chicken for a different flavor.
• Change up the cheese: Try a different cheese like cheddar or pepper jack for added spice.
• Add more veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for extra nutrition and color.
• Spice it up: Add jalapeños for an additional kick if you love heat!

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by adding olive oil to your skillet over medium heat. This step is essential as it helps bring out the flavors of the garlic and onion while preventing sticking.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in minced garlic and diced yellow onion. Sauté them until they become 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 black pepper. Sprinkle this seasoning blend over the sautéed onion and garlic. Stir until everything is well coated; this will infuse every bite with flavor!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the rinsed black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice into the pan. Give everything a good stir to combine all those wonderful flavors.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a boil for about 2-3 minutes. This step helps cook off some liquid before reducing heat to simmer.

Step 6: Simmer

Once boiling has started, cover your skillet with a lid and set your timer for 15 minutes. Letting it simmer allows the rice to absorb all of that delicious liquid while becoming perfectly cooked.

Step 7: Check Rice

When the timer goes off, check that your rice is fully cooked through. If needed, set your timer for an additional few minutes until it’s just right.

Step 8: Melt Cheese

Once everything is cooked through and absorbing flavors beautifully, turn off the heat. Top with shredded cheese and cover again for about 2-3 minutes until it’s melted into gooey perfection.

Step 9: Serve It Up

Finally, uncover your skillet and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top alongside avocado slices and red pepper flakes if desired. Now it’s ready to enjoy—dig in!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Making this dish at home is not only simple but also incredibly rewarding. Here are some expert tips to ensure your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet turns out perfectly every time!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh produce and high-quality salsas can elevate the flavors in your dish. Opting for fresh garlic and onion will enhance the aroma and taste, making your meal even more delightful.

• Adjust spice levels: If you prefer a little kick, consider adding extra chili powder or using a spicier salsa verde. Personalizing the heat level ensures that everyone at your table enjoys the meal just the way they like it.

• Let it rest: Allowing the skillet to sit with the lid on for a few minutes after cooking helps all the flavors meld together beautifully. This resting period makes each bite even more delicious.

• Customize with add-ins: Feel free to toss in vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color. This not only makes the dish more vibrant but also increases its health benefits.

• Store leftovers properly: If you have any leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This dish reheats wonderfully, making it perfect for lunch or a quick dinner later in the week!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Presenting your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet can be just as fun as making it! Here are some ideas on how to serve this delicious dish and make it even more appealing.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and brightens up the dish visually, making it look even more appetizing.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices bring richness and balance out the spice levels perfectly.
• Lime wedges: A squeeze of lime juice right before serving adds a zesty kick that complements all the flavors beautifully.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing provides a refreshing contrast to the hearty skillet.
• Guacamole and tortilla chips: The creaminess of guacamole paired with crunchy tortilla chips can be a fun appetizer or side snack that enhances your meal experience.
• Steamed broccoli: Adding steamed broccoli not only brings color to your plate but also offers additional nutrients without overshadowing the main dish.
• Mexican-style corn on the cob: Grilled or boiled corn topped with lime and spices provides a sweet crunch that pairs delightfully with the savory chicken skillet.

Enjoy serving this scrumptious Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet to family and friends; it’s sure to become a favorite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a fantastic choice for meal prep! It holds up well in the fridge, making it easy to whip up a delicious dinner 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 4 days.
• To keep flavors fresh, consider separating any toppings (like avocado) until you’re ready to eat.

Freezing

• Portion out servings into freezer-safe containers.
• Leave about an inch of space at the top of the container as the dish will expand when frozen.
• Label containers with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating for best results.
• Reheat on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to prevent sticking.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals until heated through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

If you have questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common queries that might help you out.

Can I use homemade salsa verde for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! Homemade salsa verde can add a personal touch and enhance the flavor of your dish. Just ensure it’s well-seasoned!

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

To kick up the heat, consider adding more diced green chiles or a pinch of cayenne pepper when cooking. You can also top each serving with extra red pepper flakes.

Can I substitute chicken broth in Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Yes! You can use vegetable broth for a lighter option or water if you’re in a pinch. Just keep in mind that it may slightly alter the flavor.

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

This dish is great on its own but pairs nicely with a side salad or tortilla chips for added crunch!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet as much as I do! It’s not just easy and delicious; it’s also a wonderful way to bring family and friends together around the dinner table. Whether you’re meal prepping or serving it fresh, this dish is bound to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and don’t forget to share your experience!