Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick and tasty dinner that your whole family will love, let me introduce you to my go-to dish: Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet. This recipe is not only simple but also packed with flavor and wholesome ingredients. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. I love how this dish combines tender chicken, zesty salsa verde, and hearty rice, making it a comforting meal everyone gathers around.

What makes this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet special is its versatility. You can whip it up in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for family dinners or casual get-togethers with friends. Plus, it’s a great way to use leftovers or rotisserie chicken, saving you time without sacrificing taste!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy: Ready in just 30 minutes, this dish is perfect for those hectic evenings.
• Family favorite: With its delicious flavors and creamy cheese topping, everyone will be asking for seconds!
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from chicken and black beans, this skillet meal is both satisfying and healthy.
• One-pan wonder: Less cleanup means more time enjoying your meal with loved ones.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or swap the protein for variety!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering these simple ingredients is half the fun! They’re all wholesome and easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need to make your very own Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet:

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 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup roasted corn

For the Seasoning

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

For Topping

• 1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
• 3 tbsp cilantro
• optional toppings: avocado, red pepper flakes

Variations

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! You can easily adjust it to suit your taste preferences or whatever ingredients you have on hand.

• Swap the protein: Use cooked shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for extra nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Try pepper jack or cheddar for a different flavor profile.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or more chili powder if you like a kick!

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. Heating the oil first helps create a nice base for sautéing.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the minced garlic and diced onions. Sauté until they soften and become fragrant; this step builds a flavorful foundation 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 mixture into the pan while stirring with the onion and garlic until everything smells amazing!

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time to pour in those delicious ingredients! Add black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, diced green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Mix everything together so that every grain of rice gets coated with that zesty salsa verde sauce.

Step 5: Simmer Away

Bring your mixture to a boil for about 2-3 minutes before reducing the heat to low. Cover with a lid and set your timer for 15 minutes—this allows the rice to absorb all that tasty liquid!

Step 6: Check Your Rice

When the timer goes off, check if your rice is cooked through. If it needs more time, simply cover it again and give it an extra few minutes on low heat.

Step 7: Melt That Cheese

Once everything looks perfect and fluffy, turn off the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover again for about 2-3 minutes so that cheesy goodness melts beautifully.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

When all that cheesy goodness has melted into perfection, remove the lid! Top with freshly chopped cilantro and any optional toppings like avocado or red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Scoop yourself a generous serving of this delightful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet onto your plate. Grab some forks (or spoons!) and dig in—it’s comfort food at its finest!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Creating a delicious and satisfying meal doesn’t have to be complicated, and with these tips, your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet will turn out perfectly every time!

• Use quality salsa verde: The flavor of your dish greatly depends on the salsa verde you choose. Opt for a fresh or high-quality store-bought option for the best taste.

• Don’t skip the spices: Adding chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder enhances the overall flavor profile. These spices bring warmth and depth that make the dish truly comforting.

• Check rice doneness: Since different brands of rice may vary in cooking times, always check if the rice is tender before serving. This ensures a perfect texture without any crunchiness.

• Experiment with toppings: While cilantro adds freshness, feel free to get creative with other toppings like sliced jalapeños or crumbled tortilla chips for added crunch and spice.

• Meal prep friendly: This dish can easily be made ahead of time or stored as leftovers. It reheats well in the microwave, making it a fantastic option for busy weeknights!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Serving your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet can elevate your dining experience! Here are some delightful ideas to present this flavorful dish beautifully.

Garnishes

• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado complements the spicy salsa verde perfectly, adding richness to each bite.
• Fresh lime wedges: A squeeze of lime just before eating brightens up the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
• Chopped green onions: Sprinkling some green onions on top offers a mild onion flavor and a pop of color that makes the dish visually appealing.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing can balance the richness of the skillet dish.
• Mexican street corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, chili powder, and lime creates a delightful side that pairs wonderfully with this recipe.
• Cilantro lime quinoa: Quinoa tossed with cilantro and lime juice provides a healthy grain option that matches well with the vibrant flavors of your skillet.
• Chips and guacamole: Crunchy tortilla chips served alongside creamy guacamole make for an irresistible snack while waiting for dinner to cook!

Enjoy serving this colorful and delicious Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! It’s sure to become a favorite at your table.

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not just delicious but also perfect for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• If you want to enjoy this dish later, portion it into freezer-safe containers.
• Label containers with the date and contents for easy identification.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen, or reheat directly from the freezer on low heat.
• Use a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to maintain moisture.
• Heat until warmed through, stirring occasionally.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet that you might find helpful!

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Yes, you can use brown rice! Just keep in mind that it will require a longer cooking time—about 40-45 minutes—so adjust accordingly and ensure you have enough liquid.

How do I store leftovers from Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. For longer storage, you can freeze portions for up to 3 months.

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

This dish stands alone beautifully, but you can pair it with a simple salad or tortilla chips for added crunch. Avocado slices also make a great accompaniment!

Is there a vegetarian alternative for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! Swap out the shredded chicken for your favorite plant-based protein like chickpeas or tofu. You can also increase the amount of black beans or corn for added texture.

Final Thoughts

I hope this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet brings warmth and joy to your dinner table! It’s not only quick and easy but also packed with flavor that everyone will love. Enjoy making this recipe and feel free to share your own twists! Happy cooking!