Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a delightful and hassle-free dinner option, let me introduce you to my beloved Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! This dish is truly a lifesaver on busy weeknights. It’s a one-pan wonder that combines tender chicken, zesty salsa verde, and fluffy rice into a comforting meal that the whole family will adore. I love how quickly it comes together, which makes it perfect for those evenings when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen.

What makes this recipe even more special is its versatility. Whether you’re hosting friends or just enjoying a cozy night in with your family, this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is sure to impress. Plus, it’s packed with protein and flavor, making it as nutritious as it is tasty!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be on your table in just 30 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the bold flavors without any fuss.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after dinner!
• Make-Ahead Friendly: You can prep ingredients in advance for an even quicker meal.
• Deliciously Versatile: Customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe calls for simple, wholesome ingredients that you probably already have in your pantry! Let’s gather everything we need to make our flavorful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet.

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
– 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

The beauty of this recipe lies in its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or cooked beans instead of chicken for a vegetarian option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some bell peppers, spinach, or zucchini for added nutrition.
• Change the cheese: Try using pepper jack cheese for a spicy twist!
• Make it creamy: Stir in a bit of cream cheese at the end for an ultra-creamy version.

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. This oil will help sauté our aromatics and create a flavorful base for our dish.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Once the oil is hot, add minced garlic and diced yellow onion to the pan. Sauté these until they become fragrant and the onion turns translucent; this step brings out their natural sweetness and adds depth to our skillet.

Step 3: Mix in Spices

In a small bowl, combine chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle this spice mixture over the garlic and onion as they cook—this is where all those zesty flavors begin to meld together!

Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients

Next, pour in the drained black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Give everything a good stir to combine all those delicious ingredients into one harmonious mixture.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Raise the heat slightly until everything comes to a boil—about 2–3 minutes should do it. Once boiling, reduce the heat back down to low and cover the skillet with a lid. Set your timer for about 15 minutes so the rice can absorb all that savory goodness.

Step 6: Check Rice Doneness

When time’s up, check if your rice is cooked through. If it’s still firm or there’s leftover liquid, don’t hesitate to set your timer again for additional cooking time—this ensures perfectly fluffy rice every time!

Step 7: Melt That Cheese!

Once everything is cooked through and absorbed nicely, turn off the heat but leave the lid on while you sprinkle shredded cheese on top. Letting it sit covered allows the cheese to melt beautifully.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Finally! Remove the lid and top with fresh cilantro along with any optional toppings like sliced avocado or red pepper flakes if you like some spice. Now you’re ready to dig into this scrumptious Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet!

Step 9: Enjoy!

Serve warm straight from the skillet or plate it up family-style! Gather around with loved ones because this dish is best enjoyed together. Happy eating!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Making this delicious dish is a breeze, but a few insider tips can take it from good to spectacular!

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: This not only saves time but also adds great flavor. You can easily shred it at home without the fuss of cooking chicken from scratch.

• Adjust Spice Levels: If you like it hot, feel free to add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. This will give your skillet an extra kick and make it even more exciting!

• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the skillet sit covered for a few minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to meld together beautifully and ensures every bite is bursting with taste.

• Experiment with Cheeses: While Monterey Jack is a fantastic choice, feel free to mix in other cheeses like Pepper Jack or Mozzarella for different flavors and textures.

• Fresh Cilantro Matters: Don’t skip the cilantro! It adds a fresh, vibrant touch that brightens up the entire dish and balances out the rich flavors.

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This colorful dish not only tastes amazing but also looks lovely on the table. Here are some delightful ways to present it!

Garnishes

• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado adds richness and balances out the spices beautifully.
• Fresh Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime juice just before eating brightens all the flavors and adds a refreshing zing.
• Chopped Green Onions: These provide a mild onion flavor and a nice crunch that complements the softness of the rice.

Side Dishes

• Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing pairs perfectly by adding freshness and crunch.
• Corn Tortillas: Warmed corn tortillas are great for scooping up the dish; they add a lovely texture and complement the flavors beautifully.
• Mexican Street Corn (Elote): This sweet corn dish topped with cheese, lime, and chili powder brings extra flavor that pairs well with your skillet meal.
• Roasted Vegetables: A medley of roasted bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus offers a nutritious side that enhances your meal’s overall taste profile without overshadowing it.

By following these tips and serving suggestions, your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet will be an unforgettable meal that everyone will love! Enjoy every bite!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a fantastic option for meal prep! Not only is it quick to whip up, but it also stores beautifully, making it perfect for those busy weeknights.

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the dish to cool completely before storing.
• Transfer any leftovers into an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the skillet cool completely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the rice.
• Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between, until hot.

FAQs

Have questions? No problem! Here are some common queries about this delicious recipe.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken in the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! You can cook and shred fresh chicken breasts or thighs. Just ensure they are fully cooked before adding them to the skillet.

How spicy is the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

The spice level largely depends on the salsa verde you choose. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for a mild salsa and adjust the green chiles according to your taste.

Can I make this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet vegetarian?

Yes! To make it vegetarian, simply substitute the chicken with additional black beans or your favorite veggies and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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

This dish stands well on its own but pairs beautifully with a side salad or some tortilla chips for added crunch!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you find joy in making this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with vibrant flavors and heartwarming comfort. Whether you’re sharing it with loved ones or savoring it solo after a long day, this recipe is sure to bring a smile to your face. Enjoy every bite!