Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, then this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is just what you need! It combines tender chicken, zesty salsa verde, and fluffy rice in one pan, making clean-up a breeze. This dish is not only packed with protein but also bursts with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family gatherings. Trust me, once you try it, it will become a regular in your dinner rotation!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Super Easy to Make: With just a few simple steps, you can whip up this flavorful dish in about 30 minutes.
• Family-Friendly Delight: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the comforting combination of chicken, cheese, and beans.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: This recipe can be prepared in advance and reheated for busy nights or meal prep!
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal dishes mean more time to relax after dinner—who doesn’t love that?
• Flavorful and Satisfying: The zesty salsa verde adds a delightful kick that will keep everyone coming back for seconds!

Ingredients You’ll Need

You don’t need fancy ingredients to make this fantastic dish! Here’s a list of simple, wholesome ingredients that come together beautifully in this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet.

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

Seasonings

• 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 best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to mix things up 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.
• Change the Grains: Substitute brown rice for extra fiber or use cauliflower rice for a low-carb version.
• Add More Veggies: Throw in bell peppers or spinach for an extra nutritional boost.
• Spice it Up: If you like heat, add jalapeños or use spicy salsa verde to kick things up a notch.

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by adding the olive oil to your skillet over medium heat. This step is crucial as it sets the stage for sautéing the onions and garlic, which will create a flavorful base for your dish.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, toss in the minced garlic and diced onion. Sauté them until they are fragrant and translucent. This process brings out their natural sweetness and makes your kitchen smell amazing!

Step 3: Mix the Spices

In a small bowl, combine the chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle this spice mixture over your onions and garlic while stirring. This enhances their flavor profile even more!

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Now it’s time to add all those yummy ingredients! Pour in the drained black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Stir everything together until well combined—this is where all those great flavors meld!

Step 5: Boil then Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil for about 2-3 minutes. Then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Set your timer for 15 minutes—this allows the rice to absorb all that delicious liquid.

Step 6: Check the Rice

When your timer goes off, check if the rice is fully cooked. If it’s still firm or there’s extra liquid left over, give it more time on low heat—it’s important that the rice is perfectly tender!

Step 7: Melt the Cheese

Once everything is cooked through and fluffy, turn off the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover again for about 2-3 minutes so it can melt into gooey perfection.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finally, remove the lid and top with fresh cilantro. If you’re feeling fancy (or just really hungry), add some sliced avocado or red pepper flakes before serving. Get ready to dig in!

Enjoy every bite of this hearty Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Cooking this dish is not only easy but also a delightful experience! Here are some pro tips to make your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet even more enjoyable.

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion enhance the flavor of your skillet dish, making it more aromatic and delicious. Fresh ingredients can elevate the overall taste compared to pre-packaged ones.

• Customize spiciness: If you love heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. This gives your dish an extra kick that complements the salsa verde beautifully.

• Experiment with cheese: While Monterey Jack cheese is fantastic, try swapping it out for pepper jack or a dairy-free alternative if you’re looking for a different flavor profile or dietary preferences.

• Meal prep friendly: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Make extra servings to enjoy leftovers during busy weekdays, saving you time on meal prep!

• Adjust cooking time based on rice type: If you choose brown rice instead of white, remember that it takes longer to cook. Adjust your simmering time accordingly for perfectly cooked grains.

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Presenting your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet can be just as fun as preparing it! Here are some ideas to make your meal visually appealing and satisfying.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro: Adding fresh cilantro not only enhances flavor but also adds a pop of color that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado offers a lovely contrast in texture and richness, complementing the flavors of the skillet perfectly.
• Red pepper flakes: A sprinkle of these can add both color and heat, giving your dish an attractive finish while catering to spice lovers.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette dressing adds freshness that balances the richness of the skillet.

• Guacamole and tortilla chips: This classic duo provides a crunchy texture alongside your creamy dish, making for an irresistible combination at any table.

• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or zucchini lightly seasoned with salt and pepper offer nutrition without overpowering the main dish’s flavors.

• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with this savory dish, providing a comforting touch to your meal that’s perfect for family dinners.

With these serving suggestions and tips, you’ll transform your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet into a delightful feast! Enjoy creating wonderful memories around the table with this hearty meal.

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, store it in the fridge, and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the skillet cool down completely.
• Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and freeze for up to 3 months.
• For best results, consume within 1-2 months.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• To reheat on the stove, place in a pan over low heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• Microwave portions in a microwave-safe dish covered with a lid or microwave-safe wrap, heating in 1-minute intervals until hot.

FAQs

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

Can I use other proteins instead of chicken in Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! This recipe is versatile. You can substitute shredded turkey or even cooked beans for a vegetarian option. Just adjust cooking times as needed.

How can I customize my Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

You can add your favorite veggies such as bell peppers or zucchini. You could also spice it up with jalapeños or more chili powder if you like heat!

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

This dish pairs beautifully with a simple side salad or tortilla chips. A dollop of sour cream or guacamole on top adds a lovely touch too!

Can I make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet in advance?

Yes! This recipe is great for meal prep and stores well. Simply follow the storage instructions above for the best results.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! It’s not just a meal; it’s an experience filled with flavor and comfort. Whether you’re feeding a family or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, this dish is sure to become a favorite. Happy cooking, and enjoy every bite!