Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal, this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is just the ticket! It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug after a long day. With its bright flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or laid-back family gatherings. Plus, it only takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, which means more time for catching up with loved ones!

What makes this dish truly special is how easily it adapts to your pantry staples. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or feeding a crowd, the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is sure to become a new favorite in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Packed with flavor and protein, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters at the table.
• Make-Ahead Convenience: Prepare it in advance and reheat for an effortless lunch or dinner.
• One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes to wash means more time enjoying your meal!
• Versatile Ingredients: Feel free to customize with what you have on hand; the possibilities are endless!

Ingredients You’ll Need

These ingredients are simple, wholesome, and come together beautifully! Here’s what you will need for your 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

Additional Ingredients

• 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 its flexibility! You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or dietary needs. Here are some fun variations:

• Swap the protein: Use grilled shrimp or tofu instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add more veggies: Toss in chopped bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Change the cheese: Try pepper jack cheese for an extra kick of flavor.
• Switch up the grains: Substitute quinoa or brown rice if you’re looking for something heartier.

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by adding olive oil to a pan over medium heat. This step is essential as it helps create a fragrant base for your dish. Once heated, you’ll be ready to sauté the onions and garlic.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add in your minced garlic and diced yellow onion. Sauté them until they’re soft and translucent. This brings out their natural sweetness and sets a delicious foundation for all the other flavors.

Step 3: Combine Spices

In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add these spices to your onion mixture once they are fragrant – this is where the magic begins!

Step 4: Add in Remaining Ingredients

Pour in your drained black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, diced green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Stir everything together so that each ingredient is well combined.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Bring everything to a gentle boil for about 2-3 minutes before reducing the heat to simmer. Cover with a lid and set your timer for 15 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all those wonderful flavors!

Step 6: Check Rice Doneness

When time’s up, check if your rice is cooked through. If not quite there yet, give it a few more minutes on low heat until it’s perfectly done.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

Once the rice has soaked up all the liquid and is fluffy, turn off the heat. Top it with shredded cheese and cover again for about 2-3 minutes so that cheese melts beautifully over everything.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finally, sprinkle fresh cilantro over your cheesy goodness and add optional toppings like avocado or red pepper flakes if desired.

Now you’re ready to dig into this delightful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! Enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Cooking should be a fun and rewarding experience, and with these pro tips, you can elevate your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet to the next level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables enhance the flavor and aroma of your dish. Fresh cilantro adds a vibrant taste that complements the salsa verde beautifully.

• Adjust spice levels: If you like it spicy, feel free to add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. This allows you to customize the heat according to your preference.

• Let it rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together. This little bit of patience will make each bite even more delightful!

• Experiment with cheese: While Monterey Jack is delicious, you can also try pepper jack for a spicy kick or a dairy-free cheese alternative if you’re looking for something lighter.

• Make it a meal prep winner: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to four days, making it perfect for meal prep! Simply reheat portions in the microwave or on the stovetop for easy lunches or dinners throughout the week.

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Presenting your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet can be as delightful as making it! Here are some ideas to make your serving experience special.

Garnishes

• Fresh avocado slices: Add creamy avocado slices on top for added richness and texture.
• Chopped green onions: Sprinkle chopped green onions for a fresh crunch that brightens up every bite.
• Lime wedges: Serve with lime wedges on the side so guests can squeeze fresh juice over their servings, enhancing the flavors!

Side Dishes

• Crispy tortilla chips: A light and crunchy side that pairs perfectly with the rich flavors of your skillet dish.
• Simple green salad: Toss together mixed greens with a light vinaigrette for a refreshing contrast to the hearty rice skillet.
• Grilled vegetables: Colorful grilled veggies like bell peppers, zucchini, and asparagus complement the dish while adding extra nutrients.
• Guacamole: A side of guacamole not only enhances the Mexican flavor profile but also provides a creamy option that everyone loves.

Now you’re all set to enjoy an incredible meal with your loved ones. Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only delicious but also an excellent option for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time, store leftovers, or even freeze portions for a quick meal later.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftover Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate for up to 3-4 days.
• Be sure to allow the dish to cool before sealing to prevent condensation.

Freezing

• If you want to freeze the skillet, place it in a freezer-safe container or sealable bag.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.
• Label the container with the date to keep track of freshness.

Reheating

• To reheat from the refrigerator, warm it in a skillet over medium heat until heated through.
• For frozen portions, thaw in the refrigerator overnight and then reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave.
• You can add a splash of chicken broth if it seems dry during reheating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out!

Can I use fresh chicken instead of shredded rotisserie chicken for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! Just cook fresh chicken breasts in your pan before adding other ingredients. Shred once cooked.

How do I add more spice to my Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

To amp up the heat, consider adding more chili powder or diced jalapeños. You can also top with spicy salsa or hot sauce before serving.

Can I make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute shredded rotisserie chicken with cooked quinoa or additional black beans for protein while keeping all other ingredients the same.

Final Thoughts

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a comforting and wholesome dish that brings together bright flavors and hearty ingredients in one easy-to-make meal. It’s perfect for busy weeknights or cozy family dinners. I hope you enjoy making this dish as much as I do—it’s truly special, and I’m excited for you to give it a try. Happy cooking!