Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a cozy, comforting meal that’s also quick to make, this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is just the thing! This dish has become a family favorite in our home because it’s not only packed with flavor but also super easy to whip up on busy weeknights. The vibrant salsa verde adds a zesty kick, and the combination of chicken, rice, and beans makes it a hearty dish that everyone loves. Plus, it’s perfect for family gatherings or when you’re just craving something delicious and satisfying.

Let me tell you, there’s something magical about one-pot meals. They save on cleanup time, and you can customize them to suit your tastes. Whether you’re hosting friends or just feeding the kids after school, this recipe will surely impress!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love the cheesy goodness and mild flavors—perfect for picky eaters!
• Wholesome Ingredients: Made with simple, nutritious ingredients that you can feel good about serving.
• Customizable: Easily adjust the ingredients to fit your taste preferences or dietary needs.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time enjoying your meal with loved ones!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gathering simple, wholesome ingredients is part of what makes this dish so special. Here’s what you’ll need for your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet:

For the Skillet

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, 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 Toppings

• 3 tbsp cilantro
• Optional: avocado and red pepper flakes for serving

Variations

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is wonderfully flexible! You can mix things up based on what you have on hand or your personal preferences.

• Swap the protein: Try using shredded turkey or even cooked quinoa for a vegetarian option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for added nutrients and color.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add jalapeños or use spicy salsa verde instead.
• Change the cheese: Substitute with pepper jack cheese for an extra kick!

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by adding olive oil to a large pan over medium heat. This will help bring out the flavors as you sauté your onion and garlic.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Once the oil is hot, toss in your minced garlic and diced yellow onion. Sauté until they’re fragrant and translucent—this step is key because it creates a lovely base for all the other flavors.

Step 3: Add Seasonings

In a small bowl, mix together your spices: chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add this spice blend to the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir it around until everything is nicely coated and aromatic.

Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients

Now it’s time to pour in those black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Stir everything together well so that each ingredient gets mingled nicely.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Increase the heat slightly to bring your mixture to a boil—this should take about 2-3 minutes. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Set your timer for 15 minutes!

Step 6: Check Your Rice

When the timer goes off, take off the lid and check if your rice is cooked through. If it’s not quite done yet, don’t worry; just set your timer for another few minutes until it’s perfectly tender.

Step 7: Melt That Cheese!

Once everything looks good and the rice has absorbed all that delicious liquid, turn off the heat. Sprinkle your shredded cheese on top of the skillet and cover again for about 2-3 minutes—this will let that cheesy goodness melt beautifully.

Step 8: Finish It Off

After a few minutes of waiting (trust me; it’s worth it!), uncover your skillet. Top with fresh cilantro and any optional toppings like avocado slices or red pepper flakes.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Dig in while it’s warm! This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is sure to become one of your go-to recipes—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to customize, so here are some tips to help you nail it every time!

• Use leftover chicken: Utilizing leftover rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor. If you don’t have any on hand, cooked shredded chicken works just as well.

• Adjust the spice level: If you prefer a milder dish, use a mild salsa verde and omit the green chiles. For more heat, consider adding fresh jalapeños or an extra dash of chili powder.

• Let it rest: Allowing the finished dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together and improves the overall taste.

• Experiment with grains: If you’re looking for a healthier option or want to mix things up, try using quinoa or brown rice instead of white long grain rice. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly.

• Make it a one-pan meal: To save on dishes, consider adding vegetables like bell peppers or spinach into the skillet during cooking. They add nutrition and color without any extra hassle!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Serving this dish is all about making it inviting and fun! Here are some ideas to elevate your mealtime experience.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Chopped cilantro adds a burst of freshness that complements the salsa verde beautifully.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide richness and balance out the spices.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy an extra kick, sprinkle red pepper flakes over the top before serving.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A refreshing green salad with mixed greens, tomatoes, and a light vinaigrette pairs perfectly with the hearty skillet meal.
• Corn tortillas: Warm corn tortillas make for delightful wraps or dippers for your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet.
• Grilled veggies: Seasonal grilled vegetables add smoky flavors that enhance the overall taste while keeping things light.
• Mexican street corn (elote): This creamy and slightly spicy corn dish is a fantastic side that brings another layer of flavor to your meal.

Enjoy crafting your perfect dinner experience with this versatile recipe!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only easy to make, but it’s also perfect for meal prep! You can whip up a big batch and enjoy it throughout the week.

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• Enjoy them within 3-4 days for the best taste and freshness.

Freezing

• Allow the skillet dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. Label with the date for reference!

Reheating

• For best results, reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring in between, until it’s warmed to your liking.

FAQs

If you’re curious about this delicious dish, here are some common questions answered!

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

Absolutely! You can substitute shredded rotisserie chicken with cooked turkey or even tofu for a plant-based option. Just adjust cooking times as necessary!

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

This dish is hearty on its own, but you could pair it with a side salad or some tortilla chips for added crunch.

How long does it take to make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

From start to finish, this recipe takes about 30 minutes – perfect for a quick weeknight dinner!

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

Yes, you can use brown rice! However, keep in mind that you will need to increase the cooking time and liquid according to the package instructions.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. Packed with flavor and made with love, this recipe is sure to be a hit at your dinner table. Enjoy every bite, and don’t hesitate to try out your own variations. Happy cooking!

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