Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a comforting meal that comes together in no time, then this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is just what you need! This dish is a true lifesaver on busy weeknights when you want something hearty and delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. It combines tender chicken, zesty salsa verde, and fluffy rice into a warm hug of flavors, making it an instant family favorite.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. Whether it’s a casual dinner with friends or a cozy family gathering, this dish fits right in. Plus, it’s packed with protein and good-for-you ingredients that everyone will enjoy!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to prepare: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, you can have dinner ready in a flash!
• Family-friendly: The delightful combination of flavors makes it appealing to both kids and adults.
• One-pan wonder: Less cleanup means more time to relax after a busy day.
• Customizable: You can easily tweak the ingredients based on your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Flavor-packed: The zesty salsa verde adds a kick that takes the dish to another level!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this delicious Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet. Most of these items are pantry staples or easy to find at your local grocery store.

• 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

This recipe is quite flexible, allowing you to make it your own! Here are some fun ideas to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or chickpeas instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.
• Change the rice: Try using brown rice or quinoa if you’re looking for a healthier twist.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce for those who love a kick!

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by adding olive oil to your pan and heating it over medium heat. This step is important as it creates a perfect base for sautéing the onions and garlic, bringing out their natural sweetness.

Step 2: Sauté Onions and Garlic

Once the oil is hot, toss in the minced garlic and diced yellow onion. Sauté them until they become fragrant and translucent. This helps build layers of flavor in the skillet!

Step 3: Mix in Spices

In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle these spices into the pan with the onions and garlic. Stir well so they coat everything evenly; this will enhance all those yummy flavors.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in your drained black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, diced green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Give everything a good stir until well combined—this is where all those vibrant flavors come together!

Step 5: Bring to Boil

Raise the heat and bring your mixture to a boil for about 2–3 minutes. After that, reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Set your timer for 15 minutes; this allows the rice to cook perfectly while soaking up all that delicious broth.

Step 6: Check Rice Doneness

When your timer goes off, check if the rice is tender and has absorbed all the liquid. If not quite done yet, don’t hesitate to add an extra minute or two!

Step 7: Melt Cheese

Once everything looks good and cooked through, turn off the heat. Sprinkle shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top and cover again for about 2–3 minutes until melted—this cheesy layer takes it from great to spectacular!

Step 8: Add Final Touches

After letting that cheese melt beautifully, remove the lid and sprinkle fresh cilantro over it all. If you’re feeling fancy (or just really hungry), add slices of avocado and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an extra pop!

Step 9: Enjoy!

It’s finally time! Serve warm and dig into your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet—enjoy every bite!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Creating a flavorful and satisfying Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is easier than you think! Here are some handy tips to ensure your dish turns out perfectly every time.

• Use store-bought rotisserie chicken – This saves you time and effort, making your weeknight dinner preparation a breeze. Plus, it adds great flavor without the hassle of cooking chicken from scratch.

• Let the rice cook undisturbed – Once you’ve brought your skillet to a simmer, avoid lifting the lid. This keeps in the steam, allowing the rice to cook evenly and absorb all those delicious flavors.

• Customize your spice level – If you like a little heat, feel free to add more chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. Adjusting the spice level to your preference makes this dish even more enjoyable!

• Experiment with different cheeses – While Monterey Jack is delicious, you might want to try pepper jack for a spicy kick or a sharp cheddar for a bolder flavor. Cheese can dramatically change the taste profile of your dish!

• Make it ahead of time – This dish stores beautifully in the fridge for up to three days. Preparing it in advance can save you time and make for an easy lunch or dinner solution later in the week.

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Serving your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet can be as fun as making it! With just a few thoughtful touches, you can elevate this simple meal into something special that everyone will love.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro – A sprinkle of chopped cilantro brightens up the flavors and adds a fresh touch.
• Sliced avocado – Creamy avocado not only enhances the dish’s texture but also adds richness that balances out the spices.
• Red pepper flakes – For those who enjoy extra heat, a dash of red pepper flakes on top will add some pizzazz!

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad – A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the hearty skillet while adding freshness.
• Mexican street corn (elote) – Grilled corn on the cob slathered with mayo, cheese, lime juice, and chili powder brings a rich and tangy contrast to your meal.
• Guacamole and tortilla chips – Creamy guacamole paired with crunchy tortilla chips makes for a delightful appetizer or side that everyone will want to dig into!
• Steamed broccoli or green beans – Lightly steamed veggies provide a nutritious balance to your meal while adding vibrant color to your plate.

Enjoy crafting this delicious Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet that’s sure to be a hit at any dinner table!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is fantastic for meal prep! You can easily make it ahead of time and enjoy it throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Place any leftovers in an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Label the container with the date for easy tracking.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before freezing.
• Transfer to a freezer-safe container or bag, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator if frozen.
• Reheat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• You can also microwave individual portions for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway.

FAQs

Here are some common questions you might have about this delicious recipe!

Can I use a different type of chicken in my Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! While shredded rotisserie chicken is convenient, you can use grilled chicken breast or even leftover cooked chicken. Just ensure it’s shredded or chopped into small pieces for even cooking.

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

Feel free to add your favorite vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini! You can also adjust the spice level by adding more chili powder or including jalapeños.

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

This dish is complete on its own, but you could serve it with a side salad or tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor.

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

Yes! Simply replace the chicken with additional beans or plant-based protein and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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

This recipe takes only about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it a perfect option for busy weeknights!

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this comforting Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet as much as I do! It’s not just a filling meal; it’s a delightful combination of flavors that come together beautifully. Whether you’re cooking for yourself or sharing with loved ones, this dish is sure to please. Happy cooking, and I can’t wait for you to try it!