Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick and delicious meal that the whole family will love, look no further than this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! This recipe is one of my go-to favorites because it’s not only packed with flavor but also easy to whip up on busy weeknights. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can create a comforting dish that’s perfect for gatherings or cozy dinners at home.

What I adore about this dish is how versatile it is – you can easily customize it to suit your family’s taste. Plus, it’s a one-pan wonder, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal together!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy preparation: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it a lifesaver for hectic nights.
• Family-friendly flavors: With its savory salsa verde and cheesy goodness, everyone will be asking for seconds!
• One-pan convenience: Less mess means more time to relax after dinner.
• Nutrient-packed meal: Loaded with protein from chicken and beans, this skillet is satisfying and nutritious.
• Customizable options: Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or grains for a personal touch.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather these simple, wholesome ingredients to make your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet. You’ll find everything you need right 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 Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is super flexible! Here are some fun ways to switch things up:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even canned chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add extra veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and color.
• Try different grains: Substitute white rice with quinoa or brown rice for a heartier twist.
• Spice it up: If you like heat, add some jalapeños or use spicy salsa verde.

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by adding the olive oil to a large pan over medium heat. This step is important because heating the oil will help sauté the onions and garlic beautifully.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Once the oil is hot, toss in the minced garlic and diced yellow onion. Sauté them until they become fragrant and translucent. This brings out their natural sweetness and builds the flavor base for your skillet.

Step 3: Season It Up

In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle this spice mix into the pan with the onion and garlic. Stir well until everything is combined – your kitchen will start smelling amazing!

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Next, add in the rinsed black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Mix everything together until evenly combined. This step ensures that every bite is bursting with flavor.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Increase the heat slightly to bring everything to a boil for about 2–3 minutes. Then reduce it back down to simmering on low heat. Cover the pan with a lid and set your timer for 15 minutes – this allows the rice to cook perfectly while soaking up all those delicious flavors.

Step 6: Check Your Rice

When your timer goes off, take off the lid and check if the rice is fully cooked through. If not quite ready yet, simply set your timer again for additional time until it’s tender.

Step 7: Melt That Cheese

Once your rice has soaked up all the liquid and cooked through nicely, turn off the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover again for about 2–3 minutes so that it melts beautifully.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Finally, once that cheese is all melty goodness, top your skillet with fresh cilantro, slices of avocado if desired, and sprinkle on some red pepper flakes for an extra kick if you like!

Step 9: Enjoy!

Scoop yourself a generous portion of this comforting Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet. Sit down with loved ones, dig in, and enjoy every last bite!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Creating a delicious Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is simple, but these pro tips will help you elevate the dish even more!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh herbs and vegetables make a significant difference in flavor. Opt for fresh cilantro and ripe avocados to enhance the overall taste of your dish.

• Adjust spice levels: If you like a little heat, consider adding diced jalapeños or a bit more chili powder. This personal touch can make your skillet meal uniquely yours.

• Cook rice properly: Ensure that the rice has absorbed all the liquid before serving. This prevents the dish from becoming mushy and guarantees a delightful texture.

• Experiment with cheese: While Monterey Jack is delicious, feel free to try other cheeses like pepper jack for added flavor or cheddar for a sharp twist.

• Make it ahead: This dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days. You can prepare it in advance and reheat it for quick meals during busy weekdays!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

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

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro not only adds a burst of color but also enhances the freshness of the flavors.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado slices on top provide a lovely contrast in texture and richness that complements the spices beautifully.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy an extra kick, a dash of red pepper flakes can spice things up visually and flavor-wise!

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light green salad with mixed greens, cucumbers, and a citrus vinaigrette provides a refreshing balance to the hearty skillet.
• Roasted vegetables: Seasonal roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, or asparagus add color and nutrition while enhancing your meal’s overall flavor profile.
• Tortilla chips with salsa: Serve some crispy tortilla chips alongside your skillet for dipping into extra salsa verde or chiles. It’s an easy way to add crunch!
• Cornbread: Sweet cornbread pairs wonderfully with the savory flavors of this dish, bringing warmth and comfort to your dining experience.

Enjoy every bite of this vibrant Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a fantastic choice for meal prep, allowing you to enjoy quick and delicious meals throughout the week. It’s easy to store and reheats beautifully, making it perfect for busy nights!

Storing Leftovers

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

Freezing

• Let the dish cool to room temperature.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, leaving some space for expansion.
• Freeze for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

Reheating

• Thaw frozen portions overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe dish and heat in 1-minute intervals until desired temperature is reached.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet that might help you out!

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

You can serve this dish with a side salad or some tortilla chips for added crunch. A dollop of sour cream or yogurt can also enhance the flavors!

How can I make this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet spicier?

To amp up the spice level, consider adding more diced green chiles or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. You can also top it with jalapeños for an extra kick!

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

Yes! If you prefer brown rice, be sure to adjust the cooking time since it typically requires longer than white rice. You may need to add additional liquid as well.

Final Thoughts

I hope you enjoy making this delightful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet as much as I do! It’s not just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings together the goodness of simple ingredients. Whether you’re preparing it for yourself or sharing it with loved ones, this recipe is sure to please. Happy cooking!