Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a quick and satisfying meal that the whole family will love, then you’ve come to the right place! This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a beloved dish in my home, often gracing our table during busy weeknights when time is short but the appetite is big. It’s packed with flavor and nutrition, making it a wonderful choice whether you’re feeding your family or hosting friends for dinner.

What makes this recipe truly special is its simplicity. With just a handful of wholesome ingredients, you can whip up a hearty meal in about 30 minutes. It’s one of those recipes that feels like a warm hug on a plate—perfect for any occasion!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy to prepare: With just one skillet, cleanup is a breeze!
• Family-friendly: Even picky eaters will ask for seconds.
• Packed with protein: The shredded chicken and black beans make it nutritious and filling.
• Customizable: Adjust the toppings or ingredients to suit your taste.
• Perfect for meal prep: Make it ahead of time and enjoy leftovers throughout the week.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To create this delicious Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, you’ll need some simple and wholesome ingredients that are easy to find at your local grocery store. Here’s what you’ll need:

• 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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility! Feel free to get creative with it based on what you have at home or your personal preferences. Here are some fun variations to consider:

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or even chickpeas for a vegetarian option.
• Add more veggies: Toss in bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrition.
• Change up the cheese: Try pepper jack for some heat or keep it dairy-free with a plant-based cheese alternative.
• Make it spicy: Add jalapeños or extra chili powder if you like a kick!

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 crucial as it helps create a nice base for all those delicious flavors to come together.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Next, add minced garlic and diced yellow onion to the pan. Sauté them until they become fragrant and translucent. This brings out their natural sweetness and sets the stage for an incredible flavor profile.

Step 3: Mix in Spices

In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle this spice blend over your sautéed onions and garlic. Stirring everything together until fragrant ensures that every bite bursts with flavor.

Step 4: Combine Remaining Ingredients

Now it’s time to pour in your drained black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Give everything a good stir until well combined. This creates a colorful medley that’s not only tasty but also visually appealing!

Step 5: Bring to Boil Then Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil for about 2-3 minutes before reducing the heat to low. Cover with a lid and set your timer for 15 minutes. This simmering step allows the rice to absorb all those amazing flavors while cooking perfectly.

Step 6: Check Rice Doneness

Once your timer goes off, lift the lid and check that the rice is cooked through. If it needs more time or liquid, don’t hesitate to adjust accordingly.

Step 7: Melt the Cheese

When the rice has absorbed all the liquid and cooked through, turn off the heat. Top generously with shredded cheese and cover again for another 2-3 minutes so that cheesy goodness can melt into every nook and cranny.

Step 8: Finish with Toppings

Finally, sprinkle fresh cilantro over top along with optional avocado slices and red pepper flakes if desired. These little touches elevate your dish from great to absolutely fabulous!

Step 9: Enjoy!

Grab a spoonful of this delightful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet and savor every bite! It’s comfort food at its finest—quick to make yet bursting with flavor!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Creating the perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is all about a few key techniques that can elevate your dish to new heights!

• Use quality salsa verde: Choosing a flavorful salsa verde makes a significant difference in taste. Look for one with fresh ingredients for the best flavor.

• Don’t skip the spices: Adding spices like chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder enhances the overall flavor profile of the dish. They bring warmth and depth, making each bite more satisfying.

• Cook rice properly: Ensuring the rice is cooked through and has absorbed all the liquid is crucial. Undercooked rice can ruin the dish’s texture, so check it before serving.

• Experiment with protein: While this recipe uses shredded chicken, feel free to swap it out for shredded turkey or even plant-based proteins like chickpeas or lentils for a different twist.

• Customize your toppings: Toppings can transform your dish! Try adding diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, or even a dollop of sour cream (or vegan alternative) for extra freshness and flavor.

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 creative ideas to present this delectable dish.

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: A sprinkle of chopped cilantro adds color and an aromatic touch that brightens up the dish.
• Sliced avocado: Creamy avocado provides a rich contrast to the spicy flavors in the skillet.
• Red pepper flakes: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, red pepper flakes can add an extra kick!

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light side salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a vinaigrette balances out the richness of the skillet.
• Guacamole and tortilla chips: The creamy guacamole pairs wonderfully with crunchy tortilla chips for dipping.
• Steamed vegetables: Broccoli or zucchini lightly seasoned make for healthy and colorful accompaniments.
• Cornbread: A slice of sweet cornbread complements the savory flavors of your skillet while adding a comforting touch.

This delightful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only simple to make but also versatile when it comes to serving. Enjoy experimenting with garnishes and sides that suit your taste!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is perfect for meal prep! You can easily make a big batch to enjoy throughout the week. Here’s how to store it properly:

Storing Leftovers

• Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator.
• It will keep well for up to 4 days.
• Make sure to let it cool down to room temperature before sealing.

Freezing

• Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 3 months for best quality.
• For easy serving, consider portioning it into individual servings.

Reheating

• Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
• Microwave in a microwave-safe dish, covered loosely, stirring halfway through for even heating.

FAQs

Here are some common questions about this delicious recipe!

Can I use different types of chicken in the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! You can use grilled chicken or any leftover cooked chicken you have on hand. Just shred or dice it and proceed with the recipe as usual.

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

This hearty meal takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights!

Can I customize the veggies in Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Yes, feel free to add your favorite vegetables! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach would work wonderfully in this dish.

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in making this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! It’s not just a quick dinner; it’s a comforting meal that’s packed with flavor and nutrients. Whether you’re feeding your family or enjoying leftovers throughout the week, this dish is sure to please. Dive into this recipe and let me know how you like it—happy cooking!