Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a dish that’s quick, flavorful, and perfect for busy weeknights, then this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is just what you need! This recipe has become a favorite in my home because it combines simple ingredients to create a comforting meal that everyone enjoys. Whether you’re hosting friends or simply feeding your family after a long day, this one-pan wonder not only saves time on cleanup but also brings everyone together around the table.

Imagine the delightful aroma of garlic and onions wafting through your kitchen as you prepare this delicious meal. The vibrant flavors of salsa verde paired with tender chicken and rice make for an irresistible combination. Plus, it’s packed with protein and nutrients, ensuring everyone leaves the table satisfied!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: With just 30 minutes from start to finish, this dish is perfect for those hectic weeknights.
• Family-Friendly: Kids love it! The creamy cheese and zesty salsa verde make it a hit with even the pickiest eaters.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less mess means more time spent enjoying your meal rather than cleaning up afterward.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients to suit your taste or what you have on hand.
• Make-Ahead Friendly: Prepare it in advance and simply reheat when you’re ready to eat.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Creating this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is super simple with these wholesome ingredients. Gather them up, and let’s get cooking!

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
– 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 wonderfully flexible! Feel free to mix things up based on what you have or your personal preferences. Here are some fun ideas:

• Swap the protein: Use grilled chicken breast or even sautéed tofu for a vegetarian version.
• Change the grains: Try quinoa or brown rice instead of white rice for added texture and nutrition.
• Add some veggies: Toss in bell peppers or spinach for an extra boost of color and nutrients.
• Spice it up: If you love heat, add jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper to kick things up a notch.

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Start by adding olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat. This step is essential because heating the oil first helps to unlock the flavors of the garlic and onions that will follow.

Step 2: Sauté Garlic and Onions

Once the oil is hot, throw in your minced garlic and diced yellow onion. Sauté them until they become fragrant and translucent. This process adds depth to our dish as it allows the sweetness of the onions to shine through.

Step 3: Mix in Spices

In a small bowl, combine chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle this spice mix into your pan to season the garlic and onion mixture. Stir well until everything is fragrant—this really enhances the overall flavor profile.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Now it’s time for all those wonderful additions! Pour in your drained black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Stir everything together gently until well combined.

Step 5: Bring to Boil

Increase the heat slightly to bring everything to a gentle boil—about 2-3 minutes should do it! After boiling, reduce the heat again to let it simmer. Cover with a lid and set a timer for 15 minutes. This allows the rice to cook perfectly while soaking up all those delicious flavors.

Step 6: Check Rice

When your timer goes off, lift that lid carefully! Check if the rice is cooked through; if not, give it another few minutes on low heat until it’s just right.

Step 7: Add Cheese

Once your rice has absorbed all that lovely liquid and is fluffy, turn off the heat. Scatter shredded monterey jack cheese over top and cover again for about 2-3 minutes so that cheese can melt beautifully.

Step 8: Garnish and Serve

Finally! When that cheese has melted into gooey perfection, sprinkle fresh cilantro over everything along with slices of avocado and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Dig into your warm bowl of Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! Trust me; each bite is bursting with flavor—enjoy every moment around the table!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Creating a delicious and satisfying Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a breeze with a few helpful tips that can elevate your dish even further!

• Use fresh ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs enhance the flavor profile of your dish, making it more vibrant and enjoyable.

• Adjust spice levels – If you love heat, consider adding more chili powder or jalapeños to the mix. Tailoring the spice level allows you to make this dish perfect for your taste buds.

• Experiment with cheese – While Monterey Jack cheese gives a creamy texture, feel free to substitute with pepper jack or a dairy-free cheese option to cater to different dietary preferences without compromising on flavor.

• Make it ahead – This dish keeps well in the fridge for meal prep. By making it ahead of time, you’ll have an easy lunch or dinner ready to go throughout the week!

• Add more veggies – Incorporating bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach not only boosts nutrition but also adds color and texture to your skillet.

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Serving your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet in a stylish way can make all the difference! Here are some ideas on how to present this delicious meal.

Garnishes

• Chopped cilantro – A sprinkle of fresh cilantro brightens up the dish and adds a burst of flavor.
• Sliced avocado – Creamy avocado offers a delightful contrast in texture and richness, making each bite even more satisfying.
• Red pepper flakes – A dash of red pepper flakes provides an extra kick for those who enjoy a little heat in their meals.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad – A refreshing mix of greens dressed lightly with olive oil and lemon complements the rich flavors of the skillet.
• Guacamole and tortilla chips – This classic pairing brings together creamy guacamole with crunchy chips for a fun appetizer or side.
• Roasted vegetables – Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients while enhancing the overall meal experience.
• Cilantro lime rice – For an extra layer of flavor, serve this dish alongside cilantro lime rice that echoes the vibrant notes in your skillet.

Enjoying this vibrant Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet will surely become a favorite weeknight tradition in your home! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a fantastic option for meal prep, making it easy to enjoy delicious home-cooked meals throughout the week. You can prepare this dish in advance and store it for later, ensuring you have a wholesome dinner ready in no time!

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skillet to cool to room temperature.
• Transfer any leftovers to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool completely before freezing.
• Portion the salsa verde chicken and rice into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date, and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• For refrigerated leftovers, reheat on the stovetop over medium heat until warmed through.
• For frozen portions, thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
• Microwave individual servings on high for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through.

FAQs

Got questions? Here are some common ones about this delightful recipe!

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

Absolutely! While shredded rotisserie chicken is convenient, you can use cooked chicken breasts or thighs. Just ensure they are seasoned well before adding them to the skillet.

Is Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is perfect for meal prepping. You can make it ahead of time, store it in the fridge or freezer, and enjoy it later without losing flavor.

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

Feel free to mix in your favorite veggies or substitute other beans! Bell peppers, zucchini, or even spinach can add great flavor and nutrition.

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

You can pair it with a fresh salad or tortilla chips. For added creaminess, avocado slices make a perfect topping!

Final Thoughts

I hope you find joy in creating this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! It’s not just a meal; it’s a warm hug on a plate. With its vibrant flavors and comforting ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Enjoy every bite and don’t hesitate to share your experience—I would love to hear how your version turns out!