Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a delightful dish that brings together vibrant flavors and wholesome ingredients for an easy weeknight dinner. Perfect for busy evenings or casual gatherings, this recipe is packed with protein and offers a unique twist on traditional skillet meals. The combination of tender chicken, zesty salsa verde, and hearty rice makes it not only delicious but also versatile enough to suit various occasions.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic weeknights.
• Flavor Packed: With the zesty kick from salsa verde and spices, every bite bursts with flavor.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy the convenience of cooking everything in one skillet—less cleanup for you!
• Customizable Ingredients: Feel free to switch up the toppings or add your favorite veggies for a personal touch.
• Healthy and Satisfying: Loaded with protein and fiber, this meal is both nutritious and filling.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smoother, gather your essential kitchen tools before getting started.

Essential Kitchen Tools

• Skillet or large pan
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing spoon

Why These Tools Matter

• Skillet or large pan: A good quality skillet helps ensure even cooking and makes it easy to mix all ingredients together.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements are crucial for achieving the right balance of flavors in your dish.
• Cutting board & Knife: These are essential for preparing your vegetables quickly and safely.

Ingredients

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is perfect to make for an easy weeknight dinner and made with a few simple ingredients! It’s packed with protein and so delicious.

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

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Olive Oil

Add olive oil to a skillet over medium heat. Allow it to warm up before adding other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add minced garlic and diced yellow onion to the pan. Sauté until they become fragrant and translucent.

Step 3: Combine Spices

In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and a dash of black pepper. Sprinkle this spice mix over the sautéed onions and garlic.

Step 4: Add Main Ingredients

Pour in the drained black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil for 2–3 minutes before reducing the heat to simmer. Cover with a lid and set a timer for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Check Rice

Once the timer goes off, check if the rice is fully cooked. If needed, set an additional timer until it has absorbed all liquid.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

Once everything is cooked through, turn off the heat. Top your dish with shredded cheese then cover again for about 2–3 minutes until melted.

Step 8: Final Toppings

When the cheese has melted perfectly, finish by sprinkling fresh cilantro on top along with avocado slices and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 9: Serve

Spoon onto plates or into bowls. Enjoy this hearty dish that’s sure to be a family favorite!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re looking for a simple meal or a festive gathering, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Family Style

• Serve the skillet directly from the pan for a casual family meal. This allows everyone to help themselves and enjoy the dish together.

With Toppings

• Enhance the dish with fresh toppings such as diced avocado, cilantro, and red pepper flakes. These add flavor and texture, making each bite more delightful.

As a Wrap

• Use the mixture as a filling for tortillas or lettuce wraps. This option makes for a fun and interactive meal, perfect for kids and adults alike.

On a Bed of Greens

• Serve over a bed of mixed greens or spinach to create a light salad option. The greens will add freshness and crunch to each bite.

As Meal Prep

• Divide into individual portions for meal prep. Store in airtight containers for quick and easy lunches throughout the week.

How to Perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

To ensure your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: This saves time and adds great flavor. Simply shred the chicken before adding it to the skillet.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more chili powder or including diced jalapeños if you like it spicier.
• Check Rice Cooking: Ensure the rice cooks fully; if not, let it simmer with the lid on until tender.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for added depth of flavor.
• Add Vegetables: Incorporate other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition and color.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking helps flavors meld together beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Pairing your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet with complementary side dishes can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that pairs perfectly with tortilla chips or as an additional topping.
2. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant salad made with corn, lime, cotija cheese, and spices that brings freshness to your plate.
3. Pico de Gallo: Fresh salsa made with tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice adds brightness and acidity to balance the richness of the skillet.
4. Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with salsa make for an easy appetizer that everyone loves.
5. Black Bean Salad: A hearty mix of black beans, corn, onion, and bell pepper tossed in lime dressing that’s packed with flavor.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice infused with cilantro and lime complements the flavors of your main dish beautifully.
7. Roasted Vegetables: Seasoned roasted vegetables provide a nutritious side that contrasts well with the creamy elements of your skillet.
8. Cornbread Muffins: Sweet cornbread muffins offer a delightful contrast in texture and sweetness alongside savory dishes.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, it’s easy to make small errors. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Using unseasoned ingredients: Always ensure your chicken and vegetables are well-seasoned before cooking. This enhances the overall flavor of the dish.
• Skipping the simmer step: Don’t skip the simmering time after bringing it to a boil. This allows the rice to absorb flavors properly.
• Not checking for doneness: It’s crucial to check that your rice is fully cooked before removing it from heat. Undercooked rice can ruin the meal.
• Overcrowding the pan: If your skillet is too crowded, cooking will be uneven. Cook in batches if necessary for even results.
• Neglecting toppings: Toppings like cilantro and avocado add freshness and flavor. Don’t forget to include these for a complete dish.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3-4 days.
• Cool the dish completely before refrigerating to maintain texture.

Freezing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2-3 months.
• Label containers with the date for easy tracking.

Reheating Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and reheat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium heat, stirring occasionally until completely warmed.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different types of chicken?

Yes, you can use any cooked chicken such as grilled or baked chicken breast. Just shred it before adding.

How can I make this recipe vegetarian?

To create a vegetarian version of Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, substitute shredded chicken with diced vegetables or tofu.

What side dishes pair well with Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Serve it alongside a fresh salad or tortilla chips for added crunch and flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes! As long as you use gluten-free flour or rice, this recipe remains gluten-free.

Can I customize the spice level?

Absolutely! Adjust the amount of chili powder or add jalapeños for extra heat according to your taste preference.

Conclusion

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is an incredibly versatile recipe that offers great flavor and nutrition in just one pan. Feel free to customize it with your favorite toppings or ingredients. It’s perfect for busy weeknights when you want something both delicious and easy!

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