Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

If you’re looking for a dish that brings comfort and joy to your dinner table, then this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is just what you need! It’s a wonderful blend of flavors that come together quickly, making it perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen. Plus, it’s a family favorite that everyone will love!

This dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with protein and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re cooking for an intimate family gathering or just whipping up a quick meal for yourself, this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is sure to become a go-to recipe in your home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Make: With a total prep and cook time of just 30 minutes, you can have dinner on the table in no time!
• Family-Friendly: Kids and adults alike will enjoy the tasty combination of chicken, rice, and salsa verde.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup means more time to enjoy your meal and relax after a busy day.
• Customizable: Easily adapt the ingredients to suit your preferences or what you have on hand.
• Delicious Leftovers: This dish stores well and tastes even better the next day—perfect for meal prep!

Ingredients You’ll Need

Let’s gather some simple, wholesome ingredients to create this mouthwatering dish! You’ll find everything you need right here, making it easy to whip up this satisfying meal.

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

One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility. Feel free to mix things up based on what you have in your pantry or your personal taste preferences!

• Swap the protein: Use shredded turkey or cooked quinoa instead of chicken for a different twist.
• Add veggies: Toss in some bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor.
• Spice it up: If you enjoy heat, add jalapeños or increase the chili powder for an extra kick.
• Make it creamy: Stir in some cream cheese or sour cream at the end for added richness.

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. Heating the oil prepares it for sautéing and ensures that our onions and garlic cook perfectly.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add the minced garlic and diced yellow onion to the pan. Sauté them until they become fragrant and translucent. This step is crucial as it builds a flavorful base for our dish.

Step 3: Mix in Spices

In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add these spices into the pan with the garlic and onions. This will infuse your dish with warmth and depth.

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Next, pour in the drained black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Stir everything together until well combined. This step makes sure every bite is bursting with flavor!

Step 5: Bring to Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Set your timer for 15 minutes. This allows the rice to absorb all those delicious flavors while cooking through.

Step 6: Check Rice

Once your timer goes off, check if the rice is fully cooked through. If it’s still firm or liquid remains, set another timer for additional cooking time until perfect.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

When the rice has absorbed all of its liquid and is tender, turn off the heat. Top your dish with shredded Monterey Jack cheese and replace the lid for about 2–3 minutes so that it melts beautifully over everything.

Step 8: Garnish & Serve

Finally, remove the lid and sprinkle fresh cilantro on top along with any optional toppings like avocado slices or red pepper flakes if desired. Enjoy this delightful meal that’s sure to warm your heart!

Pro Tips for Making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Cooking this dish is a breeze, and with these simple tips, you can elevate your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet to a whole new level!

• Use fresh ingredients: Fresh onions and garlic enhance the flavor of the dish, giving it a more vibrant taste compared to pre-packaged alternatives.

• Customize the spice level: If you like it spicy, feel free to add extra chili powder or even some diced jalapeños. Adjusting the heat can make this dish fit your personal taste perfectly!

• Let it rest before serving: Allowing the skillet to sit for 5-10 minutes after cooking helps the flavors meld together beautifully, resulting in a more cohesive dish.

• Experiment with cheese: While Monterey Jack is delicious, trying other cheeses like pepper jack or cheddar can add a fun twist and different flavor profiles to your meal.

• Make it ahead of time: This skillet dish stores well in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat it for easy lunches or quick dinners!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Presenting your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet nicely can make mealtime feel special. Here are some ideas on how to serve this delightful dish!

Garnishes

• Fresh cilantro: Sprinkle chopped cilantro on top just before serving for a burst of freshness and color.
• Avocado slices: Creamy avocado pairs wonderfully with the spice and flavor of the skillet, making each bite even more enjoyable.

Side Dishes

• Simple green salad: A light salad with mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, and a lemon vinaigrette complements the hearty skillet while adding freshness.

• Steamed broccoli: Bright green steamed broccoli adds nutrition and crunch, balancing out the richness of the chicken and cheese.

• Corn tortillas: Warm corn tortillas are perfect for scooping up this dish or wrapping leftovers for a delicious handheld meal.

• Guacamole: A side of guacamole not only enhances the flavors but also adds creaminess and richness that pairs beautifully with the salsa verde.

Now that you’ve got all these tips and serving suggestions, you’re ready to enjoy your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! Happy cooking!

Make Ahead and Storage

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a fantastic meal prep option! It’s easy to whip up in advance, making it perfect for busy weeknights. Here’s how to store and preserve your delicious creation:

Storing Leftovers

• Allow the skillet to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container.
• Store in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
• Keep toppings, like avocado, separate until ready to serve.

Freezing

• Let the dish cool entirely before freezing.
• Portion into freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Label with the date and store in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating

• Thaw in the refrigerator overnight if frozen.
• Reheat on the stovetop over medium heat, stirring occasionally until heated through.
• For microwave reheating, place in a microwave-safe dish and cover. Heat in increments of 1-2 minutes, stirring in between.

FAQs

If you have any questions about this recipe, you’re not alone! Here are some common inquiries that will help you out.

Can I use fresh chicken instead of shredded rotisserie chicken for the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! You can use fresh cooked chicken. Just ensure it’s shredded and adjust the cooking time accordingly so that the chicken is cooked through by the time the rice is done.

What can I substitute for Monterey Jack cheese in this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

You can easily swap Monterey Jack cheese with other cheeses like cheddar or pepper jack for a bit of spice. Vegan cheese alternatives work well too!

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

This recipe takes about 10 minutes of prep time and roughly 20 minutes of cooking time, totaling around 30 minutes from start to finish!

Can I add more vegetables to my Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Certainly! Feel free to toss in any vegetables you enjoy, such as bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for added nutrition and flavor!

Final Thoughts

I truly hope you enjoy making this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet as much as I do! It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that brings flavors together beautifully while being packed with protein. Whether it’s a weeknight dinner or meal prep for busy days ahead, this recipe is designed to bring joy and comfort. Don’t hesitate to try it out—I believe you’ll love every bite!