Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is your go-to dish for a quick and satisfying weeknight dinner. With a handful of simple ingredients, you can whip up a delicious meal that’s packed with flavor and protein. This recipe shines in its versatility, making it perfect for family dinners, potlucks, or even casual gatherings. Plus, the combination of salsa verde and cheese adds a unique twist that will leave everyone asking for seconds!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The blend of salsa verde and spices creates a vibrant taste that excites your palate.
• One-Pan Wonder: Less cleanup is needed since everything cooks in one skillet.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite veggies or toppings to make it your own.
• Family-Friendly: Even picky eaters will love this comforting dish loaded with chicken and cheese.

Tools and Preparation

To make this recipe smoothly, you’ll need some essential tools in your kitchen.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows for easy mixing and even cooking of all ingredients.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and efficient.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure the right balance of flavors in your dish.

Ingredients

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is packed with protein and so delicious. Here’s what you’ll need:

For the Chicken & Rice Skillet

• 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 Oil

Add olive oil to a pan to heat on medium.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add minced garlic and diced yellow onion to the pan. Cook until fragrant.

Step 3: Add Seasoning

Mix together spices in a small bowl. Add them to the garlic and onion mixture until fragrant.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in drained black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Mix well to combine.

Step 5: Bring to Boil

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

Step 6: Check the Rice

Once the timer goes off, check if the rice is cooked through. Set the timer for additional cooking time if necessary.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

When rice has absorbed all liquid and is fully cooked, turn off the heat. Top with shredded cheese and cover again for 2-3 minutes to allow melting.

Step 8: Garnish

When cheese has melted, top with cilantro, avocado slices, and red pepper flakes.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Dig into this delightful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Whether you’re looking for a casual family dinner or an elegant meal, these serving suggestions will elevate your skillet creation.

With Fresh Avocado

• Sliced avocado adds creaminess and balances out the spiciness of the dish.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Serve the skillet over fresh spinach or mixed greens for a light and healthy option.

Topped with Sour Cream

• A dollop of sour cream adds richness and helps cool down the flavors for those who prefer milder tastes.

Accompanied by Tortilla Chips

• Crispy tortilla chips provide a crunchy texture and are perfect for scooping up the delicious mixture.

With Lime Wedges

• Fresh lime wedges can brighten up the flavors and add a zesty kick when squeezed over the top just before serving.

How to Perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

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

• Use Rotisserie Chicken: This saves time and adds great flavor without needing to cook chicken from scratch.

• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to add more chili powder or even jalapeños if you like it spicier!

• Let It Simmer: Allowing the skillet to simmer helps all the flavors meld together beautifully, creating a more cohesive dish.

• Experiment with Cheeses: While Monterey Jack is delicious, you can try using cheddar or pepper jack for different flavor profiles.

Best Side Dishes for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Pairing side dishes with your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet can make your meal even more satisfying. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad mixed with lime, cilantro, and Cotija cheese complements the skillet’s flavors perfectly.

2. Black Bean Salad: This simple salad made with black beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado adds an extra burst of nutrition and flavor.

3. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole is always a hit! Serve it alongside tortilla chips or as a topping for your skillet dish.

4. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, and lime juice offers a bright contrast to the richness of the main dish.

5. Cilantro Lime Rice: For an extra layer of flavor, serve some fluffy cilantro lime rice on the side or underneath the skillet dish.

6. Grilled Vegetables: Lightly charred zucchini, bell peppers, and onions make for a colorful and nutritious complement to your meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, it’s easy to run into common errors. Here are some key mistakes to watch out for.

• Measurement Errors: Always measure your ingredients accurately. Using too much or too little of an ingredient can throw off the flavor and texture.
• Overcooking the Rice: Make sure not to overcook the rice. Follow the cooking time closely to ensure it’s perfectly tender without becoming mushy.
• Ignoring Spice Levels: Adjust the spices according to your taste preferences. Not everyone enjoys a strong kick, so taste as you go!
• Skipping Fresh Herbs: Don’t skip adding cilantro or other fresh herbs at the end. They enhance the flavor and freshness of the dish significantly.
• Neglecting Leftovers: If you have leftovers, store them properly. Ignoring this can lead to spoilage and waste.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Use a freezer-safe container or bag.
• Can be frozen for up to 3 months.

Reheating Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and bake for about 20 minutes or until heated through.
• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe dish, cover, and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring in between.
• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a skillet, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet.

What is Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a one-pan meal made with shredded chicken, rice, salsa verde, and spices. It’s quick, delicious, and perfect for weeknight dinners!

Can I use different types of beans in this recipe?

Yes! You can substitute black beans with pinto or kidney beans if you prefer. Just ensure they’re rinsed and drained properly.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To increase heat levels in your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, add more diced green chiles or sprinkle in some cayenne pepper during cooking.

Can I customize toppings for my Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! Feel free to add avocado slices, jalapeños, or even a squeeze of lime juice for added flavor and freshness.

Is this recipe suitable for meal prep?

Yes! This dish is great for meal prep. It stores well and can be divided into portions for convenient lunches throughout the week.

Final Thoughts

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not just easy; it’s also incredibly versatile! Whether you’re feeding a family or looking for meal prep options, this dish ticks all the boxes. Customize it with your favorite toppings or adjust the spice levels to suit your taste. Give it a try—you’ll love how comforting and satisfying it is!