Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is an easy weeknight dinner that delivers on flavor and nutrition. With only a handful of ingredients, this dish comes together quickly, making it ideal for busy evenings or gatherings. The vibrant salsa verde adds a zesty twist to tender chicken and rice, ensuring each bite is packed with goodness. Perfect for family dinners or meal prep, this recipe stands out with its simplicity and satisfying taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick to Prepare: This dish takes just 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for hectic weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with everything cooked in a single skillet.
• Flavorful & Filling: The combination of salsa verde and spices elevates the taste while providing a hearty meal.
• Versatile Ingredients: Swap out proteins or add extra veggies based on what you have on hand.
• Kid-Friendly: The mild flavors make it appealing to eaters of all ages.

Tools and Preparation

You don’t need many tools to whip up this delicious Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet. Gathering the right equipment will streamline your cooking process and enhance your overall experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Knife
• Mixing bowl

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and is essential for one-pan meals like this.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results every time you prepare this dish.

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.

For the Chicken & Rice Base

• 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

For the Toppings

• 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: Season the Base

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

Step 4: Combine All Ingredients

Pour in drained and rinsed black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Mix together until combined.

Step 5: Cook the Mixture

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

Step 6: Check Rice Doneness

After 15 minutes, check if the rice is cooked through. If needed, set the timer for additional cooking time.

Step 7: Melt the Cheese

Once the rice has absorbed all liquid, turn off the heat. Top with shredded cheese and cover again for 2-3 minutes until melted.

Step 8: Add Fresh Toppings

When cheese has melted, finish with cilantro, avocado slices, and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Scoop servings onto plates or bowls. Enjoy your flavorful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you’re serving it for a family dinner or meal prepping for the week, these suggestions will enhance your dining experience.

Serve with Fresh Toppings

• Avocado: Creamy avocado slices add richness and balance the spice.
• Cilantro: Fresh cilantro gives a burst of flavor and freshness.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who enjoy some heat, sprinkle red pepper flakes on top.

Pair with a Salad

• Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with lemon vinaigrette complements the skillet well.
• Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad offers sweetness that pairs nicely with the savory dish.

Enjoy with Tortillas

• Warm Tortillas: Soft tortillas are perfect for scooping up the chicken and rice mixture.
• Corn Tortilla Chips: Crunchy chips make for a fun, casual way to enjoy this dish.

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 Cooked Chicken: Shredded rotisserie chicken saves time and adds flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Modify chili powder and black pepper according to your heat preference.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the dish to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld together beautifully.
• Check Rice Consistency: If rice isn’t fully cooked, add a little more broth and simmer longer until done.

Best Side Dishes for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Complement your meal with these delightful side dishes that pair wonderfully with Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet.

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip enhances flavors while adding healthy fats.
2. Mexican Street Corn (Elote): Grilled corn on the cob topped with cheese and spices offers a delicious crunch.
3. Pico de Gallo: Fresh tomato salsa brightens up the meal with its zesty flavor.
4. Refried Beans: Creamy beans provide extra protein and fiber, making the meal more filling.
5. Zucchini Noodles: Lightly sautéed zucchini noodles are a low-carb option that adds color to your plate.
6. Cilantro Lime Rice: This fragrant rice dish complements the flavors of your main skillet perfectly.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, it’s easy to overlook key details. Here are some common mistakes and how to avoid them.

• Skipping the seasoning: Not properly seasoning your dish can lead to bland flavors. Always mix spices together before adding them to ensure an even distribution.
• Using uncooked rice: Adding uncooked rice directly without ensuring there’s enough liquid can result in undercooked grains. Make sure all ingredients are combined with adequate broth.
• Not checking the rice: Forgetting to check if the rice is cooked through may leave you with a crunchy texture. Use a timer and taste test for doneness.
• Overcrowding the pan: Packing too many ingredients into your skillet can make it hard for everything to cook evenly. Ensure you have a large enough pan or cook in batches if necessary.
• Rushing the cheese melting process: Turning off the heat too soon can prevent cheese from melting properly. Allow it to sit covered for a few minutes for optimal results.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Ensure the dish has cooled down before sealing the container.

Freezing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

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

Reheating Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet that can help you get started.

What is Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a one-pan meal featuring shredded chicken, rice, beans, and vibrant salsa verde, all cooked together for a hearty dish.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes! Brown rice can be used, but it will require more liquid and a longer cooking time—about 40-45 minutes total.

Is this recipe customizable?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini, or swap out beans based on your preference.

How do I make this dish spicier?

To increase spice levels, consider adding jalapeños or extra chili powder during cooking. You can also top with hot sauce when serving.

Can I prepare this dish in advance?

Yes! Prepare it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Just reheat when ready to serve.

Final Thoughts

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile. It’s perfect for quick weeknight dinners and allows for plenty of customization based on your taste preferences. Give this recipe a try, and enjoy its delightful flavors!