Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a delicious and simple dish, ideal for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients, you can create a hearty meal that’s packed with flavor and protein. Perfect for serving at family dinners or casual gatherings, this skillet dish stands out with its vibrant colors and zesty taste.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: This recipe comes together in just 30 minutes, making it an excellent choice for busy evenings.
• One-Pan Wonder: Everything cooks in one skillet, which means less cleanup and more time to enjoy your meal.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of salsa verde, spices, and shredded chicken creates a mouthwatering dish that everyone will love.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like avocado or extra veggies to make it your own.
• Nutrition Packed: With protein from chicken and fiber from black beans and corn, this dish is satisfying and nutritious.

Tools and Preparation

To make the cooking process seamless, gather your essential tools before starting. Having everything ready will help you whip up this meal efficiently.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Skillet
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups
• Knife
• Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

• Skillet: A good skillet ensures even cooking and browning of ingredients.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: These tools are perfect for mixing without scratching your cookware.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements lead to consistent results every time you cook.

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 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

For the Rice Mixture

• 1 cup white long grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup roasted corn

For Seasoning

• 1 tsp chili powder
• 1 tsp sea salt
• 1/2 tsp cumin
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• dash of black pepper

For Topping

• 1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
• 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 Onion and Garlic

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

Step 3: Mix Spices

In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add these spices to the onion mixture.

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 all ingredients.

Step 5: Bring to Boil

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

Step 6: Check the Rice

After 15 minutes, check if the rice is cooked through. If not fully done, set timer for additional time as needed.

Step 7: Melt the Cheese

Once rice has absorbed all liquid and is cooked through, turn off heat. Top with shredded cheese; cover again for about 2-3 minutes until cheese melts.

Step 8: Add Toppings

When cheese has melted perfectly, add cilantro on top along with avocado slices and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 9: Enjoy!

Serve hot and enjoy your flavorful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only easy to prepare but is also versatile when it comes to serving options. Here are some creative ways to enjoy this delicious dish.

With Fresh Avocado

• Slice up fresh avocado and place it on top for a creamy texture that complements the spices.

Over a Bed of Greens

• Serve the skillet over mixed greens or spinach for a hearty salad option, adding a refreshing crunch.

With Tortilla Chips

• Pair with crispy tortilla chips for a fun and crunchy contrast, perfect for dipping or scooping.

As a Burrito Filling

• Use as a filling for burritos by wrapping in flour tortillas with additional toppings like cheese and salsa.

Topped with Fresh Cilantro

• Garnish with extra cilantro to enhance the flavor and add a pop of freshness to each bite.

How to Perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

To elevate your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, consider these helpful tips for perfecting the dish.

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh garlic and onion will bring out more vibrant flavors compared to dried alternatives.
• Choose Quality Salsa Verde: A good-quality salsa verde can make all the difference. Look for brands with natural ingredients.
• Adjust Spices: Feel free to customize the spices according to your taste. More chili powder will add heat, while less will keep it mild.
• Let It Rest: After cooking, let the dish sit covered for 5-10 minutes before serving. This allows flavors to meld beautifully.
• Experiment with Cheese: Try different cheeses like pepper jack for an extra kick or cheddar for a classic taste.
• Add Extra Veggies: Incorporate bell peppers or zucchini into the mix for added nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Pair your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet with these delightful side dishes that complement its bold flavors perfectly.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A flavorful salad made with sweet corn, lime, cheese, and spices; it adds brightness to your meal.
2. Cilantro Lime Quinoa: This light and refreshing quinoa dish offers a zesty flavor that pairs well with chicken and rice.
3. Charred Vegetables: Grilled or roasted vegetables like zucchini, bell peppers, and asparagus add a smoky depth to the meal.
4. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole enhances the experience while providing healthy fats; serve it as a dip or topping.
5. Rice and Bean Salad: A chilled salad of rice, black beans, tomatoes, and cilantro brings additional texture and protein.
6. Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served alongside your favorite salsa make for an irresistible crunchy side.
7. Lime Wedges: Providing lime wedges allows guests to add citrus brightness according to their preference.
8. Simple Green Salad: A light green salad with vinaigrette offers a refreshing balance against the heartiness of the skillet dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When making Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, there are a few common pitfalls to watch out for.

• Skipping the spice mix: Failing to mix your spices separately can lead to uneven flavor distribution. Always combine them in a small bowl first before adding to your dish.

• Not checking the rice: Overcooking or undercooking the rice can ruin this dish. Make sure to check it at the end of cooking time and adjust as necessary.

• Using too much liquid: Adding excess chicken broth can make your skillet watery. Stick to the recommended amount for best results.

• Forgetting about toppings: Neglecting to add fresh cilantro or avocado can diminish the flavor profile. Don’t skip these fresh elements; they enhance the dish significantly.

• Using cold ingredients: Starting with cold chicken or broth can slow down cooking time. Ensure all your ingredients are at room temperature for even cooking.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
• Allow the dish to cool completely before sealing it in a container.

Freezing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months.
• Portion into smaller containers for easy thawing later.

Reheating Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 20–25 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in a microwave-safe dish for 2–3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of broth if needed, until heated through.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions regarding 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, flavorful salsa verde, and rice. It’s quick, easy, and perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice; however, cook time will increase. Brown rice typically takes about 40–45 minutes to cook properly.

How spicy is Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

The heat level depends on the salsa verde and green chiles used. For milder flavors, opt for a mild salsa verde and omit any additional spicy ingredients.

Can I customize the ingredients?

Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini or substitute chicken with turkey or beef for variety.

How do I store leftovers?

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or freeze them for longer storage.

Final Thoughts

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only simple but also packed with flavor and nutrition. This versatile recipe allows room for customization based on your preferences. Try it out and explore different toppings or veggies to make it your own!