Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is the perfect choice for an easy weeknight dinner, bursting with flavor and made from simple ingredients. It’s a delicious dish that can be whipped up in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for busy evenings or gatherings. The combination of tender chicken, zesty salsa verde, and hearty rice ensures this meal is not only satisfying but also packed with nutrition.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick Preparation: With only 10 minutes of prep time, you can have this meal ready in no time.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks together in one skillet.
• Flavor-Packed: The zesty salsa verde and spices create a deliciously bold flavor profile.
• Versatile Ingredients: Customize the recipe with your favorite veggies or proteins to suit your taste.
• Family-Friendly: This dish is sure to please both kids and adults alike.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the recipe, it’s essential to gather your tools and get organized. Having the right equipment will make cooking easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A spacious skillet allows all ingredients to cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements ensure a balanced flavor profile in your dish.
• Cutting board and sharp knife: These are crucial for efficiently chopping vegetables and preparing ingredients.

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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

For the Flavor

• 15.5oz salsa verde
• 1 can (4oz) diced green chiles

For the Rice

• 1 cup white long grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth

For Toppings

• 1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
• 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
• 1/2 cup roasted corn

Spices

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

Optional Garnish

• 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 pan and heat on medium.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

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

Step 3: Season Your Base

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

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil for 2-3 minutes before reducing heat to simmer. Set a timer for 15 minutes and cover the pan.

Step 6: Check Rice Consistency

Once the timer is up, check if the rice is cooked through. If needed, set a timer for additional cooking time.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

Once all liquid has been absorbed and rice is fully cooked, turn off heat. Top with shredded cheese. Place lid on pan for cheese to melt for 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Final Touches

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

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Enjoy this delicious Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet hot from the pan!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is versatile and can be served in many delightful ways. Whether you’re looking for a hearty meal or a light option, there’s something here for everyone.

Serve with Toppings

• Avocado – Sliced avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats.
• Red Pepper Flakes – A sprinkle of these brings heat to your dish.
• Fresh Cilantro – Chopped cilantro enhances flavor with its refreshing taste.

Pair with a Salad

• Garden Salad – A simple garden salad provides crunch and freshness.
• Cucumber Tomato Salad – This salad offers a cool contrast to the warm skillet.
• Corn Salad – A corn salad complements the flavors of the dish perfectly.

Add Tortillas

• Corn Tortillas – Warm corn tortillas can be used to scoop up the skillet mixture.
• Flour Tortillas – Soft flour tortillas serve as a great wrap for leftovers.

How to Perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

To elevate your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, consider these simple tips that will enhance both flavor and texture.

• Use Fresh Ingredients – Fresh vegetables and herbs make a noticeable difference in taste.
• Adjust Spices – Don’t hesitate to tweak the chili powder and cumin based on your spice preference.
• Cover While Cooking – Keeping the lid on during cooking helps steam the rice effectively, ensuring it cooks through evenly.
• Let Rest Before Serving – Allowing the skillet to sit for a few minutes after cooking lets flavors meld beautifully.

Best Side Dishes for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Complement your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet with these fantastic side dishes that enhance your meal experience.

1. Mexican Street Corn – Grilled corn topped with lime, cheese, and spices adds sweetness and zest.
2. Black Bean Salad – A hearty black bean salad provides additional protein and freshness.
3. Spanish Rice – Flavorful Spanish rice pairs well, making it a fulfilling combination.
4. Grilled Vegetables – Seasonal grilled vegetables add color and nutrients to your plate.
5. Guacamole – Creamy guacamole serves as a perfect dip or topping alongside your dish.
6. Quesadillas – Cheesy quesadillas can be served on the side for extra indulgence.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, avoiding common pitfalls can enhance your cooking experience.

• Bold seasoning: Not seasoning the dish adequately can lead to bland flavors. Ensure you follow the spice measurements and taste as you cook.
• Bold rice preparation: Forgetting to rinse the rice before cooking can result in a sticky texture. Always rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear.
• Bold ingredient substitution: Using different types of chicken or rice without adjusting cooking times may alter the final dish. Stick to shredded rotisserie chicken and long-grain white rice for best results.
• Bold overcooking: Cooking the rice too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on the timer and check for doneness after 15 minutes.
• Bold cheese melting: Adding cheese too early can lead to clumping rather than a smooth melt. Wait until the rice is fully cooked before topping with cheese.

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Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet will stay fresh for up to 3 days in the fridge.

Freezing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Use freezer-safe containers or heavy-duty freezer bags.
• This dish can be frozen for up to 2 months.

Reheating Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet that you might find helpful.

Can I use other types of meat in this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Yes! You can substitute shredded turkey or beef for a different flavor profile while keeping the same instructions.

How spicy is Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

The spiciness largely depends on the salsa verde used. If you prefer less heat, opt for mild salsa verde or reduce the amount of diced green chiles.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with beans or extra vegetables like bell peppers and zucchini for a hearty vegetarian version.

How do I customize my Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

You can add your favorite vegetables such as spinach or bell peppers, adjust spices according to your preference, or even experiment with different cheeses!

Final Thoughts

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only delicious but also flexible! You can customize it with various toppings or ingredients based on what you have on hand. Whether it’s a busy weeknight dinner or a casual family meal, this dish is sure to impress. Give it a try and enjoy its delightful flavors!