Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a fantastic option for an easy weeknight dinner. Packed with flavor and protein, it comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy evenings. The combination of shredded chicken, zesty salsa verde, and wholesome rice creates a comforting dish that everyone will love. Whether you’re hosting friends or just want a cozy meal at home, this skillet dish is sure to impress.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This recipe takes only 30 minutes from start to finish, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• One-Pan Wonder: Cook everything in one skillet for easy cleanup and minimal dishes.
• Flavor-Packed: The vibrant flavors of salsa verde and spices create a deliciously satisfying meal that bursts with taste.
• Customizable: Add your favorite toppings like avocado or red pepper flakes to make it your own.
• Healthy Ingredients: Loaded with lean protein and fiber, it’s a nutritious choice for the whole family.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your essential tools. Having the right equipment on hand will streamline your cooking experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

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

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Allows for even cooking of all ingredients while providing enough space to mix everything thoroughly.
• Knife: A sharp knife ensures safe and efficient chopping of vegetables and ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements help maintain consistency in flavor and texture across batches.

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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

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken

For the Vegetables

• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 3 garlic cloves, minced

For the Base

• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 15.5oz salsa verde
• 1 can (4oz) diced green chiles

For the Grains

• 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

Fresh Herbs

• 3 tbsp cilantro

Optional Toppings

• avocado
• red pepper flakes

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat Olive Oil

Add olive oil to a large skillet over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

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

Step 3: Mix Spices

In a small bowl, combine chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add this spice mix to the onion-garlic mixture.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 5: Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil for 2-3 minutes. Then reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Check Rice

After 15 minutes, check if the rice is cooked through. If needed, cook for additional time until fully cooked.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

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

Step 8: Garnish

When cheese is melted, sprinkle fresh cilantro on top. Add avocado slices and red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 9: Serve

Enjoy your flavorful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet hot!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in various ways. Whether you want it as a hearty main course or paired with some delicious sides, here are some serving suggestions to elevate your meal.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

• Cilantro: Add fresh cilantro for a burst of flavor and color.
• Avocado: Sliced avocado will bring creaminess and richness to each bite.

Pair with Crunchy Toppings

• Red Pepper Flakes: Sprinkle a dash of red pepper flakes for an added kick.
• Lime Wedges: Serve lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze that enhances the dish.

Create a Bowl Meal

• Vegetable Base: Serve over a bed of greens like spinach or arugula for extra nutrients.
• Tortilla Chips: Use crushed tortilla chips as a crunchy base, making every bite delightful.

How to Perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

To make sure your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet turns out perfectly every time, keep these tips in mind:

• Use Fresh Ingredients: Always choose fresh vegetables and high-quality salsa verde for enhanced flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the spice level by adding more or less chili powder based on your preference.
• Check Rice Consistency: Monitor the rice cooking closely; it should be tender but not mushy.
• Let It Rest: Allow the skillet to sit covered for a few minutes after cooking to let flavors meld together.

Best Side Dishes for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Pairing side dishes with your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet can enhance your meal experience. Here are some great options to consider:

1. Guacamole: Creamy avocado dip that complements the flavors of salsa verde beautifully.
2. Corn Salad: A fresh salad with corn, tomatoes, and lime juice adds crunch and sweetness.
3. Cilantro Lime Rice: Fluffy rice tossed with cilantro and lime zest elevates your dish further.
4. Roasted Vegetables: A medley of seasonal vegetables roasted until caramelized adds depth and nutrition.
5. Pico de Gallo: This fresh salsa made with diced tomatoes, onions, and cilantro brings brightness to the plate.
6. Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips served with extra salsa verde make for an easy appetizer.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

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

• Skipping the Seasoning: Failing to mix spices before adding them can lead to uneven flavor. Always combine your spices in a bowl first for a balanced taste.

• Using Cold Ingredients: Adding cold ingredients directly from the fridge can lower the cooking temperature. Make sure your chicken and broth are at room temperature before cooking.

• Not Checking Rice: Cooking rice for too long can make it mushy. Always check for doneness after the initial cooking time and adjust as needed.

• Ignoring Liquid Ratios: Using too much or too little liquid can affect rice texture. Stick to the recommended liquid-to-rice ratio for perfect results.

• Overloading Toppings: While toppings add flavor, too many can overwhelm the dish. Choose a few favorites like cilantro and avocado for the best balance.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Consume within 3-4 days for optimal freshness.

Freezing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Freeze in a freezer-safe container.
• Best used within 2-3 months for best taste and texture.

Reheating Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Oven: Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Transfer to an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes.

• Microwave: Place in a microwave-safe bowl, cover loosely, and heat in intervals of 1-2 minutes until hot throughout. Stir between intervals.

• Stovetop: Heat on medium-low in a pan, stirring occasionally until heated through, about 5-10 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet:

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount since brown rice takes longer to cook.

How spicy is Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

The spice level depends on the salsa verde you choose. Mild versions will give you less heat, while spicier brands add more kick.

What can I substitute for shredded chicken?

You can use shredded beef or turkey as tasty alternatives that still fit perfectly with this dish.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Substitute chicken with plant-based proteins like tofu or tempeh and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

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

Feel free to add more veggies such as bell peppers or zucchini, or adjust spices according to your preference!

Final Thoughts

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only delicious but also versatile enough for any weeknight dinner. You can easily customize it with your favorite ingredients or toppings. Give it a try—you won’t be disappointed!