Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a delightful choice for an easy weeknight dinner. Combining tender chicken, zesty salsa verde, and hearty rice, this dish is not only delicious but also packed with protein. Perfect for busy families or anyone looking to whip up a quick meal, it brings together simple ingredients for a satisfying result. Plus, you can customize it with your favorite toppings, making it versatile for any occasion.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish takes just 30 minutes to prepare, making it ideal for busy weeknights.
• Flavorful: The combination of salsa verde and spices creates a vibrant flavor profile that everyone will enjoy.
• Nutritious: Packed with protein from shredded chicken and beans, this skillet meal is both filling and healthy.
• One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time on dishes.
• Customizable: Feel free to add your favorite toppings like avocado or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, you’ll need a few essential kitchen tools. Having the right equipment makes cooking easier and more efficient.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Measuring cups
• Cutting board
• Sharp knife
• Wooden spoon

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: A wide pan allows for even cooking of ingredients while providing enough space to combine everything easily.
• Measuring cups: Accurate measurements ensure that each ingredient contributes perfectly to the overall flavor profile.
• Sharp knife: A sharp knife makes chopping onions and garlic quick and easy, improving prep time significantly.

Ingredients

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is perfect for an easy weeknight dinner and made with a few simple ingredients! It’s packed with protein and so delicious.

For the Chicken Skillet

• 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
• 1 cup yellow onion, diced
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil
• 15.5 oz salsa verde
• 1 can (4 oz) 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 Olive 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. Stir them until fragrant.

Step 3: Season the Base

Mix together spices in a small bowl:
1. Combine chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper.
2. Add this mixture to season the sautéed garlic and onion.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 5: Cook

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

Step 6: Check Rice

Once the timer goes off, check if rice is cooked through. If it needs more time, set an additional timer as needed.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

When rice has soaked up all liquid and is cooked through, turn off heat. Top with shredded cheese then cover again for about 2-3 minutes to let cheese melt.

Step 8: Add Fresh Toppings

Once cheese has melted, sprinkle on cilantro. Optionally add sliced avocado and red pepper flakes for extra flavor.

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 a delicious main dish but also incredibly versatile when it comes to serving options. You can easily adapt it to fit your taste or the occasion.

With Fresh Garnishes

• Cilantro: Adding fresh cilantro enhances the flavor and adds a vibrant touch.
• Avocado: Creamy avocado slices provide a cool contrast to the spices in the dish.
• Red Pepper Flakes: For those who love heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes for an extra kick.

As a Burrito Bowl

• Tortilla Chips: Layering this skillet on top of tortilla chips creates a fun and crunchy burrito bowl.
• Sour Cream: A dollop of sour cream can balance the spiciness and add creaminess to each bite.

With Corn Tortillas

• Warm Corn Tortillas: Serve portions of the skillet wrapped in warm corn tortillas for a rustic touch.
• Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime over the top adds brightness and freshness to every 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 rich flavor without extra cooking.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Feel free to modify the chili powder and other spices based on your heat preference.
• Check Rice Consistency: Always check if the rice has absorbed all liquid before serving; adjust cooking time if necessary.
• Let Cheese Melt Fully: Covering the skillet after adding cheese ensures it melts beautifully, enhancing texture and flavor.
• Experiment with Toppings: Try different toppings like jalapeños or sliced radishes to change up the dish.
• Store Leftovers Properly: Store any leftovers in an airtight container for up to three days for best quality.

Best Side Dishes for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Pairing side dishes with your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet can elevate your meal. Here are some excellent options that complement its flavors well.

1. Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing corn salad with lime, chili, and cheese makes a great side.
2. Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness that pairs nicely with the dish’s spices.
3. Black Bean Salad: A tangy black bean salad can provide additional protein and flavor contrast.
4. Cilantro Lime Rice: Simple cilantro lime rice enhances the meal while keeping it light.
5. Roasted Vegetables: Seasonal roasted veggies add color and nutrients to your plate.
6. Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips with salsa offer a crunchy appetizer before your main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common mistakes can help ensure your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet turns out perfectly. Here are some pitfalls to watch for:

• Using uncooked rice: Always use long grain rice that has been rinsed. Uncooked rice will not absorb the liquid properly, leaving you with a crunchy dish.
• Skipping the spices: Don’t skip the spice mix! They enhance the flavor tremendously. Always mix them in with the garlic and onion for better distribution.
• Not checking the liquid ratio: The right amount of chicken broth is crucial. If you add too little, the rice won’t cook through; too much will leave it soggy.
• Overcooking or undercooking the cheese: Allowing the cheese to melt properly is key to a creamy texture. Keep the lid on for a few minutes after turning off the heat to let it melt evenly.
• Neglecting toppings: Toppings like avocado and cilantro add freshness and flavor. Don’t skip these; they elevate your dish significantly!

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftovers in an airtight container.
• Keep in the fridge for up to 3 days.

Freezing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Freeze in freezer-safe containers or bags.
• Can be stored for up to 2 months.

Reheating Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for about 15-20 minutes until warm.
• Microwave: Heat in short bursts, stirring between intervals until heated through.
• Stovetop: Warm over medium heat, adding a splash of chicken broth if necessary, stirring occasionally.

Frequently Asked Questions

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

What can I serve with Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

This dish pairs well with a side salad or tortilla chips for added crunch.

Can I customize my Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! Feel free to add veggies like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition.

How can I make this dish vegetarian?

Replace chicken with beans or tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

What type of salsa verde should I use?

You can choose store-bought or homemade salsa verde, depending on your preference. Both work wonderfully!

Final Thoughts

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only quick and easy but also versatile enough to cater to various tastes. You can customize it by adding different vegetables or toppings, making it a delightful choice for any weeknight dinner. Give it a try for a satisfying meal that everyone will love!