Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a delightful dish that’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you crave something simple yet flavorful. With a handful of ingredients, this meal is not only quick to prepare but also packed with protein and vibrant flavors. Whether you’re feeding your family or hosting a casual dinner party, this skillet dish will surely impress everyone at the table.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Easy Preparation: With minimal prep work and just one pan required, this dish comes together effortlessly.
• Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of salsa verde, spices, and tender chicken creates a mouthwatering experience.
• Versatile Meal: Perfect for lunch or dinner, it can easily be adapted with different toppings like avocado or red pepper flakes.
• Healthy Option: Packed with protein from the chicken and beans, it’s a nutritious choice for any meal.
• Quick Cooking Time: Ready in just 30 minutes, it’s ideal for those hectic evenings.

Tools and Preparation

To make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable, having the right tools on hand is essential.

Essential Kitchen Tools

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

Why These Tools Matter

• Large skillet: Provides ample space for all ingredients to cook evenly without overcrowding.
• Cutting board: Offers a safe surface to chop vegetables efficiently.
• Sharp knife: Ensures clean cuts through ingredients, making prep quicker and easier.

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.

Ingredients:
– 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
– 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 large skillet over medium heat.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

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

Step 3: Mix Spices

In a small bowl, combine chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

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

Step 5: Bring to Boil

Bring the mixture to a boil for about 2–3 minutes before reducing the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid and set a timer for 15 minutes.

Step 6: Check Rice

After 15 minutes, check if the rice is cooked through. If necessary, continue cooking until fully done.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

Once the rice has absorbed all liquid and is tender, turn off the heat. Sprinkle shredded cheese on top and cover again for about 2–3 minutes until melted.

Step 8: Add Toppings

When the cheese is melted, finish off by topping with fresh cilantro and optional toppings like avocado or red pepper flakes.

Step 9: Serve & Enjoy!

Your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is ready to serve! Enjoy this delicious meal straight from the skillet.

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a versatile dish that can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you’re looking for a quick meal or an impressive presentation, these serving suggestions will elevate your dining experience.

Add Fresh Toppings

• Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado complements the flavors and adds healthy fats.
• Chopped Cilantro: Fresh cilantro enhances the taste with its vibrant flavor.
• Red Pepper Flakes: A sprinkle of these adds a spicy kick if desired.

Serve with Tortillas

• Corn Tortillas: Warm up some corn tortillas for a lovely side to scoop up the skillet dish.
• Flour Tortillas: Soft flour tortillas can wrap around the chicken and rice for easy eating.

Pair with a Salad

• Garden Salad: A light garden salad with mixed greens offers a fresh contrast to the warm skillet.
• Mexican Street Corn Salad: This salad brings sweet and savory notes that pair perfectly with the dish.

How to Perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Making this dish even better is simple with a few helpful tips. Here are some tricks to ensure your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet turns out perfectly every time.

• Bold Flavors: Use high-quality salsa verde for maximum flavor impact.
• Proper Cooking Time: Ensure you follow cooking times closely to achieve perfectly cooked rice.
• Layering Ingredients: Add ingredients in layers for even mixing and cooking, ensuring all flavors meld together well.
• Cheese Variations: Experiment with different cheeses like pepper jack for added spice or cheddar for a sharper flavor.
• Leftover Love: This dish makes excellent leftovers; store it in an airtight container in the fridge.

Best Side Dishes for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

To complement your flavorful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, consider these delightful side dishes. Each option enhances the meal’s overall experience.

1. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans add richness and protein, making them a classic pairing.
2. Guacamole: The creamy texture of guacamole contrasts nicely with the spiced chicken and rice.
3. Mexican Rice: Flavored rice provides a hearty side that aligns well with the main dish’s profile.
4. Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies add color and smokiness, elevating your plate visually and flavor-wise.
5. Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico brings brightness with tomatoes, onions, and lime juice—perfect for topping each serving.
6. Crispy Potato Wedges: Seasoned potato wedges offer crunch and heartiness alongside the skillet meal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, it’s easy to make some common mistakes. Here are a few to watch out for:

• Skipping the seasoning: Failing to properly season your dish can lead to bland flavors. Always mix your spices before adding them to enhance their aroma.
• Not checking rice doneness: Overcooking or undercooking the rice can ruin the dish. Always taste your rice a few minutes before the timer goes off.
• Using low-quality salsa verde: Opting for a subpar salsa can affect the overall flavor. Choose a fresh or high-quality salsa verde for the best results.
• Forgetting about toppings: Neglecting to add fresh toppings like cilantro or avocado can leave your dish lacking in freshness and texture. Don’t skip this step!
• Not using enough liquid: Insufficient chicken broth may cause your rice not to cook evenly. Make sure you measure accurately for perfect results.

Refrigerator Storage

• Store in an airtight container.
• Keep it in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.

Freezing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Use a freezer-safe container.
• It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months.

Reheating Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Place in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 20-25 minutes until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer to a microwave-safe bowl, cover, and heat on medium power for about 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
• Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until hot, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a one-pan meal that combines shredded chicken, rice, salsa verde, and various spices. It’s nutritious and flavorful!

How long does it take to cook Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

The total time for this recipe is about 30 minutes, including preparation and cooking time.

Can I customize my Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or beans based on your preference. Feel free to experiment with spices as well!

Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Yes! Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet stores well and makes an excellent option for meal prepping lunches or dinners throughout the week.

Conclusion

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only delicious but also versatile and easy to prepare. With its rich flavors and customizable ingredients, it’s perfect for any weeknight dinner. Try it out and feel free to adjust ingredients based on your taste preferences!

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