When I first created this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, I was on a quest for something quick yet satisfying, and what I discovered was nothing short of magic. The moment the garlic hit the sizzling olive oil, my kitchen filled with an inviting aroma, hinting at the deliciousness to come. This one-pan wonder combines tender, protein-packed chicken with aromatic rice, all enveloped in a zesty salsa verde that bursts with flavor.
Whether you’re battling weeknight chaos or just searching for a comforting meal, this dish is a versatile hero that can easily adapt to your tastes. Plus, it’s perfect for meal prep, ensuring delightful leftovers that are just as good the next day. So, grab your skillet and let’s make a feast that’s as easy to prepare as it is pleasing to the palate!
Why is Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet Amazing?
Deliciously Flavorful: The Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet melds savory chicken and vibrant salsa verde for a taste explosion.
One-Pan Wonder: Say goodbye to messy clean-ups. This dish combines all your ingredients in just one pan!
Meal Prep Friendly: Perfect for busy lifestyles, it makes delicious leftovers that are quick to reheat.
Versatile: Customize by swapping proteins or adding your favorite veggies; it fits everyone’s preferences!
Quick & Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes, this skillet meal is ideal for busy weeknights yet feels indulgent.
Crowd-Pleaser: With its comforting flavors and hearty nature, it’s guaranteed to satisfy family and friends, making it a go-to recipe.
Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet Ingredients
For the Skillet
- Salsa Verde – This key ingredient adds depth of flavor; opt for your favorite brand or whip up a homemade version for freshness.
- Yellow Onion – Provides sweetness and a robust aromatic base; shallots can be used for a milder flavor.
- Garlic Cloves – These enhance overall flavor; garlic powder can serve as a quick backup in a pinch.
- Shredded Rotisserie Chicken – A convenient protein source; swap for cooked shredded chicken breast if you prefer a lighter meal.
- Diced Green Chiles – They bring a mild heat to the dish; use jalapeños for a spicier kick.
- Chicken Broth – Provides richness; vegetable broth is an excellent vegetarian substitute.
- Roasted Corn – Adds a touch of sweetness and texture; feel free to use frozen corn for ease.
- Black Beans – Infuses fiber and protein; canned beans (drained and rinsed) are ideal for convenience.
- Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese – Melts perfectly on top, but you can switch it out for cheddar or queso fresco if desired.
- Long Grain White Rice – Essential for this dish; avoid brown rice, as it requires a different cooking time.
- Cilantro – Contributes a fresh flavor; omit it if you’re not a fan, or use parsley instead.
- Chili Powder, Cumin, Garlic Powder – These spices enhance flavor depth; adjust them according to your taste.
- Sea Salt & Dash of Black Pepper – Basic seasonings to elevate all flavors; season to your preference.
- Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Perfect for sautéing; avocado oil is a tasty alternative if you desire a change.
Optional Garnishes
- Cilantro – Fresh herb that can elevate the dish even more.
- Avocado – Adds creaminess and richness.
- Red Pepper Flakes – Sprinkle on for an extra kick!
Embark on this cooking adventure and taste the magic of the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet for yourself!
How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet
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Heat Oil: In a large pan, warm up 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. The oil should be hot enough to sauté but not smoking.
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Sauté Aromatics: Add 1 diced yellow onion and 3 minced garlic cloves to the pan. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until fragrant and the onion becomes translucent.
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Mix Spices: Combine 1 teaspoon chili powder, 1 teaspoon cumin, 1 teaspoon garlic powder, a sprinkle of sea salt, and a dash of black pepper in a small bowl. Stir into the onion and garlic mixture for about 1 minute until the spices are aromatic.
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Combine Ingredients: Stir in 1 can of drained black beans, 1 cup of roasted corn, 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 can of diced green chiles, 1 cup of chicken broth, 1 cup of salsa verde, and 1 cup of long grain white rice. Mix everything well until combined.
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Cook Rice: Bring the mixture to a gentle boil for 2-3 minutes. Then reduce the heat to low; cover the pan and let it simmer for about 15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid.
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Check Doneness: After 15 minutes, check the rice for doneness. If it’s still firm, cover again and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes as needed. Once done, turn off the heat and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top. Cover again for 2-3 minutes to allow the cheese to melt.
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Serve Up: Gently mix the melted cheese into the dish, then serve hot, topped with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.
Optional: Serve with tortilla chips or a fresh side salad for a delightful meal upgrade.
Exact quantities are listed in the recipe card below.
Storage Tips for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet
Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. To maintain moisture, add a splash of chicken broth while reheating.
Freezer: This dish freezes beautifully! Transfer cooled portions to freezer bags, ensuring to squeeze out excess air. It can be frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat directly from frozen in a skillet over medium heat, adding a little broth to prevent drying out. It may need extra cooking time.
Meal Prep: Ideal for meal prep! Make a large batch at the start of the week and divide into single servings to enjoy as quick lunches or dinners throughout the week.
Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet Variations
Feel free to get creative with this dish and make it your own!
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Dairy-Free: Substitute the cheese with a plant-based cheese or skip entirely for a lighter version.
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Vegetarian Delight: Use cooked lentils or chickpeas instead of chicken and vegetable broth for a satisfying vegetarian meal.
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Spicy Twist: Add extra diced jalapeños or a splash of your favorite hot sauce to crank up the heat and awaken those taste buds!
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Veggie Boost: Toss in diced bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach before simmering for a colorful and nutritious upgrade.
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Grain Alternatives: Swap the long grain white rice for quinoa or cauliflower rice to mix up the texture and boost nutrition.
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Citrus Burst: Add a squeeze of fresh lime juice right before serving to enhance the flavors and add a delightful zesty finish.
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Herb Fusion: Experiment with fresh herbs like dill or basil in place of cilantro for a unique twist that adds intriguing flavors.
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Protein Swap: Replace shredded chicken with pulled pork or beef for a hearty meal that offers a different flavor profile.
Each variation offers a chance to personalize your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, ensuring it’s a dish you and your loved ones will always enjoy!
Tips for the Best Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet
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Rice Selection: Use long grain white rice for optimal texture and timing; brown rice requires longer cooking and won’t yield the same creamy result.
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Avoid Sticking: Opt for a non-stick pan to prevent your meal from sticking, which can lead to uneven cooking and flavor loss.
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Season to Taste: Don’t be shy with the spices! Adjust chili powder and cumin according to your family’s preference for a balanced and flavorful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet.
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Check Consistency: Keep an eye on the rice as it cooks. If the liquid is absorbed but rice is still firm, add a splash of broth and cook a little longer, ensuring it’s perfectly tender.
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Fresh Ingredients: Whenever possible, use fresh ingredients over canned for better flavor and nutrition; this makes your dish feel vibrant and homemade.
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Garnish Wisely: Enhance the presentation and flavor by topping with fresh cilantro or creamy avocado before serving, making your skillet visually appealing.
What to Serve with Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?
Nothing pairs better with your delicious, comforting meal than some delightful sides and beverages to complement the vibrant flavors.
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Crispy Tortilla Chips: The perfect crunchy companion, these chips bring a delightful texture contrast that elevates each bite of the skillet dish.
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Fresh Garden Salad: A light salad topped with a zesty vinaigrette and avocado slices adds freshness and cuts through the richness of the skillet, making each forkful more balanced.
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Zesty Lime Wedges: Squeeze some fresh lime over the dish before serving. This adds a refreshing burst of acidity that enhances the zesty salsa verde flavors.
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Creamy Guacamole: Rich and buttery guacamole brings a creamy element that pairs beautifully with the seasoned chicken, offering both texture and flavor harmony.
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Roasted Vegetables: Try serving a side of roasted seasonal veggies, like bell peppers and zucchini. Their natural sweetness will add depth and contrast to the savory components of the skillet.
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Mango Salsa: A fruity salsa provides a fresh, sweet contrast to the savory elements, amplifying the exciting flavor profile of the dish.
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Chilled Coconut Lime Agua Fresca: A refreshing drink that complements the spices while providing a cooling effect—perfect after a fulfilling meal.
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Churros with Chocolate Sauce: For dessert, indulge in soft, warm churros for a sweet end to your meal, dipping them in rich chocolate sauce for a treat everyone will love.
These delightful pairings not only bring balance to your meal but also ensure that every bite of the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet leaves a lasting impression!
Make Ahead Options
Preparing the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet ahead of time is a fantastic way to save precious minutes on busy evenings! You can chop the onions, mince the garlic, and measure out your spices up to 24 hours in advance, storing them in the refrigerator to keep them fresh. Additionally, feel free to assemble all the main ingredients (including shredded chicken, corn, black beans, and rice) in the skillet and store it covered in the fridge for up to 3 days—this way, the flavors meld beautifully. When you’re ready to cook, simply add the chicken broth and salsa verde, bring it to a boil, then simmer until the rice is tender and cheese is melted. This ensures you have a comforting, flavorful dinner with minimal effort!
Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet Recipe FAQs
What type of rice is best for this dish?
Absolutely! It’s essential to use long grain white rice for this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet. This rice cooks quickly and absorbs the zesty flavors beautifully, yielding a tender texture. Avoid brown rice as it requires different cooking times, which will throw off the whole dish.
How should I store leftovers?
Very! To store leftovers, allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the fridge for up to 3 days. When you reheat, I recommend doing so gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Can I freeze this dish?
Absolutely! This dish freezes like a dream. To freeze, transfer the cooled skillet mixture into a freezer-safe container, and it will stay fresh for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, you can reheat it straight from frozen, allowing for additional cooking time so it warms evenly.
What if my rice doesn’t cook properly?
Don’t worry, it happens! If you check your rice and it’s still hard after the recommended cooking time, simply add a bit more chicken broth or water, cover, and let it simmer longer—around 5 more minutes should do the trick. Just keep an eye on it to prevent burning!
What dietary adjustments can I make with this recipe?
Very! If you have dietary restrictions, you can easily modify this recipe. Swap out shredded rotisserie chicken for a plant-based protein for a vegetarian version, and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. For gluten-free options, make sure to use gluten-free salsa and check the labels on your seasonings.
Can I substitute any of the ingredients?
Absolutely! The beauty of this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet lies in its versatility. Feel free to substitute shredded rotisserie chicken with shredded beef or pork for different flavors, or use quinoa instead of rice for a gluten-free option. You can also mix in additional vegetables like diced bell peppers or spinach to boost the nutrition!
Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet Your Easy Dinner Solution
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- Heat 2 tablespoons of extra virgin olive oil in a large pan over medium heat until shimmering.
- Add 1 diced yellow onion and 3 cloves of minced garlic. Sauté for 3-4 minutes until fragrant.
- In a small bowl, mix 1 teaspoon of chili powder, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of garlic powder, sea salt, and black pepper. Stir this mix into the pan for 1-2 minutes.
- Fold in 1 can of drained black beans, 1 cup of roasted corn, 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, 1 can of diced green chiles, 2 cups of chicken broth, 1 cup of salsa verde, and 1 cup of long grain white rice.
- Bring the mixture to a boil for 2-3 minutes, then reduce heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 15 minutes.
- Check rice doneness; if needed, cook a little longer. Once ready, turn off heat, sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese on top, cover, and let it melt for 2-3 minutes.
- Serve warm, topped with fresh cilantro, slices of avocado, and red pepper flakes.