Name: Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet: Quick & Flavorful Dinner
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Ingredients: 1 cup Salsa Verde (Try a different green salsa for a unique twist.); 1 medium Yellow Onion (Substitute with white onion if necessary.); 2 cloves Garlic Cloves (Garlic powder can be used as an alternative.); 2 cups Shredded Rotisserie Chicken (Diced cooked chicken breast is a lighter option.); 1 can Diced Green Chiles (Substitute with jalapeños for more spice.); 1 cup Chicken Broth (Vegetable broth can be used for vegetarian-friendly.); 1 cup Roasted Corn (Use fresh or frozen corn if available.); 1 can Black Beans (Substitute with kidney beans or omit for lighter meal.); 1 cup Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese (Cheddar or co-jack cheese can be used for different flavor.); 1 cup Long Grain White Rice (Do not substitute with quick-cooking rice varieties.); 1/4 cup Cilantro (Can be omitted for those who dislike cilantro.); 1 teaspoon Chili Powder (Taco seasoning can serve as a substitute.); 1 teaspoon Cumin (Omit if unavailable.); 1 teaspoon Garlic Powder (Use fresh garlic to enhance the flavor.); 1 teaspoon Sea Salt (Regular salt can be used if sea salt isn’t available.); 1 tablespoon Extra Virgin Olive Oil (Canola oil is a suitable substitute.); dash Black Pepper (Adjust to your preference.)

The clang of pots and the tantalizing aroma wafting through my kitchen always spark joy in my heart. If you’re like me—always on the hunt for quick, wholesome meals—let’s dive into this Easy Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet. It’s a symphony of tender chicken, zesty salsa verde, and fluffy rice, all harmoniously cooked in one pan and ready in under 30 minutes. The best part? Not only does it make for a hearty weeknight dinner, but it’s also a fantastic meal prep option, promising delicious leftovers for those busy days ahead. Ready to bring some sunshine to your dinner table? Let’s get cooking!

Why Is This Recipe a Must-Try?

Easy preparation: This one-pan dish requires minimal ingredients and effort, making weeknight cooking a breeze.

Flavor explosion: The zesty salsa verde infuses the chicken and rice with vibrant flavors that will delight your palate.

Meal-prep friendly: Perfect for busy days, it stores beautifully and makes delicious leftovers that reheat well.

Nutrition packed: With protein-rich chicken, fiber-filled black beans, and wholesome rice, it’s a balanced meal in every bite.

Versatile options: Feel free to swap proteins or veggies, tailoring it to your taste or dietary needs—check out my tips for delicious variations!

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet Ingredients

For the Dish
• Salsa Verde – This tangy sauce adds a burst of flavor; try a different green salsa for a unique twist.
• Yellow Onion – Adds sweetness and depth to the dish; you can use white onion as a substitute.
• Garlic Cloves – Provides aromatic richness; garlic powder can be a great alternative if you don’t have fresh cloves.
• Shredded Rotisserie Chicken – Delivers protein and convenience; diced cooked chicken breast is a lighter option.
• Diced Green Chiles – Introduces a hint of heat; swap with jalapeños if you prefer more spice.
• Chicken Broth – Deepens the flavor of the rice; vegetable broth makes this dish vegetarian-friendly.
• Roasted Corn – Adds sweetness and texture; use fresh or frozen corn if that’s what you have.
• Black Beans – Packed with protein and fiber; you can substitute with kidney beans or omit them altogether for a lighter meal.
• Shredded Monterey Jack Cheese – Melts beautifully on top; cheddar or co-jack cheese will add different flavor notes.
• Long Grain White Rice – Essential for absorbing all the delicious flavors; don’t substitute with quick-cooking rice varieties.
• Cilantro – Adds a pop of freshness; can be omitted for those who aren’t fans of cilantro.
• Chili Powder – Enhances warmth and color; feel free to use taco seasoning as a substitute.
• Cumin – Instills an earthy flavor; you can omit this if you don’t have any on hand.
• Garlic Powder – Boosts garlic flavor; use fresh garlic as an alternative to intensify the taste.
• Sea Salt – Balances out the flavors; regular salt works fine if sea salt isn’t available.
• Extra Virgin Olive Oil – Ideal for sautéing; canola oil is a suitable substitute.
• Dash of Black Pepper – Adds a bit of spice; adjust to your preference.

With these ingredients at hand, you’ll whip up the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet in no time, ensuring a tasty, quick meal that your family will love!

Step‑by‑Step Instructions for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil
In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of extra virgin olive oil over medium heat until shimmering. This should take about 2 minutes. Make sure the oil is hot but not smoking, as you want to sauté the upcoming ingredients rather than fry them.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Add 1 chopped yellow onion and 2 minced garlic cloves to the skillet, stirring frequently for about 3-4 minutes. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, which will fill your kitchen with a warm aroma, signaling it’s time to enhance the flavors further.

Step 3: Combine the Spices
In a small bowl, mix together 1 teaspoon each of chili powder and cumin with a sprinkle of sea salt and a dash of ground black pepper. Add this spice mix to the skillet, stirring continuously for about 1-2 minutes to toast the spices and deepen their flavors as they meld into the aromatic base.

Step 4: Add the Ingredients
Stir in 1 can of drained black beans, 1 cup of roasted corn, 2 cups of shredded rotisserie chicken, and 1 can of diced green chiles. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth and 1 cup of salsa verde, followed by 1 cup of long grain white rice. Stir everything well to ensure the rice is evenly distributed and coated in the delicious sauce.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil
Increase the heat slightly to bring the mixture to a boil, allowing it to bubble vigorously for about 2-3 minutes. Watch for small bubbles rising and then reduce the heat. This step helps the flavors develop fully before letting the rice absorb the liquid.

Step 6: Simmer and Cook
Lower the heat to a gentle simmer and cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid. Let it cook for about 15 minutes, allowing the rice to soak up the chicken broth and salsa verde. Keep the lid on to trap steam, which is crucial for perfectly cooked rice.

Step 7: Check the Rice
After 15 minutes, carefully remove the lid and check the rice for doneness. If it is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid, you’re set to move forward. If it’s still firm, cover it back up and let it cook for an additional 3-5 minutes.

Step 8: Melt the Cheese
Once the rice is fully cooked, remove the skillet from the heat and sprinkle 1 cup of shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top. Cover the skillet again and let it sit for 2-3 minutes so the cheese can melt into a creamy layer, enhancing the flavor of your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet.

Step 9: Serve and Garnish
After the cheese has melted, uncover the skillet and outfit your dish with freshly chopped cilantro, sliced avocado, and a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for an additional kick, if desired. Serve this hearty one-pan meal warm, ready to impress your family or guests with its vibrant colors and delicious flavors!

Make Ahead Options

These Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillets are perfect for meal prep enthusiasts looking to save time during busy weekdays! You can prepare all the ingredients—such as chopping onions and mincing garlic—up to 24 hours in advance. Simply store them in airtight containers in the refrigerator. Additionally, you can cook the entire dish ahead of time and refrigerate it for up to 3 days. When ready to serve, just reheat the skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth to prevent drying out. This ensures you enjoy a deliciously satisfying meal that tastes just as fresh as when it was first made!

What to Serve with Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Enhancing your meal experience is easy when you pair this vibrant one-pan dish with complementary sides and drinks that elevate its wonderful flavors.

Fresh Garden Salad: A crisp salad with mixed greens and light vinaigrette adds a refreshing contrast to the rich and savory skillet.
Tortilla Chips: Crunchy tortilla chips are perfect for scooping up the skillet dish, offering a fun and interactive dining experience.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole brings a delightful buttery texture that balances the zesty elements of the chicken and rice.
Mexican Street Corn: This sweet and spicy corn dish echoes the Southwest flavors, making it a delicious and colorful side.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred bell peppers and zucchini add a smoky flavor and nutritious punch, enhancing the dish’s overall vibrancy.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime over the skillet brightens the flavors, making each bite pop with acidity and zest.

Pairing these delightful options with your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet will transform your meal into a genuine fiesta for the senses!

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet Variations

Feel free to unleash your creativity and customize this dish to suit your taste buds!

Seafood Twist: Substitute chicken with shrimp for a delightful seafood twist. Cook shrimp until pink for a quick, tasty upgrade!
Vegetarian Option: Use cubed tofu instead of chicken. This not only keeps it plant-based but also offers a different texture that pairs beautifully with salsa verde.
Quinoa Alternative: Swap long grain white rice for quinoa for a nutrient-packed, gluten-free alternative. Quinoa’s slight nuttiness adds an extra depth to the dish.
Cauliflower Rice: For a low-carb option, replace the rice with cauliflower rice. Simply sauté it lightly to maintain its texture while absorbing the flavors.
Hearty Vegetables: Toss in chopped bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and flavor. These veggies bring an extra crunch and a pop of color to your skillet!
Extra Spice: For those who crave heat, add diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne pepper. Adjust according to your spice tolerance for the ideal kick!
Cheese Swaps: Try using feta or crumbled goat cheese instead of Monterey Jack for a tangy flavor twist that complements the salsa verde beautifully.
Herb Infusion: If you’re not a fan of cilantro, swap it with fresh parsley or basil. Each herb brings its own unique aroma and flavor, elevating your meal!

Whichever variations you choose, your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet will shine with fresh, delightful flavors, perfect for any night of the week! And if you need more inspiration, check out my other recipes for dishes like Easy Vegetarian Stir-Fry or Creamy Garlic Mashed Potatoes to pair with your skillet creation!

Expert Tips for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Perfect Rice: Use long grain white rice as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors beautifully. Avoid quick-cooking rice to prevent mushiness.

Rinse Beans: Always rinse your black beans before adding them to reduce sodium levels and improve taste.

Steaming Is Key: Keep the lid on throughout cooking to trap steam, which helps the rice cook fully and evenly, ensuring a perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet.

Adjust Spice Levels: If you love heat, don’t hesitate to up the amount of diced green chiles or serve with your favorite hot sauce to kick the flavor up a notch.

Meal Prep Masterpiece: This dish stores well! For fridge storage, keep it in an airtight container for up to 3 days, and always add a splash of broth when reheating to restore creaminess.

How to Store and Freeze Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. This helps maintain freshness and flavor for your meal prep needs.

Freezer: If you want to freeze it, portion your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Reheating: When ready to enjoy, reheat in the microwave or a stovetop pan, adding a splash of chicken broth to restore moisture and creaminess.

Check for Quality: Always check for any signs of spoilage before consuming leftovers, ensuring a delightful meal each time!

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet Recipe FAQs

What type of salsa verde should I use for the best flavor?
Absolutely, the traditional salsa verde made from tomatillos adds a vibrant, tangy flavor to the dish. However, feel free to experiment with different green salsas or even homemade variations using fresh herbs for a unique twist that suits your taste!

How should I store leftovers of Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?
To keep your dish fresh, store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. This helps maintain the integrity of the flavors and ingredients. Make sure to reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave, adding a splash of broth to keep it moist.

Can I freeze Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?
Yes, you can freeze your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet! Portion the dish into freezer-safe containers, and it will last for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy, simply thaw it in the fridge overnight and reheat it, adding a splash of chicken broth to regain that lovely creaminess.

What can I substitute for black beans for a lighter dish?
If you’re looking for alternatives to black beans, I often recommend using kidney beans, chickpeas, or simply omitting them entirely. You could also toss in some extra vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini to keep your dish hearty yet light!

How do I know if my rice is fully cooked in the skillet?
Check the rice at about 15 minutes; it should be tender and have absorbed most of the liquid. If it’s still al dente, cover it again and let it simmer for an additional 3-5 minutes. Always trust your instincts: the rice should be fluffy, not mushy, to achieve that perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet!

Is this recipe suitable for gluten-free diets?
Indeed! By using compliant ingredients such as gluten-free salsa verde and chickpeas instead of black beans, you can easily enjoy a flavorful and safe meal. Always ensure that your chicken broth is also gluten-free to maintain that delicious balance in your dish!