Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Name: Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken; 1 cup yellow onion, diced; 3 garlic cloves, minced; 15.5 oz salsa verde; 1 cup white long grain rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Published: October 4, 2025

by Vanessaa

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
Flavorful Ingredients: The combination of salsa verde, spices, and shredded chicken creates a deliciously bold flavor profile.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything is cooked in one skillet.
Customizable: You can easily adapt this recipe by adding your favorite vegetables or proteins.
Nutritious Meal: Packed with protein from chicken and beans, it’s a wholesome option for dinner.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather the necessary tools to make your cooking experience smooth and enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Cast iron skillet or large frying pan
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Mixing bowl
Spatula

Importance of Each Tool

Cast iron skillet or large frying pan: Provides excellent heat retention and allows for even cooking of all ingredients.
Measuring cups: Ensure accurate quantities, which is crucial for consistent results.
Spatula: Helps in mixing ingredients thoroughly without damaging the skillet’s surface.

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 Base

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

For Flavor

1 tsp chili powder
1 tsp sea salt
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 tsp garlic powder
dash of black pepper

For Texture

1 cup shredded monterey jack cheese
1 can black beans, rinsed and drained
1/2 cup roasted corn

For Garnish

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 pan to heat on medium.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add minced garlic and diced yellow onion to the pan.

Step 3: Season the Mixture

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

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in drained and rinsed black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice into the pan. Mix everything together to combine.

Step 5: Cook

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

Step 6: Check Rice

Once the timer goes off, check if the rice is cooked through. If not fully cooked, set a timer for additional time as needed.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

When the rice has absorbed all liquid and is tender, turn off the heat. Top with shredded cheese and cover again to allow it to melt for about 2-3 minutes.

Step 8: Garnish

Once cheese has melted nicely:
– Top with chopped cilantro,
– Optional toppings like avocado slices,
– A sprinkle of red pepper flakes if desired.

Step 9: Serve

Enjoy your delicious Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is versatile and can be served in many delicious ways. Whether you want to keep it simple or dress it up for a special occasion, these serving suggestions will enhance your meal.

Top with Fresh Ingredients

Cilantro: A sprinkle of fresh cilantro adds a burst of flavor and color.
Avocado: Creamy avocado slices make each bite more satisfying.
Red Pepper Flakes: For those who like a kick, adding red pepper flakes will spice things up.

Pair with a Salad

Garden Salad: A light garden salad complements the richness of the skillet dish.
Caesar Salad: The tangy dressing pairs well with the flavors of the chicken and rice.

Serve in a Bowl

Bowl Presentation: Scoop the dish into bowls for a cozy, homestyle feel. You can layer it with extra toppings for added texture.

Use as a Filling

Tacos or Burritos: This dish can also be used as a filling for tacos or burritos. Just wrap it in a tortilla for an easy meal on the go.

How to Perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

To ensure your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet turns out perfectly every time, consider these helpful tips.

Bold Flavor Combinations: Don’t hesitate to experiment with different spices like smoked paprika or cayenne pepper for added depth.
Stir Occasionally: Stirring occasionally while cooking helps prevent the rice from sticking to the bottom of the pan.
Use Quality Ingredients: Opt for high-quality salsa verde and fresh vegetables to enhance the overall taste.
Check Rice Consistency: Always check that the rice is fully cooked before removing it from heat; add more liquid if necessary.
Let It Rest: Allowing the skillet to sit off heat for a few minutes before serving helps improve flavor melding.
Experiment with Cheese: Try different types of cheese such as pepper jack or cheddar for varying flavors.

Best Side Dishes for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Complement your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet with these delightful side dishes. They are perfect companions that balance out the meal’s flavors and textures.

Mexican Street Corn Salad: A refreshing salad made with corn, lime, and cotija cheese enhances your meal beautifully.
Guacamole and Tortilla Chips: Creamy guacamole served with crunchy tortilla chips makes for an irresistible appetizer.
Pico de Gallo: Fresh pico de gallo adds brightness and acidity that complements the rich flavors of the skillet dish.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans provide protein and pair well with this hearty meal.
Spanish Rice: A side of Spanish rice adds more flavor while keeping the meal cohesive.
Grilled Vegetables: Charred seasonal vegetables introduce smokiness and freshness alongside the main dish.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Cooking can be tricky, but avoiding common mistakes can enhance your experience with the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet.

Using uncooked chicken: Always ensure your chicken is cooked before adding it. Shredded rotisserie chicken simplifies this recipe and saves time.
Not measuring ingredients: Accurate measurements are key for flavor balance. Use measuring cups and spoons to get the right amounts of spices and liquids.
Skipping the simmer: Don’t rush the simmering step; it helps the rice cook properly and absorb all the flavors. Allow at least 15 minutes covered.
Overcrowding the pan: If your skillet is too crowded, ingredients may not cook evenly. Use a large enough pan or cook in batches if necessary.
Neglecting toppings: Toppings like cilantro and avocado add freshness. Don’t skip them; they elevate the dish’s taste and presentation.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet can last up to 3-4 days in the fridge.

Freezing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Place in a freezer-safe container or bag.
It can be frozen for up to 2-3 months for best quality.

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: Use a microwave-safe bowl. Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway until hot.
Stovetop: Heat in a skillet over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice. However, you will need to increase the cooking time and adjust liquid accordingly.

What are good topping options for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Great toppings include avocado slices, fresh cilantro, lime wedges, or crumbled queso fresco. Each adds unique flavors!

How spicy is Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

The spice level depends on your salsa verde choice. Mild salsas will yield a less spicy dish while hot ones will bring more heat.

Can I make this recipe vegetarian?

Yes! Substitute chicken with extra beans or vegetables like zucchini and bell peppers. Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly version.

Final Thoughts

The Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a delightful blend of flavors that makes weeknight dinners easy and enjoyable. Its versatility allows you to customize it with different proteins or veggies based on your preferences. Give it a try and enjoy a delicious meal that’s quick to prepare!

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