Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a delightful one-pan meal that comes together quickly, making it perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings. This dish combines tender chicken, flavorful salsa verde, and fluffy rice into a comforting skillet dinner. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, it’s sure to become a family favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and Easy: This dish comes together in just 35 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
• Flavorful: The combination of salsa verde, cumin, and chili powder creates a deliciously bold flavor profile.
• One-Pan Wonder: Enjoy minimal cleanup with this simple skillet recipe that cooks everything in one pan.
• Customizable: You can easily swap out ingredients or adjust the spice level to suit your taste.
• Healthy Option: Using brown rice and low-sodium broth makes it a nutritious choice for any meal.

Tools and Preparation

Before diving into the cooking process, gather your tools to ensure a smooth preparation experience.

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large skillet
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Importance of Each Tool

• Large skillet: Ideal for sautéing chicken and cooking rice all in one place without crowding.
• Chef’s knife: A sharp knife helps you quickly chop vegetables and ingredients with ease.

Ingredients

Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
– 1 cup long-grain white rice (or brown rice for a healthier option)
– 1 cup salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
– 2 cups chicken broth (low-sodium preferred)
– 1 medium onion (diced)
– 2 cloves garlic (minced)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil (for sautéing)
– 1 teaspoon cumin (for a warm, earthy flavor)
– 1 teaspoon chili powder (adds a bit of heat)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
– Lime wedges (for serving)

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Chicken

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add diced chicken, season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.

Step 2: Add Aromatics

Stir in diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté for 2-3 minutes until the onion is translucent.

Step 3: Incorporate Rice and Liquids

Add rice to the skillet, stirring to coat. Pour in salsa verde and chicken broth. Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer

Reduce heat to low. Cover the skillet and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Fluff and Serve

Remove from heat and let sit for a few minutes. Fluff the mixture with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges on the side.

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Serving your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet can elevate the meal experience. Here are some creative ways to present and enjoy this delicious dish.

Garnish with Fresh Herbs

• Chopped Cilantro: Adds a burst of freshness that complements the flavors.
• Sliced Avocado: Creamy avocado enhances the dish’s richness.

Pair with Fresh Lime

• Lime Wedges: Squeezing fresh lime juice over the skillet adds brightness and acidity, balancing the flavors.

Serve with Tortillas

• Soft Flour or Corn Tortillas: These make for great wraps or can be served on the side for scooping.

Add a Side Salad

• Simple Garden Salad: A light salad with greens, tomatoes, and a vinaigrette can balance the richness of the skillet.

How to Perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Achieving the perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is all about technique and flavor balance. Here are some tips to enhance your dish.

• Use Quality Salsa Verde: High-quality salsa verde will greatly influence the overall taste. Consider making your own for an extra kick.
• Let It Rest: Allowing the skillet to rest before serving helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
• Experiment with Rice Types: Try brown rice or quinoa for a healthier option that adds a nutty flavor.
• Adjust Spice Levels: Customize the heat by adding more chili powder or fresh jalapeños if desired.
• Mix in Vegetables: Adding bell peppers or zucchini during cooking can boost nutrition and flavor.

Best Side Dishes for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Complementing your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet with sides can create a well-rounded meal. Here are some great options to consider.

1. Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans pair perfectly with the flavors of salsa verde.
2. Mexican Street Corn: This sweet and savory corn dish adds a delightful crunch and sweetness.
3. Guacamole: The creamy texture of guacamole complements the spices in your skillet well.
4. Spanish Rice: A seasoned rice dish that provides additional flavor and texture alongside your skillet.
5. Chips and Salsa: Crunchy tortilla chips served with additional salsa offer a fun snacking option.
6. Grilled Veggies: Seasonal grilled vegetables add color and nutrients while enhancing the meal’s appeal.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Avoiding common pitfalls can make your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet a success. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

• Overcooking the Chicken: Cooking the chicken too long can make it dry. Aim for 5-7 minutes until it’s no longer pink, ensuring it stays juicy.
• Skipping the Seasoning: Not seasoning the chicken and vegetables can lead to bland flavors. Use salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder to enhance taste.
• Neglecting the Rice: Forgetting to stir in the rice properly can result in uneven cooking. Make sure to coat the rice with the oil and seasonings before adding liquids.
• Using Too Much Liquid: Adding excess broth may make the dish soupy. Stick to the recipe’s measurements for optimal texture.
• Not Letting It Rest: Skipping the resting time after cooking can affect texture. Allowing it to sit for a few minutes helps the rice absorb flavors.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

• Store leftover Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet in an airtight container.
• It will keep well in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• Allow it to cool completely before refrigerating to maintain freshness.

Freezing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Freeze leftovers in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag.
• It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2 months.
• Label containers with dates for easy tracking.

Reheating Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

• Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place your skillet in an oven-safe dish, cover with foil, and heat for about 15-20 minutes or until warmed through.
• Microwave: Transfer a portion to a microwave-safe bowl. Cover loosely and heat in 1-minute intervals until hot, stirring between each interval.
• Stovetop: In a skillet over medium heat, add a splash of water or broth. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-7 minutes.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is Salsa Verde?

Salsa verde is a green sauce made primarily from tomatillos and green chilies. It adds a tangy and slightly spicy flavor that complements many dishes, including this one.

Can I Use Brown Rice Instead of White?

Yes! Using brown rice is a healthier option but may require additional cooking time. Ensure you adjust the liquid ratio accordingly for best results.

How Can I Customize My Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Feel free to add vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for extra nutrition. You can also switch up proteins by using shrimp or tofu instead of chicken.

How Long Does This Recipe Take?

The total time for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is approximately 35 minutes, including prep and cooking time.

Can I Make This Recipe Ahead of Time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat when ready to serve, making it perfect for meal prep or busy weeknights.

Final Thoughts

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only flavorful but also versatile, allowing you to customize it based on your preferences. Its combination of tender chicken and zesty salsa verde creates a delightful meal that fits any occasion. Give this recipe a try and enjoy experimenting with different ingredients!

Did You Enjoy Making This Recipe? Please rate this recipe with ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ or leave a comment.

📖 Recipe Card

Print

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

---

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

No reviews

• Author: Vanessa
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: Serves 4

Print Recipe

Pin Recipe

Description

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a quick and delicious one-pan meal perfect for busy weeknights. This vibrant dish features tender chicken simmered in zesty salsa verde, combined with fluffy rice for a hearty dinner. In just 35 minutes, you can have a comforting meal that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare. With the ability to customize ingredients and spice levels, it caters to diverse palates while remaining a healthy option thanks to the use of brown rice and low-sodium broth. Whether you’re serving it for family or friends, this skillet dinner is sure to impress.

---

Ingredients

Scale 1x2x3x

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts (cut into bite-sized pieces)
• 1 cup long-grain white or brown rice
• 1 cup salsa verde
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
• 1 medium onion (diced)
• 2 cloves garlic (minced)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro (chopped, for garnish)
• Lime wedges (for serving)

Cook Mode Prevent your screen from going dark

---

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add diced chicken and season with salt, pepper, cumin, and chili powder. Cook for 5-7 minutes until browned.
2. Stir in diced onion and minced garlic; sauté for an additional 2-3 minutes until onions are translucent.
3. Add rice to the skillet; stir to coat. Pour in salsa verde and chicken broth; bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover skillet, and let simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Remove from heat; let sit a few minutes before fluffing with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Category: Main
• Method: Skillet
• Cuisine: Mexican

Nutrition

• Serving Size: 1 serving
• Calories: 350
• Sugar: 3g
• Sodium: 450mg
• Fat: 8g
• Saturated Fat: 1g
• Unsaturated Fat: 6g
• Trans Fat: 0g
• Carbohydrates: 43g
• Fiber: 3g
• Protein: 29g
• Cholesterol: 80mg