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; 1 tbsp extra virgin olive oil; 15.5 oz salsa verde; 1 can (4 oz) 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

Posted on October 3, 2025

Main Dishes

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Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a delightful, one-pan dish that brings together bright flavors and hearty ingredients for an easy weeknight dinner. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also packed with protein, making it perfect for family meals or casual gatherings. With its vibrant salsa verde base and nutritious components, this skillet dish stands out as both a comforting and flavorful option.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: Perfect for busy weeknights, this dish can be ready in just 30 minutes.
Flavorful: The combination of salsa verde and spices creates a mouthwatering taste that everyone will enjoy.
Nutritious: Packed with chicken, beans, and veggies, it offers a balanced meal in one skillet.
Versatile: Customize with your favorite toppings like avocado or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.
One-Pan Wonder: Fewer dishes mean more time to relax after dinner.

Tools and Preparation

To make the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet efficiently, having the right tools on hand will make the process smoother.

Essential Kitchen Tools

Large skillet
Wooden spoon
Measuring cups
Measuring spoons
Lid for the skillet

Why These Tools Matter

Large skillet: Allows you to cook all ingredients in one place, ensuring even heat distribution.
Wooden spoon: Ideal for mixing ingredients without scratching your cookware.
Measuring cups and spoons: Ensures accurate ingredient portions for perfect results.

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
– 15.5 oz salsa verde
– 1 can (4 oz) 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 pan to heat on medium. This step ensures that the onions and garlic sauté properly.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add minced garlic and diced yellow onion to the pan. Cook until fragrant, stirring occasionally so they don’t burn.

Step 3: Mix in Spices

In a small bowl, mix together the spices: chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle them into the pan with the garlic and onion for added flavor.

Step 4: Combine Main Ingredients

Pour in drained and rinsed black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice. Mix together thoroughly until everything is well combined.

Step 5: Cook the Mixture

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

Step 6: Check Rice Cooking Progress

Once the timer goes off, check if the rice is cooked through. If it needs more time, set the timer again until fully cooked.

Step 7: Melt Cheese Topping

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

Step 8: Add Finishing Touches

Once cheese has melted beautifully on top of your dish, sprinkle with cilantro. Optionally add avocado slices or red pepper flakes according to your preference.

Step 9: Serve and Enjoy!

Scoop out servings and enjoy your delicious Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet warm!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a versatile dish that can be served in various ways to enhance your dining experience. Here are some delicious serving suggestions to elevate this easy weeknight meal.

Add Fresh Toppings

Avocado Slices: Creamy avocado pairs perfectly with the spicy salsa verde, adding richness and flavor.
Cilantro Garnish: Fresh cilantro gives a burst of freshness and complements the dish beautifully.
Lime Wedges: A squeeze of lime adds brightness and acidity, balancing the flavors.

Pair with a Salad

Simple Green Salad: A light salad with mixed greens and a vinaigrette can provide a refreshing contrast.
Corn Salad: A corn salad with tomatoes, onions, and lime is a great way to echo the flavors in the skillet.

Serve with Tortillas

Warm Flour Tortillas: Soft tortillas make for excellent wraps or scoops, making each bite fun and interactive.
Crunchy Tortilla Chips: Serve alongside chips for a delightful crunch that complements the creamy texture of the dish.

How to Perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

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

Bold Seasoning: Don’t hesitate to adjust spices according to your taste. Adding more chili powder can ramp up the heat!
Quality Ingredients: Use high-quality salsa verde for better flavor. Fresh ingredients always make a difference.
Cooked Rice Check: Make sure to check your rice about halfway through cooking. You may need to add a little more broth if it absorbs too quickly.
Resting Time: Letting the skillet sit for a few minutes after cooking allows flavors to meld together beautifully.
Mix It Up: Feel free to add other vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for added nutrition and color.

Best Side Dishes for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Enhancing your meal with delicious side dishes can take your dining experience to the next level. Here are some great options that pair well with this flavorful skillet dish.

Mexican Street Corn Salad: A vibrant mix of corn, cheese, lime, and spices that echoes the flavors in the main dish.
Guacamole: Creamy guacamole adds richness and balances out spiciness—perfect for dipping or topping.
Pico de Gallo: This fresh tomato salsa brightens up your plate while adding a refreshing crunch.
Refried Beans: Creamy refried beans are an excellent source of protein and complement the chicken nicely.
Chips and Salsa: Classic tortilla chips paired with mild salsa offer a crunchy side that everyone loves.
Grilled Vegetables: Seasonal grilled veggies provide a smoky flavor that pairs well with the dish’s zestiness.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, it’s easy to make a few common mistakes. Here are some tips to help you achieve the best results.

Not measuring ingredients correctly: Precision is key in cooking. Use measuring cups and spoons to ensure you add the right amounts of rice, broth, and spices.
Skipping the seasoning: Each ingredient adds flavor, but if you skip seasoning the onions and garlic, your dish may lack depth. Always season as you cook for optimal taste.
Ignoring cooking times: Following the recommended cooking times is essential. If you don’t let the rice simmer long enough, it may remain undercooked.
Using low-quality salsa verde: The quality of salsa verde can greatly affect your dish. Opt for a brand that uses fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
Not letting cheese melt properly: Allowing the cheese to melt before serving enhances the texture. Cover the skillet after adding cheese to create a creamy topping.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerator Storage

Store leftovers in an airtight container.
Keep in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Freezing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Use freezer-safe containers or bags.
Freeze for up to 3 months. Label with date for easy tracking.

Reheating Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

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

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some common questions about this recipe that might help you out.

Can I use other proteins in Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Yes! You can use shredded beef or turkey instead of chicken for a different flavor profile.

How spicy is this Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

The spice level depends on your salsa verde choice and green chiles. Opt for mild versions if you’re sensitive to heat.

Can I make this dish vegetarian?

Absolutely! Replace chicken with additional beans and vegetables like bell peppers or zucchini for a delicious vegetarian version.

How do I customize my Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Feel free to add toppings like jalapeños, diced tomatoes, or different cheeses based on your preferences!

Conclusion

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a delightful and versatile meal perfect for busy weeknights. Packed with protein and flavor, it allows room for customization based on what you have on hand. Give it a try and enjoy creating your unique version!