Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet Recipe

If you are craving a one-pan wonder that is bursting with bold flavors and comforting textures, the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is absolutely the dish to try. This vibrant meal combines tender shredded chicken with zesty salsa verde, hearty rice, and a medley of spices and fresh ingredients for a fulfilling and easy-to-make dinner that feels like a warm hug on a plate. Whether you’re a busy weeknight cook or just looking for a tasty, fuss-free meal, this skillet brings the perfect blend of spice, creaminess, and freshness to your table every time.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Getting the right ingredients is key to making this dish shine, and luckily the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet relies on simple, familiar staples that come together in perfect harmony. Each ingredient adds its own special touch, from the tangy salsa verde that gives this dish its signature flavor to the creamy shredded cheese that finishes it off with just the right amount of gooey richness.

• Shredded rotisserie chicken: A super convenient protein that’s already cooked, saving you time and adding juicy flavor.
• Yellow onion, diced: Provides a sweet and savory base that complements the spices beautifully.
• Garlic cloves, minced: Adds aromatic depth and a subtle kick that wakes up the entire skillet.
• Extra virgin olive oil: The perfect cooking fat to sauté the aromatics and bring everything together.
• Salsa verde: The star ingredient, bringing zesty, tangy, and slightly spicy notes that make the dish pop.
• Diced green chiles: Pack a mild heat and extra texture, enhancing the overall flavor profile.
• White long grain rice: Absorbs all the wonderful juices and flavors, creating a satisfying base.
• Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with savory goodness, keeping it tender and flavorful.
• Shredded Monterey Jack cheese: Melts into creamy perfection for that luscious finishing touch.
• Black beans, rinsed and drained: Adds heartiness and a subtle earthy flavor that balances the bright salsa verde.
• Roasted corn: Sweet bursts of flavor and color, rounding out the dish.
• Chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, black pepper: These spices layer warmth and complexity into every bite.
• Fresh cilantro: A vibrant herbaceous hit that enlivens the dish right before serving.
• Optional toppings – avocado and red pepper flakes: Creamy richness from the avocado and an extra fiery punch from the flakes, if you like.

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Begin by heating the extra virgin olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the minced garlic and diced yellow onion. Stir frequently as the onion softens and the garlic releases its irresistible aroma, creating a flavorful base that sets the stage for everything to come.

Step 2: Season Your Sauté

In a small bowl, blend chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Sprinkle this spice mix over the softened onion and garlic, stirring well. Let the spices toast gently in the warm oil until fragrant—a quick step that deepens the complexity of the final dish.

Step 3: Add the Heart of the Dish

Next, pour in the rinsed black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, diced green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and white rice. Stir thoroughly to combine each ingredient evenly. The rich, green sauce and broth will ensure the rice cooks perfectly tender while infusing everything with bold flavor.

Step 4: Simmer and Cook the Rice

Bring the skillet contents to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid. Let it simmer undisturbed for about 15 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid. If the rice isn’t quite tender after this time, simply cover and cook a little longer, checking occasionally to avoid burning.

Step 5: Melt the Cheese and Finish

Once the rice is cooked through and the liquid is fully absorbed, turn off the heat. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese evenly over the top, then replace the lid and let it sit for 2 to 3 minutes. This gentle resting melts the cheese into a creamy blanket, elevating the dish to pure comfort food heaven.

Step 6: Add Fresh Brightness

Finally, garnish your skillet with freshly chopped cilantro, diced avocado, and a pinch of red pepper flakes if you want an extra spark. These fresh toppings provide contrast in color, texture, and flavor, making every bite irresistible.

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Garnishes

Fresh cilantro is non-negotiable for that signature herbal brightness, while creamy avocado adds a cooling balance to the zesty salsa verde. A sprinkle of red pepper flakes offers a customizable level of heat for those who love a bit more kick. Feel free to add a squeeze of lime or some sour cream to jazz it up even more.

Side Dishes

This skillet is often a complete meal on its own, but if you want to round it out, crisp tortilla chips or warm flour tortillas work wonderfully for scooping. A simple green salad with a tangy vinaigrette can also cut through the richness and add refreshing crunch.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving this dish family-style straight from the skillet for a cozy, casual meal that invites sharing. You can also spoon it into buttered and toasted pita pockets as an easy-to-eat lunch or stuff in small bowls topped with extra cheese and a dollop of sour cream for individual portions with a festive flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

After the skillet has cooled completely, transfer leftovers into an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually meld beautifully overnight, so it’s a great make-ahead option for busy days.

Freezing

This dish freezes well, just note that the texture of the corn and beans may soften a bit. Portion into freezer-safe containers and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating to keep the best quality.

Reheating

To reheat, gently warm on the stovetop over low heat adding a splash of chicken broth or water to loosen the rice if necessary. Alternatively, microwave in short intervals, stirring in between to heat evenly and keep that melty cheese creamy and delicious.

FAQs

Can I use fresh chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?

Absolutely! You can cook fresh chicken breasts or thighs, shred them, and add them at the step where the shredded rotisserie chicken goes. Just make sure the chicken is fully cooked before combining with the other ingredients.

Is there a way to make this dish vegetarian?

Yes, simply omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. You can add extra beans or even some sautéed mushrooms for added protein and texture.

Can I substitute white rice with brown rice?

You can, but keep in mind that brown rice takes longer to cook and requires more liquid. You might need to adjust cooking time and broth quantity accordingly for the perfect texture.

What kind of salsa verde works best for this recipe?

Look for a good quality jarred salsa verde made from tomatillos for authentic flavor. If you want a homemade touch, you can blend fresh tomatillos, garlic, onion, and jalapeño to create your own vibrant sauce.

Is this dish spicy?

The heat level is moderate thanks to the mild green chiles and chili powder, but you can easily adjust by adding more red pepper flakes or using a spicier salsa verde if you like things hotter.

Final Thoughts

There is something truly comforting about a dish that combines ease and rich flavor in such a delightful way, and the Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet hits that mark perfectly. Whether you’re cooking for family, friends, or just yourself, this recipe delivers a satisfying, flavorful meal with minimal fuss and maximum happiness. So grab your skillet, gather your ingredients, and dive into this tasty experience that will surely become one of your favorites to make again and again.

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