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 long grain white rice; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 can black beans, rinsed and drained; 1 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Published: August 23, 2025

by Olivia

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Quick and Easy: This dish can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it ideal for those hectic evenings.
Flavor Packed: The combination of salsa verde and spices creates a deliciously bold flavor that everyone will love.
Versatile Meal: Customize with your favorite toppings like avocado or red pepper flakes to suit any palate.
One-Pan Wonder: Minimal cleanup is required since everything cooks in one skillet, saving you time and effort.
Healthy Ingredients: With shredded chicken, beans, and vegetables, this meal is nutritious as well as satisfying.

Tools and Preparation

Before you start cooking, gather your tools to ensure a smooth cooking process. Having the right equipment on hand makes preparation easier and more enjoyable.

Essential Tools and Equipment

Skillet
Mixing bowl
Measuring cups and spoons
Wooden spoon or spatula
Cutting board

Importance of Each Tool

Skillet: A good quality skillet ensures even cooking and allows all ingredients to meld together beautifully.
Mixing bowl: Helps in combining spices before adding them to the main dish for better flavor distribution.
Measuring cups and spoons: Accurate measurements are key to achieving the right flavor balance in your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet.

Ingredients

For the Main Dish

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

Spices

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

Toppings (Optional)

3 tbsp cilantro
avocado
red pepper flakes

How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Step 1: Heat the Oil

Add olive oil to a pan on medium heat. Allow it to warm up before adding other ingredients.

Step 2: Sauté Aromatics

Add minced garlic and diced yellow onion to the pan. Sauté until fragrant.

Step 3: Mix Spices

In a small bowl, mix together chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. Add this spice mixture to the sautéed garlic and onion.

Step 4: Combine Ingredients

Pour in the drained black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice into the pan. Stir well to combine all ingredients thoroughly.

Step 5: Cook Together

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

Step 6: Check Rice

After the timer goes off, check if the rice is cooked through. If not done yet, set another timer for additional time as needed.

Step 7: Melt Cheese

Once the rice has absorbed all liquid and is fully cooked, turn off heat. Top with shredded cheese. Cover again for about 2–3 minutes until cheese melts.

Step 8: Add Toppings

When cheese has melted perfectly, add fresh cilantro on top along with optional avocado slices and red pepper flakes.

Step 9: Serve

Enjoy your flavorful Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet hot from the pan!

How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is not only delicious but also versatile. You can serve it in various ways to enhance your meal experience.

With Fresh Toppings

Avocado – Sliced or diced, avocado adds creaminess and healthy fats.
Cilantro – Fresh cilantro brightens the dish with its fragrant flavor.
Red Pepper Flakes – Add a sprinkle for heat and extra flavor.

As a Burrito Bowl

Serve over Greens – Use lettuce or spinach as a base for a fresh burrito bowl.
Add Tortilla Chips – Crushed chips provide a satisfying crunch and texture.

With Tortillas

Flour Tortillas – Wrap the skillet mixture in warm flour tortillas for a tasty handheld meal.
Corn Tortillas – For a gluten-free option, corn tortillas are perfect for scooping up the chicken and rice.

How to Perfect Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

To make your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet even more delightful, follow these handy tips.

Choose Quality Salsa Verde – Using a flavorful salsa verde enhances the overall taste of the dish.
Use Fresh Vegetables – Fresh onions and garlic bring out better flavors than their dried counterparts.
Adjust Spice Levels – Customize the chili powder and black pepper to suit your taste preferences.
Let Cheese Melt Properly – Covering after adding cheese allows it to melt evenly, creating a creamy topping.

Best Side Dishes for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Pairing your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet with the right sides can elevate your meal.

Mexican Street Corn – Grilled corn on the cob topped with cheese, lime, and chili powder for a smoky side.
Guacamole – Creamy avocado dip that complements the spice of the skillet perfectly; serve with tortilla chips.
Pico de Gallo – Fresh tomato salsa adds brightness and freshness alongside the rich flavors of the main dish.
Black Bean Salad – A refreshing salad made with black beans, corn, and lime that echoes flavors in the skillet.
Spanish Rice – Flavored rice seasoned with tomatoes and spices makes for an excellent side that pairs well.
Roasted Vegetables – Seasonal veggies roasted until tender add color and health benefits to your plate.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

When preparing your Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, it’s easy to make a few common errors that can impact the dish. Here are some mistakes to watch out for:

Overcooking the Rice: Cooking the rice for too long can make it mushy. Keep an eye on the timer and check periodically.
Skipping the Spices: Neglecting to add spices can result in bland flavor. Use all listed spices to enhance taste and aroma.
Not Using Enough Liquid: Failing to add enough chicken broth will leave the rice undercooked. Measure carefully to ensure proper cooking.
Forgetting to Stir: Not mixing ingredients can lead to uneven cooking. Stir well after adding each ingredient for balanced flavors.
Rushing the Cheese Melting: Removing the skillet too soon can leave you with unmelted cheese. Allow it a few extra minutes under cover for perfect gooeyness.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Refrigerator Storage

Store in an airtight container.
Consume within 3-4 days for best flavor.

Freezing Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Place in a freezer-safe container.
Freeze for up to 2 months for optimal freshness.

Reheating Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet

Oven: Preheat to 350°F (175°C). Cover with foil and heat for 20-25 minutes.
Microwave: Heat in short intervals, stirring occasionally until warm throughout.
Stovetop: Add a splash of broth and warm over medium heat, stirring frequently.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a one-pan meal made with shredded chicken, salsa verde, rice, and spices. It’s a quick dinner option full of flavor.

How long does it take to make Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

This dish takes about 30 minutes from start to finish, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

Can I customize my Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?

Absolutely! You can add different vegetables or beans based on your preferences. Try bell peppers or zucchini for added texture and nutrients.

Is Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet healthy?

Yes! This dish is packed with protein from the chicken and beans, offering a nutritious meal option that’s both satisfying and delicious.

Final Thoughts

The Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a fantastic choice for an easy weeknight dinner that doesn’t compromise on taste or nutrition. Its versatility allows you to customize it with your favorite ingredients, making it a go-to recipe for any occasion. Give this delicious dish a try; you won’t be disappointed!

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