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This salsa verde chicken and rice skillet transforms everyday ingredients into a vibrant, one-pan meal that delivers bold Mexican flavors without hours in the kitchen. The zesty salsa verde blends perfectly with tender chicken and fluffy rice for a dish that satisfies both comfort food cravings and your desire for something exciting.
I first made this on a busy weeknight when I needed something quick but didn't want to sacrifice flavor. My husband immediately declared it part of our regular rotation, and I've been perfecting it ever since with different toppings and spice levels.
Ingredients
- Rotisserie chicken: saves tremendous time while adding rich flavor already developed during roasting
- Yellow onion and garlic: create an aromatic foundation crucial for depth
- Salsa verde: provides tangy brightness that makes this dish special look for one with medium heat for best results
- Long grain white rice: maintains its texture and doesn't become mushy
- Monterey jack cheese: melts beautifully and has a mild flavor that complements without overwhelming
- Black beans: add hearty texture and protein balance
- Roasted corn: brings subtle sweetness and pleasant texture contrast
- Chili powder, cumin, and garlic powder: create an authentic Mexican flavor profile
- Fresh cilantro: brightens everything with its distinctive finish
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Build The Flavor Base:
- Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until it shimmers but doesn't smoke. Add diced onion and minced garlic, stirring frequently for about 4 minutes until onions become translucent. This foundational step develops sweetness and aroma that carries throughout the dish.
- Add The Seasoning Blend:
- Combine all your spices in a small bowl then sprinkle over the onion and garlic mixture. Stir continuously for 30 seconds until intensely fragrant. Toasting the spices this way blooms their essential oils and dramatically enhances their flavor potential.
- Combine Main Ingredients:
- Add black beans, corn, shredded chicken, green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice to the pan. Stir thoroughly to ensure even distribution of ingredients and that rice is fully submerged in liquid. This proper distribution ensures everything cooks evenly.
- Cook The Rice:
- Bring mixture to a boil for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. Reduce heat to a gentle simmer, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and cook undisturbed for 15 minutes. The covered cooking creates the perfect steamy environment for tender rice.
- Finish With Cheese:
- Check that rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. If needed, simmer for additional 2 to 5 minutes. Turn off heat, then sprinkle Monterey jack cheese evenly across the top. Cover again, allowing residual heat to melt cheese completely, about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Garnish And Serve:
- Top with fresh cilantro, sliced avocado, and red pepper flakes if desired. Serve directly from the skillet for an impressive presentation that keeps the dish warm throughout dinner.
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My favorite part of this recipe is the interplay between the tangy salsa verde and the rich melted cheese. I discovered this combination years ago at a small family restaurant in New Mexico, and bringing these flavors into my home kitchen always transports me back to that wonderful vacation.
Make It Your Own
This recipe welcomes customization based on your preferences and what you have available. For a spicier version, choose a hot salsa verde and add fresh jalapeños with the onions. Prefer a milder flavor? Opt for mild salsa and skip the red pepper flakes. You can also create a vegetarian version by omitting the chicken and using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Storage And Reheating
This skillet meal actually improves overnight as the flavors continue to meld together. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When reheating, add a splash of broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. Microwave covered with a damp paper towel, or gently rewarm in a skillet over medium-low heat.
Serving Suggestions
Turn this into a complete fiesta by serving with warm tortillas on the side for scooping. A simple green salad dressed with lime juice and olive oil makes a refreshing counterpoint to the rich, savory skillet. For entertaining, set up a toppings bar with additional options like pickled red onions, lime wedges, sour cream, and extra cheese.
Frequently Asked Questions
- → Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and may require more liquid, so adjust the cooking time and broth accordingly.
- → What is the best way to shred rotisserie chicken?
Use two forks to pull apart the chicken, or for quicker results, use a hand mixer to shred the chicken in a large bowl.
- → Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Omit the chicken and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Add more beans or vegetables for protein and texture.
- → How can I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth.
- → What toppings can I add for extra flavor?
Avocado, red pepper flakes, sour cream, or additional cilantro are great options to enhance the dish's flavor.