Cooking at home does not have to be hard or time-consuming. One of the best ways to enjoy a delicious meal is to make a one-pan dish, and the Green Sauce Chicken & Rice Skillet is just that. This recipe is not only flavorful but also filled with wholesome ingredients like chicken, beans, rice, and plenty of veggies. You can whip it up in about 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy weeknights or a simple yet satisfying lunch. It’s a fantastic dish for families, parties, or just a night in.
Why Make This Recipe
There are many reasons to consider making the Green Sauce Chicken & Rice Skillet. First, it is quick and easy. With minimal prep work and just one skillet to clean afterward, you will save time and effort in the kitchen. This is especially great for those who feel tired after a long day and want something comfort-filled without the hassle.
Second, this dish is packed with flavor. The salsa verde and the spices add a wonderful kick to the chicken and rice, while the creamy Monterey Jack cheese brings everything together perfectly. You get a burst of flavor in every bite!
Moreover, this recipe is highly customizable. You can add or substitute ingredients based on what you have available at home. Love avocados? Add some on top! Want extra spice? You can include more chili powder or red pepper flakes. This flexibility allows you to create a dish that suits your taste.
Finally, this skillet meal is nutritious. It includes protein from the chicken and beans, fiber from the corn and beans, and carbohydrates from the rice. Eating wholesome meals like this one can help you feel better and more satisfied.
How to Make Green Sauce Chicken & Rice Skillet
Making the Green Sauce Chicken & Rice Skillet is straightforward and can be done in a few simple steps. Follow along, and you’ll have a delicious dish ready in no time!
Ingredients
For this delightful skillet dish, you will need the following ingredients:
- 2 cups shredded rotisserie chicken
- 1 cup yellow onion, diced
- 3 garlic cloves, minced
- 1 tablespoon 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 teaspoon chili powder
- 1 teaspoon sea salt
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Dash of black pepper
- 3 tablespoons cilantro, chopped
- Optional toppings: avocado, red pepper flakes
Directions
Heat the Olive Oil: Begin by heating 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Ensure that the oil is hot but not smoking to avoid burning the ingredients.
Cook Onion and Garlic: Once the oil is hot, add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet. Cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and the garlic is fragrant. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking or burning.
Mix Spices: In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper. This step builds the base flavor for your dish, so ensure it is well combined.
Combine Ingredients: Add the rinsed black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, diced green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice to the skillet. Stir all the ingredients together, ensuring they are well mixed.
Bring to a Boil: Increase the heat to high, and allow the mixture to come to a boil. This will take about 2-3 minutes. It’s crucial to reach this boiling point for the rice to cook properly.
Simmer the Dish: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time, as the steam helps cook the rice.
Check Rice: After the simmering time, check the rice for doneness. If it is not fully cooked, simply cover it again and cook for a few more minutes, checking every few minutes.
Add Cheese: Once the rice is cooked, turn off the heat. Sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top of the dish. Cover the skillet again for 2-3 minutes, allowing the cheese to melt beautifully.
Garnish and Serve: Finally, garnish with chopped cilantro before serving. Enjoy your warm Green Sauce Chicken & Rice Skillet!
How to Serve Green Sauce Chicken & Rice Skillet
The Green Sauce Chicken & Rice Skillet is a complete meal on its own, but you can also make it more enjoyable with various toppings and sides. Here are a few delicious ideas:
- Avocado: Sliced or diced avocado adds creaminess and freshness to each bite.
- Red Pepper Flakes: If you like a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes on top.
- Sour Cream or Greek Yogurt: A dollop of either can balance the spices and add a creamy texture.
- Lime Wedges: A squeeze of fresh lime juice can elevate the flavors, making it extra refreshing.
- Tortilla Chips: On the side or crumbled on top, tortilla chips add a nice crunch.
Dress up your dish with these optional toppings to please everyone at the table!
How to Store Green Sauce Chicken & Rice Skillet
If you have leftovers (if you’re lucky enough to have any!), storing them is easy. Follow these steps to keep your dish fresh:
Let it Cool: Let the skillet meal cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps avoid condensation and keeps the rice from becoming mushy.
Use an Airtight Container: Transfer the leftover food to an airtight container. You can even separate portions into smaller containers for easy lunches or dinners.
Refrigerate: Store the container in the refrigerator. It will stay fresh for about 3-4 days.
Reheat Properly: When ready to eat, reheat the portions in the microwave or on the stove over low heat. Stir occasionally to ensure even heating.
Tips to Make Green Sauce Chicken & Rice Skillet
To get the best results while making this dish, consider these helpful tips:
- Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh veggies and herbs enhance the flavor of your dish significantly.
- Customize Spices: Adjust the spices to suit your taste. If you prefer a milder dish, reduce the chili powder.
- Taste as You Go: Always taste your food as you cook. This way, you can adjust seasonings according to your preference.
- Choose Quality Chicken: Using a good quality rotisserie chicken will give you the best flavor. Feel free to use leftover grilled chicken as well.
- Experiment with Grains: If you don’t have white rice, try brown rice or quinoa for a healthy twist. Just be mindful of cooking times as they may vary.
Variation
This recipe is very flexible, allowing for a variety of changes. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Add More Vegetables: Include bell peppers, zucchini, or spinach for extra nutrients and color.
- Use Different Proteins: Swap the rotisserie chicken for shredded beef or turkey for a different flavor profile.
- Make it Vegetarian: Omit the chicken and add more beans or even tofu for a protein-packed vegetarian meal.
- Spice it Up Further: Increase the amount of chili powder or add jalapeños for a spicier kick.
With these variations, you can enjoy a new version of this dish every time you make it!
FAQs
1. Can I use frozen chicken instead of rotisserie chicken?
Yes, you can use frozen chicken! Just make sure to cook it properly before adding it to the skillet. Cooking it in advance will ensure it gets fully cooked in the skillet.
2. What if I don’t have salsa verde?
If you don’t have salsa verde, you can substitute it with green enchilada sauce or even make your own with tomatillos, cilantro, and lime juice.
3. How do I know when the rice is done?
The rice is done when it is tender and has absorbed most of the liquid. If you see some liquid left, let it simmer for a few more minutes until fully cooked.
By following this guide, you can successfully make a delightful Green Sauce Chicken & Rice Skillet that is sure to please anyone at your table. Enjoy cooking and savor each bite of this flavorful dish!
Green Sauce Chicken & Rice Skillet
Ingredients
Method
- Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until hot but not smoking.
- Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes until the onion is soft and the garlic is fragrant.
- In a small bowl, mix together the chili powder, sea salt, cumin, garlic powder, and black pepper.
- Add the rinsed black beans, roasted corn, shredded chicken, diced green chiles, chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice to the skillet and stir well to combine.
- Increase the heat to high and allow the mixture to come to a boil, about 2-3 minutes.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.
- Check the rice for doneness; if not fully cooked, cover again and cook for a few more minutes.
- Turn off the heat and sprinkle the shredded Monterey Jack cheese over the top. Cover the skillet for 2-3 minutes to melt the cheese.
- Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.