There’s nothing quite like the aroma of a warm, savory dish wafting through your kitchen, making your stomach growl louder than a bear in hibernation. Imagine tender chicken simmering with vibrant salsa verde, enveloped by fluffy rice that eagerly soaks up all those delicious flavors. tequila lime chicken marinade You know you’ve hit the jackpot when even your picky eaters are begging for seconds of Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet.
This dish brings back wonderful memories of family dinners where laughter filled the air and the only debate was who could finish their plate first. Whether it’s a cozy weeknight meal or a gathering with friends, this one-pan wonder never disappoints. Plus, it promises to take you on a flavor adventure that will have your taste buds dancing – and who doesn’t want that?
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This dish is incredibly easy to whip up, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The zesty flavor profile keeps everyone coming back for more
- Visually appealing with its bright colors, it’s as delightful to look at as it is to taste
- Versatile enough for any occasion, from casual dinners to festive gatherings
I once made this for a dinner party, and I swear my friends almost fought over the last scoop.
Essential Ingredients
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breasts: I usually use about 3-4 chicken breasts, but you can adjust the amount depending on how many people you’re feeding.
Salsa Verde: Look for fresh or jarred salsa verde; both add vibrant flavor and zest.
Long-Grain Rice: Use long-grain rice for fluffy texture; jasmine works wonderfully too.
Chicken Broth: Low-sodium broth allows you to control saltiness without sacrificing flavor.
Bell Peppers: Choose colorful bell peppers for visual appeal and a slight sweetness. turkey taco stuffed sweet potatoes. colorful corn taco salad.
Onion: A medium onion adds depth; sauté until translucent and aromatic.
Garlic: Fresh garlic elevates the flavor; use minced or chopped cloves for best results.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro provides a bright finish; feel free to substitute parsley if needed.
Lime Juice: A squeeze of lime adds acidity that brightens up all those rich flavors.
Olive Oil: A splash of olive oil is perfect for sautéing and adding richness to the skillet.
Spices (Cumin and Chili Powder): These spices enhance flavor complexity; adjust according to your heat preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
Let’s Make it Together
**Prepare Your Ingredients**: Start by gathering all your ingredients and chopping the onions, bell peppers, and garlic finely. This will help everything cook evenly.
**Sauté the Vegetables**: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell peppers, cooking until they soften and turn fragrant.
**Cook the Chicken**: Push the veggies to one side of the skillet. Place chicken breasts in the center and season them well with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned on both sides.
**Add Rice and Broth**: Stir in long-grain rice into the skillet with vegetables and chicken. Pour in chicken broth along with salsa verde – mix well!
**Simmer Until Cooked**: Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat. Cover the skillet and let it simmer until rice absorbs liquid fully—about 15-20 minutes.
**Finish It Off**: Once done cooking, remove from heat. Squeeze fresh lime juice over everything and sprinkle chopped cilantro generously before serving!
Enjoy this fantastic Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet hot from the pan! healthy Greek chicken bowls.
You Must Know
- This Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet is a flavor-packed one-pan wonder
- Fast to prepare and perfect for busy nights, it combines tender chicken with zesty salsa verde and fluffy rice for a delicious family meal
- The vibrant colors and smells will leave everyone asking for seconds
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by searing the chicken until golden brown, then add the rice and salsa verde. Let it all simmer together for the most flavorful results.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to swap in quinoa for rice or add black beans for extra protein. Customize it based on your taste preferences or what’s in your pantry.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. Reheat on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- For maximum flavor, marinate your chicken in salsa verde overnight
- Use fresh cilantro as a garnish for brightness
- Adjust spice levels by choosing mild or hot salsa verde based on preference
Cooking this dish reminds me of a family gathering where everyone raved about how quick and tasty it was. It became an instant favorite!
FAQ
What kind of rice is best for Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet?
For more inspiration, check out this Mexican Corn Chicken Soup recipe.
Long-grain white rice works well, but brown rice can be used for more nutrition.
Can I use frozen chicken for this recipe?
Yes, just ensure it’s fully thawed before starting to cook for even cooking.
How can I make this dish spicier?
Add jalapeños or use a spicier salsa verde to kick up the heat!

Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Savor the deliciousness of Salsa Verde Chicken & Rice Skillet, a vibrant one-pan meal that’s quick to prepare and packed with flavor. Tender chicken simmers in zesty salsa verde, complemented by fluffy long-grain rice and colorful bell peppers. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual gatherings, this dish will tantalize your taste buds and leave everyone wanting more.
Ingredients
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (about 1.5 lbs)
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- ¼ cup fresh cilantro, chopped
- Juice of 1 lime
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp chili powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prepare the ingredients by chopping the onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onions and bell peppers; sauté until soft.
- Push veggies aside and place chicken breasts in the center. Season with cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper; cook until browned.
- Stir in the rice with the vegetables and chicken. Pour in the chicken broth and salsa verde; mix well.
- Bring to a boil then reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender.
- Remove from heat; squeeze lime juice over the top and sprinkle with cilantro before serving.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Skillet
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 plate (approx. 300g)
- Calories: 480
- Sugar: 4g
- Sodium: 740mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 2g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 48g
- Fiber: 3g
- Protein: 43g
- Cholesterol: 110mg
Keywords: Customize by swapping quinoa for rice or adding black beans for extra protein. For enhanced flavor, marinate chicken in salsa verde overnight.