Craving a dish that’s both comforting and incredibly easy to prepare? This Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Casserole is a fantastic choice for busy weeknights or relaxed weekend dinners.
Packed with flavorful ingredients and a zesty kick, it promises to be a hit for the whole family. Plus, it’s a one-dish wonder, making cleanup a breeze.
Let’s get started on this delicious journey!
Steps
- In a saucepan, combine long grain white rice, chicken broth, and salsa verde. Heat the mixture on high until it starts to boil.
- Season bite-sized chicken pieces with salt and pepper. Add the seasoned chicken to the boiling mixture, stir, and bring it back to a boil.
- Cover the saucepan with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let it simmer for 12 minutes. Once done, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit with the lid on for an additional 5 minutes.
- Stir in freshly shredded Pepper Jack or Monterey Jack cheese until it fully melts into the mixture. Allow the dish to sit and thicken for 2-3 minutes before serving.
Ingredients
- 1-1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup salsa verde (such as Herdez)
- 1 cup long grain white rice (such as Lundberg Farms Jasmine Rice)
- 2 chicken breasts (~1 lb), cut into bite-sized pieces
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 4 oz freshly shredded Pepper Jack Cheese (or Monterey Jack Cheese for less spice)
- Optional toppings: chopped cilantro, chopped green onions, additional salsa verde, tortilla chips
FAQ
- What is Cheesy Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice?
- Cheesy Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice is a simple one-pan meal that takes only 20 minutes to prepare using just five ingredients. It features rice, chicken, salsa verde, and Pepper Jack cheese, making it a quick and delicious gluten-free dinner option.
- Can I substitute the cheese in the recipe?
- Yes, if you are sensitive to spice, you can substitute Pepper Jack cheese with Monterey Jack cheese for a milder flavor.
- What are some suggested sides to serve with this dish?
- This dish pairs well with a big side salad, roasted Brussels sprouts, or roasted broccoli. You can also top it with additional salsa verde, chopped green onions, or cilantro for added flavor.
- How do I prepare Cheesy Salsa Verde Chicken and Rice?
- Start by bringing chicken broth, salsa verde, and rice to a boil in a saucepan. Add seasoned chicken pieces, simmer with the lid on for 12 minutes, then let it sit for 5 minutes off the heat. Stir in the cheese until melted, let it thicken for a few minutes, and then serve.
- Is this meal suitable for a gluten-free diet?
- Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses ingredients like rice, chicken, salsa verde, and cheese that do not contain gluten.
- What is the nutritional information for this recipe?
- The dish contains approximately 358 calories per serving, with 39g carbohydrates, 23g protein, and 11g fat. Nutritional values are estimates and should be verified for specific dietary needs.
Tips
- Customize the Cheese: If you prefer a milder flavor, opt for Monterey Jack cheese instead of Pepper Jack cheese to reduce the spice level.
- Enhance with Toppings: Consider adding toppings like chopped cilantro, green onions, or extra salsa verde to elevate the flavors and presentation.
- Let It Rest: After cooking, allow the dish to sit for a few minutes to thicken. This step enhances texture and makes serving easier.
- Pair with Vegetables: Serve alongside a fresh salad or roasted vegetables like Brussels sprouts or broccoli to create a balanced and complete meal.
