If you are craving a vibrant, flavorful meal that comes together effortlessly yet packs a punch, the Salsa Verde Chicken Skillet Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This dish combines tender chicken breasts with zingy, tangy salsa verde and a melty Tex-Mex cheese topping that transforms every bite into a fiesta of flavors. Perfect for busy weeknights or casual get-togethers, this recipe brings a touch of Mexican-inspired flair to your dinner table with minimal fuss and all the comfort you could want.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering simple but impactful ingredients is key to making this dish shine. Each item plays a role in adding layers of flavor, moisture, and that irresistible cheesy finish that makes the Salsa Verde Chicken Skillet Recipe so memorable.
- 4 medium chicken breasts: The star protein that soaks up the tangy salsa verde beautifully.
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder: Adds a mild depth of savory flavor without overpowering the salsa.
- 1/2 tsp chili powder: Brings a subtle warmth and classic Southwestern spice profile.
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste: Essential to enhance all the flavors naturally.
- 1 Tbsp olive or avocado oil: For a perfect sear and to keep the chicken juicy.
- 1 (15 ounce) jar salsa verde, or 2 cups homemade salsa verde: The vibrant green sauce that ties the whole dish together with its tangy, herbal punch.
- 1/2 cup chicken bone broth: Adds richness and helps build a luscious sauce.
- 1/2 cup shredded Tex-Mex cheese blend: Melts to create that indulgent cheesy crust on top.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, to taste: Freshness and color to brighten every bite.
- Fresh lime slices, to garnish: A zesty extra kick to balance the richness.
- Optional: thinly sliced scallions, to garnish: Adds mild oniony crunch and visual appeal.
How to Make Salsa Verde Chicken Skillet Recipe
Step 1: Preheat for perfection
Start by preheating your oven to 400 degrees Fahrenheit. This step is crucial to ensure the cheese melts beautifully over the chicken in the final stage, sealing in the flavors and creating that irresistible golden, bubbly topping.
Step 2: Season the chicken
Generously sprinkle garlic powder, chili powder, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper all over the chicken breasts. Rub the spices in so every part is coated – this seasoning combo layers subtle savory and spicy notes that complement the salsa verde perfectly.
Step 3: Sear the chicken
Heat your olive or avocado oil in an ovenproof skillet over medium heat. When the oil is shimmering, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the pan. Sear for about three minutes on each side until they develop a beautiful golden crust. This step locks in juices and adds a wonderful caramelized flavor foundation.
Step 4: Build the sauce base
Remove the chicken briefly and pour the chicken bone broth into the hot skillet. Add the salsa verde next, stirring gently and scraping all those flavorful browned bits from the bottom of the pan. Let the mixture come to a low simmer—it’s where the sauce deepens in flavor and richness.
Step 5: Simmer the chicken in sauce
Place the browned chicken breasts back into the skillet, nestling them into the bubbling salsa verde sauce. Allow everything to simmer gently until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce thickens, reducing by at least half. Basting the chicken with the sauce a few times keeps it juicy and infused with that tangy, herbal essence.
Step 6: Melt the cheese topping
Once the sauce has thickened and your chicken is cooked perfectly, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle shredded Tex-Mex cheese evenly over the chicken breasts. Move the skillet to the oven and bake for 3 to 4 minutes until the cheese melts into a bubbly, golden crust. This finishing touch adds creamy richness and ties the entire dish together.
Step 7: Garnish and serve
Carefully remove the skillet from the oven, then sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro over the chicken. Add fresh lime slices and optional scallions for a bright, fresh contrast. Now your colorful, zesty Salsa Verde Chicken Skillet Recipe is ready to serve and enjoy!
How to Serve Salsa Verde Chicken Skillet Recipe
Garnishes
Fresh cilantro adds herbal brightness and color, while lime slices provide a citrusy pop that elevates the flavors. If you like a little crunch and mild onion flavor, thinly sliced scallions are a wonderful optional garnish. These little touches make your presentation inviting and add layers of freshness with each bite.
Side Dishes
Serve this skillet with fluffy white rice, warm tortillas, or even creamy mashed potatoes to soak up the luscious salsa verde sauce. A simple side of sautéed vegetables or a crisp green salad also balances the bold flavors and adds texture variety to round out the meal.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, serve your Salsa Verde Chicken Skillet Recipe as a filling for tacos or stuffed into warm pita pockets. You can also shred the cooked chicken and mix it into burrito bowls with beans, corn, and avocado for a fresh take. No matter how you plate it, this dish shines with its vibrant sauce and melty cheese.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to three days. The flavors actually deepen with time, making the next-day meal just as satisfying if not better. Just keep the garnish separate until serving to keep them fresh.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked chicken along with the salsa verde sauce for up to two months. Use a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty zip-top bag, removing as much air as possible to preserve flavor and texture. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.
Reheating
Reheat gently on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave, adding a splash of chicken broth if needed to loosen the sauce. Be careful to warm it through without drying out the chicken. Reapply fresh garnishes after reheating for the best experience.
FAQs
Can I use chicken thighs instead of breasts?
Absolutely! Chicken thighs work wonderfully in this recipe, offering a juicier, more flavorful alternative. Just make sure to adjust the cooking time slightly as thighs may take a bit longer to cook through.
Is it possible to make homemade salsa verde for this dish?
Yes! Homemade salsa verde can add an extra fresh and vibrant flavor. Use tomatillos, jalapeños, garlic, cilantro, and lime juice blended together for the best results. Feel free to tailor the spiciness to your taste.
Can I prepare this recipe for a crowd?
This recipe scales up really well. Use a larger skillet or cook in batches. Keep the chicken warm in a low oven if needed while you finish the remainder. It’s perfect for feeding guests with minimal stress.
What can I substitute for the Tex-Mex cheese blend?
Monterey Jack, cheddar, or even mozzarella all work as substitutes. Look for cheeses that melt well and complement the tangy salsa verde without overpowering it.
Is Salsa Verde Chicken Skillet Recipe spicy?
The heat is mild to moderate depending on the salsa verde used. If you prefer less spice, choose a mild salsa or reduce the chili powder slightly. For extra kick, add fresh jalapeño slices or a dash of hot sauce when serving.
Final Thoughts
There is something truly special about the way the Salsa Verde Chicken Skillet Recipe brings simple ingredients together to create an extraordinary meal. Whether you’re cooking for yourself, family, or friends, this dish delivers bold flavors, melty cheese, and that comforting homemade feel all in one skillet. I can’t wait for you to try it and make it a staple in your rotation. Happy cooking and even happier tasting!
Print
Salsa Verde Chicken Skillet Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop and Baking
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This vibrant Salsa Verde Chicken Skillet recipe features tender chicken breasts simmered in a tangy and flavorful salsa verde sauce, topped with melted Tex-Mex cheese. A quick and easy one-pan meal with a perfect blend of spices, fresh cilantro, and lime, ideal for a delicious weeknight dinner that’s both comforting and packed with zest.
Ingredients
Chicken and Seasonings
- 4 medium chicken breasts
- 1/2 tsp garlic powder
- 1/2 tsp chili powder
- Sea salt and freshly ground black pepper, to taste
Cooking Ingredients
- 1 Tbsp olive or avocado oil
- 1 (15 ounce) jar salsa verde, or 2 cups homemade salsa verde
- 1/2 cup chicken bone broth
- 1/2 cup shredded Tex-Mex cheese blend
Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, to taste
- Fresh lime slices, to garnish
- Optional: thinly sliced scallions, to garnish
Instructions
- Preheat Oven: Preheat your oven to 400 degrees F to prepare for finishing the chicken with melted cheese.
- Season the Chicken: Sprinkle the chicken breasts evenly with garlic powder, chili powder, sea salt, and freshly ground black pepper. Rub the seasonings thoroughly into the chicken on all sides to ensure full flavor.
- Sear the Chicken: Heat the olive or avocado oil in an oven-proof skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully place the seasoned chicken breasts into the skillet. Sear each side until golden brown, about 3 minutes per side, developing a flavorful crust.
- Prepare the Sauce: Once nicely browned, transfer the chicken to a plate temporarily. Pour the chicken bone broth into the same skillet while still warm. Add the salsa verde and cook on medium heat, scraping any browned bits from the bottom of the pan to enhance the sauce’s flavor. Bring the mixture to a low simmer.
- Simmer the Chicken: Nestle the browned chicken back into the skillet, placing it into the bubbling salsa verde sauce. Let it simmer gently until the chicken is fully cooked through and the liquid sauce has reduced by at least half. During simmering, spoon the hot sauce over the chicken several times to keep it moist and flavorful.
- Add Cheese and Bake: Once the sauce has thickened and the chicken is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Sprinkle the shredded Tex-Mex cheese blend evenly over the chicken breasts. Transfer the skillet to your preheated oven and bake for 3-4 minutes, just until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
- Garnish and Serve: Carefully remove the skillet from the oven. Garnish the chicken with fresh chopped cilantro, lime slices, and optional thinly sliced scallions. Serve warm and enjoy the vibrant, cheesy salsa verde chicken.
Notes
- Using an oven-proof skillet is key for transferring from stovetop to oven seamlessly.
- Adjust chili powder amount based on your preferred spice level.
- Bone broth enhances flavor and richness but chicken broth can be used as a substitute.
- If fresh salsa verde isn’t available, jarred salsa verde works well for convenience.
- For a lower calorie option, reduce the cheese or use a low-fat cheese blend.
