Are you ready to elevate your weeknight dinners? This salsa verde chicken recipe is a delightful blend of juicy chicken thighs simmered in a tangy, green salsa made from tomatillos and fresh herbs. Bursting with flavor, this dish is not only easy to prepare but also a crowd-pleaser. Perfect for taco nights or served over rice, it’s a versatile recipe that will have everyone coming back for seconds!
Ingredients
– 4 chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
– 2 cups salsa verde (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro for garnish
– Lime wedges for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is about 10 minutes, with a cooking time of approximately 30 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (1 chicken thigh with salsa) contains approximately:
– Calories: 290
– Protein: 24g
– Carbohydrates: 8g
– Fat: 18g
– Fiber: 2g
Note: Nutritional values are for one person.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
3. Season the chicken with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
4. Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
5. Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
6. Flip the chicken and pour salsa verde over the top.
7. Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
9. Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes.
10. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.
Alternative Ingredients
If you prefer, you can substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option. Additionally, homemade salsa verde can be made using roasted tomatillos, jalapeños, and fresh herbs for a personalized touch.
Serving and Pairings
This salsa verde chicken pairs beautifully with warm tortillas, rice, or a fresh salad. Consider serving it alongside black beans or corn for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm in the oven or microwave until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 3 months; just thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
– Don’t skip the searing step; it adds flavor.
– Avoid overcrowding the skillet; cook in batches if necessary.
– Use a meat thermometer to ensure proper cooking.
– Let the chicken rest after baking to retain juices.
– Don’t forget to season the chicken well before cooking.
Helpful Tips
– For extra flavor, marinate the chicken in salsa verde for a few hours.
– Use fresh herbs for garnish to brighten the dish.
– Consider adding black beans into the salsa for extra protein.
– Experiment with different types of salsa verde for varied flavors.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, chicken breasts can be used; however, they may require less cooking time and can dry out more easily. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F.
How can I make this dish spicy?
You can add diced jalapeños to the salsa verde or serve with a hot sauce of your choice for an extra kick.
Is salsa verde chicken healthy?
This dish is relatively healthy, as it is high in protein and can be served with nutritious sides like salads or whole grains.
Can I make this ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the chicken and salsa verde in advance. Store them separately and combine before serving.
What can I serve with salsa verde chicken?
This dish pairs well with rice, tortillas, black beans, or a fresh green salad for a balanced meal.
Conclusion
Salsa verde chicken is a delightful recipe that’s sure to impress your family and friends. With its vibrant flavors and easy preparation, it’s perfect for any occasion. Enjoy this dish with your favorite sides, and watch it become a staple in your cooking repertoire!
Salsa Verde Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs bone-in and skin-on
- 2 cups salsa verde
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C).
- Pat the chicken thighs dry with paper towels.
- Season the chicken with cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper.
- Heat olive oil in a large oven-safe skillet over medium-high heat.
- Sear the chicken thighs skin-side down for 5-7 minutes until golden brown.
- Flip the chicken and pour salsa verde over the top.
- Transfer the skillet to the preheated oven.
- Bake for 20-25 minutes until the chicken is cooked through (internal temperature of 165°F).
- Remove from the oven and let rest for a few minutes.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve with lime wedges.