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Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Bowls

A quick weeknight bowl featuring tender chicken poached in bright salsa verde, served over fluffy rice with beans, corn, avocado, and a tangy yogurt drizzle.
Prep Time15 minutes
Cook Time20 minutes
Total Time35 minutes
Servings: 4

Ingredients

For the Chicken

  • 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken breasts
  • 1 cup salsa verde (mild or medium)
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp lime zest (about 1 lime)
  • 1 clove garlic, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1/2 tsp kosher salt
  • 1/4 tsp freshly ground black pepper

Bowl Components

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, uncooked
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup frozen corn, thawed
  • 1 medium avocado, sliced
  • 1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
  • 1 whole lime, juiced
  • 1/2 tsp salt (for rice)

Yogurt Drizzle

  • 1/2 cup plain Greek yogurt
  • 2 tbsp extra salsa verde (to thin the yogurt)

Instructions

Preparation Steps

  • Start the rice: rinse the uncooked rice until the water runs clear. Combine the rice, 1 3/4 cups water and 1/2 tsp salt in a small saucepan. Bring to a boil, reduce to low, cover and simmer 15 minutes. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, 5 minutes while you prepare the rest.
  • Season and sear the chicken: pat the chicken dry and rub with olive oil, cumin, lime zest, minced garlic, 1/2 tsp salt and black pepper. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the breasts 2 minutes per side until lightly golden to build flavor.
  • Poach in salsa verde: pour 1 cup salsa verde into the skillet with the seared chicken, bring to a gentle simmer, then cover and cook 10–12 minutes, or until internal temperature reaches 165°F. Reduce heat if the salsa is bubbling too vigorously.
  • Shred and finish the chicken: transfer chicken to a cutting board and let rest 3 minutes. Shred with two forks, then return shredded chicken to the skillet and stir into the salsa for 2–3 minutes to let the sauce reduce and cling to the meat.
  • Warm the beans and corn: while the chicken finishes, place the drained beans and thawed corn in a small saucepan with a squeeze of lime juice and a pinch of salt. Heat over medium until warmed through, about 3–4 minutes.
  • Make the yogurt drizzle: whisk the Greek yogurt with the extra 2 tablespoons salsa verde until smooth and spoonable. Taste and add a squeeze of lime if you like it tangier.
  • Assemble the bowls: divide the cooked rice among four bowls. Top each with a portion of shredded salsa verde chicken, warmed black beans and corn, sliced avocado, a sprinkle of cheese and chopped cilantro.
  • Finish and serve: dollop the yogurt drizzle over each bowl, squeeze remaining lime juice overtop if desired, and serve immediately.

Notes

Tip: Make the shredded chicken a day ahead and refrigerate in its salsa — reheating keeps it extra flavorful. For a bit of crunch, top bowls with chopped toasted pepitas right before serving.
This recipe is an original creation inspired by classic Easy Salsa Verde Chicken Bowls flavors. All ingredient ratios and instructions are independently developed.