Next, once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the skillet, and set it aside. In that same skillet, pour in the rice and toast it for a couple of minutes. This step enhances the flavor dramatically! Then, add the salsa and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything well. Return the chicken to the skillet, nestling it among the rice, and bring the mixture to a boil. After it starts bubbling, reduce the heat to low and cover the skillet. Let it simmer for about 20 minutes or until the rice is tender and has absorbed all that liquid.
Once the rice is cooked, take off the lid and sprinkle the shredded cheese on top. Cover the skillet again for a couple of minutes until the cheese melts into a deliciously gooey layer. The sight of molten cheese stretching as you serve it is bound to make your mouth water! Finish it off with a sprinkle of fresh cilantro if you’re feeling fancy.
Pro Tips for Best Results
I’ve made this dish multiple times, and here are a few pro tips from my own experience. First, I’ve tested using different types of rice—brown rice, basmati, you name it. Just keep in mind that cooking times may vary. For this recipe, long-grain white rice really does yield the best texture and flavor, keeping everything nice and fluffy.
Second, don’t skip toasting the rice! This step adds a depth of flavor that takes the whole dish to another level. The nutty aroma wafting through my kitchen while the rice toasts is just as important as the end result!
Lastly, for an extra kick, consider adding a jalapeño or some chili powder into the mix. I’ve done this on nights when I want a little heat, and it elevates the dish beautifully.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
When I first started making Cheese Salsa Chicken & Rice Skillet, I made a couple of mistakes that I wish I had avoided. One major error was cooking the chicken too long. Overcooked chicken can become dry and tough, which we absolutely want to avoid. Make sure to keep an eye on it and remove it as soon as it reaches that perfect, juicy state. (See the next page below to continue…)