Indulge in the vibrant flavors of salsa verde chicken, a dish that combines tender chicken with a zesty green sauce made from tomatillos, cilantro, and lime. This recipe is not just delicious but also easy to prepare, making it ideal for both weeknight dinners and special occasions. Serve it with rice or tortillas for a complete meal that will impress everyone at your table!
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and the cooking time is approximately 40 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Each serving (one piece of chicken) contains approximately 250 calories, 20g protein, 18g fat, and 5g carbohydrates. This is based on serving one chicken piece with salsa verde.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken pieces.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Pour salsa verde over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to let the top crisp up.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with boneless chicken breasts for a leaner option. If you prefer a milder sauce, use a green sauce without jalapeños.
Serving and Pairings
Serve salsa verde chicken with warm tortillas, rice, or a simple side salad. It pairs beautifully with black beans and avocado for a complete meal.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the oven or microwave until heated through. This dish can also be frozen for up to 2 months; just thaw before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry, so monitor the cooking time.
- Not seasoning the chicken properly can result in bland flavors.
- Using too much salsa verde may overpower the chicken’s flavor.
- Skipping the searing step can lead to less crispy skin.
- Not allowing the chicken to rest after cooking can lead to juices running out.
Helpful Tips
- Use fresh ingredients for the best flavor.
- Let the chicken marinate for a few hours for enhanced taste.
- Adjust the spice level by choosing mild or hot salsa verde.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime for added freshness.
FAQs
Can I use other meats for this recipe?
Yes, you can use pork or turkey in place of chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly to ensure the meat is fully cooked.
Can I make salsa verde from scratch?
Absolutely! Blend tomatillos, jalapeños, onion, garlic, and cilantro for a homemade version.
Is this recipe spicy?
The spice level depends on the salsa verde you use. Opt for mild salsa for less heat.
Can I grill the chicken instead of baking?
Yes, grilling is a great alternative! Just marinate and grill the chicken until fully cooked.
How do I know when the chicken is done?
The internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Use a meat thermometer for accuracy.
Conclusion
Salsa verde chicken is a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor to your dinner table. With its easy preparation and vibrant ingredients, it’s perfect for both casual meals and festive gatherings. Enjoy this tasty recipe and impress your family and friends!
Salsa Verde Chicken
Ingredients
- 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1 cup salsa verde
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro for garnish
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
- Pat the chicken dry with paper towels.
- In a bowl, mix olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, salt, and pepper.
- Rub the mixture all over the chicken pieces.
- Heat a skillet over medium-high heat and sear the chicken for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown.
- Transfer the chicken to a baking dish.
- Pour salsa verde over the chicken, ensuring it is well-coated.
- Cover the dish with aluminum foil.
- Bake in the preheated oven for 25 minutes.
- Remove the foil and bake for an additional 15 minutes to let the top crisp up.
