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Salsa Verde Chicken

Salsa Verde Chicken

Melena
Bright, tangy, and packed with flavor, Salsa Verde Chicken is a versatile, weeknight-friendly dish that turns simple ingredients into a comforting, vibrant meal. Tender chicken simmers in a fresh tomatillo and cilantro sauce with a hint of heat from jalapeños, delivering a satisfying balance of zesty, savory, and fresh flavors. Perfect over rice, in tacos, or as a meal-prep staple, this recipe brings restaurant-quality taste to your kitchen with minimal effort.
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes

Ingredients
  

  • For the Salsa Verde:
  • 8 –10 tomatillos husked and rinsed
  • 1 –2 jalapeños or serrano peppers adjust for heat
  • 1 small onion quartered
  • 2 cloves garlic
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro leaves
  • Juice of 1 lime
  • 1/4 –1/2 cup chicken broth
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: 1 roasted poblano pepper for smoky flavor
  • For the Chicken:
  • 2 –3 boneless skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: Mexican oregano for added depth
  • Toppings & Garnishes:
  • Fresh cilantro
  • Lime wedges
  • Avocado slices
  • Crumbled queso fresco

Instructions
 

  • Roast or Boil the Salsa Ingredients:
  • Roast tomatillos, peppers, onion, and garlic at 400°F (200°C) for 10–12 minutes until softened and slightly caramelized.
  • Alternatively, boil for 5–7 minutes for a lighter version.
  • Blend the Salsa Verde:
  • Combine roasted or boiled ingredients in a blender with cilantro, lime juice, salt, and broth.
  • Blend until smooth and bright green. Adjust spiciness by removing seeds or adding more peppers.
  • Cook the Chicken:
  • Skillet: Sear chicken lightly on both sides until golden and cooked through (165°F internal).
  • Slow Cooker: Add chicken to the slow cooker, pour salsa over, and cook 4–6 hours on low.
  • Oven: Bake chicken covered with salsa at 375°F (190°C) for 25–30 minutes.
  • Simmer Chicken in Salsa Verde:
  • Allow chicken to cook in the sauce to absorb flavors.
  • Adjust thickness: add broth for thinner sauce or simmer uncovered for thicker sauce.
  • Serve and Garnish:
  • Top with fresh cilantro, lime wedges, avocado slices, and crumbled queso fresco.
  • Serve over rice, in tortillas, or over cauliflower rice for a low-carb option.

Notes

  • Adjust Heat: Add more serrano peppers for spice or remove seeds for mildness.
  • Use Fresh Ingredients: Fresh tomatillos and cilantro make a noticeable difference in flavor.
  • Avoid Overcooking: Especially with chicken breasts in slow cookers—check early to prevent dryness.
  • Enhance Texture: Toppings like cheese, avocado, or crisp vegetables elevate the dish.