This Easy Mexican Rice Recipe is the side dish that can instantly transform any meal into a true fiesta! Fluffy, vibrant, and bursting with savory flavor, this recipe combines humble pantry staples into a restaurant-worthy rice that’s as easy to make as it is irresistible. Whether you’re making tacos, grilled chicken, or a vegetarian dinner, you’ll want this colorful, tomato-kissed rice on your plate.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Great food starts with great ingredients, and this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe proves it! Every simple item in this lineup brings something special to the table, from taste and color to the perfect fluffy texture.
- Long grain white rice: A must for classic fluffiness and separate grains that soak up all the flavor.
- Vegetable oil: Helps toast the rice and gives it a lovely golden touch.
- Finely chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth, laying a savory foundation for the rice.
- Minced garlic: Brightens up every bite with aromatic zing.
- Chicken broth: Rich and savory—infuses the rice with delicious flavor (swap for veggie broth to keep it vegetarian).
- Tomato sauce: Lends color, moisture, and a gentle, tangy sweetness.
- Ground cumin: Earthy and warm, this spice brings that unmistakable Mexican-style aroma.
- Chili powder: For a subtle smokiness and mild heat, perfectly balanced for all palates.
- Salt: Enhances all those wonderful flavors.
- Chopped fresh cilantro (optional): A sprinkle of freshness and classic Mexican flair.
- Lime wedges for serving (optional): Squeeze over just before eating for an irresistible zing!
How to Make Easy Mexican Rice Recipe
Step 1: Toast the Rice to Golden Perfection
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and stir it frequently for four to five minutes, until the grains turn lightly golden and fragrance fills your kitchen. Toasting the rice is that special touch that makes this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe extra flavorful and guarantees fluffiness!
Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic
With the rice now perfectly toasted, toss in the finely chopped onion and garlic. Sauté for another one to two minutes, just until the onion softens and the garlic becomes fragrant. This step unlocks a depth of taste that makes each bite so satisfying.
Step 3: Simmer With Flavorful Liquids
Next, stir in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Give everything a good stir to make sure the flavors meld together. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, letting the colors and aromas fully develop. You’ll see just how quickly the Easy Mexican Rice Recipe comes together!
Step 4: Cover and Cook Until Tender
Reduce the heat to low, cover your saucepan, and let the rice simmer for eighteen to twenty minutes. This gentle cooking allows the rice to absorb all those delicious flavors while staying perfectly tender. You’ll know it’s done when the liquid has been absorbed and the rice looks fluffy.
Step 5: Rest, Fluff, and Finish
Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, still covered, for five minutes. This little rest period is essential to lock in moisture and ensure every grain is tender. Then, fluff the rice with a fork, stir in fresh cilantro if you like, and get ready to enjoy your homemade Easy Mexican Rice Recipe.
How to Serve Easy Mexican Rice Recipe
Garnishes
The finishing touches matter! Sprinkle fresh cilantro over the top for an herby burst, and serve with lime wedges so everyone can add a fresh squeeze of citrus. Both bring brightness and a pop of color to your Easy Mexican Rice Recipe.
Side Dishes
This recipe is a natural fit alongside your favorite Mexican mains. Pair it with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats for a complete meal. It’s also an excellent partner for beans, roasted vegetables, or even hearty salads if you’re keeping things vegetarian.
Creative Ways to Present
Make your Easy Mexican Rice Recipe the star of a burrito bowl, stuff it inside bell peppers, or layer it into a casserole with cheese for a show-stopping twist. The rice also works beautifully as a base for a “make your own taco” bar at parties!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
If you have leftovers (lucky you!), let the rice cool completely before transferring to an airtight container. It will stay fresh in the refrigerator for up to four days—perfect for meal prep or a speedy side on busy nights.
Freezing
The Easy Mexican Rice Recipe freezes like a dream! Just portion cooled rice into freezer-safe bags or containers. Flattening the bags helps with quick thawing. You can freeze for up to two months; just be sure to label with the date for best quality.
Reheating
Rewarm refrigerated or thawed rice in the microwave or in a saucepan with a splash of broth or water to restore its fluffiness. Stir occasionally and cover to ensure it heats evenly without drying out. In just a few minutes, it’ll be as good as freshly made!
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Absolutely! Brown rice adds a nuttier flavor and more fiber, but keep in mind it will need more liquid and a longer cook time. Just adjust your cooking accordingly for equally delicious results.
Is the Easy Mexican Rice Recipe spicy?
This version is mild enough for all palates, thanks to a gentle sprinkle of chili powder. If you like more heat, feel free to add an extra pinch—or serve with hot sauce at the table.
How do I keep the rice from turning mushy?
To achieve the perfect fluffy texture, be sure to toast the rice until golden and measure your liquid accurately. Avoid stirring while it simmers covered, and let it rest after cooking for best results.
Can I make this recipe vegetarian or vegan?
Yes! Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth, and you’ve got a delicious vegetarian (and vegan) side dish that won’t compromise on taste.
Why do you let the rice rest before serving?
Resting allows any remaining steam to finish cooking the rice and evens out moisture, producing that light, fluffy result that makes this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe a standout.
Final Thoughts
Now that you know all the secrets to this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe, I hope you’re ready to bring bold flavor, color, and joy into your kitchen. It’s truly a dish that makes every meal feel festive—so grab your pan and let’s make something delicious tonight!
Print
Easy Mexican Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Mexican Rice recipe is a flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Mexican dishes. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy delicious homemade rice in no time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional:
- 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
- lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat Oil and Cook Rice: In a medium saucepan, heat vegetable oil over medium heat. Add rice and cook for 4–5 minutes until golden.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Add chopped onion and minced garlic, sauté until fragrant.
- Add Ingredients and Simmer: Stir in chicken broth, tomato sauce, cumin, chili powder, and salt. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered for 18–20 minutes.
- Finish and Serve: Remove from heat, let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, stir in cilantro, and serve with lime wedges if desired.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- This rice complements dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 330mg
- Fat: 7g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 33g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 3g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
