If you’re searching for a dish that’s vibrant, full of flavor, and guaranteed to brighten up any meal, look no further than Easy Mexican Rice. This classic side dish is a staple for good reason: it’s fluffy, aromatic, and infused with just the right blend of tomato, spices, and fresh herbs. Whether you’re serving it alongside tacos, grilled meats, or simply enjoying it on its own, Easy Mexican Rice is the kind of recipe you’ll reach for again and again. Let’s dive in and make this delicious crowd-pleaser together!
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy Mexican Rice lies in its simple, pantry-friendly ingredients that deliver big flavor. Each component has a special role, from the aromatic base to the colorful finishing touches, making this rice as tasty as it is beautiful.
- Vegetable oil: Helps toast the rice and adds a subtle, savory richness as the base.
- Long-grain white rice: Fluffs up perfectly and absorbs all the delicious flavors without turning mushy.
- Onion, finely chopped: Infuses the rice with a gentle sweetness and aromatic depth.
- Garlic, minced: Brings a warm, savory background note that makes the whole dish pop.
- Chicken broth: Adds savory depth; swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian twist.
- Tomato sauce: Gives the rice its lovely color and tangy richness.
- Ground cumin: Delivers that earthy, unmistakable Mexican flavor.
- Chili powder: Adds just a hint of gentle heat without overpowering the dish.
- Salt: Brings all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
- Black pepper: Offers a subtle kick that rounds out the spice blend.
- Frozen peas (optional): A pop of sweetness and color if you like a little extra veggie goodness.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish: Brings a fresh, zesty finish that makes the rice irresistible.
How to Make Easy Mexican Rice
Step 1: Toast the Rice
Begin by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until the grains turn a lovely golden brown. This step is key for that nutty flavor and helps ensure your Easy Mexican Rice comes out perfectly fluffy every time.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Once the rice is toasted, stir in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about two minutes, just until the onion is soft and the kitchen smells amazing—this is when the flavors really start to build.
Step 3: Add the Liquids and Spices
Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, then sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine, making sure the spices are evenly distributed for maximum flavor in every bite.
Step 4: Simmer to Perfection
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let your Easy Mexican Rice simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and most of the liquid is absorbed. Resist the urge to peek too often—the steam is what makes the rice so light and fluffy!
Step 5: Finish and Fluff
Remove the skillet from the heat and let it rest, still covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice gently with a fork, stir in the peas if you’re using them, and give it a final sprinkle of fresh cilantro before serving. Your Easy Mexican Rice is now ready to wow everyone at the table!
How to Serve Easy Mexican Rice
Garnishes
Garnishing is the secret to making your Easy Mexican Rice look as festive as it tastes! Scatter plenty of chopped fresh cilantro on top, or add a few lime wedges on the side for a zesty squeeze. If you love a bit of heat, a sprinkle of diced jalapeño or a few slices of radish can add color and flair.
Side Dishes
Easy Mexican Rice is delicious with just about anything: pair it with refried beans and grilled chicken, tuck it into a burrito bowl, or serve it alongside your favorite tacos. It’s the perfect base for a Mexican-inspired feast and plays nicely with everything from enchiladas to carne asada.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun twist, try serving your Easy Mexican Rice in individual bowls topped with a dollop of sour cream and a sprinkle of cotija cheese, or stuff it into roasted peppers for a stunning side. You can even use leftovers as a filling for burritos or as a bed for eggs at brunch—let your imagination run wild!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Easy Mexican Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. It’s just as delicious the next day, making it a great option for meal prep or quick lunches.
Freezing
If you want to save some for later, Easy Mexican Rice freezes beautifully. Let it cool completely, portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers, and stash it in the freezer for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for best results.
Reheating
To reheat, simply add a splash of water or broth to the rice and warm it gently in a covered skillet over low heat, stirring occasionally. You can also microwave it in short bursts, fluffing with a fork in between, until it’s hot and ready to serve.
FAQs
Can I make Easy Mexican Rice vegetarian or vegan?
Absolutely! Just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and the recipe is completely vegetarian and vegan-friendly. The flavors still shine bright, and you won’t miss a thing.
Why do I need to toast the rice first?
Toasting the rice gives it a lovely nutty flavor and helps keep the grains separate, so your Easy Mexican Rice turns out fluffy rather than sticky or mushy. It’s a simple step that makes a big difference!
Can I use brown rice instead of white?
Yes, but keep in mind that brown rice requires a longer cooking time and a bit more liquid. The texture will be a bit chewier, but the flavors work just as well. Adjust the simmering time and check for doneness.
What can I add for extra flavor?
Feel free to toss in diced jalapeños, green bell peppers, or even a handful of corn when sautéing the onions. A squeeze of lime at the end or a sprinkle of cheese on top can also add a tasty twist to your Easy Mexican Rice.
Is this the same as Spanish rice?
They’re very similar! Easy Mexican Rice is often called “Spanish rice” in the US, but the key is the tomato base and seasonings. Traditional Spanish rice from Spain is actually quite different, so this recipe is a classic Mexican-American favorite.
Final Thoughts
Once you try this Easy Mexican Rice, I promise it’ll earn a permanent spot in your recipe rotation. It’s simple, satisfying, and packed with flavor—perfect for everything from quick weeknight dinners to festive gatherings. Give it a go and let it add a splash of color and taste to your next meal!
Print
Easy Mexican Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Mexican Rice recipe features fluffy, golden rice cooked with aromatic spices, tomato sauce, and a hint of garlic and onion. Perfect as a flavorful side dish, it can be enjoyed on its own or alongside your favorite Mexican meals. With simple ingredients and stovetop preparation, it’s a quick and satisfying addition to any dinner.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 3/4 cups chicken broth
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Optional Ingredients
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped for garnish
Instructions
- Heat the Oil and Toast Rice: Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add rice and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice turns a golden brown color, about 5 minutes. This step adds a nutty flavor and helps the rice stay fluffy.
- Sauté Onion and Garlic: Stir in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic into the skillet with the rice. Cook for an additional 2 minutes until the mixture is fragrant and the onions become translucent.
- Add Liquids and Spices: Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, then add the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Stir well to combine all the ingredients evenly.
- Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and let it simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes. Cook until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Rest and Fluff: Remove the skillet from the heat and keep it covered for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and settle. Then fluff the rice gently with a fork.
- Add Peas and Garnish: If using, stir in the frozen peas to warm through. Garnish the rice with freshly chopped cilantro before serving to add a fresh and vibrant flavor.
Notes
- For extra flavor, add diced jalapeño or green bell pepper when cooking the onion.
- You can substitute vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
- Leftovers reheat well and can be frozen for up to 2 months.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop, Simmering
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 3 g
- Sodium: 470 mg
- Fat: 7 g
- Saturated Fat: 1 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 33 g
- Fiber: 2 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 0 mg
