Easy Mexican Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Mexican Rice is fluffy, flavorful, and the perfect side dish for all your favorite Mexican meals. Made with simple pantry staples like rice, tomato sauce, broth, and spices, it’s ready in under 30 minutes and tastes just like restaurant-style rice. Serve it with tacos, enchiladas, or fajitas for a complete meal!

ingredients

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

long-grain white rice vegetable or chicken broth tomato sauce or diced tomatoes onion garlic cloves olive oil ground cumin chili powder salt and pepper chopped fresh cilantro (optional)

directions

Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly golden.

Add chopped onion and minced garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until fragrant.

Stir in the tomato sauce, broth, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.

Garnish with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe serves about 4-6.Preparation time: 5 minutesCooking time: 25 minutesTotal time: 30 minutes

Variations

Add peas, corn, or diced carrots for extra veggies.

Use fire-roasted tomatoes for a smoky twist.

Mix in a squeeze of lime juice for brightness.

Top with shredded cheese for extra flavor.

storage/reheating

Store Easy Mexican Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth to keep it moist.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid as needed—brown rice takes longer.

Why toast the rice first?

Toasting adds a nutty flavor and helps keep the grains separate.

Can I make it ahead of time?

Absolutely! It reheats well for meal prep.

Can I make it spicy?

Add diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne for heat.

What’s the best rice to use?

Long-grain white rice gives the fluffiest texture.

Conclusion

Easy Mexican Rice is a simple, delicious side that brings restaurant-style flavor to your table in no time. Perfect for any Mexican-inspired meal, this fluffy, savory rice will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Make it once and you’ll never want the boxed version again!

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