If you have ever craved vibrant, flavorful rice that pairs perfectly with tacos, grilled meats, or a simple avocado salad, this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. Bursting with savory tomato, hints of cumin and chili powder, and just the right amount of aromatic garlic and onion, this dish transforms plain rice into a festive, colorful staple that’s surprisingly simple to prepare. Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is a reliable, crowd-pleasing side that brings a burst of authentic Mexican flair to your table every time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe lies in its straightforward ingredient list that you most likely already have on hand. Each component plays a crucial role, from the long-grain rice that roasts to fluffy perfection, to the tomato base which infuses the dish with its iconic hue and mild tang. The spices add warm, smoky undertones, while fresh cilantro brightens the final result, making every single ingredient essential for that perfect balance of flavor and texture.
- 1 cup white long-grain rice: The canvas of this dish; it toasts up beautifully for a delightfully nutty flavor.
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or 1 cup diced tomatoes: Adds moisture and that signature vibrant color—adjust liquids if using diced.
- 1 small onion, finely chopped: Brings a subtle sweetness and aromatic depth when sautéed.
- 2 cloves garlic, minced: Infuses a warm, savory note that is absolutely indispensable here.
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth: The cooking liquid that steeps the rice with flavor and keeps it tender.
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin: Gives the rice its earthy, slightly smoky backbone.
- 1 teaspoon chili powder: Delivers a gentle heat and complexity, balancing the tomatoes.
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive): Ensures those rice grains get perfectly toasted without sticking.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Enhances every element and rounds out the flavors beautifully.
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish): Adds a crisp, bright touch just before serving.
- Diced jalapeños or hot sauce (for extra spice): Optional, for those who like to turn up the heat.
- Chopped bell peppers, corn, or peas (for extra veggies): Fantastic additions to boost color and nutrition.
- Shredded cheese (to stir in before serving): A melty indulgence that can make this rice extra comforting.
- Brown rice (substitute): Use if you prefer; just remember to adjust cooking time and broth accordingly.
How to Make Easy Mexican Rice Recipe
Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics
Start by heating your oil over medium heat in a medium skillet. Toss in the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, letting them soften and release their fragrance for about 3 to 4 minutes. This is a key step to build that irresistible base flavor that makes this rice so comforting and inviting.
Step 2: Toast the Rice
Next, add the white long-grain rice directly to the skillet. Stir it around to coat each grain with the oil and softened aromatics. Toast the rice gently for about 3 to 4 minutes until it starts to turn a lovely golden color. This technique enhances the rice’s texture and infuses it with a subtle nuttiness that makes every bite so satisfying.
Step 3: Add Tomato and Spices
Pour in your tomato sauce or diced tomatoes, and sprinkle in the ground cumin and chili powder. Stir everything thoroughly so the rice soaks up all those vibrant flavors and becomes infused with that deliciously familiar warm, slightly spicy essence. This step brings the dish’s signature color and taste into full bloom.
Step 4: Pour in Broth and Simmer
Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the skillet, followed by a pinch of salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a lively boil, then lower the heat to a gentle simmer. Cover the skillet tightly and allow it to cook quietly for 15 to 20 minutes, or until the rice has absorbed all the liquid and cooked through perfectly tender. This slow simmer is crucial to developing that light yet fluffy texture.
Step 5: Fluff and Garnish
Once the cooking time is up, remove the skillet from the heat. Use a fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains without mashing. Finally, stir in fresh chopped cilantro for a burst of brightness that lifts the entire dish and gives it an authentic Mexican finish.
How to Serve Easy Mexican Rice Recipe
Garnishes
A sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro is a classic choice that adds a pop of color and refreshment. If you like a spicy kick, diced jalapeños or a dash of hot sauce can elevate the heat. For a creamy twist, try stirring in a bit of shredded cheese just before serving—it melts beautifully and adds a rich texture.
Side Dishes
This rice pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, carne asada, or fish tacos. It also makes a fantastic partner to beans and guacamole for a hearty vegetarian meal. Think of it as your flavorful base that complements and enhances whatever main course you choose.
Creative Ways to Present
For a festive touch, serve your Easy Mexican Rice Recipe in hollowed-out bell peppers or alongside colorful roasted vegetables. You could even layer it in a casserole with beans and cheese for a family-friendly bake. The possibilities to get creative with presentation are endless and always delicious.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
This rice keeps beautifully in the fridge for up to four days. Store it in an airtight container to preserve moisture and flavor. It’s a fantastic option for meal prepping since the flavors actually mellow and blend even more with time.
Freezing
If you want to keep your Easy Mexican Rice Recipe longer, freezing is a great way to go. Just be sure to cool the rice completely before transferring it to freezer-safe bags or containers. It will stay good for up to three months, perfect for those busy days when you need a quick, flavorful side.
Reheating
Reheat refrigerated or frozen rice in a skillet with a splash of water or broth to revive its fluffy texture. Cover the pan while warming to trap steam and prevent the rice from drying out. Microwave works too—just add a little extra moisture and cover it.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice in this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe?
Absolutely! Brown rice can be swapped in for white, but keep in mind it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time—roughly 40 to 45 minutes. Adjust broth amounts accordingly to keep the rice tender and flavorful.
What can I add to make this rice spicier?
Add diced jalapeños during the sauté step or stir in a few dashes of your favorite hot sauce before serving. You can also sprinkle some cayenne pepper or increase the chili powder slightly for more heat.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe is naturally gluten-free as long as you use gluten-free broth and spices. It’s a safe and delicious option for anyone avoiding gluten.
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Definitely! Just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and skip adding cheese or use a vegan cheese alternative. The rice will still be bursting with flavor and make a perfect vegan side dish.
What should I do if my rice turns out mushy?
Mushy rice usually means there was too much liquid or it cooked for too long. Next time, try reducing broth slightly or shortening cooking time. Toasting the rice well before adding liquid also helps maintain its texture.
Final Thoughts
There is something so joyful about bringing this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe to your table. It’s more than just a side—it’s a burst of comforting flavor that instantly elevates any meal. If you’re looking for a simple, delicious way to add some spice and color to your cooking routine, give this recipe a try. You might just find it becomes a cherished favorite for all your Mexican-inspired feasts!
Print
Easy Mexican Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Description
This Easy Mexican Rice recipe delivers a flavorful, vibrant side dish ready in just 30 minutes. Toasted rice is simmered with tomato sauce, aromatic onions, garlic, and classic spices like cumin and chili powder, then garnished with fresh cilantro for an authentic taste of Mexico. Perfect as a side to Mexican entrees or enjoyed on its own.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup white long-grain rice
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce or 1 cup diced tomatoes (adjust liquid if using diced)
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable or olive)
- Salt and pepper to taste
Optional Garnishes and Add-ins
- 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Diced jalapeños or hot sauce (for extra spice)
- Chopped bell peppers, corn, or peas (for extra veggies)
- Shredded cheese (to stir in before serving)
- Brown rice (substitute, adjust cooking time and broth accordingly)
Instructions
- Sauté the Aromatics: Heat oil in a medium skillet over medium heat. Add the finely chopped onion and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This releases the deep flavors foundational to the dish.
- Toast the Rice: Add the white rice to the skillet and stir to coat each grain with the oil and aromatics. Toast the rice for about 3-4 minutes, stirring frequently until it turns slightly golden. This step improves texture and flavor.
- Add Tomato and Spices: Pour in the tomato sauce or diced tomatoes along with the ground cumin and chili powder. Stir well to combine, allowing the rice to absorb the tomato base and spices.
- Pour in Broth and Simmer: Add the chicken or vegetable broth to the skillet. Season with salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer gently for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff and Garnish: Remove the skillet from heat. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate grains. Stir in chopped fresh cilantro for a bright, fresh finish before serving. Add optional garnishes or mix-ins if desired.
Notes
- If using diced tomatoes instead of tomato sauce, adjust the amount of broth to maintain proper liquid ratio.
- For extra spice, add diced jalapeños or hot sauce to taste.
- To add more veggies, incorporate chopped bell peppers, corn, or peas along with the aromatics.
- Stir in shredded cheese after cooking for a creamy texture.
- Brown rice can be substituted but requires longer cooking time and more broth (about 2.5 cups broth and 40-45 minutes simmer).
