Name: Easy Mexican Rice Recipe
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 25 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 2 tablespoons vegetable oil; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 small onion, finely diced; 1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce; 2 cups chicken broth; 1 teaspoon chili powder; ½ teaspoon cumin; ½ teaspoon salt; ¼ teaspoon black pepper; ½ cup frozen peas and carrots; Chopped fresh cilantro

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If you’re craving the warm, savory flavors of a Mexican restaurant side but want something you can whip up at home in less than 30 minutes, this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe is the one to keep in your back pocket. Fluffy grains of perfectly seasoned rice, a subtle tomato tang, and gentle hints of garlic and warming spices come together in a stovetop skillet for a dish that’s just as good on busy weeknights as it is for festive gatherings. Whether you serve it alongside tacos, grilled chicken, or simply enjoy a bowl on its own, this recipe delivers all the classic flavor and comfort you love in every single bite.

Ingredients You’ll Need

Gather your ingredients and you’ll see why this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe is a favorite for home cooks: simple pantry staples, everyday veggies, and a handful of bold spices make for a dish that’s anything but ordinary. Each ingredient plays a key role in flavor, color, or that crave-worthy texture everyone loves.

Vegetable oil: Gives the rice a golden, slightly toasted finish and prevents sticking.
Long-grain white rice: The foundation of this dish—fluffy and separate, soaking up all those amazing flavors.
Garlic: Adds depth and a lovely aromatic base—freshly minced for the best punch.
Onion: Brings sweetness and a savory backbone to balance the tomato and spices.
Canned tomato sauce: The secret to that classic color and gentle tang present in every great Mexican rice.
Chicken broth: Infuses the rice with a rich, savory flavor (swap for vegetable broth for a vegetarian version).
Chili powder: Offers a gentle warmth and a pop of color—don’t worry, it’s flavorful but not spicy!
Cumin: Delivers earthiness and depth, making the rice taste truly authentic.
Salt: Essential to round out all the flavors—taste and adjust to your liking.
Black pepper: Adds a subtle kick without overpowering the other spices.
Frozen peas and carrots (optional): Sprinkle in for a burst of color, nutrition, and sweetness—especially if you love veggies!
Fresh cilantro: A finishing garnish that livens up every serving with color and bright herbal flavor.

How to Make Easy Mexican Rice Recipe

Step 1: Toast the Rice

Start off by heating the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the long-grain white rice and stir frequently to toast it evenly. You’ll notice the grains slowly turning a pale golden color—this step deepens the flavor and keeps the rice wonderfully fluffy in the finished dish. After about 4 to 5 minutes, your kitchen should be filled with a delicious, nutty aroma.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Once the rice is lightly golden, stir in the minced garlic and finely diced onion. Let them cook together for 1 to 2 minutes, just until the onion becomes soft and the garlic’s fragrance fills the skillet. This quick sauté lays a delicious foundation and ensures every bite of rice is layered with flavor.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Spices

Pour the tomato sauce and chicken broth right into the skillet, letting them mingle with the toasty rice. Stir in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and black pepper to warm everything up with classic Mexican-inspired flavors. Give everything a gentle stir so the seasonings are evenly distributed, and bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer to Perfection

Once the rice begins to boil, reduce the heat all the way down to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes, resisting the urge to peek so the steam works its magic. In the last 5 minutes, sprinkle in the frozen peas and carrots if you’re using them, giving the dish a nutritious, colorful lift.

Step 5: Finish and Fluff

Turn off the heat and let the skillet sit (covered) for a few minutes to ensure every last bit of moisture is absorbed. Then, fluff the rice with a fork, releasing steam and separating the grains. Top each serving with a generous sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro, and your Easy Mexican Rice Recipe is ready to enjoy!

How to Serve Easy Mexican Rice Recipe

Garnishes

A sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro is the traditional finishing touch for this rice, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Try adding a squeeze of lime, a few slices of fresh jalapeño, or even a crumble of cotija cheese for a flavorful twist. These simple garnishes add color and brighten the whole dish.

Side Dishes

This Easy Mexican Rice Recipe is a superstar side alongside classic Mexican mains. Pile it next to enchiladas, tuck it into burritos, or offer it with tacos and grilled chicken. The flavors are so versatile that it even works as a bed for roasted vegetables or spicy shrimp, making it a wonderful addition to any meal.

Creative Ways to Present

For something fun and festive, spoon your rice into individual serving bowls or ramekins and garnish each with a cilantro sprig. You can also press it into a measuring cup and invert for a neat, molded look. For family-style meals, try layering it in a colorful platter, lined with lime wedges for extra flair.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Got leftovers? Store your Easy Mexican Rice Recipe in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors become even richer as they meld, making this the kind of dish you’ll look forward to enjoying again and again.

Freezing

This rice freezes beautifully! Allow it to cool completely before transferring to freezer-safe bags or containers. Try to press out as much air as possible—this helps prevent freezer burn and keeps your rice tasting fresh for up to 2 months.

Reheating

For the best results, reheat your rice in a skillet over low heat with a splash of chicken broth or water to restore moisture. You can also microwave it, covering loosely and stirring halfway through so it reheats evenly and stays fluffy.

FAQs

Can I make this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe vegetarian?

Absolutely! Simply swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth. The rice will still turn out deliciously savory and is perfect for anyone following a vegetarian diet.

My rice turned out mushy—what went wrong?

Mushy rice usually means there was too much liquid or the rice was cooked for too long. Keep a tight lid on the skillet to trap the steam, and try not to stir while it simmers. Stick to the cooking time for light, fluffy results.

Do I have to use tomato sauce or can I substitute it?

Tomato sauce gives the Easy Mexican Rice Recipe its signature flavor and beautiful color, but you can use tomato puree or even diced tomatoes (blended until smooth) if needed. Just keep the amount similar so the texture stays just right.

Is this rice recipe spicy?

As written, this dish is flavorful but very mild. You can personalize the heat by adding a diced jalapeño while sautéing the onion and garlic, or simply serve with hot sauce for those who crave extra spice.

Can I double this recipe for a crowd?

Definitely! Just double all the ingredients and use a large pot or Dutch oven to ensure even cooking. Give it a few extra minutes to simmer if needed, and you’ll have plenty to feed your hungry guests.

Final Thoughts

Whenever you’re in need of a quick side dish that brings everyone to the table, this Easy Mexican Rice Recipe never fails to please. Give it a try and see why it’s become a staple in so many kitchens—you might just find it’s your new go-to for weeknight dinners and family celebrations alike!

Easy Mexican Rice Recipe

5 Stars 4 Stars 3 Stars 2 Stars 1 Star

4.7 from 9 reviews

Author: admin
Total Time: 25 minutes
Yield: 4 servings 1x
Diet: Non-Vegetarian

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Description

This Easy Mexican Rice recipe is a flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Mexican meals. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy delicious homemade rice in no time.

Ingredients

Scale

Main Ingredients:

2 tablespoons vegetable oil
1 cup long-grain white rice

Seasonings:

2 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely diced
1 (8-ounce) can tomato sauce
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon chili powder
½ teaspoon cumin
½ teaspoon salt
¼ teaspoon black pepper

Optional:

½ cup frozen peas and carrots

Garnish:

Chopped fresh cilantro

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Instructions

Toast Rice: In a large skillet over medium heat, heat vegetable oil. Add rice and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly golden brown, about 4 to 5 minutes.
Saute Aromatics: Add garlic and onion, cooking for 1 to 2 minutes until softened and fragrant.
Add Ingredients: Stir in tomato sauce, chicken broth, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 to 20 minutes, until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
Finish and Garnish: If using peas and carrots, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. Remove from heat, fluff with a fork, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.