If you’ve ever wished you could bring the vibrant flavors of your favorite Mexican restaurant right to your own table, this Easy Mexican Rice is for you! This recipe delivers fluffy, perfectly seasoned rice with a gorgeous color and just the right hint of tomato and spice. Whether you’re serving it alongside tacos, burritos, or simply enjoying it on its own, Easy Mexican Rice is a personal staple that always brings a festive flair and irresistible aroma to any meal.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The magic of Easy Mexican Rice lies in its simple, everyday ingredients—each one pulling its weight to create something so much greater than the sum of its parts. Here’s why every item in this lineup matters and how it helps you nail that signature flavor and texture.
- Vegetable oil: Gives the rice a toasty flavor and keeps the grains separate and fluffy.
- Long grain white rice: The classic choice for light, non-sticky texture—perfect for soaking up those delicious seasonings!
- Finely chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth, making the base wonderfully savory.
- Minced garlic: Brings a warm, aromatic punch that makes every bite sing.
- Chicken broth (or vegetable broth): Infuses the rice with rich, savory flavor; use veggie broth for a vegetarian twist.
- Tomato sauce: Creates that signature reddish hue and subtle tang you know and love in Easy Mexican Rice.
- Ground cumin: Lends earthy, smoky undertones that round out the spices beautifully.
- Chili powder: Adds a gentle heat and a depth of flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- Salt: Essential for enhancing all the other flavors—don’t skip it!
- Frozen peas (optional): Toss these in for a pop of color and a hint of sweetness.
- Chopped cilantro (optional): Brightens up the finished rice with a fresh, herbal note.
- Lime wedges for serving: A squeeze of lime brings everything together with a zesty finish.
How to Make Easy Mexican Rice
Step 1: Toast the Rice
Start by heating the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and stir frequently—this is your chance to coax out a nutty aroma and achieve that gorgeous golden color. After about 4 to 5 minutes, the rice will be lightly toasted and ready for the next layer of flavor.
Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic
Add the finely chopped onion and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally until it’s soft and translucent. The kitchen will start to smell amazing! Then, toss in the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds. Garlic can burn quickly, so keep it moving in the pan until it’s fragrant.
Step 3: Add Broth and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable broth), tomato sauce, ground cumin, chili powder, and salt. Give everything a good stir to combine. This is where Easy Mexican Rice gets its signature color and taste—the tomato sauce and spices infuse every grain with flavor.
Step 4: Simmer
Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then immediately lower the heat to the lowest setting. Cover the pan tightly and let the rice simmer for 18 to 20 minutes. Resist the urge to peek—keeping the lid on ensures the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all that delicious liquid.
Step 5: Add Peas (Optional)
If you’re using frozen peas, stir them in during the last 5 minutes of cooking. They’ll steam perfectly in the residual heat, adding color and a touch of sweetness without overcooking.
Step 6: Rest, Fluff, and Finish
Once all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit (still covered!) for 5 minutes. This step lets the steam finish the cooking process. Fluff with a fork, stir in chopped cilantro if you like, and serve with lime wedges for a fresh, zesty finish.
How to Serve Easy Mexican Rice
Garnishes
A sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro instantly brightens your Easy Mexican Rice, while lime wedges on the side let everyone add their own hit of citrus. For a little extra flair, you can also top with a handful of diced tomatoes, sliced green onions, or even a few crumbles of queso fresco.
Side Dishes
Easy Mexican Rice is the ultimate partner for tacos, enchiladas, burritos, or any grilled meat or beans. It’s equally at home with roasted vegetables or a simple fried egg on top for a satisfying brunch. The possibilities truly are endless!
Creative Ways to Present
Try serving Easy Mexican Rice in individual bowls layered with black beans, avocado, and salsa for a quick burrito bowl. Use it as a colorful base for stuffed peppers, or spoon it into taco shells with your favorite toppings for a fun twist on taco night. Kids love it rolled up in a warm tortilla, too!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Let any leftover Easy Mexican Rice cool to room temperature, then transfer it to an airtight container. It will keep well in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, making it perfect for meal prepping or quick lunches.
Freezing
Easy Mexican Rice freezes like a dream! Portion it out into freezer-safe bags or containers, making sure to remove as much air as possible. Label and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating for the best texture.
Reheating
To reheat, add a splash of broth or water to the rice and cover loosely. Warm in the microwave or on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally, until hot and fluffy. The added moisture helps restore its just-cooked softness.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Absolutely! Just increase the cook time by 10 to 15 minutes and add a bit more broth, as brown rice takes longer to become tender. The flavor is still fantastic and you get an extra boost of fiber.
Is Easy Mexican Rice vegetarian?
Yes, it can be completely vegetarian if you use vegetable broth in place of chicken broth. The taste is every bit as rich and satisfying!
Can I double this recipe?
Definitely! Simply double all the ingredients and use a larger saucepan. The cooking time may be a few minutes longer, but the process remains the same—great for feeding a crowd.
What if I don’t have tomato sauce?
You can substitute an equal amount of canned crushed tomatoes or even blended fresh tomatoes. If using diced tomatoes, give them a quick blend or mash so the texture stays smooth.
Why is my rice mushy or crunchy?
Rice can become mushy if there’s too much liquid or if it’s overcooked. Crunchy rice often means it needs a little more time or liquid. For perfect Easy Mexican Rice every time, measure carefully and keep the lid on while simmering!
Final Thoughts
There’s just something about homemade Easy Mexican Rice that brings everyone running to the table. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or just starting out, this recipe is sure to become a go-to favorite. Give it a try—you’ll be amazed at how such simple ingredients can create such a celebration of flavor!
Print
Easy Mexican Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
Easy Mexican Rice is a flavorful and vibrant side dish made with long grain white rice, tomato sauce, and aromatic spices. This simple stovetop recipe features sautéed rice with onion and garlic, cooked in broth infused with cumin and chili powder, perfect for pairing with tacos, enchiladas, grilled meats, or beans. Optional peas and fresh cilantro add a pop of color and freshness, while lime wedges provide a zesty finish. A quick, vegetarian-friendly, and delicious accompaniment to any Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients
Rice Base
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 1/2 small onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
Cooking Liquid & Spices
- 1 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/4 teaspoon salt
Optional Add-ins & Garnish
- 1/4 cup frozen peas (optional)
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving
Instructions
- Heat the oil and toast the rice: Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring often, for 4 to 5 minutes or until the rice turns a light golden color, which enhances the nutty flavor.
- Sauté onion and garlic: Stir in the finely chopped onion and cook for another 2 to 3 minutes until the onion softens. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant, making sure not to burn it.
- Add liquids and spices: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, tomato sauce, ground cumin, chili powder, and salt. Stir well to combine all ingredients, then bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer the rice: Reduce heat to low, cover the pan, and let the rice simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Add peas (optional): If using frozen peas, stir them into the rice during the last 5 minutes of cooking to heat through without overcooking.
- Rest and fluff: Remove the saucepan from heat and keep it covered for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become fluffy. Then, use a fork to fluff the rice gently.
- Garnish and serve: Stir in chopped cilantro if desired, and serve the rice hot with lime wedges on the side for squeezing over the dish to add a fresh citrus brightness.
Notes
- You can easily double this recipe to serve a larger crowd.
- For a healthier twist, substitute brown rice, but increase cooking time by 10 to 15 minutes and add more broth as needed.
- This Mexican rice pairs wonderfully with tacos, enchiladas, grilled meats, or beans for a complete meal.
- If you prefer a spicier version, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños.
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days; reheat with a splash of broth to retain moisture.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 3/4 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 310mg
- Fat: 5g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
