Easy Mexican Rice Recipe
If there’s one side dish that always brings a sunny pop of color and irresistible comfort to my table, it’s Easy Mexican Rice. This classic dish delivers fluffy, perfectly seasoned grains with just the right hint of tomato and spice. Not only is it a nostalgic staple at family gatherings and taco nights, but it also comes together quickly and with ingredients you probably already have. Whether you serve it alongside enchiladas or pile it into burritos, Easy Mexican Rice is a guaranteed crowd-pleaser every single time.
Ingredients You’ll Need
The beauty of Easy Mexican Rice lies in how simple, yet essential, each component is. Every ingredient layers on a bit of flavor, color, or that signature, crave-worthy texture, making it the backbone of any Mexican meal. Here’s what you’ll need and why it matters:
- Long-grain white rice: This is the foundation of the dish, delivering the perfect fluffy, separate grains we all love.
- Vegetable oil: Adds richness and helps the rice toast to a lovely golden color before simmering.
- Small onion, finely chopped: Sweetens and builds depth right from the start—don’t skip this aromatic must-have.
- Garlic, minced: A quick hit of minced garlic sharpens and livens up the flavor base.
- Chicken broth: Soaks into every grain, infusing the rice with subtle, savory richness; swap for veggie broth if you prefer.
- Tomato sauce: The key to that signature warm color and gentle tang that sets Mexican rice apart.
- Ground cumin: Brings just the right earthiness and a hint of smokiness without overpowering other flavors.
- Chili powder: Adds gentle warmth; use a mild blend or up the spice if you like it hot.
- Salt: Essential for seasoning—taste as you go for the perfect balance.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional): A fresh, herbal finish that adds a burst of green and extra brightness at the end.
- Lime wedges for serving (optional): A cheeky spritz of citrus brings the whole bowl to life—don’t miss the zing!
How to Make Easy Mexican Rice
Step 1: Toast the Rice
Pour your vegetable oil into a medium saucepan and warm it over medium heat. Once the oil shimmers, add the long-grain white rice. Stir it frequently—this is where the magic happens! You’re looking for each grain to turn lightly golden and take on a nutty aroma. After about five minutes, you’ll notice the color deepen and the kitchen start to smell incredible. Toasting not only infuses flavor but helps the rice hold its shape and stay fluffy.
Step 2: Soften the Onion
Add the finely chopped onion right in with the toasting rice. Cook for another 2 to 3 minutes, stirring occasionally. The onion will become translucent and sweet, creating a rich base for all the flavors you’ll add next. This step is a tiny investment for a huge payoff in taste.
Step 3: Add the Garlic
Next, toss in the minced garlic. Stir well and let it cook just 30 seconds. You want that punchy flavor without letting it brown or become bitter. The garlic will mingle with the onion and rice, layering in the unmistakable aromatic notes that define Easy Mexican Rice.
Step 4: Simmer with Broth and Spices
Time to bring everything together! Carefully pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce. The sizzle tells you those flavors are merging beautifully. Sprinkle in ground cumin, chili powder, and salt, then stir thoroughly. Once it comes to a gentle boil, lower the heat, pop a lid on, and set a timer for 18 to 20 minutes. The rice will gradually soak up all the liquid and transform into a vibrant, flavor-packed side.
Step 5: Rest, Fluff, and Finish
When the rice is tender and the liquid has disappeared, turn off the heat and let it sit undisturbed, still covered, for five more minutes. This rest period lets every last grain perfectly finish steaming. Afterward, gently fluff the rice with a fork. Fold in fresh cilantro if you like, and serve warm with a squeeze of lime to make each bite sing!
How to Serve Easy Mexican Rice
Garnishes
Elevate your Easy Mexican Rice with simple but impactful garnishes. Fresh cilantro scattered on top brings a garden-bright contrast, while lime wedges let each guest dial up their own zing. If you’re feeling festive, crumble a little queso fresco or sprinkle chopped scallions—both add a fun texture and creamy finish.
Side Dishes
This rice is ridiculously versatile and pairs with all your Mexican favorites. I love it alongside enchiladas, sizzling fajitas, or stuffed peppers, but honestly, it holds its own next to simple grilled chicken or shrimp. Complete your spread with black beans, street corn, or a crisp salad for a meal that wows every time.
Creative Ways to Present
Why not shake things up? Spoon Easy Mexican Rice into bell peppers and bake for a fun, hand-held appetizer. Or layer it in burrito bowls with your favorite toppings. Even pack it inside a tortilla with roasted veggies for a quick lunch wrap. Presentation is your chance to get playful and make every meal feel like a special occasion.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Have leftovers? Lucky you! Let Easy Mexican Rice cool to room temperature, then transfer to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for three to four days—just enough time to sneak a scoop here and there whenever hunger strikes.
Freezing
Easy Mexican Rice freezes beautifully. Portion cooled rice into freezer bags or containers, squeeze out extra air, and freeze for up to two months. When you’re ready, thaw overnight in the fridge for the best texture. Having this classic ready-to-go is a total weeknight lifesaver.
Reheating
To reheat, sprinkle a tablespoon or two of water over the rice and cover loosely before microwaving or gently warming on the stove. This helps restore moisture and brings the grains right back to their fluffy, fresh glory—just like the day you made it.
FAQs
Can I make Easy Mexican Rice with brown rice instead?
Absolutely! Just know that brown rice needs a longer simmer—usually 35 to 40 minutes. You might need a bit more broth, so keep an eye on the pan and check for tenderness as you go.
Is Easy Mexican Rice spicy?
It’s on the mild side, with a subtle kick from chili powder. If you crave more heat, add a pinch of cayenne or some diced jalapeño when you sauté the onion. Want it extra gentle? Just dial back the chili powder a bit.
Can I double the recipe for a crowd?
Yes! Double (or triple) everything, but use a larger pot so the rice can cook evenly. Keep the ratios the same and be patient—big batches may take a minute or two extra to absorb all the liquid.
What makes Easy Mexican Rice different from Spanish Rice?
Mexican rice typically uses tomato sauce or bouillon and often adds cumin; Spanish rice may include saffron or different spices and sometimes peas or carrots. The flavors and colors are distinct—think of Easy Mexican Rice as a tomato-rich, subtly spiced companion for Mexican comfort food.
How do I prevent mushy rice?
The trick is to toast the rice first and measure your liquid carefully. Once it’s simmering, leave the lid on and resist the urge to stir! Let the grains absorb moisture without interference for the best, fluffiest texture every time.
Final Thoughts
There’s something truly magical about a side dish that’s as simple and reliable as Easy Mexican Rice. Whether you’re serving it at a backyard party, a cozy weeknight dinner, or spooning up leftovers on day two, this recipe is made to bring people together and put smiles on plates. Give it a try—your taste buds and your dinner guests will thank you!
Print
Easy Mexican Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Non-Vegetarian
Description
This Easy Mexican Rice recipe is a flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Mexican dishes. With simple ingredients and easy steps, you can enjoy delicious homemade Mexican rice in no time.
Ingredients
Main Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Additional Ingredients:
- 1 small onion (finely chopped)
- 2 cloves garlic (minced)
- 1 ¾ cups chicken broth
- ½ cup tomato sauce
- ½ teaspoon ground cumin
- ¼ teaspoon chili powder
- ½ teaspoon salt
- ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
- Lime wedges for serving (optional)
Instructions
- Prepare the Rice: Heat oil in a medium saucepan. Add rice, cook until golden.
- Add Aromatics: Stir in onion, cook until softened. Add garlic, cook briefly.
- Simmer: Pour in broth, tomato sauce, spices. Bring to a boil, then simmer covered until rice is tender.
- Finish: Let sit off heat, fluff with a fork. Stir in cilantro if desired. Serve with lime wedges.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- You can also add peas or diced carrots during the last 10 minutes of cooking for extra color and texture.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 360mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 5g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 34g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg
