Easy Mexican Rice that Will Transform Your Dinners

Name: Easy Mexican Rice that Will Transform Your Dinners
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 tablespoon vegetable oil; 1 small onion, diced; 1 garlic clove, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt to taste; 1 cup diced tomatoes; 1/2 cup frozen peas

July 28, 2025

By:

Julia marin

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Let me tell you about my absolute favorite go-to dish: easy Mexican rice! It’s the kind of recipe that makes me feel like a culinary genius without spending hours in the kitchen. Seriously, this dish is bursting with flavor and so simple to whip up. I remember the first time I made it for friends; the aroma filled the kitchen, and everyone was instantly intrigued. It’s perfect for those busy weeknights when you want something quick yet delicious. Plus, it pairs beautifully with tacos, enchiladas, or just about any protein you throw at it. Trust me, once you try this easy Mexican rice, you’ll find yourself making it time and again! It’s a colorful, comforting side that never disappoints!

easy mexican rice - detail 1

Ingredients List

1 cup long-grain rice (rinsed under cold water until the water runs clear)
2 cups vegetable broth (low-sodium for a healthier option)
1 tablespoon vegetable oil (for sautéing)
1 small onion, diced (adds a lovely sweetness)
1 garlic clove, minced (for that aromatic punch)
1 teaspoon ground cumin (for a warm, earthy flavor)
1 teaspoon chili powder (adds a bit of kick)
Salt to taste (don’t be shy, but season gradually!)
1 cup diced tomatoes (fresh or canned, just make sure they’re juicy)
1/2 cup frozen peas (for a pop of sweetness and color)

How to Prepare Easy Mexican Rice

Now, let’s dive into making this fantastic easy Mexican rice! I promise it’s straightforward and, oh boy, so satisfying. Just follow these steps, and you’ll be enjoying a delicious side in no time!

Step-by-Step Instructions

First things first, rinse the rice! This step is crucial because it removes excess starch, which helps keep the rice fluffy. Just put the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and run it under cold water until the water runs clear.
Next, grab a pan and heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. You want the oil hot but not smoking, so keep an eye on it!
Once the oil is shimmering, toss in the diced onion and minced garlic. Sauté them for about 3-4 minutes, or until the onion is soft and translucent. The smell is heavenly, trust me!
Now, stir in the rinsed rice along with the ground cumin and chili powder. Cook everything together for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently. This toasts the rice and spices, bringing out their flavors!
Pour in the vegetable broth, add the diced tomatoes, and season with salt to taste. Give it a good stir to combine everything.
Bring the mixture to a rolling boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan tightly and let it simmer for 20 minutes. Don’t lift the lid during this time—let that steam work its magic!
After 20 minutes, remove the pan from the heat but keep it covered. Let it sit for an additional 5 minutes. This step helps the rice finish cooking and absorb all those yummy flavors.
Finally, fluff the rice with a fork and gently stir in the frozen peas. They’ll warm up quickly, adding a sweet burst of color and flavor. And there you have it—your easy Mexican rice is ready to shine on your table!

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

It’s incredibly quick to make—ready in just 35 minutes, perfect for those busy weeknights!
The flavors are bold and satisfying, thanks to the cumin and chili powder, making it a delicious addition to any meal.
Super versatile! You can serve it alongside tacos, grilled chicken, or even as a base for a burrito bowl.
It’s vegetarian and can easily be made vegan, catering to various dietary preferences.
The frozen peas add a pop of color and sweetness, but you can totally switch them out for your favorite veggies!
Leftovers taste even better the next day—just reheat and enjoy that flavor explosion again!
It’s a one-pan dish, which means less cleanup for you—win-win!
Perfectly fluffy rice every time, thanks to the rinsing and simmering method.

Tips for Success

Now that you’re ready to make this easy Mexican rice, here are some tips that’ll help ensure it turns out perfectly every single time!

Rinse the rice thoroughly: This step is key to achieving that fluffy texture. Rinsing removes excess starch, which can make the rice sticky.
Watch the heat: When sautéing the onion and garlic, keep the heat at medium. If it’s too high, they can burn quickly, and burnt garlic is a no-go!
Adjust the spices: If you’re a heat lover, feel free to up the chili powder or even add a pinch of cayenne! Conversely, if you prefer milder flavors, tone it down a bit.
Experiment with broth: You can use chicken broth if you’re not keeping it vegetarian—this will add even more depth to the flavor.
Let it rest: After cooking, letting the rice sit covered for a few minutes helps the grains finish cooking and absorb all those delicious flavors.
Feel free to add more veggies: Bell peppers, corn, or even black beans can turn this into a heartier dish. Just add them in when you mix in the peas!
Taste as you go: Always taste for seasoning! A little more salt or spice can elevate the dish and really make it your own.
Use a fork to fluff: When it’s time to serve, gently fluff the rice with a fork instead of a spoon to keep it light and airy.

With these tips, you’ll be a pro at making easy Mexican rice in no time! Enjoy the vibrant flavors and the smiles it brings to your table.

Variations

One of the best things about easy Mexican rice is how adaptable it is! You can easily customize it to suit your taste or whatever ingredients you have on hand. Here are some fun variations to consider:

Veggie-packed: Toss in some diced bell peppers, zucchini, or corn for added color and nutrition. Just sauté them with the onion and garlic for the best flavor!
Spicy kick: If you like things spicy, add a chopped jalapeño or some crushed red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions. It’ll bring a delightful heat!
Cilantro lime: Mix in fresh chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice just before serving for a bright, zesty finish that lifts the dish.
Cheesy goodness: Stir in a handful of shredded cheese like cheddar or queso fresco just before serving. It’ll melt beautifully and add creamy richness.
Protein boost: For a heartier meal, mix in some cooked beans (like black or pinto) or shredded chicken right before serving. It turns this side into a satisfying main dish!
Southwestern flair: Add some taco seasoning along with the cumin and chili powder for a flavor explosion. It’s like having a fiesta in every bite!
Herb infusion: Experiment with herbs like oregano or thyme for a different flavor profile. Just sprinkle them in along with the spices for a fresh twist.

Feel free to get creative and make this easy Mexican rice your own! No wrong turns here—just deliciousness waiting to happen.

Storage & Reheating Instructions

Alright, let’s talk about how to store your easy Mexican rice and keep it tasting great for later! If you happen to have any leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good), here’s what to do:

Cooling down: First, let the rice cool completely at room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can make the rice soggy.
Airtight container: Transfer the cooled rice to an airtight container. This keeps it fresh and prevents any unwanted odors from sneaking in.
Refrigeration: Store the container in the refrigerator, where it’ll stay good for up to 3–4 days. You’ll want to make sure to label it, so you know when it’s time to eat or toss!
Freezing: If you want to keep it for longer, easy Mexican rice can be frozen! Just pack it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag, and it’ll last for about 2–3 months. Just remember to write the date on the bag!

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftovers, reheating is a breeze:

Microwave: If you’re using a microwave, place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl. Add a splash of water or broth to prevent it from drying out, cover it with a lid or a damp paper towel, and heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring in between until warmed through.
Stovetop: For stovetop reheating, simply add the rice to a skillet over low heat, and sprinkle a little water or broth. Stir occasionally until it’s heated all the way through.

And there you have it! With these storage and reheating tips, you can savor your easy Mexican rice even after the first delicious serving. Enjoy every bite!

Nutritional Information

Now, let’s talk numbers! While I can’t promise these will be exact for every batch, here’s a general idea of the nutritional information for a serving of easy Mexican rice. Keep in mind, these values can vary based on specific brands and ingredient choices, but they’ll give you a solid ballpark:

Serving Size: 1 cup
Calories: Approximately 200
Fat: 5g
Saturated Fat: 0.5g
Unsaturated Fat: 4.5g
Trans Fat: 0g
Cholesterol: 0mg
Sodium: 300mg
Carbohydrates: 36g
Fiber: 2g
Sugar: 2g
Protein: 5g

This easy Mexican rice is a delightful side that fits well into a balanced meal! It’s packed with flavor and can be adjusted to suit your dietary needs, making it a fantastic addition to any table.

FAQ Section

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can definitely use brown rice! Just keep in mind that brown rice will take longer to cook, so you’ll need to adjust the cooking time to about 40-45 minutes. Make sure to use a bit more liquid, too, as brown rice tends to absorb more.

Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Absolutely! You can prepare easy Mexican rice a day ahead and store it in the fridge. Just reheat it when you’re ready to serve. It’s actually even more flavorful the next day!

What can I serve with easy Mexican rice?
This rice pairs wonderfully with so many dishes! I love serving it with tacos, grilled chicken, or enchiladas. It also makes a great base for burrito bowls topped with your favorite proteins and veggies!

Can I add protein to this recipe?
For sure! You can stir in cooked beans, shredded chicken, or even ground beef towards the end of cooking for a heartier meal. Just make sure to heat it through before serving!

How do I store leftovers?
Let the rice cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container. It’ll last in the fridge for about 3-4 days. If you want to keep it longer, you can freeze it for up to 2-3 months!

Can I use fresh tomatoes instead of canned?
Absolutely! Fresh tomatoes work just as well. Just make sure they’re nice and ripe for the best flavor. You might want to dice them small to help them break down as they cook.

What if I don’t have vegetable broth?
No worries! You can use water instead, but for extra flavor, try mixing in some spices or a bouillon cube. It’ll still taste great!

Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, this easy Mexican rice is naturally gluten-free since it’s made with rice and vegetables. Just double-check your broth and any additional ingredients to ensure they’re gluten-free as well.

Can I make this dish spicy?
Definitely! If you love spice, add some diced jalapeños or increase the chili powder. You can also sprinkle in some crushed red pepper flakes for an extra kick!

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About me

Hi, my name is Julia, I am the heart of Vihaad Recipes and a passionate lover of good food. My love for cooking began in childhood, inspired by my grandmother's delicious meals. Today, I share tasty recipes that bring people together through the shared enjoyment of food.