Easy Mexican Style Rice

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Fluffy, savory, and packed with vibrant flavor, this Easy Mexican Style Rice is the ultimate sidekick to any Tex-Mex spread. With tender grains of rice infused with tomato goodness, warm spices, and a colorful medley of veggies, it brings both comfort and color to your plate.

Perfect for everything from taco night to meal prep, this rice dish comes together quickly using pantry staples. Whether you’re making burrito bowls or serving alongside enchiladas, it’s a must-have that delivers every time.

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What Kind of Rice Should I Use?

Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe. It cooks up light and fluffy, holding its shape without becoming sticky. If you prefer brown rice, just extend the cooking time and add a bit more broth.

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Ingredients for the Easy Mexican Style Rice

Long-grain white rice – The base of the dish, perfect for absorbing flavor while staying fluffy.

Tomato sauce – Gives the rice its signature color and a slightly sweet, tangy depth.

Onion and garlic – Aromatic essentials that add richness and savory flavor.

Green bell pepper – Adds crunch and color.

Corn kernels – For a pop of sweetness and texture.

Diced tomatoes – Boosts moisture and gives the dish body.

Chicken broth – Infuses the rice with savory depth while cooking.

Cumin and chili powder – Warm spices that bring that familiar Mexican rice flavor.

Salt and pepper – Basic seasoning to balance the dish.

Fresh cilantro – Optional, but adds a burst of freshness at the end.

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How To Make the Easy Mexican Style Rice

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by heating a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until they become fragrant and translucent—about 3-4 minutes.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Stir in the long-grain white rice and sauté it with the onions and garlic. Toasting the rice for a few minutes helps enhance its flavor and gives it a slightly nutty edge.

Step 3: Add the Veggies and Tomato Base

Mix in the green bell pepper, corn, diced tomatoes, and tomato sauce. Stir to coat the rice and vegetables evenly, letting the tomato base blend with the aromatics.

Step 4: Season and Simmer

Sprinkle in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Pour in the chicken broth, give everything a stir, then bring it to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a lid, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Step 5: Fluff and Finish

Remove the skillet from heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and stir in freshly chopped cilantro for a burst of fresh flavor.

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Serving and Storing Easy Mexican Style Rice

This rice is incredibly versatile. Serve it as a side dish with tacos, burritos, enchiladas, grilled meats, or even as a stuffing for peppers. It also makes a great base for burrito bowls or taco salads.

If you have leftovers, let the rice cool to room temperature before storing. Place it in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. To reheat, sprinkle a bit of water over the rice and microwave it covered until hot. You can also freeze portions for up to 2 months—just thaw and reheat when needed.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you’ll need to increase the cooking time and add more broth—about 1/2 to 1 cup extra should do the trick.

Is this rice spicy?

The spice level is mild, thanks to the chili powder. If you want more heat, you can add jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.

Can I make this vegetarian?

Absolutely! Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to make it fully vegetarian.

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy?

Be sure to use long-grain rice and avoid over-stirring. Letting it sit covered after cooking also helps it firm up nicely.

Can I add beans to this recipe?

Definitely! Black beans or pinto beans make a great addition. Just stir them in during the last 5 minutes of simmering.

What if I don’t have tomato sauce?

You can substitute with tomato paste mixed with water or even salsa for a different twist.

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Want More Dinner Ideas?

If you love this Easy Mexican Style Rice, here are more savory recipes to round out your meal:

• Creamy Parmesan Pasta with Sautéed Garlic Butter Chicken for a rich, comforting plate.
• Low Carb Greek Chicken Bowls when you’re in the mood for a light but flavorful dish.
• Honey Garlic Ribs if you want fall-off-the-bone goodness with your rice.
• Hawaiian Pineapple Chicken Rice for a sweet and savory pairing.
• Cream Cheese Chicken for creamy indulgence that’s quick to make.

Save This Pin + Share Your Results

📌 Save this recipe to your Pinterest dinner board so you can revisit it anytime.

And when you give it a try, let me know how it turned out! Did you add beans or jalapeños? Did you make it a main dish with grilled chicken or steak?

I’d love to hear your spin on it. Ask questions in the comments too—let’s make every dish better, together.

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