Description
Easy Mexican Style Rice is a fluffy, flavorful side dish made with long-grain rice, tomatoes, onions, garlic, and warm spices. Perfect for pairing with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled chicken, this gluten-free recipe is simple, budget-friendly, and full of zesty Mexican-inspired flavor.
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 tablespoons oil
1 small onion, finely chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 cup diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon tomato paste
2 cups chicken broth
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons fresh cilantro (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Add rice and toast for 3-4 minutes until lightly golden and fragrant.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook 2-3 minutes until softened.
3. Stir in diced tomatoes, tomato paste, cumin, chili powder, and salt to coat the rice.
4. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer 18-20 minutes until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Let rice rest, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, garnish with cilantro if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Rice can be made with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.
Brown rice can be substituted but will need more cooking time and liquid.
Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days and reheat with a splash of broth or water.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210
- Sugar: 2g
- Sodium: 450mg
- Fat: 6g
- Saturated Fat: 1g
- Unsaturated Fat: 4g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 36g
- Fiber: 2g
- Protein: 4g
- Cholesterol: 0mg