Mexican Rice – Fluffy, Flavorful & Easy One-Pot Recipe

If you’ve ever had Mexican rice that’s soft, fluffy, and full of flavor, you know it can steal the spotlight from the main dish. This version is savory and just a little smoky, with every grain perfectly coated in tomato, garlic, onion, and broth. It’s the kind of side dish that makes the whole meal feel complete.

It’s especially good when paired with cheesy baked fajita chicken or topped off with a scoop of fresh 4-ingredient guacamole for the ultimate no-fuss feast.

What makes this recipe special? It’s easy, dependable, and uses just one pot. A quick sauté, a slow simmer, and the rice comes out light, aromatic, and beautifully seasoned-without being sticky or soggy.

Serve it alongside tacos, enchiladas, grilled chicken, or burrito bowls. You can even wrap it up in unexpected ways like Big Mac wraps or add it as a base for comforting mains like ground beef and noodles to stretch leftovers into something new.

Or just enjoy it on its own, spoon by spoon. Because when it’s done right, Mexican rice doesn’t need anything else.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Mexican rice isn’t just another side dish-it’s the kind of recipe you’ll want to make on repeat. Here’s exactly why it’s a keeper:

✔️ Light, Fluffy Texture

Thanks to a quick rice sauté and slow simmering, you get individual grains that are tender but not mushy-just the way authentic Mexican rice should be.

✔️ Bold, Savory Flavor

A simple mix of tomato sauce, broth, onion, and garlic infuses every bite with rich, savory flavor. It’s well-seasoned without being overpowering, making it the perfect companion to a variety of dishes.

✔️ One-Pot Simplicity

Minimal dishes, maximum flavor. Everything comes together in a single pan, making cooking-and cleanup-a total breeze.

✔️ Pantry-Friendly Ingredients

You probably already have everything you need at home: rice, broth, tomato sauce, and a few basic seasonings.

✔️ Versatile Pairing

This rice fits perfectly alongside tacos, grilled meats, enchiladas, burritos, or even works as a filling base for meal-prep bowls.

✔️ Meal Prep Approved

It reheats beautifully with just a splash of broth, making it a fantastic make-ahead side for lunches or easy dinners all week long.

💡 Pro Tip – Add a few veggies or extra spices to match whatever main course you’re serving!

Ingredients

• 1 cup long grain white rice
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• ½ small onion, finely chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup tomato sauce (or blended fresh tomato)
• 1¾ cups chicken or vegetable broth
• ½ tsp salt
• ¼ tsp ground cumin
• Optional: pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika
• Fresh cilantro or lime wedges, for garnish

Instructions

This Mexican rice is a one-pot wonder that’s rich in flavor and low in effort. Follow these steps for perfect, fluffy rice every time:

1️⃣ Rinse the Rice

Place your rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water for 1–2 minutes, or until the water runs mostly clear. This removes surface starch and helps prevent stickiness once cooked.

💡 Pro Tip – Don’t skip this step! Rinsing is key for fluffy, separate grains.

2️⃣ Sauté the Rice

In a large, deep skillet or saucepan, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and sauté for 4–5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the grains begin to turn golden and smell slightly nutty.

3️⃣ Add the Aromatics

Stir in ½ chopped onion and 2 minced garlic cloves. Sauté for another 1–2 minutes, just until the onion begins to soften and the garlic is fragrant.

4️⃣ Pour in Sauce & Broth

Add 1 cup of tomato sauce, 1¾ cups broth, ½ tsp salt, ¼ tsp ground cumin, and an optional pinch of chili powder or smoked paprika. Stir to combine.

5️⃣ Simmer Gently

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly with a lid, and simmer for 18–20 minutes. Do not lift the lid while cooking-this traps the steam that makes the rice tender.

💡 Pro Tip – Use a pot with a tight-fitting lid to prevent steam from escaping.

6️⃣ Rest and Fluff

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork.

7️⃣ Garnish & Serve

Top with fresh chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired, and serve hot alongside your favorite Mexican dishes.

💡 Serving Idea – Try it with tacos, enchiladas, grilled chicken, or as a burrito bowl base!

Remove from heat, let sit (covered) for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Garnish with fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime, if desired.

Recipe Variations

Want to change things up? Try these delicious twists:

🔸 Spicy Mexican Rice

Add ½ diced jalapeño or a pinch of cayenne for heat.

Perfect for: spicy food lovers.

🔸 Veggie-Loaded Rice

Stir in frozen peas, diced carrots, or corn with the broth.

Perfect for: turning rice into a full meal.

🔸 Cilantro-Lime Mexican Rice

After cooking, stir in a handful of chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime juice.

Perfect for: burrito bowls and taco nights.

🔸 Tomato-Free Version

Sub tomato sauce for more broth and a dash of turmeric + cumin for a lighter golden rice.

Perfect for: tomato-free diets or when you’re out of sauce.

🔸 Brown Rice Swap

Use long grain brown rice instead-just increase the simmer time to 35–40 minutes and add a splash more broth.

Perfect for: whole grain lovers.

💡 Pro Tip – Store leftovers in an airtight container and reheat with a splash of broth to keep it soft.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Answering the most common Mexican rice questions so your dish turns out fluffy and flavorful every time.

Can I use jasmine or basmati rice❓

Yes! Both are long-grain varieties and will work well. Jasmine rice will give a slightly softer texture, while basmati will stay even lighter and fluffier. Just rinse well before cooking to avoid excess starch.

Can I make Mexican rice ahead of time❓

Definitely. Mexican rice holds up really well. Store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of broth or water to refresh the texture.

Can I freeze Mexican rice❓

Yes! Cool the rice completely, then store it in freezer-safe bags or containers. It will keep for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge and reheat with a splash of broth.

Can I make it spicier❓

Absolutely. Stir in a pinch of cayenne, a few slices of fresh jalapeño, or a teaspoon of chipotle powder to the broth before simmering for an easy spice boost.

Why rinse the rice before cooking❓

Rinsing removes excess surface starch, which helps the rice cook up lighter and fluffier instead of sticky. It’s a small step that makes a big difference in the final texture.

What should I serve with Mexican rice❓

It’s a fantastic side dish for tacos, enchiladas, burritos, grilled meats, or simply served with refried beans for a quick meal.

Conclusion – Your One-Pot Flavor Upgrade

This Mexican rice brings bold flavor, satisfying texture, and no-fuss prep together in one pan. It’s simple enough for a weeknight, flavorful enough for guests, and versatile enough to go with nearly everything.

Once you’ve mastered this recipe, you’ll never settle for bland rice again.

💡 Because every good meal deserves a great side-and this one steals the show.

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