Are you looking for a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish that’s perfect for any occasion? Look no further than Mexican rice! This classic Latin American staple is a crowd-pleaser, and when prepared with love and care, it can elevate even the most mundane meals into something truly special. With its rich, buttery aroma and savory flavors, Mexican rice is a staple at many gatherings, from family dinners to festive celebrations.
In this article, we’ll explore 18 different Mexican rice recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. From classic recipes like Red Rice to more innovative twists like Vegan Mexican Rice with Avocado, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, these recipes will guide you through the process of creating delicious, mouthwatering dishes that are sure to become new favorites.
Classic Mexican Red Rice
A staple side dish in many Mexican households, this classic red rice recipe is a simple and flavorful accompaniment to your favorite tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cumin
– Salt, to taste
– 1 tablespoon tomato paste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onions and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the water, paprika, cumin, and salt. Stir well.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Mexican Rice with Cilantro and Lime
This vibrant rice dish is a staple of Mexican cuisine, infused with the brightness of lime juice and the pungency of cilantro. Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for your favorite tacos or burritos.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of Mexico with the comfort of a warm, cheesy dish perfect for any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions. Set aside.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in peas and carrots, diced tomatoes, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked rice with the skillet mixture and stir to combine.
6. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Mexican Rice
Add a bold twist to traditional Mexican rice with this spicy chipotle recipe! Perfect as a side dish or used as a base for your favorite Mexican dishes, this flavorful rice is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 minced garlic clove
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and chipotle peppers. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add rice and stir to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Fluff rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Mexican Rice with Black Beans
A flavorful and nutritious one-pot dish that combines the comfort of Mexican rice with the fiber-rich goodness of black beans, all cooked to perfection in just 30 minutes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, black beans, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
7. Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped cilantro, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Mexican Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines savory Mexican rice with tender bell peppers and melted cheese for a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked Mexican rice (with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and spices)
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey, cooked and drained
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, ground beef or turkey, cheese, and cilantro. Mix well.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the peppers and sprinkle with salt and pepper.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Easy Restaurant-Style Mexican Rice
This recipe yields a flavorful and fluffy Mexican rice that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or as a side dish. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a restaurant-quality meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute, until fragrant.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion and garlic.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mexican Rice with Corn and Peppers
Add a flavorful twist to your Mexican dishes with this simple and delicious recipe that combines the natural sweetness of corn and bell peppers with the savory taste of rice. Perfect as a side dish or used as a filling for tacos, burritos, and more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels, thawed
– 1 bell pepper (any color), diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add rice, water, corn, bell pepper, and cumin. Stir to combine.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Fluff with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Slow Cooker Mexican Rice
This hearty and flavorful recipe is a perfect addition to any Mexican-inspired meal. With just a few simple ingredients, you’ll have a delicious pot of rice that’s ready when you need it.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
Instructions:
1. Add rice, water, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to a slow cooker.
2. Stir to combine.
3. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. If using diced tomatoes, stir them in during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
5. Fluff rice with a fork before serving.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Mexican Rice and Chicken Skillet
This one-pot wonder combines flavorful chicken, savory rice, and spices for a satisfying meal that’s ready in under an hour. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch, this recipe is sure to become a staple.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add onion, bell pepper, and garlic; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, chili powder, and paprika. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add rice and chicken broth to skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Vegan Mexican Rice with Avocado
Add a creamy twist to traditional Mexican rice with this simple recipe that combines sautéed onions, garlic, and aromatic spices with roasted avocado. Perfect as a side dish or used in tacos and burritos.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper; stir for 1 minute.
4. Add rice and water to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
6. Fluff rice with a fork and stir in diced avocado.
Cooking Time: 23-25 minutes
Mexican Rice Soup with Lime Crema
This hearty soup combines the flavors of Mexico with a refreshing twist from lime crema, making it a perfect meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1/2 cup chopped onion
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– Lime crema (see below for recipe)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin and paprika; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and cooked rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until heated through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
Lime Crema:
– 1 cup sour cream
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
Mix all ingredients together until smooth. Serve over the soup for a burst of citrus flavor.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Fried Rice with Chorizo
This recipe combines the flavors of Mexico and Asia to create a unique and delicious dish. Crispy chorizo, savory vegetables, and flavorful rice come together in this quick and easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup diced chorizo
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chorizo and cook until crispy, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 2 minutes.
4. Add mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Cook for about 2 minutes, stirring constantly.
6. Stir in cumin and season with salt and pepper.
7. Add chorizo back into the pan and stir-fry everything together for about 1 minute.
8. Serve hot, garnished with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Rice Salad with Lime Dressing
This vibrant salad combines the flavors of Mexico with a zesty lime dressing, perfect for a light and refreshing meal or as a side dish. With its mix of textures and bold flavors, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Mexican rice
– 1 cup diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/4 cup crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes, red bell pepper, and cilantro.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together lime juice and olive oil.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to combine.
4. Top with crumbled queso fresco (or feta cheese).
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Arroz con Pollo (Mexican Chicken and Rice)
A classic Mexican dish that combines flavorful chicken with saffron-infused rice, vegetables, and spices, making it a satisfying meal for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 teaspoons saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to skillet; stir to combine.
5. Add chicken broth, soaked saffron, and browned chicken back to the skillet.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Mexican Rice with Shrimp and Garlic
This recipe combines the classic flavors of Mexico with the simplicity of a one-pot dish, featuring succulent shrimp and aromatic garlic. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend meal, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion and garlic.
5. Add the water, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Stir in the shrimp during the last 2 minutes of cooking.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mexican Rice-Stuffed Zucchini Boats
Add a flavorful twist to traditional stuffed zucchini with this Mexican-inspired recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick and easy dinner or as a side dish for your next fiesta.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium-sized zucchinis
– 1 cup cooked Mexican rice (with vegetables, tomatoes, and spices)
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides, leaving about 1/4 inch thick walls.
3. In a bowl, mix together cooked Mexican rice, shredded cheese, and chopped cilantro.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the rice mixture, mounding it slightly in the center.
5. Drizzle olive oil over the boats and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Servings: 4
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Mexican Rice
This sweet and spicy twist on traditional Mexican rice combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with a hint of heat from diced jalapeños. Perfect for topping tacos, grilled meats, or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– Salt to taste
– Optional: 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add water, pineapple, cilantro, jalapeño, and salt. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff with a fork. If desired, add ground cumin during last minute of cooking.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 flavorful Mexican rice recipes! From classic dishes like Red Rice and Green Mexican Rice, to cheesy casserole and spicy chipotle variations, there’s something for every occasion. Try making One-Pot Mexican Rice with Black Beans or Stuffed Peppers for a hearty meal. For a twist, make Vegan Mexican Rice with Avocado or add some heat with Chipotle Mexican Rice. With so many options, you’ll never get bored of this popular Mexican side dish again! Explore these recipes and elevate your meal game.
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