Best Mexican Rice : Authentic, Easy, and Bursting with Flavor

There’s something soul-satisfying about a plate of warm, fluffy, flavorful rice alongside tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meat. This is not just any side dish — this is the best Mexican rice you’ll ever make at home. Also known as Arroz Mexicano, this rice recipe has bold flavor, simple ingredients, and an authentic texture that rivals your favorite Mexican restaurants. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, even for beginners.

If you’ve been looking for the best easy Mexican rice recipe to serve with your weeknight meals or festive family dinners, you’re in the right place. This dish is light, fluffy, and infused with tomato, garlic, onion, and spices — making it the perfect companion for everything from tacos to grilled chicken.

Let’s dive into how to make easy homemade Mexican rice with just a few pantry staples and some smart cooking tips.

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Why This Arroz Mexicano Is a Must-Try

Authenticity meets ease in this version of Mexican rice easy enough for anyone to master. What sets this recipe apart is its careful balance of tomato, chicken broth, and spices, simmered until every grain of rice is perfectly tender and packed with flavor.

Unlike some recipes that result in sticky or bland rice, this one creates that loose, fluffy texture you find at restaurants. Whether you call it Spanish rice or Mexican rice, this recipe checks all the boxes:

• Perfectly fluffy — not mushy or undercooked
• Rich flavor from sautéed onions, garlic, and tomato
• Adaptable — easily make it vegetarian or spicier
• Quick to prepare — 5 minutes of prep, under 30 minutes total

And yes, this is even better than The Recipe Critic’s Mexican Rice (and that’s saying something).

Simple Pantry Staples for Easy Homemade Mexican Rice

You don’t need fancy ingredients to make something spectacular. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Long-grain white rice – essential for that light, non-sticky texture
• Vegetable oil – for toasting the rice before simmering
• Tomato sauce or fresh blended tomato – adds color and flavor
• Chicken broth – much better than water; it infuses savory depth
• Minced garlic and chopped onion – build your aromatic base
• Cumin, salt, pepper – classic spices for authentic flavor
• Optional peas, carrots, or diced bell peppers – for added color and nutrition

For a vegetarian version, just swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and use plant-based butter.

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What You Need to Make Mexican Rice Easy at Home

Before you begin, gather a few kitchen tools to streamline the process:

• Medium saucepan or skillet with lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Measuring cups/spoons
• Fine mesh strainer (for rinsing rice)

Rinsing your rice is a non-negotiable step — it removes extra starch and helps prevent clumping.

How Do You Make Mexican Rice? Follow These Simple Steps

If you’ve ever wondered how do you make Mexican rice without it turning sticky, soggy, or bland — this method will answer all your questions.

Step 1: Rinse and toast the rice
Rinse the rice in cold water until the water runs clear. Then, in a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, until it turns golden brown — about 5-7 minutes. This step is crucial for that nutty, toasty flavor and perfect texture.

Step 2: Sauté aromatics
Stir in the chopped onion and garlic. Cook until softened and fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.

Step 3: Add liquid and spices
Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, then stir in your seasonings (salt, pepper, cumin). Bring the mixture to a boil.

Step 4: Simmer and cook
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes. Do not stir. When the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 more minutes.

Step 5: Fluff and serve
Fluff the rice gently with a fork and serve warm.

Avoid Common Mistakes with These Easy Peasy Mexican Rice Tricks

If your rice often ends up gummy or mushy, you’re not alone. These tips will help you avoid the usual pitfalls:

• Rinse your rice thoroughly before cooking
• Toast the rice until it’s deep golden brown
• Use the correct ratio of broth to rice (about 2:1)
• Keep the lid on while simmering — no peeking!
• Let it rest before fluffing — the steam finishes the cooking process

These small adjustments make a big difference in getting that restaurant-style finish.

Customize Your Mexican Rice Recipes with Bold Flavors

Want to get creative? Here are some fun variations to try:

• Add frozen peas and carrots during the last 5 minutes of simmering
• Stir in diced jalapeños or green chilies for a spicy kick
• Mix in fresh cilantro and lime juice before serving for brightness
• Sprinkle grated cheese on top for a Tex-Mex twist
• Use brown rice instead of white, increasing the cook time slightly

You can even use leftovers in burritos, wraps, or bowls like this Southwest Chicken Burrito Bowl.

Perfect Pairings and Meal Ideas for Arroz Mexicano

This best Mexican rice goes with just about everything. Here are some pairing ideas for easy dinners:

• Tacos or burritos — like these Mini Halloween Pizzas for a fun twist
• Grilled meats — such as Garlic Parmesan Chicken Skewers
• Mexican salads — try a Cucumber Shrimp Salad or Cucumber Dill Salad
• Beans and veggie bowls — like Stuffed Acorn Squash
• Salad pasta or sides — pair with Cheesy Root Vegetable Gratin or Scalloped Potatoes

Whether you’re serving it on Taco Tuesday or at your next dinner party, it’s a crowd-pleaser.

Keep Your Mexican Rice Fresh for Meal Prep or Later Use

One reason this recipe is a staple in many households is its versatility for meal prep.

To store:
Transfer to an airtight container once cooled. Store in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

To freeze:
Let the rice cool completely, then portion into freezer bags or containers. Freeze for up to 2 months.

To reheat:
Add a tablespoon of water or broth before microwaving or reheating on the stove over low heat.

Pair it with Freezer Breakfast Sandwiches or Loaded Breakfast Hash to prep multiple meals at once.

Troubleshooting Dry, Mushy, or Undercooked Rice

If your rice turns out less than perfect, here are some troubleshooting tips:

• Dry and undercooked? Add 1/4 cup more broth, cover, and cook for 5 more minutes.
• Too mushy? You likely used too much liquid or stirred while cooking.
• Stuck to the bottom? Use a nonstick pot and don’t cook over high heat.

Once you master these tricks, you’ll never need another recipe.

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Answering Your Top Questions About This Popular Side Dish

Is Mexican rice the same as Spanish rice?
They’re often used interchangeably, but Mexican rice typically uses tomato sauce and chicken broth, while Spanish rice sometimes includes saffron and different seasonings.

Can I make this with brown rice or cauliflower rice?
Yes. For brown rice, increase the cooking time to 40–45 minutes. For cauliflower rice, reduce the broth and cook for less time.

Can I double the recipe?
Absolutely! Just double the ingredients, but use a larger pot to ensure even cooking.

From Salad Pasta to Tacos – More Dishes to Try

Looking for more Mexican-inspired dishes or side ideas?

• Try these Crockpot Fajitas with your rice
• Or pair it with this Pumpkin Chicken Chili
• Serve as a side to Ground Turkey and Peppers Stir-Fry
• Use leftovers in Vegetarian Pasta Primavera for a fusion dinner

This rice is a go-to in our kitchen and will become one in yours, too.

Make This Best Mexican Rice Again and Again

From busy weeknights to festive dinners, this easy homemade Mexican rice is a reliable, delicious, and family-approved recipe you’ll turn to again and again. Whether you’re looking for Mexican rice recipes to add to your rotation or wondering how to make arroz Mexicano just like abuela, this one delivers every time.

It’s easy peasy Mexican rice with flavor that tastes anything but simple.

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