Mexican Rice (Restaurant-Style)

Easy Mexican Rice recipe — fluffy, flavorful, and just like your favorite restaurant! The perfect side for tacos, enchiladas, burritos, or fajitas. Ready in 25 minutes with simple pantry ingredients.

Description

No Mexican meal is complete without a side of warm, fluffy Mexican Rice — lightly toasted, perfectly seasoned, and bursting with authentic flavor. This recipe brings that restaurant-style taste home with simple pantry ingredients and a touch of cozy comfort.

It’s the perfect companion for your favorite Mexican dishes — from tacos and burritos to enchiladas and fajitas. Every bite soaks up flavor from tomato, garlic, and spice, making it the side you’ll serve again and again.

Recipe Card

Prep Time: 10 minutes Cook Time: 25 minutes Servings: 4–6

Ingredients

• 2 tbsp vegetable oil

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 2 cloves garlic, minced

• ½ small onion, finely chopped

• 1 ¾ cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)

• ½ cup tomato sauce (or 2 tbsp tomato paste + ½ cup water)

• ½ tsp salt

• ½ tsp cumin

• ¼ tsp chili powder

• ⅓ cup frozen peas and carrots (optional)

• Fresh cilantro or lime wedges, for garnish

Instructions

1. Toast the Rice: In a medium skillet or saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add rice and stir constantly until golden brown — about 4–5 minutes.

2. Add Aromatics: Stir in garlic and onion; cook 1–2 minutes until fragrant.

3. Add Seasonings & Liquids: Pour in broth, tomato sauce, salt, cumin, and chili powder. Stir to combine.

4. Simmer: Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer 18–20 minutes, or until liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.

5. Finish & Fluff: Remove from heat, cover for 5 minutes, then fluff with a fork. Stir in peas and carrots if using.

6. Garnish & Serve: Top with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice before serving.

Serving Suggestions

• Pair it with Street Tacos for the ultimate weeknight dinner.

• Serve alongside Mexican Enchiladas or Beef Burritos for a full fiesta.

• Add a scoop to Taco Casserole or enjoy with Chicken Fajitas for a comforting, hearty meal.

Tips for Perfect Mexican Rice

• Toast the rice until lightly golden before adding liquids — it keeps it fluffy, not sticky.

• Don’t lift the lid while simmering — steam is key to perfect texture.

• For a little heat, stir in diced jalapeños or a pinch of cayenne.

• Double the recipe and freeze leftovers in small containers for easy sides later.