Are you looking for a delicious and authentic Mexican dish to spice up your meal routine? Look no further! Mexican rice is a staple in many Latin American cuisines, and when done right, it’s a game-changer. Whether you’re a fan of spicy dishes or prefer milder flavors, we’ve got you covered with our collection of 18 flavorful Mexican rice recipes that are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
From classic red rice to creamy chipotle versions, and from vegetarian bowls to hearty casseroles, our recipe list has something for everyone. Whether you’re cooking for a crowd or just want to mix things up in the kitchen, these Mexican rice recipes are sure to become new favorites.
In this article, we’ll dive into the world of Mexican cuisine and explore 18 mouth-watering rice recipes that showcase the bold flavors and vibrant colors that make this dish so beloved. From traditional methods to modern twists, we’ll cover it all. So, grab your apron and get ready to cook up some fiesta-worthy meals with our flavorful Mexican rice recipes!
Authentic Mexican Red Rice
This classic recipe is a staple in many Mexican households, adding a pop of color and flavor to any meal. With its deep red hue and slightly sweet and smoky taste, it’s the perfect 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 tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, water, tomato paste, paprika, and salt. Stir well to combine.
5. 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.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Green Chile Lime Mexican Rice
This vibrant and flavorful rice dish is a perfect accompaniment to any Mexican-inspired meal. With the bold flavors of green chile and lime, it’s sure to add a pop of color and excitement to your plate.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup green chile peppers, roasted and chopped (see note)
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt to taste
– Optional: cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium 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 chopped green chile peppers and cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the rice and water to the saucepan, stirring to combine.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Stir in lime juice and season with salt to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Creamy Chipotle Mexican Rice
Elevate your meal with this flavorful and aromatic Mexican rice dish, infused with the subtle heat of chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. This creamy and savory side dish is perfect for accompanying grilled meats, vegetables, or as a base for burritos.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons heavy cream or half-and-half (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add chipotle pepper, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook 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 rice is tender.
5. Fluff with a fork and stir in heavy cream or half-and-half, if using.
6. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
One-Pot Mexican Rice with Black Beans
This hearty, flavorful dish combines the creaminess of Mexican rice with the protein-rich goodness of black beans, all in one pot. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a crowd-pleasing meal for friends and family.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil or cooking spray for greasing
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot over medium-high heat. Add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil or cooking spray.
2. Cook the chopped onion until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and cooked rice. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the diced tomatoes, water, and black beans. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Rice Stuffed Peppers
This recipe combines the warmth of Mexican flavors with the simplicity of stuffed peppers, resulting in a delicious and satisfying meal. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked Mexican rice (with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and cumin)
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chili powder
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Shredded cheese (Monterey Jack or Cheddar work well), optional
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. Cook the ground beef in a skillet, breaking it up with a spoon as it cooks.
3. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, chili powder, and paprika to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent.
4. Stuff each bell pepper with the cooked rice mixture, followed by the meat mixture.
5. Place the peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
6. Bake for 30 minutes, then remove the foil and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole
A flavorful and satisfying casserole that combines the comforting warmth of rice with the bold flavors of Mexico, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering. This recipe is easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
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 oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in peas and carrots, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes, and the skillet mixture. Mix well.
6. Transfer to a 9×13 inch baking dish. Top with shredded cheese.
7. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Spicy Arroz con Pollo
Spicy Arroz con Pollo: A Flavorful Twist on a Classic Latin American Dish
This recipe adds a kick of heat to the traditional chicken and rice dish, with the added flavor of sautéed onions, bell peppers, and jalapeños.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 large bell peppers (any color), sliced
– 2 jalapeños, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion, sliced bell peppers, and chopped jalapeños to the skillet. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
4. Stir in cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Serve the chicken and vegetable mixture over the cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Rice with Chorizo and Corn
Savor the bold flavors of Mexico with this hearty one-pot dish, combining tender chorizo sausage, sweet corn, and aromatic rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb Mexican-style chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 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 sliced chorizo sausage and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the same pan; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the uncooked rice to the pan, stirring to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the water and browned chorizo sausage back into the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed.
6. Stir in the frozen corn kernels and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetarian Mexican Rice Bowl
Savor a flavorful and nutritious meal with this vegetarian Mexican rice bowl recipe. This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, cilantro for topping
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the cumin and cook for an additional minute.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and add it to the skillet. Stir to combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Serve hot, topped with black beans, and optional avocado, salsa, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Rice and Beef Skillet
This hearty one-pot dish combines tender beef with flavorful Mexican rice and a blend of spices, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend meal. With minimal prep time and cooking, you’ll have a delicious and satisfying meal ready in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (flank steak or ribeye)
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup diced bell peppers
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef strips and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Add the onion, bell peppers, and garlic to the skillet. Cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cooked rice, diced tomatoes with green chilies, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Return the beef strips to the skillet and stir to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors are well combined.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pineapple Jalapeño Mexican Rice
Add a pop of flavor to your next fiesta with this sweet and spicy Mexican rice dish! This recipe combines the natural sweetness of pineapple with the heat of jalapeños, all wrapped up in a flavorful Mexican-inspired package.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 medium pineapple, diced
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, water, diced pineapple, chopped jalapeño, cumin, and salt to the saucepan. Stir well to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Rice Soup with Chicken
This hearty and flavorful soup combines tender chicken, creamy rice, and spices for a deliciously comforting meal. Perfect for a chilly evening or a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, sauté the onion, garlic, and red bell pepper in a little oil until tender.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides.
3. Add the rice, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Cilantro Lime Mexican Rice
This vibrant and flavorful rice dish is a staple of Mexican cuisine, infused with the freshness of cilantro and the brightness of lime juice. It’s perfect as a side dish or used as a base for burritos, tacos, or bowls.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a medium 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, water, cilantro, lime juice, and salt. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff with a fork and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mexican Rice with Shrimp and Avocado
This vibrant dish combines flavorful Mexican rice with succulent shrimp and creamy avocado, perfect for a quick and delicious meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Set aside.
2. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and fully cooked, about 2-3 minutes per side.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in cumin. Combine the cooked rice with the shrimp mixture.
5. Slice the avocado and add to the rice mixture.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Mexican Rice
Perfect for busy days, this slow cooker recipe yields a delicious and aromatic Mexican rice dish that’s easy to prepare and ready when you are. Simply add your favorite toppings and serve with your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
Instructions:
1. Add rice, water, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the slow cooker.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in diced tomatoes.
4. Serve hot with your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
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. The mix of textures from the crunchy veggies to the creamy avocado makes it a delightful addition to any gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup diced red bell pepper
– 1 cup diced cucumber
– 1/2 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1/2 cup diced avocado
– 1 lime, juiced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, red bell pepper, cucumber, 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 coat.
4. Stir in diced avocado.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve immediately or refrigerate for up to 24 hours.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mexican Rice Stuffed Zucchini Boats
A flavorful twist on traditional stuffed zucchini, these Mexican-inspired boats are perfect for a quick and delicious dinner or lunch. Simply fill hollowed-out zucchinis with a savory mixture of cooked rice, beans, cheese, and spices, and bake until golden and bubbly.
Ingredients:
– 4 medium zucchinis
– 1 cup cooked Mexican rice (with diced tomatoes and onions)
– 1/2 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1/4 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, sour cream, or salsa for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the zucchinis in half lengthwise and scoop out the insides.
3. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, black beans, cheese, cumin, salt, and pepper.
4. Stuff each zucchini boat with the rice mixture, mounding slightly.
5. Place the boats on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and bake for 25-30 minutes or until the zucchinis are tender and the filling is heated through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Smoky Mexican Rice with Pinto Beans
This flavorful side dish combines tender pinto beans with the rich flavors of smoky spices and savory rice, making it a perfect accompaniment to any Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15.5 oz) pinto beans, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add pinto beans, smoked paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until flavors have melded together.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in the bean mixture.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 mouth-watering Mexican rice recipes! From classic and authentic dishes to innovative twists and fusion flavors, this collection has something for every palate. Discover bold and zesty options like Spicy Arroz con Pollo or Pineapple Jalapeño Mexican Rice, or try comforting and hearty variations like One-Pot Mexican Rice with Black Beans or Cheesy Mexican Rice Casserole. Whether you’re a fan of meat-based dishes or vegetarian bowls, there’s something for everyone in this flavorful lineup of Mexican rice recipes.
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