The Best Homemade Mexican Rice Recipe

What You’ll Love About This Recipe

This Homemade Mexican Rice recipe is a crowd-pleaser that’s perfect for any meal, whether it’s taco night or a Sunday dinner. You’ll love how easy it is to make, using simple ingredients you probably already have in your pantry. The fluffy texture and rich, savory flavor make it a standout side dish. Plus, it’s incredibly versatile, pairing perfectly with everything from enchiladas to grilled chicken. And the best part? It’s ready in under 30 minutes, so you can spend less time cooking and more time enjoying.

Recipe

This homemade Mexican rice recipe is a flavorful and easy-to-make side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Mexican entrees. It’s made with simple ingredients and cooked to perfection for a delicious, authentic taste.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 1/4 cup finely chopped onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup tomato sauce
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
• Salt, to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until it turns a light golden brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and minced garlic, and cook for an additional 2 minutes.
4. Pour in the chicken broth, tomato sauce, and ground cumin. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Notes:

• For a spicier version, add a diced jalapeño with the onions.
• Substitute vegetable broth for chicken broth to make it vegetarian.

Equipment:

• Large skillet with a lid
• Wooden spoon or spatula

Time:

• Prep time: 10 minutes
• Cooking time: 25 minutes

Cuisine: Mexican

Serving: 4 servings

Nutrition

Here is the nutrition information for one serving of homemade Mexican rice.

What To Serve With It

I love pairing my Mexican rice with hearty proteins like grilled chicken or seasoned beef—it makes the meal feel complete. Fresh vegetables, like a crisp salad or roasted peppers, add color and crunch that balance the rice perfectly. Trust me, these combos turn a simple side into a feast you’ll want to make again and again.

Hearty Proteins

When making homemade Mexican rice, I love pairing it with proteins that keep the meal satisfying but don’t steal the spotlight. Grilled chicken, seasoned simply with lime and cumin, is a go-to—it’s juicy and lets the rice shine. Shredded beef, slow-cooked until tender, adds richness without overpowering. For something lighter, flaky white fish with a sprinkle of chili powder works wonders. Even black beans, mashed or whole, bring protein and a creamy texture. Each option complements the rice’s bold flavors while keeping the dish balanced. Trust me, the right protein turns a side into a meal you’ll crave.

Fresh Vegetables

Though the rice is already packed with flavor, fresh veggies add a bright crunch that balances everything out. I love serving diced tomatoes, sliced avocado, or crisp lettuce on the side—they bring a revitalizing contrast to the warm, savory rice. Grilled zucchini, roasted bell peppers, or sautéed corn are also great options. Sometimes, I’ll chop up some jalapeños for a spicy kick. The beauty of fresh vegetables is how they let you customize the meal to your taste. Plus, they’re healthy and colorful, making the dish feel complete. Trust me, a little veggie addition takes this rice from good to amazing!