Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 18 flavorful Mexican rice recipes! From classic red rice to bold and spicy chipotle rice, we’ve got you covered. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty casserole or a quick and easy one-pot dish, our collection of Mexican rice recipes has something for everyone.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors and aromas of Mexico. With ingredients like cilantro, lime juice, chilies, and chorizo, these recipes are sure to transport your taste buds south of the border. So grab your apron, fire up your stove, and let’s get cooking!
Classic Mexican Red Rice
This recipe yields a flavorful and vibrant red rice dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the paprika, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the spice mixture.
6. Add the water, tomato paste, and chicken broth to the saucepan.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Green Chile Lime Rice
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the brightness of lime juice with the spicy kick of green chile peppers, perfect for accompanying your favorite Mexican-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1-2 green chile peppers, seeded and finely chopped (depending on desired level of heat)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, cumin, paprika, and green chile peppers.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with your favorite Mexican dishes. This recipe combines the brightness of lime, the pungency of cilantro, and the warmth of saffron to create a truly authentic Mexican experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated lime zest
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine it with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
2. In a small bowl, mix together chopped cilantro, lime juice, lime zest, and soaked saffron threads.
3. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the cilantro mixture. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Chipotle Rice
Elevate your meals with this flavorful Spicy Chipotle Rice dish, perfect for adding a kick to your favorite recipes!
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 ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional)
– 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (depending on desired heat level)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add rice, water, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), and chipotle peppers. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture 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: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Rice Casserole
A flavorful and filling twist on traditional Mexican rice, this casserole combines the bold flavors of tomatoes, beans, and cheese with the comfort of a warm, cheesy crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1/2 cup black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese (divided)
– 1/2 cup crushed tortilla chips (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, diced tomatoes, black beans, cilantro, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Transfer the rice mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Sprinkle half of the shredded cheddar cheese over the rice.
5. If using tortilla chips, sprinkle them evenly over the top layer of cheese.
6. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
7. Remove foil and sprinkle remaining cheese on top.
8. Return to oven and bake an additional 10-15 minutes, or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Cheesy Mexican Rice Bake
A delicious twist on traditional rice dishes, this Cheesy Mexican Rice Bake combines savory flavors with a creamy topping. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a party appetizer!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– 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 375°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using water, olive oil, onion, peas and carrots, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. In a separate bowl, mix shredded cheddar cheese and chopped cilantro (if using).
4. Transfer cooked rice to a 9×13-inch baking dish and top with the cheesy mixture.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Vegetarian Mexican Rice Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with savory rice, roasted vegetables, and creamy avocado, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 zucchini, diced
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 ripe avocado, sliced
– Optional: shredded cheese, sour cream, salsa, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion, bell pepper, and zucchini. Cook for 5 minutes or until tender.
4. Add cumin and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in cooked black beans. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Assemble the bowls by placing cooked rice at the bottom, followed by the roasted vegetable mixture, sliced avocado, and any desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Rice with Black Beans
Mexican Rice with Black Beans Recipe
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the comfort of Mexican rice with the protein-rich goodness of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil 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, until fragrant.
4. Add the uncooked rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Stir in the cumin, salt, and pepper.
7. In a separate pan, combine the black beans and a splash of water (if using canned). Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired. Enjoy!
One-Pot Mexican Rice and Chicken
A flavorful and satisfying meal that’s ready in just one pot! This recipe combines the comfort of chicken with the bold flavors of Mexico, all cooked to perfection in a single dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tsp cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken, onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until chicken is browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Stir in cumin, diced tomatoes with green chilies, and chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Garnish with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Rice Stuffed Peppers
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the comfort of Mexican rice with the sweetness of roasted bell peppers.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 2 cups cooked Mexican rice
– 1 pound ground beef or turkey, browned and drained
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 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 (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes.
3. In a large skillet, cook the beef or turkey until browned, breaking it up into small pieces as it cooks.
4. Add the onion, garlic, and Mexican rice to the skillet and stir to combine.
5. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
6. Place the peppers in a baking dish and drizzle with olive oil.
7. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 25 minutes.
8. Remove the foil and top each pepper with cheese; return to oven for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Mexican Rice with Corn and Peppers
Add a burst of flavor to your meals with this vibrant Mexican rice dish, packed with sweet corn, crunchy peppers, and savory spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish for your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 cup frozen corn kernels
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the bell pepper and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, 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 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Arroz con Pollo (Mexican Chicken and Rice)
A classic Mexican dish that combines the flavors of tender chicken, savory rice, and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
2. Add the onion, garlic, cumin, and paprika to the skillet. Cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the chicken and spices. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Serves: 4-6 people
Mexican Rice Pudding (Arroz con Leche)
Mexican Rice Pudding (Arroz con Leche) is a creamy and sweet dessert that’s perfect for any occasion. This traditional recipe combines cooked rice with milk, sugar, and spices to create a comforting treat.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably leftover)
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
4. Remove from heat and stir in vanilla extract and melted butter.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours or overnight before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6-8
Mexican Rice with Chorizo
This recipe combines the spicy kick of chorizo sausage with the warmth of Mexican rice, making for a delicious and satisfying side dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced chorizo and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Remove the chorizo from the skillet with a slotted spoon and set aside.
4. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and minced garlic and cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
5. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the onion mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
6. Add the water to the skillet and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in the cooked chorizo.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Rice and Beef Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful and filling meal with this easy-to-make skillet dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner or weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef (such as flank steak or skirt steak), sliced into thin strips
– 2 cups cooked Mexican rice (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes, drained
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp chili powder
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, shredded cheese, cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in the cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetable mixture.
6. Return the beef to the skillet and stir to coat with the rice and vegetable mixture.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Rice with Shrimp
This flavorful recipe combines the bold flavors of Mexico with succulent shrimp, all wrapped up in a deliciously simple dish perfect for any occasion. With its aromatic spices and juicy seafood, this Mexican Rice with Shrimp is sure to become a family favorite.
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 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Optional: lime wedges, chopped cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through (about 5-6 minutes per side).
4. Stir in cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
5. Combine cooked rice with peas and carrots. Serve hot, garnished with lime wedges and cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Rice Salad with Avocado
A flavorful and refreshing salad perfect for a light meal or as a side dish, this Mexican-inspired recipe combines the creamy richness of avocado with the savory goodness of rice, beans, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– 1/2 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, black beans, and diced avocado.
2. Add chopped red bell pepper and sprinkle with cumin.
3. Squeeze lime juice over the mixture and toss gently.
4. Stir in chopped cilantro and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Mexican Rice with Salsa Verde
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of Mexican rice with the bright, tangy flavor of salsa verde. Perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a side dish to spice up any meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro (optional)
– Salsa Verde (see below for recipe)
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 rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture.
4. Add water, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff rice with a fork and stir in chopped cilantro (if using).
6. Serve hot with Salsa Verde spooned over the top.
Salsa Verde Recipe:
(To be added)
Total Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Summary
Get ready to spice up your meals with these 18 delicious Mexican rice recipes! From classic dishes like Classic Mexican Red Rice and Arroz con Pollo, to innovative creations like Green Chile Lime Rice and Spicy Chipotle Rice, there’s something for every taste. Try making a flavorful casserole or bake, or opt for lighter options like Vegetarian Mexican Rice Bowl or Mexican Rice Salad with Avocado. Whether you’re in the mood for spicy, cheesy, or simply satisfying, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and leave you wanting more.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
