Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish

Name: Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 40 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: International Recipe Collection

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this easy and delicious Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish, perfect for a weeknight dinner.

Created by

Anna Johnson

Last updated on 2025-12-18T22:37:48.400Z

This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish combines the heartiness of rice with the zest of various spices, making it a fulfilling meal that is both comforting and nutritious.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        A one-pan meal that saves time on cleanup
Bursting with flavor from spices and fresh ingredients
Versatile enough to serve as a main or side dish

      

A Flavorful Journey

Mexican cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and colorful ingredients, and this Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish embodies that spirit beautifully. Each bite offers a delightful combination of spices that dance on your palate, making it a joy to eat. The use of fresh vegetables not only enhances the flavor profile but also adds a vibrant touch to the dish, making it visually appealing.

This dish is not just about flavor; it's also about simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create a meal that feels both comforting and nourishing. Ideal for busy weeknights, this skillet dish allows you to enjoy a homemade meal without spending hours in the kitchen.

Customization Options

One of the greatest aspects of the Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is its versatility. You can easily adapt the recipe to suit your dietary preferences or what you have on hand. Consider adding black beans or corn for extra protein and texture, or toss in seasonal vegetables like zucchini or spinach for a nutritional boost. The possibilities are endless, allowing you to make this dish uniquely yours.

For those who enjoy a bit of heat, feel free to add diced jalapeños or a sprinkle of cayenne pepper. Alternatively, if you prefer a milder flavor, you can simply adjust the spices to your liking. This dish is a canvas for your culinary creativity!

Serving Suggestions

This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish can serve as a hearty main course or a delightful side dish. It pairs wonderfully with grilled chicken, fish, or even tacos, making it a perfect accompaniment for any Mexican-inspired meal. You can also serve it alongside fresh avocado slices or a zesty lime wedge for added flavor.

For a complete dining experience, consider pairing this dish with a fresh salad or a side of refried beans. The combination of flavors will transport you straight to a vibrant Mexican fiesta, making every meal feel special.

Ingredients

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth cooking experience.

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
1 medium onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tablespoons olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to have all your ingredients prepped and ready to go before you begin cooking.

Instructions

Follow these steps to create a delicious Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish.

Sauté the Vegetables

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.

Add Rice and Spices

Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it with the oil and vegetables. Mix in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted.

Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

Pour in the diced tomatoes with their juice and the vegetable broth. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet and let it simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.

Fluff and Serve

Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Enjoy your delicious Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish!

Storage Tips

If you find yourself with leftovers, you're in luck! This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish stores well in the refrigerator for up to three days. Simply transfer it to an airtight container and keep it chilled until you're ready to enjoy it again. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day.

When reheating, add a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent the rice from drying out. This will help restore its fluffy texture and keep the dish moist. You can easily reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop for a quick and convenient meal.

Nutritional Benefits

This dish not only satisfies your taste buds but also provides a range of nutritional benefits. The inclusion of vegetables like bell peppers and onions adds essential vitamins and minerals, while the rice serves as a good source of carbohydrates for energy. Additionally, you can boost the protein content by adding beans or lean meats.

Using vegetable broth instead of water enhances the flavor while keeping the dish plant-based, making it suitable for vegetarian and vegan diets. This balance of ingredients ensures that you're not only enjoying a delicious meal but also fueling your body with wholesome nutrients.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount, as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free vegetable broth, this recipe is gluten-free.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it in advance and reheat it on the stove or microwave before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with grilled meats, a fresh salad, or as a filling for burritos.