Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish

Name: Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 30 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 1 cup long-grain rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 medium onion, diced; 1 red bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon ground cumin; 1 teaspoon chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tablespoons olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Wanderlust Dinner Recipes

A vibrant and flavorful one-pan meal that brings the taste of Mexico to your kitchen.

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-18T16:10:49.079Z

This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is a perfect blend of spices and flavors, providing a delightful experience in every bite. Enjoy this easy-to-make dish for any weeknight dinner!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with authentic Mexican flavors
One-pan convenience for easy cleanup
Customizable with your favorite proteins or vegetables

      

A Taste of Mexico in Every Bite

Mexican cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors, and this Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish encapsulates that essence perfectly. Each bite delivers a delightful combination of spices and fresh ingredients, making it a feast for the senses. The use of long-grain rice allows for a fluffy texture that absorbs the rich flavors of cumin and chili powder, creating a comforting dish that evokes the warmth of home-cooked meals.

The incorporation of diced tomatoes not only adds a hint of acidity but also enhances the dish's overall color and visual appeal. Combined with the sweetness of sautéed onions and bell peppers, this dish offers a symphony of flavors that dance on your palate. It's a meal that is both hearty and satisfying, perfect for any night of the week.

One-Pan Wonder for Busy Days

Life can get hectic, and finding time to cook can be a challenge. This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is the solution for those busy days when you still want to enjoy a home-cooked meal. The one-pan method not only simplifies the cooking process but also cuts down on cleanup time, allowing you to spend more quality moments with family or friends.

With just a few simple steps, you can have a delicious, wholesome meal on the table in under 30 minutes. Plus, it’s easy to prepare in advance, making it a great choice for meal prepping. Just reheat and enjoy throughout the week, ensuring you have a flavorful option ready whenever hunger strikes.

Endless Customization Options

One of the best aspects of the Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your dietary preferences or to use up ingredients you have on hand. Whether you want to add protein sources like chicken, shrimp, or black beans, or toss in seasonal vegetables such as zucchini or corn, the possibilities are endless.

This adaptability not only makes the dish more exciting with each preparation but also allows you to cater to different tastes. Feel free to experiment with various spices or herbs to create your unique twist on this classic dish, ensuring that it never gets boring.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

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

Instructions

Prepare the Base

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

Add the Rice and Spices

Pour in the rice and stir to coat with the oil and vegetables. Add the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper, mixing well.

Incorporate the Liquids

Add the diced tomatoes (with juice) and vegetable broth to the skillet. 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.

Finish and Serve

Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish!

Nutritional Benefits

This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is not only delicious but also packed with nutritional benefits. The use of brown rice or whole grain options can increase fiber content, promoting digestive health. Additionally, the inclusion of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and tomatoes contributes essential vitamins and minerals, enhancing overall wellness.

By incorporating healthy fats from olive oil and the possibility of adding lean proteins, you can create a balanced meal that provides sustained energy. It's a guilt-free way to indulge in flavorful cuisine without compromising on nutrition.

Perfect Pairings

To elevate your dining experience, consider pairing the Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish with a fresh side salad or some warm tortillas. A simple avocado and lime salad can add a refreshing contrast to the dish's robust flavors, while tortillas can be used to scoop up the rice, adding a fun interactive element to your meal.

For beverage options, a chilled glass of horchata or a light Mexican beer complements the spices beautifully, enhancing the overall taste experience. Whether it's a family dinner or a casual get-together with friends, these pairings can take your meal to the next level.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

Add more chili powder or include diced jalapeños to increase the heat.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day in advance and reheat it on the stove or in the microwave.

→ What proteins can I add to this dish?

Chicken, shrimp, or even tofu work great in this recipe. Just be sure to cook them beforehand and add them at the end.