Bring the authentic taste of Mexican food dishes right to your kitchen with this easy restaurant-style Mexican rice recipe. It’s budget-friendly, simple to prepare, and pairs beautifully with your favorite Mexican entrees. You might even find it better than your go-to restaurant version!
Prep and Cook Times
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Total Time: 45 minutes
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain rice
- 1/4 cup oil
- 8 oz tomato sauce
- 1/2 cup cilantro, chopped
- 3 teaspoons salt
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper
Instructions
- Toast the Rice: Heat oil in a large frying pan over medium-high heat. Add the rice and cook until golden brown.
- Add Flavor: Pour in chicken broth, tomato sauce, salt, minced garlic, cumin, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
- Simmer: Cover the pan with a lid, reduce the heat to medium-low, and let the mixture simmer for 35–40 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed.
- Finish with Cilantro: Fluff the rice with a fork, stir in chopped cilantro, and serve immediately.
Optional: Sprinkle Cotija cheese on top for extra flavor!
Why You’ll Love It
This restaurant-style Mexican rice is a perfect side dish for tacos, enchiladas, or grilled chicken. The toasted rice adds a nutty flavor, while the tomato sauce and spices give it a rich, savory taste. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that brings bold, authentic Mexican flavors to your table.
Serve it with your favorite Mexican dishes and watch it become a family favorite!