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 with green chilies; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon cumin; 1 teaspoon paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Cultures on a Plate Recipes

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

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-18T15:13:48.755Z

This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is not only quick and easy to make, but it's also packed with flavor and nutrition. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with authentic Mexican flavors
A complete meal cooked in one skillet
Quick and easy preparation for busy weeknights

      

A Taste of Mexico at Home

Mexican Red Rice is a staple dish that perfectly encapsulates the vibrant flavors and rich culinary traditions of Mexico. This one-pan meal brings together the warmth of spices, the freshness of vegetables, and the heartiness of rice, creating a dish that is both comforting and satisfying. With its beautiful red hue from the tomatoes and the aromatic blend of cumin and paprika, this dish is not only delicious but visually appealing as well.

With easy-to-find ingredients and a straightforward preparation method, anyone can recreate this classic meal in their own kitchen. The combination of diced tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices results in a flavor explosion that will transport you to the streets of Mexico. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering with friends, this Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is sure to impress.

Perfect for Busy Weeknights

In today’s fast-paced world, finding time to prepare healthy, homemade meals can be a challenge. This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish offers a quick solution without compromising on flavor or nutrition. With just one skillet needed, cleanup is a breeze, making it an ideal choice for busy weeknights when time is of the essence.

The entire cooking process takes less than 30 minutes, allowing you to whip up a delicious meal in no time. Simply sauté the vegetables, add the rice and spices, then let everything simmer together. This simplicity makes it easy to incorporate into your weekly meal rotation, ensuring you always have a flavorful option at hand.

Customizable to Your Taste

One of the best aspects of this Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your personal preferences or dietary needs. Add in your favorite proteins, such as chicken, shrimp, or beans, to make the dish even heartier. You can also experiment with different vegetables or spices, tailoring the dish to fit your taste.

For those who enjoy a little heat, consider adding jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce. This dish is not only delicious as is, but it also serves as a fantastic base for other ingredients, making it a delightful canvas for culinary creativity.

Ingredients

For the Skillet Dish

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon cumin
1 teaspoon paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to rinse the rice before cooking for better texture.

Instructions

Sauté Vegetables

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

Add Rice and Spices

Add the rice, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir to coat the rice with the spices and cook for 2 minutes.

Combine with Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable broth and the can of diced tomatoes with green chilies. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and has absorbed the liquid.

Serve

Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

This dish pairs well with avocado slices or a side salad.

Serving Suggestions

This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is a complete meal on its own, but you can elevate it even further with some delightful accompaniments. Consider serving it alongside a fresh avocado salad or homemade guacamole for a refreshing contrast to the warm, spiced rice. Corn tortillas or tortilla chips can also be a great addition, perfect for scooping up the rice or enjoying with your favorite salsa.

For a more substantial meal, you might pair it with grilled chicken or fish, allowing the flavors to complement one another. The vibrant colors and flavors of the dish will surely impress your guests and make for a delightful dining experience.

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers, storing them is easy! Simply transfer the cooled rice to an airtight container and refrigerate. The flavors will continue to meld, making it even tastier the next day. This dish can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days, making it a great option for meal prep.

When you're ready to enjoy your leftovers, simply reheat them in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to prevent sticking. Stir occasionally until heated through. This method helps maintain the texture and flavor of the rice, ensuring that every bite is as delicious as the first.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly, as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish suitable for meal prep?

Absolutely! It stores well in the fridge for up to 4 days.

→ Can I make this dish vegan?

Yes, the recipe is already vegan-friendly as it uses vegetable broth.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

It goes well with a side of beans, guacamole, or a fresh salad.