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 (15 oz) diced tomatoes; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 small onion, chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Global Flavors

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this delicious and easy Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish that comes together in just one pan!

Created by

Emily

Last updated on 2025-12-18T18:58:48.482Z

This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is a perfect blend of flavors and textures, making it an ideal meal for family gatherings or a cozy weeknight dinner. Packed with colorful vegetables and spices, this dish is sure to be a hit!

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with authentic Mexican flavors
One-pan meal for easy cleanup
Healthy ingredients packed with nutrients
Perfect for meal prep and leftovers

      

A Taste of Mexico at Home

This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is a fantastic way to bring the vibrant flavors of Mexico right to your kitchen. With its rich combination of spices, fresh vegetables, and hearty rice, this dish offers a satisfying meal that’s perfect for any occasion. The use of diced tomatoes adds a juicy tang, complementing the earthy spices beautifully, creating a harmonious balance that your taste buds will love.

Not only is this dish delicious, but it is also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite proteins, such as grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans, making it a well-rounded meal that can cater to various dietary preferences. The one-pan nature of this recipe means less hassle in the kitchen, allowing you to enjoy more quality time with family and friends.

Healthy and Nutritious

Packed with wholesome ingredients, this Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is as nutritious as it is tasty. The use of fresh vegetables like bell peppers and onions not only enhances the flavor but also boosts the dish's nutritional profile. These vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, contributing to a balanced meal.

Moreover, the inclusion of long-grain rice and vegetable broth ensures that you’re enjoying a dish that is both filling and satisfying. Opting for brown rice instead of white can add even more fiber and nutrients to your meal, making it a healthy choice for anyone looking to maintain a balanced diet.

Perfect for Meal Prep

If you're someone who loves to meal prep, this Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is an excellent option. It stores well in the refrigerator and can be easily reheated, making it ideal for busy weekdays. Just prepare a larger batch, portion it out, and you’ll have tasty meals ready to go in no time.

The flavors of the dish often improve after a day in the fridge, allowing the spices to meld together beautifully. Whether you're packing it for lunch or serving it for dinner, this dish remains delightful and satisfying, ensuring you won’t get bored with your meals throughout the week.

Ingredients

Main Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (15 oz) diced tomatoes
1 bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, chopped
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 tablespoon olive oil
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Gather all the ingredients before you start cooking for a smooth process!

Instructions

Sauté the Vegetables

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

Add the Rice and Spices

Add the rice to the skillet and stir to coat it in the oil. Sprinkle in the chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, mixing well.

Combine with Broth and Tomatoes

Pour in the vegetable broth and add the diced tomatoes (with their juice). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover.

Cook the Rice

Let the rice simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Fluff with a fork before serving.

Garnish and Serve

Top with fresh cilantro and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish!

Serve this dish with your favorite protein or enjoy it on its own!

Storage Tips

To store leftover Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish, let it cool down to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist.

If you find yourself with a larger batch than you can consume within a few days, consider freezing individual portions. This way, you can enjoy the flavors of your favorite dish weeks later. Just make sure to label the containers with the date for easy tracking.

Serving Suggestions

This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish can be served as a main course or as a delightful side alongside grilled meats or fish. For an authentic Mexican touch, consider pairing it with guacamole, sour cream, or a fresh salsa. The contrast of flavors will elevate your dining experience and bring a festive spirit to your table.

For an extra layer of flavor, you can top the dish with crumbled queso fresco or avocado slices before serving. Fresh lime wedges can also be served on the side for those who enjoy a zesty kick to their meal.

Variations to Try

Feel free to experiment with this recipe by adding different vegetables or spices. For instance, corn, zucchini, or black beans can bring additional texture and taste to the dish. If you prefer a spicier kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or a splash of hot sauce to the mix.

You can also make this dish your own by incorporating different types of rice. Quinoa or cauliflower rice can serve as excellent substitutes, catering to various dietary needs without sacrificing deliciousness.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan as it uses vegetable broth.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! It stores well in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or a fresh salad.