Rotel Mexican Rice

This Rotel Mexican Rice is the perfect side dish to complement your favorite Mexican meals. Made with Rotel tomatoes, fluffy rice, and a blend of spices, it’s bursting with bold flavors and vibrant colors. Whether paired with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled chicken, this easy recipe will quickly become a family favorite.

One evening, I wanted a quick, flavorful side dish to pair with our taco night. I spotted a can of Rotel in the pantry and decided to experiment. The result was this Rotel Mexican Rice, and it was an instant hit! My husband loved the mild spice, and my daughter couldn’t stop sneaking bites straight from the pot. Now, it’s a must-have addition to our Mexican-inspired dinners.

Why You’ll Love Rotel Mexican Rice

•Quick and Easy: Ready in under 30 minutes with simple ingredients.

•Bold Flavors: The perfect balance of spice, tomato, and seasoning.

•Versatile: Great as a side dish or base for burrito bowls.

•Kid-Friendly: Mild enough for little ones but customizable for more heat.

Ingredients Notes For Rotel Mexican Rice

•Rice: Long-grain white or jasmine rice works best for fluffy results.

•Rotel Tomatoes: A can of Rotel provides tomatoes and green chilies for added flavor.

•Chicken Broth: Adds depth and richness to the rice. Substitute with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version.

•Onions and Garlic: Enhance the base flavor.

•Seasonings: Cumin, paprika, and a pinch of chili powder for a Mexican-inspired taste.

•Optional Add-Ins: Corn, black beans, or chopped cilantro for extra texture and flavor.

Recipe Steps

1.Sauté Aromatics: In a large skillet or saucepan, heat oil over medium heat. Add chopped onions and minced garlic, cooking until fragrant and translucent.

2.Toast Rice: Stir in the rice and cook for 2-3 minutes, allowing it to lightly toast.

3.Add Liquids and Rotel: Pour in the chicken broth and Rotel tomatoes (with their juices). Stir in seasonings like cumin, paprika, chili powder, and a pinch of salt.

4.Simmer: Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

5.Fluff and Serve: Remove from heat, fluff the rice with a fork, and garnish with chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime if desired. Serve warm.

Storage Options

•Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Reheat on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of water.

•Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw and reheat when needed.

Variations & Substitutions

•Use brown rice for a heartier, healthier option (adjust cooking time accordingly).

•Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños for extra flavor and texture.

•Stir in shredded cheese for a creamy twist.

Rotel Mexican Rice

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Course: Side Dish

Kitchen: Mexican-Inspired

Prep Time: 10 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 20 minutes minutes

Total Time: 30 minutes minutes

Servings: 4

Ingredients

 

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• ▢ 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• ▢ 1 cup long-grain white rice
• ▢ 1 can 10 oz Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained)
• ▢ 2 cups chicken broth
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• ▢ 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• ▢ 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
• ▢ Salt and pepper to taste
• ▢ 1/4 cup fresh cilantro chopped (optional, for garnish)
• ▢ Lime wedges optional, for serving

Instructions

• Toast the Rice: Heat the vegetable oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly golden, about 3-4 minutes.
• Add Rotel and Spices: Stir in the Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, cumin, chili powder, garlic powder, and onion powder. Mix well to coat the rice with the seasonings.
• Add Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
• Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
• Fluff and Serve: Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, season with salt and pepper to taste, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
• Optional: Serve with lime wedges for a tangy kick.