Mexican Rice Recipe with Salsa and Spices Recipe
Introduction
Mexican Rice is a flavorful and vibrant side dish that’s perfect for complementing your favorite Mexican meals. With a blend of spices and tomato salsa, it’s both easy to make and irresistibly tasty.

Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup jarred tomato salsa
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (reduce to 1/4 teaspoon for milder flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium skillet, combine the rice, broth, salsa, garlic powder, cumin, salt, chili powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Stir well to mix all ingredients evenly.
- Step 2: Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium-high heat. Then reduce the heat to medium and simmer for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until about half of the liquid has been absorbed.
- Step 3: Cover the skillet, reduce the heat to medium-low, and continue to simmer until the rice is tender, about 8 to 10 more minutes, stirring occasionally to prevent sticking.
Tips & Variations
- For extra flavor, sauté the rice in a bit of oil before adding the liquids to toast it lightly.
- Use fresh diced tomatoes and chopped cilantro instead of salsa for a fresher taste.
- Adjust chili powder according to your heat preference, or add a pinch of cayenne for extra spice.
Storage
Store leftover Mexican rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water or broth to restore moisture.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Yes, simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth to keep it vegetarian.
What can I serve with Mexican Rice?
Mexican Rice pairs well with beans, grilled meats, tacos, or as a base for burrito bowls.
PrintMexican Rice Recipe with Salsa and Spices Recipe
This authentic Mexican Rice recipe delivers flavorful, fluffy rice infused with tomato salsa and a blend of fragrant spices. Perfect as a side dish for Mexican meals or as a base for burrito bowls, it’s easy to prepare on the stovetop using simple pantry ingredients and low sodium broth for a balanced, tasty option.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 18-20 minutes
- Total Time: 23-25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain white rice
- 2 cups low sodium chicken or vegetable broth
- 1 cup jarred tomato salsa
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon chili powder (reduce to 1/4 teaspoon for milder flavor)
- 1/4 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/8 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions
- Combine Ingredients: In a medium skillet, stir together the rice, broth, tomato salsa, garlic powder, cumin, salt, chili powder, onion powder, and black pepper until evenly mixed.
- Initial Simmer: Place the skillet over medium-high heat and bring the mixture to a simmer. Once simmering, reduce the heat to medium and cook for 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until about half of the liquid is absorbed.
- Cover and Finish Cooking: Cover the skillet with a lid, lower the heat to medium-low, and continue to simmer for another 8 to 10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is tender and has absorbed the remaining liquid. Remove from heat and let it sit covered for a few minutes before serving to allow the rice to fully set.
Notes
- Adjust chili powder according to your preferred spice level; use 1/4 teaspoon for a milder taste.
- Using low sodium broth helps control the saltiness of the dish, but you can adjust salt to taste.
- For a vegetarian or vegan option, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Letting the rice rest covered after cooking allows it to fluff up nicely.
- This rice pairs well with beans, grilled meats, or as a base for tacos and burrito bowls.
Keywords: Mexican rice, tomato salsa rice, easy Mexican side dish, seasoned rice, stovetop Mexican rice

