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Easy Rotel Mexican Rice Recipe

4.6 from 685 reviews

This Easy Rotel Mexican Rice recipe is a flavorful, simple side dish that combines long grain rice with zesty Rotel tomatoes and fragrant spices. Perfectly cooked on the stovetop, it offers a vibrant and savory taste to complement any Mexican-inspired meal.

Ingredients

Scale

Rice Mixture

  • 1.5 cups long grain rice
  • 1 can Rotel tomatoes (undrained)
  • 2 cups chicken broth (low sodium)
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 0.5 teaspoon cumin
  • 0.5 teaspoon salt (to taste)

Instructions

  1. Prepare the Rice: Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat to warm it up and prepare for cooking the rice.
  2. Toast the Rice: Add the long grain rice to the skillet and cook it while stirring frequently. Continue until the rice turns a golden brown, which enhances its flavor and texture.
  3. Add Liquids and Seasonings: Stir in the entire can of undrained Rotel tomatoes, low sodium chicken broth, garlic powder, cumin, and salt. Mix these ingredients evenly with the toasted rice.
  4. Simmer the Rice: Bring the mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a tight-fitting lid to trap the steam.
  5. Cook Until Tender: Let the rice simmer covered for 18 to 20 minutes, or until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
  6. Finish and Serve: Remove the skillet from heat and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. Serve warm as a delicious side dish.

Notes

  • Use low sodium chicken broth to control the salt level in the dish.
  • For extra spice, you can add a pinch of chili powder or chopped jalapeños.
  • Make sure to keep the heat low and the skillet covered during simmering to cook the rice evenly.
  • Fluff the rice with a fork to avoid mushiness after cooking.
  • Substitute vegetable broth to make this dish vegetarian-friendly.

Keywords: Rotel rice, Mexican rice, easy rice recipe, side dish, stovetop rice, Rotel tomatoes, quick Mexican side