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 white rice; 2 cups vegetable broth; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies; 1 medium onion, chopped; 1 bell pepper, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 tsp ground cumin; 1 tsp paprika; Salt and pepper to taste; 2 tbsp olive oil; 1 cup frozen peas; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Flavors Around the World

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this delicious Red Rice Skillet Dish, perfect for weeknight dinners or as a side for your favorite protein.

Created by

Ethan

Last updated on 2025-12-18T12:47:48.715Z

This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is a colorful and hearty meal that brings the essence of Mexican cuisine to your table. With its vibrant hue and satisfying flavors, it's sure to become a family favorite!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Bold and zesty flavors that excite the palate
One-pan meal makes for easy cleanup
Versatile dish that pairs well with any protein

      

The Heart of Mexican Cuisine

Mexican cuisine is a vibrant tapestry of flavors, colors, and textures. At its core, it blends indigenous ingredients with Spanish influences, resulting in dishes that are both hearty and refreshing. The Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish exemplifies this rich culinary tradition. With its combination of spices, fresh vegetables, and wholesome rice, this dish is not only nourishing but also a feast for the senses.

The use of tomatoes, green chilies, and spices like cumin and paprika gives this dish its characteristic vibrant hue and bold flavor. These ingredients are staples in Mexican cooking, adding depth and warmth to any meal. Moreover, this dish can easily be customized with additional ingredients, making it a versatile option for any dinner table.

A Quick and Easy One-Pan Meal

In today's fast-paced world, finding time to prepare a wholesome meal can be a challenge. That's where the Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish shines. This one-pan meal simplifies weeknight cooking, allowing you to whip up a delicious dinner in under an hour without sacrificing flavor or nutrition.

By cooking everything in one skillet, you minimize cleanup time, making this recipe perfect for busy families or anyone looking to streamline their dinner routine. Plus, the leftovers (if there are any!) reheat beautifully, ensuring you can enjoy this delightful dish even on your busiest days.

Serving Suggestions and Pairing Ideas

The beauty of the Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish lies in its versatility. It pairs wonderfully with a variety of proteins, including grilled chicken, shrimp, or black beans for a vegetarian option. This allows you to tailor the meal to your dietary preferences and make it a complete dinner.

For an added touch, consider serving this dish with a side of avocado slices or a fresh salad. A squeeze of lime over the top can also brighten the flavors and enhance the dish's freshness, making it even more delightful.

Ingredients

Ingredients for Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish

1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups vegetable broth
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
1 medium onion, chopped
1 bell pepper, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 tsp ground cumin
1 tsp paprika
Salt and pepper to taste
2 tbsp olive oil
1 cup frozen peas
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Enjoy this flavorful dish with your favorite toppings!

Instructions

Prepare the Base

In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and bell pepper, sautéing until soft, about 5 minutes.

Add Garlic and Spices

Stir in the minced garlic, cumin, and paprika, cooking for an additional minute until fragrant.

Cook the Rice

Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to combine. Pour in the vegetable broth and diced tomatoes with their juices. Season with salt and pepper.

Simmer

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Finish with Peas

Stir in the frozen peas, cover, and let sit for an additional 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish!

Tips for Perfecting Your Skillet Dish

To achieve the best texture for your rice, make sure to rinse it under cold water before cooking. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy. Additionally, keep an eye on the liquid levels as the dish cooks; if the rice absorbs the liquid too quickly, you can add a splash more broth or water to ensure it cooks evenly.

Experimenting with different vegetables can also elevate this dish. Feel free to add corn, zucchini, or even diced carrots for extra color and nutrients. Just remember to adjust the cooking times accordingly to ensure everything is perfectly tender.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

If you find yourself with leftovers, don’t worry! The Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When you're ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat it in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of broth or water to revive the flavors and moisture.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish in individual portions. It can last up to three months in the freezer, making it a convenient option for meal prep. Just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating, and you’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

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

→ Is this dish gluten-free?

Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as it uses rice and vegetables.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it a day ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat before serving.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

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