Easy Spanish Rice

If you’re looking for a simple, flavorful side dish that pairs with just about anything, this Easy Spanish Rice is a must. Made with pantry staples like long grain rice, tomato paste, and chicken broth, this recipe delivers a bold savory flavor with minimal effort. It’s the perfect addition to taco night, grilled meats, or your favorite Mexican-inspired meals. This homemade Spanish rice is fluffy, slightly smoky from fire-roasted tomatoes, and packed with classic spices. Plus, it’s all made in one pan, making cleanup just as easy as the cooking process. I love to make this as meal prep to have in the fridge for an easy side dish for the week with dinner!

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Why You’ll Love This Easy Spanish Rice Recipe

• Simple ingredients you likely already have on hand
• One-pan recipe for easy cleanup
• Perfect side dish for tacos, enchiladas, burrito bowls, and more
• Customizable to suit your taste preferences
• Great meal prep for a quick side dish during busy weeknights

What Is Spanish Rice?

Spanish rice, sometimes called Mexican rice, is a seasoned rice dish traditionally cooked with tomatoes, broth, and spices. The key step that sets it apart is toasting the rice first, which gives it a slightly nutty flavor and helps create that signature fluffy texture. This version keeps things easy while still delivering that classic taste you know and love.

Ingredients for Easy Spanish Rice

• 2 tbsp avocado oil
• 1 ½ cups long grain rice
• 2 ¾ cups chicken broth
• 3 tbsp tomato paste
• ½ cup fire roasted diced tomatoes
• 1 tsp salt
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ tsp onion powder
• 1 cilantro sprig

How to Make Spanish Rice

1. Toast the Rice

Heat a deep skillet over medium heat and add the avocado oil. Once hot, add the rice and toast it, stirring frequently, until golden brown. This should take about 5 minutes. Be careful not to burn it—this step is key for flavor.

2. Add Ingredients

Stir in the chicken broth, tomato paste, fire roasted tomatoes, salt, garlic, onion powder, and cilantro sprig. Mix well until the tomato paste is fully incorporated.

3. Simmer

Bring the mixture to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let it cook for 15 minutes.

4. Let It Rest

Remove the pan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for another 10 minutes. Do not lift the lid—this step helps the rice finish cooking and absorb all the flavors.

5. Fluff and Serve

Remove the lid, discard the cilantro sprig, and fluff the rice with a fork. Serve warm with your favorite main dishes.

Tips for the Best Spanish Rice

• Don’t skip toasting the rice – this adds depth and prevents mushy texture
• Use long grain rice for the best fluffy consistency
• Keep the lid on while resting to trap steam and finish cooking
• Use fire roasted tomatoes for a subtle smoky flavor boost
• Avoid stirring while simmering to keep the rice light and fluffy

Variations and Substitutions

• Make it vegetarian: Swap chicken broth for vegetable broth
• Add veggies: Stir in peas, carrots, or corn before simmering
• Spice it up: Add chili powder, cumin, or jalapeños for extra heat
• Use brown rice: Adjust cooking time and liquid as needed
• Add protein: Mix in cooked chicken, shrimp, or beans for a full meal

What to Serve with Spanish Rice

This dish pairs beautifully with a variety of meals. Try serving it with:

• Tacos or taco bowls
• Grilled chicken or steak
• Enchiladas or burritos
• Fajitas
• Carnitas or pulled pork

How to Store and Reheat

Storing

Let the rice cool completely, then store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.

Freezing

Spanish rice freezes well. Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months.

Reheating

Reheat in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. You can also warm it in a skillet over low heat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is my Spanish rice mushy?

This usually happens from too much liquid or skipping the toasting step. Be sure to measure carefully and toast the rice properly and allow the rice to rest with the lid on before fluffing.

Can I make this in a rice cooker?

Yes! Toast the rice separately first, then transfer everything to a rice cooker and cook according to your machine’s settings.