Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish

Highlighted under: Taste the Globe

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this easy and delicious Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering!

Emma

Created by

Emma

Last updated on 2025-12-18T18:22:48.721Z

This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish brings together the comforting taste of rice with the aromatic spices of Mexico. Perfectly seasoned and packed with vibrant vegetables, it's a delightful meal that the whole family will enjoy.

Why You Will Love This Recipe

  • A one-pan dish that simplifies your cooking and cleanup.
  • Rich flavors from spices and fresh ingredients make every bite a delight.
  • Versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite proteins or vegetables.

The Essence of Mexican Cuisine

Mexican cuisine is renowned for its bold flavors and vibrant colors. This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish encapsulates the essence of this culinary tradition. Using fresh ingredients and aromatic spices, the dish offers a delightful combination of textures and tastes. The rice, cooked in vegetable broth, absorbs the flavors of the other ingredients, creating a harmonious meal that is both comforting and satisfying.

The use of chili powder and cumin adds depth to the dish, providing a warm and inviting flavor profile. Moreover, the addition of black beans not only enhances the protein content but also contributes to the overall richness of the dish. Each bite is a celebration of the unique flavors that Mexican cuisine has to offer.

A Versatile Meal for Any Occasion

One of the standout features of this Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it according to your preferences or dietary restrictions. Add your favorite proteins like chicken, shrimp, or tofu for a heartier meal, or toss in seasonal vegetables for extra nutrition. This adaptability makes it a perfect choice for family dinners, potlucks, or even meal prep for the week ahead.

Additionally, the dish is quick to prepare, making it an ideal option for busy weeknights when time is of the essence. Simply gather your ingredients, follow the straightforward steps, and you’ll have a delicious meal on the table in no time.

Tips for Perfecting Your Skillet Dish

To achieve the best results with your Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish, consider rinsing the rice before cooking. This removes excess starch and helps prevent the rice from becoming gummy. Using high-quality vegetable broth will enhance the flavor, so opt for homemade or low-sodium options when possible.

Always taste and adjust seasoning as you go. Depending on your preference for spice, you might want to add more chili powder or even a splash of lime juice for brightness. Lastly, don’t forget the importance of garnishing with fresh cilantro; it adds a burst of freshness that elevates the dish.

Ingredients

For the Rice Skillet

  • 1 cup long-grain rice
  • 2 cups vegetable broth
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 onion, chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 bell pepper, diced
  • 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  • 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  • 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  • 1 tablespoon chili powder
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Fresh cilantro for garnish

Make sure to use fresh ingredients for the best flavor!

Instructions

Prepare the Rice

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.

Add Vegetables

Stir in the bell pepper and corn, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Combine Ingredients

Add the rice, vegetable broth, black beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Simmer

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is cooked through and liquid is absorbed.

Garnish and Serve

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.

This dish can be served as a main course or a side dish!

Storage and Reheating

If you have leftovers, store them in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors will continue to meld, making the dish even more delicious upon reheating. To reheat, simply warm it in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of vegetable broth if necessary to keep it moist.

For longer storage, consider freezing the dish. Allow it to cool completely before transferring it to a freezer-safe container. It can be frozen for up to three months. When you're ready to enjoy it again, thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat as described.

Pairing Suggestions

This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish pairs wonderfully with a variety of sides. A fresh salad topped with avocado and lime dressing complements the flavors beautifully. You can also serve it alongside tortilla chips and your favorite salsa for a complete Mexican-inspired meal.

For a beverage pairing, consider serving it with a refreshing agua fresca or a light Mexican beer. The crispness of these drinks balances the warmth of the spices and enhances the overall dining experience. Whether for a casual family dinner or a festive gathering, this dish is sure to impress your guests.

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Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid accordingly.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Yes, this recipe is completely vegan and vegetarian-friendly.

→ Can I make this dish in advance?

Absolutely! You can prepare it ahead of time and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This rice skillet pairs well with avocado slices, tortilla chips, or a fresh salad.

Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with this easy and delicious Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a festive gathering!

Prep Time10 minutes
Cooking Duration30 minutes
Overall Time40 minutes

Created by: Emma

Recipe Type: Taste the Globe

Skill Level: Beginner

Final Quantity: 4 servings

What You'll Need

For the Rice Skillet

  1. 1 cup long-grain rice
  2. 2 cups vegetable broth
  3. 1 tablespoon olive oil
  4. 1 onion, chopped
  5. 2 cloves garlic, minced
  6. 1 bell pepper, diced
  7. 1 cup corn (fresh or frozen)
  8. 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
  9. 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
  10. 1 tablespoon chili powder
  11. 1 teaspoon cumin
  12. Salt and pepper to taste
  13. Fresh cilantro for garnish

How-To Steps

Step 01

In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and garlic, sautéing until translucent.

Step 02

Stir in the bell pepper and corn, cooking for an additional 5 minutes.

Step 03

Add the rice, vegetable broth, black beans, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.

Step 04

Reduce heat to low, cover, and let simmer for 20 minutes or until rice is cooked through and liquid is absorbed.

Step 05

Fluff the rice with a fork, garnish with fresh cilantro, and serve hot.

Nutritional Breakdown (Per Serving)

  • Calories: 300 kcal
  • Total Fat: 8g
  • Saturated Fat: 1g
  • Cholesterol: 0mg
  • Sodium: 400mg
  • Total Carbohydrates: 50g
  • Dietary Fiber: 12g
  • Sugars: 4g
  • Protein: 10g