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 rice; 2 tablespoons olive oil; 1 onion, diced; 2 cloves garlic, minced; 1 bell pepper, diced; 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes; 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth; 1 teaspoon chili powder; 1 teaspoon cumin; Salt and pepper to taste; 1 cup frozen peas; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: World Taste Recipe Collection

This vibrant Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is a one-pan meal bursting with flavor and color. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, it's sure to impress!

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2025-12-18T13:49:48.645Z

This Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is not only delicious but also easy to make. Inspired by classic Mexican flavors, this dish combines rice with tomatoes, spices, and your choice of protein, all cooked in one skillet for maximum flavor and minimal cleanup.

        Why You'll Love This Recipe
        Bursting with authentic Mexican flavors
One-pan meal for easy cleanup
Versatile; customize with your favorite proteins and veggies

      

A Flavorful Journey

Mexican cuisine is renowned for its vibrant flavors and colorful presentations, and this Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish embodies that spirit beautifully. The combination of spices like chili powder and cumin creates a warm, aromatic base that complements the sweetness of the bell peppers and the acidity of the tomatoes. Each bite transports you to a sun-soaked Mexican plaza, where the air is filled with the enticing scents of freshly cooked meals.

Cooking with fresh ingredients enhances not only the flavor but also the nutritional value of your meal. This dish is packed with vitamins and minerals from the vegetables, making it a wholesome option for any dinner table. Plus, the addition of peas adds a pop of color and a slight sweetness that balances the dish perfectly.

Versatility at Its Best

One of the greatest aspects of this Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is its versatility. You can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences or dietary needs. For a protein boost, consider adding cooked chicken, shrimp, or even beans for a vegetarian option. The rice serves as a perfect canvas, allowing you to mix and match various ingredients to create a meal that is uniquely yours.

Additionally, feel free to experiment with seasonal vegetables. Zucchini, corn, or spinach can be great additions, bringing in new textures and flavors. This adaptability not only makes the dish exciting but also ensures that you can enjoy it year-round, regardless of the ingredients you have on hand.

Perfect for Any Occasion

Whether you're hosting a festive gathering or need a quick weeknight dinner, this Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is the perfect solution. Its one-pan nature means you can enjoy a delicious meal without the hassle of multiple pots and pans, making cleanup a breeze. Plus, the vibrant colors and enticing aroma make it an appealing dish for guests.

Moreover, this dish can be served as a main course or a side, complementing a variety of proteins. Pair it with grilled meats, tacos, or even alongside a fresh salad for a complete meal that will impress family and friends alike.

Ingredients

Gather these fresh ingredients to create your delicious Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish.

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain rice
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 onion, diced
2 cloves garlic, minced
1 bell pepper, diced
1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon cumin
Salt and pepper to taste
1 cup frozen peas
Fresh cilantro for garnish

Once you have all your ingredients ready, you're just a few steps away from enjoying this fantastic dish!

Instructions

Follow these simple steps to make your Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish.

Sauté the Aromatics

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

Add the garlic and cook for another minute until fragrant.

Add Rice and Spices

Stir in the rice, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted.

Incorporate Tomatoes and Broth

Add the diced tomatoes and broth to the skillet. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and let it simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Finish with Peas and Serve

Stir in the frozen peas and let them heat through for about 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Your delicious Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish is now ready to serve! Enjoy!

Storage and Reheating Tips

If you have leftovers from your Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish, you're in luck! This dish stores well in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. The flavors continue to meld and deepen, making the leftovers even more delicious. Just be sure to cool the dish completely before sealing it in the container to maintain its freshness.

When it’s time to enjoy your leftovers, you can reheat them on the stove or in the microwave. If reheating in a skillet, add a splash of broth or water to keep the rice moist while warming it through. This will help restore its fluffy texture and enhance the flavors, making it taste as good as the first time.

Serving Suggestions

To elevate your dining experience, consider serving this Mexican Red Rice Skillet Dish with a side of homemade guacamole or a refreshing salsa. The creamy texture of guacamole pairs beautifully with the spiced rice, while salsa adds a zesty kick. You could also serve it with warm tortillas for a more authentic experience, allowing your guests to create their own flavorful wraps.

For a complete meal, pair the dish with a crisp green salad dressed in lime vinaigrette. The acidity from the dressing will cut through the richness of the rice, creating a well-balanced plate that is both satisfying and refreshing.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice typically takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish vegetarian?

Yes, this dish is vegetarian-friendly. You can make it vegan by omitting any animal-based broth.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

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

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This dish pairs well with avocado, sour cream, or a fresh salad on the side.