Taco Tuesday is quite the tradition at our house. We switch it up, though. One Tuesday might be tacos, another burritos, another Fajita Chicken Casserole, and even taco salads. The one constant, despite the changing entree, is this Mexican Rice. It is so easy and so delicious. Like crazy easy.
I had tried what seemed like every Mexican rice mix and box at the grocery store but none of them tasted like the rice at our favorite local Mexican place. This recipe tastes JUST like it, though. We all absolutely love it. And no matter what you serve it alongside, I’m betting your family will love it too. Yeah, it’s easy, but its’ also delicious! That’s a total win-win in my book!
Easiest Mexican Rice
Cook Time30 mins
Total Time30 mins
Ingredients
- 1 (10-ounce) package yellow rice
- 2 1/2 cups water
- 2 tablespoon olive oil
- 1/2 cup salsa
Instructions
- Heat the water in a large saucepan with a tight-fitting lid to boiling. Add the olive oil. Stir in the rice mix and return to a boil, stir in the salsa. Reduce the heat to a low simmer and cover with the lid. Cook for 20 to 25 minutes, stirring only once about halfway through. When tender, fluff with a fork and serve.
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I was skeptical since it was so easy, but it really is GOOD! Will definitely be making this one a lot!
So glad you enjoyed it!
This is a great recipe, so fast and easy! While the rice is cooking, dice up an onion and a bell pepper and cook them in a little bit of butter till soft. When the rice is done, add the veggie mixture to it. Fabulous! 🙂
Great tip! Thanks, Denise!
The timing was perfect! Made this last night to go with an enchilada casserole and it was fantastic and super easy! Will definitely make again…and I’m adopting your Taco Tuesday idea as well! Thank you!! 🙂
Ha! We love some Taco Tuesday! Glad y’all enjoyed it!
I had given up trying Mexican/Spanish rice recipes. I have tried so many over the years, and every one just fell short of what I wanted. They all lacked that certain something I just couldn’t put my finger on. And I had seen this recipe when you first posted it, but I just wasn’t ready to try again. But I kept coming back to it over the past few months… And today, I came across a recipe for Mexican Chicken Tenders. Real simple, chicken tenders, taco seasoning, egg, Panko, bake ’em in the oven. And I thought, man, this would be good with some Mexican rice… So I remembered your recipe, and I took that leap of faith… And oh Stacey… This is it!!! This is “The One”!!! <3 <3 <3 Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Next week, Burritos and Mexican Rice! If I can wait that long, lol! 😉
Love hearing that, Kim! It’s so simple, but tastes so great. Super glad you enjoyed it!
I am not sure if I have ever seen “Yellow Rice.” Is it like saffron rice? I live in the San Diego area, so I’m pretty sure I can find it in the ethnic aisle at my local store. I just have never looked for it. Thanks!
Its’ fairly common. Just look with the other rice.
If preparing this Mexican rice as a side dish for 6 people, should I double this recipe?
I think I would, just to be safe.
This just might be it! I grew up on rice but hubby’s mother only made yellow rice and that’s all he likes. I’ll have to try this and see what he thinks. 😉
I hope he likes it. We LOVE it at our house.
going to make this for a party at work will it be okay to make the night before?
It might get a little mushy, Mike.