Name: Spanish Rice Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Spanish
Ingredients: 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 1 cup long-grain white rice; 1 ¾ cups chicken broth; 1 cup tomato sauce; ½ small onion, finely chopped; 2 cloves garlic, minced; ½ tsp ground cumin; ½ tsp chili powder; Salt and pepper to taste; ¼ cup chopped fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Jump to Recipe· 4.7 from 9 reviews

Spanish Rice is the vibrant, flavorful side dish your dinner table has been missing! This recipe transforms humble rice and pantry staples into a savory, tomato-kissed masterpiece with just the right touch of spice. Whether you’re pairing it with tacos, grilled chicken, or enjoying it straight from the pan (trust me, it’s tempting!), you’ll find yourself coming back to Spanish Rice meal after meal.

Ingredients You’ll Need

You might be surprised at how this short, fuss-free list of ingredients comes together to create such bold flavors. Each one brings something special, whether it’s a pop of color, a boost of flavor, or the perfectly fluffy finish every good Spanish Rice should have!

Vegetable oil: Gives the rice a beautiful golden hue and keeps the grains from clumping together.
Long-grain white rice: The key to fluffy Spanish Rice; short-grain rice tends to get mushy, so stick with long-grain for the best result.
Finely chopped onion: Adds a subtle sweetness and depth as it softens into the rice.
Minced garlic: Gives an irresistible aroma and savory base that sets the stage for everything else.
Chicken broth: Infuses every bite with rich, savory flavor—use a good quality broth for best results!
Tomato sauce: Lends color, tang, and a touch of sweetness that define classic Spanish Rice.
Ground cumin: Brings warm, earthy undertones and that signature aroma.
Chili powder: Offers a gentle spice and keeps things interesting without being overwhelming.
Salt and pepper: Essential for balancing and enhancing all the flavors in this dish.
Fresh cilantro (for garnish): Brightens up the finished dish with freshness and flecks of green.

How to Make Spanish Rice

Step 1: Toast the Rice

Start off by heating your vegetable oil in a large skillet or saucepan over medium heat. Pour in the rice, and sauté for about 3–5 minutes, stirring frequently. You’ll know it’s ready when the grains have a lovely golden color—it’s this toasting that gives Spanish Rice its slightly nutty flavor and prevents it from turning sticky later on.

Step 2: Sauté Onion and Garlic

Add your finely chopped onion right into the pan with the rice. Keep things moving so nothing sticks or burns, and cook until the onion is soft and beginning to look translucent, about two minutes. Next, stir in the minced garlic. Let it cook for only about 30 seconds—just long enough for that mouthwatering aroma to bloom, but not so long that it turns bitter.

Step 3: Add the Liquids and Spices

Pour in your chicken broth and tomato sauce, then sprinkle in the ground cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Give it all a gentle stir to combine, making sure no rice is stuck to the bottom. These ingredients come together to create the signature color, body, and layered flavors of authentic Spanish Rice.

Step 4: Simmer and Steam

Bring everything up to a gentle boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover your pan and let the rice simmer undisturbed for 15 to 18 minutes. The key here is patience—resist the urge to peek! The steam trapped inside will cook the rice to tender perfection as the liquid disappears.

Step 5: Fluff and Finish

When all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender, remove the pan from heat. Let it sit, covered, for a minute or two, then fluff it gently with a fork. Right before serving, sprinkle on a generous handful of fresh cilantro for a burst of color and fragrance. There you have it: Spanish Rice with every grain perfectly cooked and infused with flavor.

How to Serve Spanish Rice

Garnishes

A final sprinkle of chopped fresh cilantro is classic, but don’t be afraid to get creative! Try adding finely sliced green onions, a squeeze of lime, or even a toss of crumbled queso fresco for a brighter, bolder finish to your Spanish Rice.

Side Dishes

This dish is a natural sidekick to just about any Mexican or Tex-Mex main you love—enchiladas, grilled meats, and saucy beans all love sharing a plate with Spanish Rice. It’s also delicious with simple roasted vegetables and a crisp salad to round out the meal.

Creative Ways to Present

Serve Spanish Rice in a colorful bowl, shape it into neat scoops using a small cup for a party platter, or use it as a hearty base for a DIY burrito bowl night—just lay out favorite toppings so everyone can customize their own masterpiece.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Let any extra Spanish Rice cool to room temperature before transferring it to an airtight container. It’ll keep in the fridge for up to 4 days, making for speedy, flavorful sides or burrito fillings all week long.

Freezing

Yes, Spanish Rice freezes wonderfully! Just pack it into freezer-safe containers (let it cool completely first), and freeze for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator when you’re ready to enjoy it again.

Reheating

For the best texture, reheat Spanish Rice in a skillet with a splash of water or broth, tossing gently until hot. Microwave works too—just cover the container and add a tablespoon of water to keep it from drying out.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Absolutely! Just keep in mind that brown rice will need about twice as long to cook and might require a little extra broth. The flavor will be a bit nuttier, which is delicious in its own right.

Is Spanish Rice spicy?

Classic Spanish Rice is more flavorful than spicy. The chili powder gives it a mild warmth, but if you love heat, feel free to add a dash of cayenne or a chopped jalapeño.

Can I make Spanish Rice vegetarian or vegan?

Simply swap out the chicken broth for a good vegetable broth and you’ve got a fabulous vegetarian or vegan version that loses none of its savory appeal.

What type of tomato sauce works best?

Plain canned tomato sauce works perfectly, but if you’ve got a favorite homemade tomato sauce or even a scoop of fire-roasted salsa, those can add a lovely extra layer of flavor too.

Can Spanish Rice be made ahead for parties?

Certainly! Spanish Rice tastes just as delicious reheated, so you can prepare it earlier in the day. Reheat gently on the stovetop and fluff before serving.

Final Thoughts

Once you try making Spanish Rice at home, you’ll see just how easy (and rewarding!) it is to whip up this classic side. Whether you’re cooking for friends, family, or just yourself, I hope this recipe brings as much color and flavor to your table as it does to mine. Give it a try soon—you’re in for a treat!