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This easy homemade Spanish rice is one of those dependable side dishes that works with just about anything. It’s made on the stovetop with simple pantry ingredients and delivers fluffy, flavorful rice every time — no box mix needed.
We love serving this rice with taco night dinners, enchiladas, grilled chicken, or even alongside a simple weeknight skillet meal. It’s quick enough for busy evenings and versatile enough to dress up or keep simple.
Why You’ll Love This Spanish Rice Recipe
- Toasted first for better flavor and fluffy texture
- Made with simple pantry staples
- Lightly tomato-based (not mushy or saucy)
- Easy to customize with add-ins
- Ready in about 30 minutes
This recipe creates fluffy, separated grains every time — no gummy rice here.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- White rice
- Oil
- Garlic
- Chicken bouillon or Better Than Bouillon
- Cumin
- Tomato sauce
- Water
- Salt
Optional garnish:
- Fresh chopped cilantro
You likely already have everything you need sitting in your kitchen.
Equipment Needed
- Medium skillet or saucepan – Used to toast the rice and simmer everything together evenly on the stovetop.
- Measuring cups & spoons – Ensure consistent ratios for perfectly cooked rice.
- Fork – For fluffing the rice after resting.
How to Make Spanish Rice on the Stovetop
Great Spanish rice starts with properly toasted grains. Heating the oil first and allowing the dry rice to turn lightly golden builds flavor and helps prevent a mushy texture later. Once the rice is toasted, removing the pan briefly from the heat before adding garlic and seasonings helps prevent scorching while still allowing the spices to bloom.
After seasoning, liquid and tomato sauce are added and brought to a gentle boil. Covering the pan and simmering allows the rice to absorb flavor as it cooks evenly. Letting the rice rest off the heat before fluffing is a small step that makes a big difference — it finishes the steaming process and keeps the grains light and separate.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
PrintEasy Homemade Spanish Rice (Stovetop)
This easy homemade Spanish rice is made on the stovetop with toasted rice, warm spices, and a touch of tomato for a fluffy, flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with tacos, enchiladas, or grilled chicken.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 30 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish Recipes
- Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients
- 1 cup white rice
- 2 TBSP oil
- 2 cloves garlic, minced or 1 TBSP jarred minced garlic
- 1 tsp Better Than Bouillon (chicken flavor) or 1 chicken bouillon cube
- ¼ tsp salt
- ½ tsp cumin
- 2 oz tomato sauce
- 2 cups water
- Optional Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped
Instructions
- Heat oil in a medium skillet or saucepan over medium-high heat.
- Add rice and cook, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted and golden brown.
- Remove pan from heat and stir in garlic, bouillon, salt, and cumin.
- Add tomato sauce and water, stirring to combine.
- Return pan to heat and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork and serve immediately.
- Garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Notes
-
To make it heartier: Stir in diced tomatoes or cooked peas, carrots, and green beans after cooking and before fluffing.
-
This rice is lightly tomato-based, fluffy, and not saucy—perfect as a classic side dish.
-
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Tips for Success
- Toasting the rice first adds flavor and improves texture.
- Removing the pan from heat before adding garlic helps prevent bitterness.
- Let the rice rest, covered, before fluffing for best results.
Storage & Reheating
Store: Refrigerate leftover rice in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of water to loosen the grains.
Frequently Asked Questions
What kind of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice produces the fluffiest texture and is traditional for Spanish rice.
Can I use broth instead of water?
Yes — broth adds extra depth of flavor without changing the method.
Why is my Spanish rice mushy?
Skipping the toasting step or stirring too much during cooking can cause excess starch release.
Variations & Serving Ideas
- Stir in fresh cilantro just before serving for brightness
- Add diced onions or bell peppers when toasting the rice
This rice pairs well with:
- Tacos or taco bowls
- Creamy Chicken Enchiladas
- Grilled or baked chicken
- Burrito bowls
- Easy Taco Soup
Final Thoughts
This easy stovetop Spanish rice is a reliable side dish that belongs in every home cook’s rotation. Simple, flavorful, and flexible, it’s the kind of recipe you’ll come back to again and again..
If you make it please consider leaving a review. We love to see your posts! Tag us on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok! @ourgratefulkitchen
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