Best Spanish Rice Dish

This hearty Spanish rice has been my go-to side dish for years, transforming simple weeknight meals into something special with minimal effort. The secret is the perfect balance of picante sauce and chicken broth that infuses every grain with bold, satisfying flavor.

I first discovered this recipe during a particularly busy period when I needed reliable sides that could complement multiple meals throughout the week. My family now requests it regularly, especially alongside enchiladas or grilled chicken.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons oil: Provides the perfect base for toasting the rice which develops essential nutty flavor
• 2 tablespoons chopped onion: Creates an aromatic foundation look for firm onions with no soft spots
• 1 ½ cups uncooked white rice: Long grain works best as it stays fluffy and separate
• 2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and richness homemade broth elevates this dish even further
• 1 cup picante sauce: The star ingredient that sets this apart from ordinary rice choose your preferred heat level

How To Make Best Spanish Rice

Prepare Ingredients:

Measure all ingredients before beginning to ensure smooth cooking. Have everything within reach as the process moves quickly once you start.

Sauté The Aromatics:

Heat the oil in a large heavy skillet over medium heat until it shimmers slightly. Add the chopped onion and cook for about 5 minutes until translucent and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent burning. This foundation builds essential flavor.

Toast The Rice:

Add the uncooked rice to the onions and oil. Cook while stirring constantly for about 3 to 4 minutes until the rice begins to turn a light golden brown. This crucial step develops nuttiness and helps each grain maintain its structure during cooking.

Add The Liquids:

Pour in the chicken broth and picante sauce, stirring to combine everything evenly. The sizzle as the liquid hits the hot pan is normal. Make sure to scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.

Simmer To Perfection:

Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet with a tight fitting lid, and allow the rice to simmer undisturbed for 15 to 20 minutes. Resist the urge to lift the lid or stir as this releases steam and prevents proper cooking.

Rest Before Serving:

Once all liquid is absorbed, remove from heat and let stand covered for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to finish steaming and results in perfectly tender grains.

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The picante sauce is truly what makes this recipe special. I discovered this method after years of trying different Spanish rice variations that always seemed to fall flat. The combination of tomatoes, peppers, and spices in the sauce infuses every grain with flavor that plain tomato sauce simply cannot match.

Perfect Pairings

This Spanish rice shines alongside grilled meats, particularly chicken or beef fajitas. The slightly smoky undertones complement the char from the grill beautifully. I often serve it with a side of black beans and avocado slices for a complete meal that satisfies everyone at the table.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover Spanish rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. The flavors actually continue to develop, making day two rice sometimes even more delicious than day one. When reheating, add a splash of water or broth to prevent dryness, and warm gently on the stovetop or in the microwave until heated through.

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Make It Your Own

While this recipe is perfect as written, feel free to customize it to suit your taste. Add diced bell peppers or jalapeños along with the onions for extra color and heat. Mix in a cup of frozen corn and black beans during the last five minutes of cooking for a more substantial side that can even serve as a main dish when topped with cheese and avocado.

Frequently Asked Questions

→ What type of rice works best for this dish?

Long-grain white rice is the best option for this dish. Its texture allows it to absorb the flavors without becoming too sticky.

→ Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes! Vegetable broth is a great substitute, especially for those who prefer a vegetarian version of this dish.

→ How can I make the dish spicier?

You can make the dish spicier by using a hotter variety of picante sauce or adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or chili flakes.

→ What can I add for extra texture or flavor?

You can include diced bell peppers, peas, or even corn during the cooking process to enhance the texture and flavor.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare this dish ahead of time. Just reheat it on the stovetop or microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.