If you are craving a vibrant, flavorful side dish that brightens up any meal, the Rotel Tomato and Cilantro Rice Recipe is here to impress. Combining the zesty kick of Rotel tomatoes with the fresh burst of cilantro, this dish transforms simple rice into a colorful, aromatic sensation. It’s quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for busy weeknights or when you want to add a bit of zest to your dinner table. I absolutely love how each bite delivers that balance of savory tomato and herbaceous freshness — it truly feels like comfort food with a twist.
Ingredients You’ll Need
These ingredients are wonderfully straightforward but each one is essential for building the signature flavor and texture of this dish. The rice provides the comforting base, while the Rotel tomatoes with green chilies introduce a lively, spicy note. The broth infuses the rice with richness and depth, and the seasonings enhance every component beautifully.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: Long-grain rice stays fluffy and separate, perfect for absorbing the tomato broth without getting mushy.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter: Adds a subtle richness and helps toast the rice for a nutty undertone.
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz), undrained: The star ingredient, providing vibrant color and a gentle spicy kick.
- 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth: Brings moisture and savory depth to the rice as it cooks.
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder: Adds warm, aromatic complexity without overpowering the dish.
- ½ teaspoon onion powder: Introduces a subtle sweetness that rounds out the savory flavors.
- Salt and pepper to taste: Essential seasonings to enhance and balance the flavors.
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional): Offers a refreshing, herbal brightness that finishes the dish perfectly.
How to Make Rotel Tomato and Cilantro Rice Recipe
Step 1: Toast the rice
Start by heating olive oil or butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the rice and stir it around for 1 to 2 minutes. You’ll notice it turns lightly golden, which deepens the flavor and prevents the rice from becoming sticky later on. This simple step really elevates the final texture.
Step 2: Add tomatoes and broth
Pour in the undrained can of Rotel tomatoes along with the broth. Then sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Give everything a good stir to combine the ingredients evenly. This mixture will become the cooking liquid, infusing each grain of rice with wonderful flavor.
Step 3: Simmer the rice
Bring the pot to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid and let the rice simmer gently for 15 to 18 minutes. This slow cook allows the rice to absorb all the delicious tomato broth until tender and fluffy.
Step 4: Rest and fluff the rice
Once the liquid has been absorbed, remove the saucepan from heat but keep it covered for another 5 minutes. This resting time helps the rice finish cooking through evenly. Then fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains and release steam. If you like, sprinkle fresh chopped cilantro on top for a final fresh pop.
How to Serve Rotel Tomato and Cilantro Rice Recipe
Garnishes
To brighten the dish and enhance its fresh flavor, chopped fresh cilantro is a perfect garnish. You can also add a squeeze of lime juice or a sprinkle of shredded cheese for extra richness. These small touches elevate your serving and make the rice look as delightful as it tastes.
Side Dishes
This Rotel Tomato and Cilantro Rice Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seared steak, or blackened fish. It’s also a fantastic complement to Tex-Mex dishes like tacos, enchiladas, or chili. The zesty rice brings a colorful, tasty side that balances spicier mains wonderfully.
Creative Ways to Present
For a fun presentation, serve the rice in hollowed-out bell peppers or small mini pumpkins for seasonal flair. You can also layer this rice in a burrito bowl with beans, avocado, and salsa, transforming it into a vibrant and hearty meal. The possibilities are endless when you have a tasty base like this!
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Leftover Rotel Tomato and Cilantro Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Keeping it covered well ensures it stays moist and flavorful, perfect for quick lunches or dinner sides the next day.
Freezing
This rice freezes very well. Transfer cooled rice to freezer-safe containers or bags, remove as much air as possible, and freeze for up to 3 months. When you want to enjoy it again, let it thaw overnight in the fridge.
Reheating
Reheat the rice gently in a covered microwave-safe bowl or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth to prevent drying out. Stir occasionally to heat evenly and bring back that fluffiness and vibrant aroma.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice in this Rotel Tomato and Cilantro Rice Recipe?
You can substitute brown rice, but keep in mind it will require more liquid and a longer cooking time. Adjust the broth amount accordingly and allow for about 40 to 45 minutes of simmering to ensure the rice is tender.
Is this dish spicy?
The heat level depends largely on the Rotel tomatoes you choose. They usually have a mild to moderate kick from the green chilies, which adds great flavor without overwhelming spiciness. You can always add more chili or jalapeño if you want it hotter.
Can I make this recipe vegan or vegetarian?
Absolutely! Simply use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth, and use olive oil rather than butter to keep it vegan-friendly. The flavors remain just as delicious and fresh.
What can I add to make this into a full meal?
Consider stirring in black beans, corn, or cooked grilled chicken pieces to turn this rice into a filling, one-pot meal. Avocado slices or a dollop of sour cream on top also add great texture and flavor.
How do I avoid mushy rice when making this recipe?
Make sure to rinse your rice well before cooking to remove excess starch, and use the correct amount of liquid as specified. Simmer gently with the lid on and avoid lifting it too often, which can interfere with the cooking process.
Final Thoughts
There is something so satisfying about a simple dish that bursts with flavor and color, and the Rotel Tomato and Cilantro Rice Recipe does just that effortlessly. Whether you are looking to impress guests with minimal effort or simply want to add a fresh twist to your everyday meals, this recipe is sure to become a favorite. Give it a try and enjoy the warm, zesty comfort it brings to your table!
Print
Rotel Tomato and Cilantro Rice Recipe
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 to 4 servings 1x
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Rotel Rice is a flavorful and easy-to-make dish combining long-grain white rice with zesty Rotel tomatoes and green chilies. Enhanced with simple seasonings and cooked gently on the stovetop, this recipe delivers a vibrant, spicy side perfect for complementing a variety of meals.
Ingredients
Rice and Seasonings
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
Liquids and Fats
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 can Rotel tomatoes with green chilies (10 oz), undrained
- 1 ½ cups chicken or vegetable broth
Garnish
- Fresh cilantro, chopped, for garnish (optional)
Instructions
- Heat fat and sauté rice: In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat. Add the rice and sauté for 1-2 minutes until the grains turn lightly golden, which helps enhance the rice’s flavor.
- Add tomatoes, broth, and seasonings: Pour in the undrained Rotel tomatoes and chicken or vegetable broth. Sprinkle in garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper. Stir thoroughly to evenly distribute all ingredients.
- Cook the rice: Bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan tightly, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes. Cook until the rice is tender and all liquid has been absorbed.
- Finish and fluff: Remove the pan from the heat and allow the rice to sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting time lets the steam finish cooking the rice evenly. Afterward, fluff the rice gently with a fork and garnish with freshly chopped cilantro before serving.
Notes
- For a vegetarian version, use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
- Adjust salt and pepper according to your taste.
- Optional cilantro garnish adds freshness and color to the dish.
- This recipe pairs well with grilled meats, beans, or as a standalone side dish.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Tex-Mex
