Spanish and Mexican rice dishes are bursting with color, flavor, and warmth. Each recipe offers a unique twist that can elevate any meal into a festive occasion. Get ready to explore these delightful rice dishes that will have your taste buds dancing!
Spanish Paella Rice


Spanish Paella from Tastes Better From Scratch
Rating: 5. Ingredients: Skinless chicken thighs, spanish rice, calamari rings, white wine, tomato sauce Total Time: 1 hr.

Spanish Paella from RecipeTin Eats
Rating: 4.9. Ingredients: Chorizo, mussels, calamari, paella rice, chicken thigh fillets Total Time: 45 min.

Spanish Paella Recipe (Seafood, Chicken, and Chorizo) from House of Nash Eats
Rating: 4.5. Ingredients: Skinless chicken thighs, andouille sausage, jumbo shrimp, carrot tops, lemon Total Time: 40 min.
This classic dish from Valencia is a vibrant mix of saffron-infused rice and a variety of seafood, meats, and vegetables. The flavor is rich and comforting, making it perfect for gatherings. Cooking it in a wide, shallow pan allows the rice to soak up all those delicious flavors!
- 2 cups short-grain rice
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon saffron threads
- 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 pound chicken, cut into pieces
- 1 cup peas
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
What makes paella special is its ability to bring people together around the table. Traditionally cooked over an open flame, this dish captures the essence of Spanish culinary culture. The beautiful golden color from saffron and the mix of textures from seafood and meat make it a feast for the eyes as well as the stomach!
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Mexican Tomato Rice


Authentic Mexican Rice from Tastes Better From Scratch
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 35 min Total Time: 35 min.

Authentic Mexican Rice Recipe from Yellow Bliss Road
Rating: 4.7. Ingredients: 27 min Total Time: 27 min.
This dish is a staple in many Mexican households, often served alongside tacos or grilled meats. The rice is cooked in a zesty tomato broth, giving it a vibrant red hue and tangy flavor that’s simply irresistible. It’s an easy, one-pot recipe that delivers big on taste!
- 2 cups long-grain rice
- 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth
- 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
- 1 onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon tomato paste
- 1 teaspoon cumin
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped cilantro for garnish
Mexican tomato rice is popular because it’s so versatile! You can enjoy it as a side dish or even as a base for a hearty burrito bowl. The combination of tomatoes and spices makes every bite pop with flavor, making it a favorite at family dinners and potlucks.
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Spanish Green Rice (Arroz Verde)

This visually stunning dish is packed with nutrients and flavor. The rice gets its vibrant green color from blending fresh herbs like cilantro and parsley with vegetables, creating a fresh and herby experience. It’s a fantastic option for those looking to add a bit of greenery to their plate!
- 2 cups long-grain rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup fresh cilantro
- 1 cup spinach
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
What makes Arroz Verde so special is its fresh, herbaceous flavor that brightens up any meal. It’s a delightful way to sneak in some greens while still enjoying a comforting rice dish. Perfect as a side or a main dish, it’s sure to impress anyone who tries it!
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Mexican Fried Rice
This dish takes leftover rice to a whole new level, combining it with spices, vegetables, and sometimes even eggs for a satisfying meal. The flavors are bold and vibrant, thanks to the mix of spices and fresh ingredients. It’s a quick and easy way to whip up a delicious dinner in no time!
- 2 cups cooked rice
- 1 cup frozen mixed vegetables
- 2 eggs (optional)
- 3 tablespoons soy sauce
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 2 green onions, chopped
- Salt and pepper to taste
Mexican fried rice is super popular because it’s customizable! You can add whatever veggies or proteins you have on hand, making it a great way to use leftovers creatively. The result is a comforting and flavorful dish that feels both hearty and satisfying.
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Spanish Rice with Chorizo

One Pot Wonder Spanish Rice with Chorizo Recipe from The Wholesome Dish
Rating: 5. Ingredients: 33 min Total Time: 33 min.
This dish combines the robust flavors of chorizo sausage with perfectly cooked rice, creating a satisfying and hearty meal. The spicy, smoky chorizo infuses the rice with amazing flavor, making every bite a treat. It’s a simple one-pot dish that is sure to become a family favorite!
- 2 cups long-grain rice
- 1 pound chorizo, sliced
- 4 cups chicken broth
- 1 onion, diced
- 1 bell pepper, chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- Salt and pepper to taste
What makes this recipe special is how the chorizo’s flavors seep into the rice, creating a warm and comforting dish that’s full of personality. It’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or even a weekend gathering with friends. Plus, the colorful presentation makes it as beautiful as it is delicious!