13 Delicious Simple Spanish Rice Recipes

Ever find yourself in a dinner rut, craving something flavorful yet fuss-free? Spanish rice dishes are your ticket to a vibrant, satisfying meal without the hassle. From weeknight wonders to cozy comfort bowls, our roundup of 13 simple Spanish rice recipes promises to spice up your cooking routine. Dive in and discover how easy it is to bring a taste of Spain to your table tonight!

Classic Simple Spanish Rice

Getting the perfect Classic Simple Spanish Rice starts with understanding the basics. This dish is a staple for a reason—it’s flavorful, versatile, and surprisingly easy to make with just a few ingredients.

Ingredients

• Long grain white rice – 1 cup
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Tomato sauce – 1/2 cup
• Garlic powder – 1 tsp
• Salt – 1/2 tsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring constantly to coat each grain with oil, for about 2 minutes until the rice turns a light golden color.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, then stir in the garlic powder and salt, ensuring everything is well combined.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer for 20 minutes. Tip: Resist the urge to lift the lid; steam is crucial for perfectly cooked rice.
5. After 20 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam further. Tip: This resting period helps achieve the ideal texture.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Tip: For an extra touch of flavor, garnish with freshly chopped cilantro or a squeeze of lime juice.

Spanish rice should be fluffy with each grain distinct, yet tender, carrying a rich tomato flavor with a hint of garlic. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or stuffed into burritos for a meal that’s sure to impress.

Spicy Simple Spanish Rice with Chorizo

Unlock the flavors of Spain with this easy-to-follow recipe that combines the smoky heat of chorizo with the comforting simplicity of rice. Perfect for a weeknight dinner, this dish comes together in under 30 minutes, offering a hearty meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Ingredients

• Chorizo – ½ cup, diced
• Long-grain white rice – 1 cup
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Tomato paste – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Smoked paprika – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 1 minute.
2. Add diced chorizo and cook until lightly browned, stirring occasionally, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in minced garlic and smoked paprika, cooking until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add rice to the skillet, stirring to coat the grains in the oil and spices, about 1 minute.
5. Mix in tomato paste and salt, ensuring the rice is evenly colored, about 1 minute.
6. Pour in chicken broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes.
7. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Delight in the smoky, spicy flavors of this Spanish rice, with each grain perfectly cooked and infused with the richness of chorizo. Serve it as a standalone dish or alongside grilled vegetables for a complete meal.

Vegetarian Simple Spanish Rice

Always looking for a simple yet flavorful dish to add to your weeknight dinner rotation? This Vegetarian Simple Spanish Rice is your answer, combining pantry staples with a few fresh ingredients for a meal that’s both easy and satisfying.

Ingredients

• Long grain white rice – 1 cup
• Vegetable broth – 2 cups
• Tomato paste – 2 tbsp
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Onion – ½ cup, diced
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (350°F) until shimmering.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for 3 minutes until translucent and fragrant.
3. Stir in the tomato paste and cook for 1 minute to deepen the flavor.
4. Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat each grain with the oil and tomato mixture, toast for 2 minutes.
5. Pour in the vegetable broth, add salt, and bring the mixture to a boil.
6. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low (200°F), cover the skillet, and simmer for 20 minutes without stirring.
7. After 20 minutes, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and absorb any remaining liquid.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving to separate the grains and enhance the texture.

Creating a fluffy, aromatic dish, this Spanish rice pairs beautifully with a side of black beans or topped with avocado slices for added creaminess. The subtle tang from the tomato paste and the savory depth from the sautéed aromatics make each bite a delight.

Simple Spanish Rice with Chicken

Preparing a comforting meal doesn’t have to be complicated, and this Simple Spanish Rice with Chicken is proof of that. Perfect for beginners, this dish combines familiar ingredients with straightforward steps to deliver a flavorful one-pan dinner.

Ingredients

• Chicken thighs – 1 lb
• White rice – 1 cup
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Tomato sauce – ½ cup
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Garlic powder – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (350°F) until shimmering.
2. Add chicken thighs to the skillet, seasoning with salt and garlic powder. Cook for 5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the skillet to ensure even cooking.
3. Remove chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add white rice, stirring to coat with the remaining oil.
4. Pour in chicken broth and tomato sauce, stirring to combine. Bring to a simmer.
5. Return chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the rice. Cover and reduce heat to low (200°F). Cook for 20 minutes. Tip: Resist the urge to peek; keeping the lid on traps steam for perfectly cooked rice.
6. After 20 minutes, check that the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. If needed, cook for an additional 5 minutes. Tip: Let the dish rest for 5 minutes off the heat before serving to allow flavors to meld.

Enjoy the tender chicken and fluffy rice, each grain infused with rich tomato and garlic flavors. For a vibrant twist, serve with a side of avocado slices or a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Seafood Simple Spanish Rice

Kickstart your culinary journey with this Seafood Simple Spanish Rice, a dish that marries the rustic charm of Spanish cuisine with the delicate flavors of the sea. Perfect for beginners, this recipe guides you through each step with precision, ensuring a delicious outcome every time.

Ingredients

• Rice – 2 cups
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Tomato paste – 2 tbsp
• Chicken broth – 4 cups
• Shrimp – 1 lb, peeled and deveined
• Mussels – 1 lb, cleaned
• Salt – 1 tsp
• Paprika – 1 tsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat for 2 minutes until shimmering.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute until fragrant, stirring constantly to prevent burning.
3. Stir in tomato paste and paprika, cooking for another minute to deepen the flavors.
4. Add rice to the pan, stirring to coat each grain with the oil and spice mixture.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
6. After 20 minutes, layer shrimp and mussels on top of the rice, cover, and cook for an additional 5 minutes or until seafood is cooked through.
7. Remove from heat, let stand covered for 5 minutes, then fluff rice with a fork before serving.

Vibrant and flavorful, this Seafood Simple Spanish Rice boasts a perfect balance of tender rice and succulent seafood. Serve it straight from the pan for a rustic presentation or garnish with fresh parsley for a pop of color.

Simple Spanish Rice with Black Beans

Here’s a straightforward way to bring a taste of Spain to your table with this Simple Spanish Rice with Black Beans. Perfect for beginners, this recipe walks you through each step to ensure delicious results every time.

Ingredients

• White rice – 1 cup
• Black beans – 1 can (15 oz), drained and rinsed
• Tomato sauce – 1 cup
• Chicken broth – 1.5 cups
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Onion – 1 small, diced
• Cumin – 1 tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (350°F) until shimmering.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for 2-3 minutes until translucent.
3. Stir in the rice, coating it with the oil and onion mixture, and toast for 1 minute to enhance its nutty flavor.
4. Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, then add the cumin and salt, stirring to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low (200°F), cover, and simmer for 20 minutes.
6. After 20 minutes, remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to absorb any remaining liquid.
7. Gently fold in the black beans, then cover again for 2 minutes to warm them through.

Vibrant and flavorful, this dish boasts a perfect balance of creamy beans and fluffy rice. Serve it as a hearty side or top with avocado slices for a refreshing contrast.

Easy Simple Spanish Rice in a Skillet

Gathering around the table for a flavorful meal doesn’t have to be complicated. This Easy Simple Spanish Rice in a Skillet is a foolproof dish that brings the vibrant tastes of Spain to your kitchen with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• Long grain white rice – 1 cup
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Tomato sauce – 1/2 cup
• Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp
• Onion – 1/4 cup, finely chopped
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Salt – 1/2 tsp

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
2. Add finely chopped onion and minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the long grain white rice, toasting it lightly until golden, about 5 minutes, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, adding salt, then bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. Avoid lifting the lid to ensure even cooking.
6. Remove the skillet from heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become fluffy.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving to separate the grains and enhance the texture.

Creating this dish results in a fluffy, aromatic rice with a rich tomato flavor that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or as a hearty base for a burrito bowl. Consider garnishing with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for an extra burst of flavor.

Simple Spanish Rice with Tomatoes and Peppers

Always a crowd-pleaser, this Simple Spanish Rice with Tomatoes and Peppers is a vibrant, flavorful dish that’s surprisingly easy to make. Perfect for beginners, it’s a great way to bring a taste of Spain to your table with minimal effort.

Ingredients

• Long-grain white rice – 1 cup
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Tomato – 1 medium, diced
• Green bell pepper – 1, diced
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (350°F) until shimmering.
2. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant but not browned.
3. Stir in diced tomato and green bell pepper, cooking for 3 minutes until vegetables soften.
4. Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat with oil and vegetables, and toast for 2 minutes.
5. Pour in chicken broth and add salt, bringing the mixture to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low (200°F), cover, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
7. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Key to this dish’s success is the toasting of the rice, which adds a nutty depth to the flavor. The result is a fluffy, aromatic rice with a slight bite from the peppers and a sweet acidity from the tomatoes. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken or fish for a complete meal that’s sure to impress.

One-Pot Simple Spanish Rice

Kickstart your culinary journey with this effortless One-Pot Simple Spanish Rice, a dish that marries convenience with vibrant flavors, perfect for busy weeknights.

Ingredients

• Long grain white rice – 1 cup
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Tomato sauce – 1/2 cup
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Onion – 1/2 cup, diced
• Salt – 1/2 tsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat until shimmering, about 2 minutes.
2. Add diced onion and minced garlic to the pot, sautéing until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Stir in the rice, coating it evenly with the oil and onion mixture, toasting for 2 minutes for enhanced flavor.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, adding salt, then bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become fluffy.

Best enjoyed when the rice is perfectly fluffy with a slight bite, this dish boasts a rich tomato flavor with a hint of garlic. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or stuffed into bell peppers for a colorful meal.

Simple Spanish Rice with Saffron

Preparing a flavorful and aromatic dish doesn’t have to be complicated, and this Simple Spanish Rice with Saffron is proof of that. Perfect for beginners, this recipe walks you through each step to ensure a delicious outcome every time.

Ingredients

• Long grain white rice – 1 cup
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Saffron threads – ¼ tsp
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 1 clove, minced
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat for 1 minute.
2. Add minced garlic to the saucepan and sauté for 30 seconds, until fragrant.
3. Tip: Ensure the garlic doesn’t brown to avoid bitterness.
4. Stir in the rice and sauté for 2 minutes, until the grains are lightly toasted.
5. Add chicken broth, saffron threads, and salt to the saucepan, stirring to combine.
6. Tip: Crush the saffron threads between your fingers before adding to release more flavor.
7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
8. Simmer for 20 minutes, without stirring, until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
9. Tip: Resist the urge to peek under the lid to ensure even cooking.
10. Remove from heat and let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
11. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Unbelievably fragrant and vibrant, this Spanish rice boasts a perfect balance of flavors and a slightly sticky texture that pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or seafood. For a creative twist, serve it stuffed inside bell peppers for a colorful and satisfying meal.

Quick Simple Spanish Rice in the Microwave

Did you know you can whip up a delicious side dish in minutes with just a few pantry staples? Quick Simple Spanish Rice in the Microwave is your go-to recipe for those busy nights when you need something flavorful without the fuss.

Ingredients

• White rice – 1 cup
• Water – 2 cups
• Tomato sauce – ½ cup
• Chicken bouillon – 1 tsp
• Garlic powder – ½ tsp
• Onion powder – ½ tsp
• Vegetable oil – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. In a microwave-safe bowl, combine the white rice, water, tomato sauce, chicken bouillon, garlic powder, onion powder, and vegetable oil.
2. Stir the mixture well to ensure all ingredients are evenly distributed.
3. Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or plastic wrap, leaving a small vent for steam to escape.
4. Microwave on high for 5 minutes, then stir the rice to prevent sticking.
5. Continue microwaving for another 5 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
6. Let the rice stand covered for 2 minutes after microwaving to allow it to steam and become fluffy.

Here’s a tip: For an extra flavor boost, toast the rice in the oil for 1 minute before adding the other ingredients. This dish boasts a vibrant color and a savory, slightly tangy flavor that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a base for a burrito bowl. Try topping it with fresh cilantro or a squeeze of lime for a refreshing twist.

Simple Spanish Rice with Corn and Peas

Yieldingly simple yet bursting with flavor, this Simple Spanish Rice with Corn and Peas is a vibrant side dish that pairs perfectly with any main. Let’s walk through the steps to create this colorful, comforting dish.

Ingredients

• Long grain white rice – 1 cup
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Tomato sauce – 1 cup
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Frozen corn – ½ cup
• Frozen peas – ½ cup
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat (350°F) until shimmering.
2. Add minced garlic to the skillet, sautéing for 30 seconds until fragrant, being careful not to burn.
3. Stir in the rice, coating it evenly with the oil and garlic, and toast for 2 minutes to enhance its nutty flavor.
4. Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine, then bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low (200°F), cover the skillet, and simmer for 20 minutes, resisting the urge to stir to prevent mushy rice.
6. After 20 minutes, sprinkle the frozen corn and peas evenly over the rice, then cover and cook for an additional 5 minutes to thaw and heat the vegetables.
7. Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and become fluffy.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork, gently mixing in the corn and peas, and serve immediately.

Zesty and vibrant, this dish boasts a perfect balance of textures, from the fluffy rice to the crisp-tender vegetables. Try serving it alongside grilled chicken or as a base for a hearty burrito bowl for a satisfying meal.

Simple Spanish Rice with a Kick of Jalapeno

Let’s dive into making a flavorful Simple Spanish Rice with a Kick of Jalapeno, perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals. This dish is straightforward, requiring minimal ingredients but delivering maximum flavor.

Ingredients

• White rice – 1 cup
• Chicken broth – 2 cups
• Jalapeno – 1, finely chopped
• Tomato sauce – ½ cup
• Olive oil – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat (350°F).
2. Add minced garlic and chopped jalapeno to the saucepan, sautéing for 2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the white rice, coating it evenly with the oil, garlic, and jalapeno, and cook for 1 minute.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and tomato sauce, then add salt, stirring to combine all ingredients.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low (200°F), cover, and simmer for 20 minutes. Tip: Resist the urge to stir the rice while it’s simmering to prevent it from becoming mushy.
6. After 20 minutes, remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Tip: This resting period allows the rice to absorb any remaining liquid and become fluffy.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving. Tip: For an extra kick, garnish with additional fresh jalapeno slices.

Creating this Simple Spanish Rice with a Kick of Jalapeno results in a dish that’s perfectly fluffy with a bold, spicy flavor. Consider serving it alongside grilled chicken or as a hearty base for a burrito bowl to elevate your meal.

Conclusion

Absolutely, these 13 simple Spanish rice recipes are a treasure trove of flavor and ease, perfect for spicing up your meal routine! We hope you’re inspired to try them out and find a new favorite. Don’t forget to leave a comment sharing which recipe you loved the most and pin this article on Pinterest to spread the deliciousness. Happy cooking!