Pat'S Favorite Spanish Rice
Pat's Favorite Spanish Rice is a flavorful, savory side dish featuring rice, tomatoes, green chilies, and spices, perfect for family dinners and casual gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- Brown the chopped onion and rice in oil in a large skillet.
- Add the chopped tomato, chopped green chilies, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and chicken stock.
- Cover and simmer until the rice is fluffy and moist.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken stock instead of store-bought. If you don't have Minute rice, you can substitute with regular long-grain rice, but adjust the cooking time accordingly. Adding a bit of garlic or cumin can enhance the dish's flavor. If you prefer a spicier kick, swap the green chilies for jalapeños. This dish complements other Mexican recipes beautifully.
Serving Suggestions
This Spanish rice makes a great side dish for any Mexican meal, such as Chicken Taco Bake or Cheesy Chicken Enchiladas. Consider serving it alongside a fresh salad or grilled vegetables for a complete meal. You can also top it with fresh cilantro or avocado slices for added flavor and presentation.
Storage & Reheating
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, add a splash of water to the rice and cover it while warming on the stovetop over low heat, stirring occasionally. Alternatively, microwave it in a covered dish, adding a little water to maintain moisture.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Pat'S Favorite Spanish Rice contains roughly 563 calories, with 1g protein, 6g carbohydrates, and 61g fat. It is a good source of vitamin A (14% of the Daily Value) and dietary fiber (11% of the Daily Value). Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 1159mg per serving (50% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this recipe vegan?
Yes, you can easily make this Spanish rice vegan by substituting the chicken stock with vegetable stock and using a plant-based oil. The rest of the ingredients are already vegan-friendly, making it a delicious option for those following a plant-based diet.
How can I make this dish spicier?
To increase the spice level, consider adding more chopped green chilies or even a diced jalapeño pepper. You can also incorporate a dash of cayenne pepper or a few dashes of hot sauce to the mix before simmering for an extra kick. Adjust according to your heat preference for the best results.
Can I add protein to this dish?
Absolutely! You can enhance this Spanish rice by adding cooked chicken, beef, or shrimp during the simmering phase. For a vegetarian option, try adding black beans or pinto beans for additional protein and texture, making it a heartier meal while maintaining the dish’s delicious flavors.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).