How to Make the Perfect Microwave Spanish Rice
Mexican · Easy · 9 min · 2 servings
This vibrant microwave Spanish rice is packed with tomato, cumin, and garlic flavor without any stovetop simmering required. Ready in under 10 minutes, it is the perfect quick side for tacos, burritos, or grilled chicken.
Why this recipe works
This Microwave Spanish Rice recipe has been crafted to deliver restaurant-quality results in your home kitchen. At just 9 minutes from start to finish, it fits perfectly into a busy schedule without sacrificing flavor. Each serving comes in at 220 calories with 4g of protein, making it a balanced choice for any meal.
What you will need
This recipe uses 6 simple ingredients that you can find at any grocery store:
- 1 cup instant white rice
- 1 cup tomato juice
- 0.25 cup chicken broth
- 0.5 tsp cumin
- 0.5 tsp garlic powder
- 0.5 tsp chili powder
Step by step instructions
Step 1: Mix Everything Together
Combine instant rice, tomato juice, chicken broth, cumin, garlic powder, and chili powder in a large microwave-safe bowl. Stir well to evenly distribute all spices.
Step 2: Microwave Covered
Cover bowl tightly with microwave-safe plastic wrap or a lid. Microwave on high for 5 minutes until liquid is fully absorbed and rice is cooked through.
Step 3: Fluff and Serve
Carefully remove the cover away from you to avoid steam burns. Fluff rice with a fork, taste and adjust seasoning, and garnish with fresh cilantro if desired.
Easy substitutions
Missing an ingredient? Here are some swaps that work perfectly:
- tomato juice → canned diced tomatoes blended smooth for a chunkier texture
- chicken broth → vegetable broth to make it fully vegetarian
Common mistakes to avoid
Watch out for these pitfalls that can affect your results:
- Using regular raw rice instead of instant rice which will not fully cook in this time
- Not covering the bowl tightly causing steam to escape and leaving the rice dry and undercooked
Nutrition facts
Per serving: 220 calories, 4g protein, 44g carbs, 3g fat, 2g fiber.
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