Easy Spanish Rice with Diced Tomatoes Recipe

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I have been testing Spanish rice for weeks, trying out different flavor combos until I found the one that feels just right. It took me a little longer than I’d like, but the good news is — this recipe is insanely simple now that I’ve nailed it down. The flavor is rich, just the right amount of spice, and it pairs perfectly with my Crockpot Enchilada Taco Recipe or my Buttermilk Chicken Tender Taco Recipe.

Easy Spanish rice with tacos and vegetables on dinner table.

It’s also one of those recipes that tastes even better the next day, which makes it a great meal prep option. If you’re reheating, here’s my favorite trick: toss an ice cube into the rice when you microwave it. It keeps the rice from drying out, and you’ll be surprised at how fresh it tastes.

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Ingredients for Easy Spanish Rice
Step-by-Step Instructions for Spanish Rice with Canned Diced Tomatoes
Substitutions for Easy Spanish Rice
Variations for Spanish Rice Recipe
Equipment Needed for Spanish Rice with Tomatoes
Storage Tips for Easy Spanish Rice
Top Tip for the Best Spanish Rice
FAQs about Spanish Rice
Other Side Dishes
Main Dishes

Ingredients for Easy Spanish Rice

Three slow cooker chicken enchilada tacos with Spanish rice on plate.

Here’s what you’ll need to make this stovetop Spanish rice:

Olive oil (or your preferred cooking oil)
1 onion, diced
1 tablespoon minced garlic
Taco seasoning
1 can of diced tomatoes (herb-seasoned works too!)
Corn (optional, for Spanish rice with corn)
Water or broth (vegetable broth for vegan, chicken broth for classic)
Better than Bouillon (optional, but adds depth)
Long grain rice (Ben’s Original or similar)

See recipe card for quantities.

Step-by-Step Instructions for Spanish Rice with Canned Diced Tomatoes

See the summarized instructions below. For full instructions on how to make this super easy flavorful rice, see the recipe card at the bottom.

Onions and garlic sautéing in oil for easy Spanish rice recipe.

Step 1: Heat olive oil in a large skillet or pan. Add the diced onion and sauté until soft.

Adding canned diced tomatoes to Spanish rice in pot.

Step 2: Stir in the minced garlic and taco seasoning, letting it bloom for flavor.

Spanish rice simmering in pot with tomatoes and broth.

Step 3: Add the can of diced tomatoes (with liquid), corn if using, water/broth, and bouillon. Bring to a gentle simmer.

Easy Spanish rice with tomatoes cooked on stovetop.

Step 4: Stir in the rice, cover, and let it cook on low until fluffy and tender.

Hint for Easy Spanish Rice: When reheating leftovers, toss an ice cube into the dish before microwaving. It melts into steam and keeps the rice moist and fluffy.

Substitutions for Easy Spanish Rice

Olive oil → any neutral oil like avocado or canola.
Better than Bouillon → chicken or vegetable broth.
Ben’s Original rice → any long grain rice (avoid short grain, which gets sticky).
Taco seasoning → homemade blend of chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano.

Variations for Spanish Rice Recipe

Spanish Rice with Corn: Add 1 cup of frozen or canned corn for sweetness and texture.
Vegan Spanish Rice: Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Spicy Spanish Rice: Add a diced jalapeño or extra chili powder with the seasoning.
Herbed Spanish Rice: Use herb-seasoned diced tomatoes for an extra layer of flavor.

Equipment Needed for Spanish Rice with Tomatoes

Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
Wooden spoon or spatula
Measuring cups/spoons

Storage Tips for Easy Spanish Rice

Fridge: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
Freezer: Cool completely, portion into freezer bags, and freeze up to 2 months.
Reheat: Add a splash of water or an ice cube to keep rice fluffy.