Introduction
Discover a delightful and easy-to-make dish that will satisfy your taste buds and leave your kitchen smelling heavenly. This recipe combines the flavors of sautéed vegetables, warm spices, and tender rice, all brought together with chicken broth and hearty tomatoes. Perfect as a side or a main dish, it’s an excellent choice for family dinners or meal prep!
Detailed Ingredients with measures
2 tablespoons butter
1 cup long grain white rice
1/2 cup diced onion
1/2 cup corn kernels
1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
1/4 teaspoon cumin
1/4 teaspoon chili powder
2 cups chicken broth
1 can (10 ounces) diced tomatoes with green chiles (e.g., Rotel), undrained
Prep Time
15 minutes
Cook Time, Total Time, Yield
Cook Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 35 minutes
Yield: Serves 4
Enjoy this flavorful rice dish that is not only simple to prepare but also packed with nutrition and taste!
Detailed Directions and Instructions
Step 1: Melt the Butter
In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Ensure that the butter is fully melted and begins to bubble slightly.
Step 2: Sauté the Mixture
Add 1 cup of long grain white rice, 1/2 cup of diced onion, and 1/2 cup of corn kernels to the skillet. Sprinkle in 1/4 teaspoon of garlic powder, 1/4 teaspoon of cumin, and 1/4 teaspoon of chili powder. Sauté the mixture for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is lightly toasted.
Step 3: Combine with Broth and Tomatoes
Pour in 2 cups of chicken broth and the undrained can of diced tomatoes with green chiles. Stir the ingredients together until well combined.
Step 4: Boil and Simmer
Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Step 5: Rest the Dish
Remove the skillet from heat and let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Step 6: Fluff and Serve
After resting, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains. Serve the dish warm.
Notes
Note 1: Choosing Rice
Long grain white rice is recommended for this recipe, as it cooks evenly and absorbs flavors well.
Note 2: Flavor Adjustments
Feel free to adjust the seasonings, such as adding more chili powder for heat or extra vegetables for enhanced nutrition.
Note 3: Variations
To add more protein, consider including cooked chicken, beans, or ground turkey.
Note 4: Storage
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

Cook techniques
Melt Butter
Melt the butter in a large skillet over medium heat to create a flavorful base for the dish.
Sauté Ingredients
Add the rice, diced onion, corn, and spices to the skillet. Sauté for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently, to lightly toast the rice and enhance the flavors.
Combine Liquid Ingredients
Pour in the chicken broth and the undrained diced tomatoes with green chiles to introduce moisture and additional flavor to the dish.
Bring to Boil
Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a rolling boil, ensuring the ingredients cook evenly.
Simmer
Reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let the mixture simmer for 15-20 minutes, allowing the rice to absorb the liquid and become tender.
Let Rest
After removing the skillet from heat, let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
Fluff Rice
Use a fork to fluff the rice before serving, ensuring a light and airy texture.
FAQ
Can I substitute brown rice for white rice?
Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid, as brown rice requires more time to cook.
What can I use if I don’t have chicken broth?
You can substitute vegetable broth or water, although it may slightly alter the flavor.
Is there a way to make this dish spicier?
Absolutely! You can add more chili powder or include chopped jalapeños for extra heat.
Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?
Yes, you can include other vegetables such as bell peppers, zucchini, or peas for added nutrition and flavor.
How do I store leftovers?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop.
Conclusion
This delicious and easy rice dish not only blends flavors seamlessly but also provides a satisfying and hearty meal option. With its combination of spices, vegetables, and tomatoes, it makes for a flavorful accompaniment or a delightful main dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or meal prep for the week, this recipe is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen.
More recipes suggestions and combination
Vegetable Fried Rice
Incorporate mixed vegetables such as peas, bell peppers, and carrots for a colorful, nutritious twist on fried rice.
Chicken and Rice Casserole
Add cooked chicken and some shredded cheese to the rice mixture before baking for a comforting casserole.
Mexican-style Rice Bowl
Top this rice dish with avocado, black beans, and a sprinkle of cilantro for a refreshing rice bowl.
Spicy Shrimp Rice
Include sautéed shrimp and additional spices to elevate the flavor and protein in this dish.
Cheesy Tomato Rice
Stir in shredded cheese just before serving for a creamy, cheesy variation that kids will love.
Rice Stuffed Bell Peppers
Use the prepared rice filling to stuff halved bell peppers, then bake for a colorful and healthful meal.
Quinoa Alternative
For a healthier twist, substitute quinoa for rice to create a protein-packed dish with a similar flavor profile.
