If you’re looking for a vibrant, flavorful dish that can effortlessly elevate any meal, look no further than Rotel Rice. This delightful one-pot wonder combines the heartiness of rice with the zesty kick of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, making it a perfect side or even a star on its own. Packed with flavor and easy to prepare, Rotel Rice is not just a recipe; it’s an experience that brings comfort to the dinner table and a smile to your face.

Why It Works Every Time

The beauty of Rotel Rice lies in its simplicity. With just a handful of ingredients, you can create a dish that bursts with flavor. The combination of long-grain white rice, chicken broth, and the iconic Rotel tomatoes results in a perfectly cooked, fluffy rice dish that is both satisfying and versatile. The addition of taco seasoning and cumin adds layers of flavor, while butter gives it a rich, creamy finish. Plus, it’s a dish that’s easy to customize based on your preferences, making it a weeknight favorite.

Ingredient Rundown

1 cup uncooked long-grain white rice, rinsed: The base of the dish, providing a fluffy texture that absorbs all the delicious flavors.
2 tablespoons taco seasoning, or to taste: Adds a delightful blend of spices that give the rice its signature flavor.
1 teaspoon ground cumin: Enhances the dish with a warm, earthy tone.
2 cups unsalted chicken broth: The liquid that cooks the rice and infuses it with savory goodness.
1 (10-oz) can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies, undrained: The star ingredient that brings zest and color to the dish.
4 to 6 tablespoons butter: Adds richness and creaminess, helping to meld all the flavors together.
Salt & pepper, to taste: Essential for enhancing the overall flavor profile.

Must-Have Equipment

Medium saucepan: Ideal for cooking the rice evenly and allowing it to absorb all the flavors.
Measuring cups and spoons: For precise ingredient measurements, ensuring a consistent result every time.
Wooden spoon or spatula: Perfect for stirring and combining the ingredients without damaging your cookware.
Strainer: For rinsing the rice to remove excess starch, which helps achieve fluffy rice.

How to Prepare Rotel Rice

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

Start by measuring 1 cup of long-grain white rice. Place it in a strainer and rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and helps to keep the rice fluffy.

Step 2: Combine Ingredients

In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the rinsed rice and stir for about 1-2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted. This step adds a nutty flavor to the rice.

Step 3: Add the Seasonings

Stir in the taco seasoning and cumin, allowing the spices to coat the rice evenly. This will ensure that every grain is bursting with flavor.

Step 4: Pour in the Broth and Rotel

Add 2 cups of unsalted chicken broth and the entire can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained) to the saucepan. Stir to combine all the ingredients.

Step 5: Bring to a Boil

Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid.

Step 6: Simmer

Allow the rice to simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid during this time, as it traps steam and helps cook the rice evenly.

Step 7: Fluff and Serve

Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat. Let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Afterward, fluff the rice with a fork, and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.

Dairy-Free/Gluten-Free Swaps

Butter: Substitute with olive oil or a dairy-free butter alternative for a dairy-free version.
Chicken broth: Use vegetable broth to make it vegetarian-friendly.
Taco seasoning: Ensure your taco seasoning is gluten-free, or make your own using spices like paprika, chili powder, and garlic powder.

Method to the Madness

The magic of Rotel Rice comes from its ability to meld flavors beautifully. The combination of spices, tomatoes, and broth creates a savory base that complements the rice perfectly. By toasting the rice before adding the liquid, you enhance its flavor profile, making each bite deliciously satisfying. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also adaptable; feel free to toss in veggies, proteins, or beans to make it a complete meal.

Store, Freeze & Reheat

To store leftover Rotel Rice, allow it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be kept in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze the rice in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. When you’re ready to enjoy it again, simply reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop, adding a splash of chicken broth or water to help revive the moisture.

Your Top Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and liquid ratio. Brown rice typically requires about 2.5 cups of liquid and takes longer to cook, approximately 40-45 minutes.

Can I add protein to Rotel Rice?

Absolutely! Cooked chicken, ground beef, or even black beans can be added for a hearty meal. Just make sure to adjust the cooking times accordingly.

Is Rotel Rice spicy?

The level of spice can vary based on the brand of Rotel you use. If you prefer a milder dish, opt for the original Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies instead of the spicy variety.

What can I serve with Rotel Rice?

Rotel Rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, tacos, or can be served as a base for a hearty burrito bowl. It’s also delicious on its own as a side dish!

Our Most-Loved Recipes

See You at the Table

The next time you’re in need of a quick, delicious, and satisfying dish, remember Rotel Rice. It’s not just a side; it’s a flavor-packed accompaniment that can stand alone or complement your favorite proteins. With its ease of preparation and versatility, Rotel Rice is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, follow the steps, and get ready to enjoy a meal that’s bursting with flavor. Happy cooking!

Print Recipe Save it for later

Rotel Rice

This Rotel Rice is a vibrant, one-pot dish bursting with flavor! Perfect as a side or a main, it's easy to make and utterly satisfying.

Prep Time10

Cook Time25

Total Time35

Servings: 4 servings

Ingredients

1 cup long-grain white rice rinsed
2 tablespoons taco seasoning or to taste
1 teaspoon ground cumin
2 cups unsalted chicken broth
1 10-oz can Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies undrained
4 to 6 tablespoons butter
Salt & pepper to taste

Instructions

Start by measuring 1 cup of long-grain white rice. Place it in a strainer and rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear. This step removes excess starch and helps to keep the rice fluffy.
In a medium saucepan, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the rinsed rice and stir for about 1-2 minutes until the rice is lightly toasted. This step adds a nutty flavor to the rice.
Stir in the taco seasoning and cumin, allowing the spices to coat the rice evenly. This will ensure that every grain is bursting with flavor.
Add 2 cups of unsalted chicken broth and the entire can of Rotel diced tomatoes and green chilies (undrained) to the saucepan. Stir to combine all the ingredients.
Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid.
Allow the rice to simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender. Avoid lifting the lid during this time, as it traps steam and helps cook the rice evenly.
Once cooked, remove the saucepan from heat. Let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes. Afterward, fluff the rice with a fork, and season with salt and pepper to taste before serving.