Applebee’s Mexican Rice Recipe

When you’re craving a delicious bowl of Mexican rice just like Applebee’s, you can make this recipe!

Let the bold flavors take center stage with some freshly chopped onions and a hint of garlic sautéed in olive oil.

One thing I cherish about this recipe is its versatility—you can pair it with so many different dishes like grilled chicken or even spice it up with jalapeños for some extra kick!

Don’t forget to fluff the rice with a fork before serving to give it that light, airy texture we all enjoy.

How to Make Applebee’s Mexican Rice Recipe

Ingredients

• 1 cup Long-Grain White Rice
• 2 tbsp Vegetable Oil
• 1 can Tomato Sauce (8 oz.)
• 2 cups Chicken Broth
• 1 tsp Garlic Powder
• 1 tsp Onion Powder
• 1/2 tsp Ground Cumin
• 1/4 cup Diced Onion
• Salt to taste

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1:

Rinse the rice under cold water until it runs clear.

This helps remove excess starch, ensuring it doesn’t become sticky.

Step 2:

In a large saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat.

Add the rice and sauté it until it turns a light golden brown.

Step 3:

Stir in the diced onion, cooking until it softens.

This usually takes around 2-3 minutes.

Step 4:

Add the tomato sauce, chicken broth, garlic powder, onion powder, cumin, and a pinch of salt to the pan.

Stir well to combine all the ingredients.

Step 5:

Bring the mixture to a boil.

Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid.

Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Tips and Tricks for Making This Recipe

Use Fresh Ingredients

Try using freshly diced tomatoes instead of canned sauce for a fresher flavor, adjusting the liquid as necessary to achieve the same consistency.

Achieving the Perfect Texture

Toast the rice until just golden; under-toasting can lead to mushiness, while over-toasting might result in a burnt taste.

Spice It Up

Add a bit of your favorite hot sauce for a spicy kick as you cook, adjusting the amount to your liking.

Mixing the Flavors

For an extra burst of flavor, you could also add a teaspoon of smoked paprika to the spice mix.

Let It Rest

After cooking, allow the rice to rest undisturbed for a few minutes; this step helps it become fluffy and less sticky.

What to Serve with Applebee’s Mexican Rice Recipe

Classic Pico de Gallo

You can never go wrong with serving Pico de Gallo alongside your Mexican rice.

Chop up some tomatoes, onions, and cilantro, and add a squeeze of lime for a dish that’s perfect.

Refreshing Cucumber Salad

A lightly tossed cucumber salad with a bit of lime and chili can also be a fantastic addition.

The salad adds a fresh twist with a bit of crunch that pairs perfectly with Mexican rice.

Don’t skip out on adding a pinch of salt and pepper to taste.

Zesty Arugula Salad

An arugula salad is quite the pair when you’re looking to add something light and peppery.

Add in ripe tomatoes and a dash of balsamic vinegar for a contrast in flavors with the rice.

Chile Verde

For something heartier, Chile Verde is an excellent choice if you want to serve a warm and comforting stew.

Its tangy and spicy flavors are an amazing match with the savory Mexican rice.

Use pork that’s been cooked until it’s tender to elevate this pairing further.

Grilled Zucchini

Grill up some zucchini with a sprinkle of chili powder for something unique but tasty.

This dish brings a smoky taste and a hint of spice, which is simply wonderful with Mexican rice.

Pair with a bit of fresh lime juice, and you’ve got a surprising side.

Black Bean Salsa

Serving Black Bean Salsa can offer a bit of nutritional punch along with vibrant color.

Include corn and bell peppers in the mix for a side that’s as tasty as it is colorful.

A hint of cumin or smoked paprika would work great here.

Variations and Substitutions

Go Vegetarian with Vegetable Broth

For a vegetarian twist, replace chicken broth with vegetable broth.

This change keeps it flavorful while accommodating dietary preferences.

Spice It Up with Jalapeños

Adding spicy elements like jalapeños can give your rice an exciting kick!

Keep It Mild with Bell Peppers

If you prefer it milder, opt for sweet bell peppers instead.

Try Brown Rice for a Nutty Flavor

Feeling adventurous? Use brown rice!

It adds a nutty flavor and packs more nutritional value, although it takes a bit longer to cook.

Experiment with Quinoa

Incorporating quinoa could be a creative substitute when you want to mix up the texture.

Add a Zesty Twist with Taco Sauce

If you’re looking for different flavors, try using taco sauce in place of tomato sauce.

It brings a zesty tang that elevates the dish without overwhelming the other ingredients.

Enhance the Flavor with Olive Oil

Want a richer taste? Adding a bit of olive oil can enhance the flavors.

This simple adjustment offers a smooth finish to the dish without making it greasy.

How to Store Leftover Mexican Rice

Storing your leftover Mexican rice properly is essential to maintaining its flavor and safety.

Make sure to cool the rice quickly to avoid bacterial growth.

Spread the cooked rice on a baking sheet to speed up the cooling process.

Use Airtight Containers

Transfer the cooled rice into an airtight container for storage.

Using airtight containers helps maintain freshness and reduces the chance of contamination.

Store the container in the refrigerator to keep the rice safe and delicious for your next meal.

Timing Matters

You should refrigerate your rice within two hours of cooking it.

If it’s left at room temperature too long, it can become a breeding ground for bacteria.

A quick transfer to the fridge helps keep your rice in the best condition.

Trust Your Senses

Always check the rice for any off smells or changes in appearance before consuming it again.

If anything seems amiss, it’s safer to discard it rather than risking food safety.

Storing rice this way will keep it ready and tasty for when you’re hungry next!

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping the Toasting Step

One mistake often made when preparing Mexican rice is skipping the toasting of the rice before adding liquid.

You want to make sure you toast the rice until golden brown, as this enhances both the flavor and texture.

Using Too Much Water

Another common mistake is using too much water, which can make the rice mushy and unappealing.

Stick to the recommended liquid ratios and adjust according to the type of rice you’re using to ensure good texture.

Lifting the Lid During Cooking

Lifting the lid too early while the rice is cooking is another pitfall to watch out for.

Keeping the lid on while simmering is important to maintain the proper steam cooking for fluffy rice.

This helps in achieving the ideal consistency and flavor for your dish!