What To Serve With Mexican Rice: 16 Tasty Side Dishes

I've always been a fan of Mexican rice, but I often find myself wondering what to serve with it to create a complete and delicious meal.

After lots of taste-testing and experimenting, I've compiled a list of the 16 best side dishes that pair perfectly with Mexican rice. From meaty options to vegetarian delights, you're sure to find something for everyone. So, grab your apron and let's explore these Mexican side dishes together!

Looking for a quick answer?

The best side dishes to serve with Mexican rice are chicken burrito bowl, steak fajitas, menudo soup, mushroom tacos, chicken tacos, chile verde, chicken tortilla soup, carne asada, chiles rellenos, refried beans, shrimp ceviche, guacamole and chips, quesadillas, elote, pico de gallo, and black bean salad.

Now, let's get cooking!

1. Chicken Burrito Bowl

Why not serve your Mexican rice as part of a chicken burrito bowl? Layer the rice with seasoned chicken, black beans, corn, lettuce, and your choice of toppings like avocado, sour cream, or salsa. It's a delicious and customizable meal that everyone will love!

2. Steak Fajitas

Steak fajitas are a fantastic side dish to serve with Mexican rice. The juicy, seasoned steak and sautéed bell peppers and onions make for a mouthwatering combination that goes perfectly with the rice. Serve them with warm tortillas for a complete meal.

3. Menudo

Menudo soup is a traditional Mexican dish that pairs well with Mexican rice. This hearty and flavorful soup made from tripe, hominy, and a spicy chili pepper broth is both comforting and delicious. Serve the rice on the side or add it to the soup for an even more filling meal.

4. Mushroom Tacos

For a vegetarian option, try serving mushroom tacos with your Mexican rice. The earthy, meaty texture of the mushrooms is a great alternative to meat, and the combination of spices and seasonings make them a flavorful and satisfying side dish.

5. Chicken Tacos

Chicken tacos are a classic Mexican dish that works perfectly with Mexican rice. The tender, seasoned chicken combined with your favorite taco toppings creates a delicious and crowd-pleasing meal. Serve the rice on the side or inside the tacos for extra flavor.

6. Chile Verde

Chile verde is a delicious and hearty stew made with tender pork, green chilies, and tomatillos. The tangy and slightly spicy flavors of the chile verde pair wonderfully with the savory Mexican rice. It's a match made in heaven!

7. Chicken Tortilla Soup

Chicken tortilla soup is a warm and comforting dish that goes great with Mexican rice. The combination of tender chicken, vegetables, and a flavorful broth makes for a satisfying and delicious meal. Serve the rice on the side or mix it into the soup for added texture.

8. Carne Asada

Carne asada is a popular Mexican dish consisting of marinated and grilled beef, typically skirt or flank steak. The smoky, juicy flavors of the carne asada complement the Mexican rice perfectly. Serve it sliced with the rice and your favorite toppings for a delicious and filling meal.

9. Chiles Rellenos

Chiles rellenos are stuffed poblano peppers, typically filled with cheese, dipped in egg batter, and fried. The rich, gooey cheese and mild heat from the peppers make for a delicious side dish that pairs wonderfully with Mexican rice. Add a dollop of sour cream or salsa for extra flavor.

10. Refried Beans

Refried beans are a classic Mexican side dish that goes perfectly with Mexican rice. The creamy and flavorful beans add a delicious and satisfying element to your meal. You can serve them on the side or mix them in with the rice for a heartier dish.

11. Shrimp Ceviche

For a refreshing and light side dish, try serving shrimp ceviche with your Mexican rice. The combination of fresh shrimp, citrus juices, and chopped vegetables creates a zesty and delicious dish that balances out the savory flavors of the rice. The bright flavors of the ceviche make it a perfect side dish for a warm day or when you're craving something light and fresh.

12. Guacamole and Chips

Who can resist a delicious bowl of guacamole with crispy tortilla chips? This classic side dish is a great accompaniment to Mexican rice. The creamy, rich avocado paired with crunchy chips adds a delightful contrast of textures. Plus, it's a great way to add more veggies to your meal, as you can mix in ingredients like tomatoes, onions, and cilantro.

13. Quesadillas

Quesadillas are a simple and satisfying side dish that pairs well with Mexican rice. The warm, melty cheese and your choice of fillings, such as grilled vegetables, cooked chicken, or seasoned beef, are nestled between two tortillas and grilled to crispy perfection. Cut the quesadillas into wedges and serve them with the rice for a delicious and comforting meal.

14. Elote

Elote, also known as Mexican street corn, is a mouthwatering side dish that goes great with Mexican rice. The grilled corn is slathered in a mixture of mayonnaise, sour cream, chili powder, and lime juice, then sprinkled with cotija cheese. The smoky, tangy, and slightly spicy flavors of the elote make it a perfect complement to the savory rice.

15. Pico de Gallo

Pico de gallo is a fresh and zesty salsa made from chopped tomatoes, onions, cilantro, jalapenos, and lime juice. This simple yet flavorful side dish adds a burst of freshness to your meal and pairs wonderfully with Mexican rice. You can serve it on the side or mix it into the rice for added flavor and texture.

16. Black Bean Salad

A black bean salad is a healthy and delicious side dish that complements Mexican rice perfectly. The combination of black beans, corn, tomatoes, onions, and a tangy dressing creates a refreshing and satisfying salad. The beans provide a good source of protein and fiber, while the veggies add a burst of color and flavor. Serve the salad alongside the rice or mix them together for a tasty and nutritious meal.

 

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