Cheesy Mexican Green Chili Rice (Print Version)

# Ingredients:

→ Main Ingredients

01 - 200 g long-grain white rice
02 - 1 tablespoon olive oil
03 - 600 ml water or chicken broth
04 - 115 g canned green chilis
05 - 1.5 tablespoons tomato paste
06 - 0.5 teaspoon onion powder
07 - 0.5 teaspoon garlic powder
08 - 0.25 teaspoon table salt, plus more to taste
09 - 100 g shredded Mexican cheese blend

→ Optional Garnish

10 - 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro

# Instructions:

01 - Heat olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add rice and stir to coat grains evenly. Cook, stirring frequently, until rice is lightly golden, about 5–7 minutes.
02 - Carefully pour in water or chicken broth, add tomato paste, green chilis, onion powder, garlic powder, and salt. Stir thoroughly to combine.
03 - Cover saucepan and reduce heat to low. Simmer for 12–15 minutes, stirring occasionally, until rice is tender and liquid is fully absorbed.
04 - If rice is undercooked but liquid is absorbed, add 30–60 ml water. Cover and cook for an additional 3–5 minutes. Repeat if necessary until rice is tender.
05 - Taste and adjust salt if needed. Stir in shredded Mexican cheese blend until thoroughly melted and incorporated. Alternatively, sprinkle cheese over rice, cover, and let melt for several minutes.
06 - Top with chopped fresh cilantro if using. Serve warm.

# Notes:

01 - Allow rice to rest covered for several minutes after cooking to achieve optimal texture.