Moe’s Seasoned Rice Recipe

If you’ve ever enjoyed a burrito bowl at Moe’s Southwest Grill, you know their seasoned rice is absolutely irresistible. That perfectly spiced, fluffy cilantro-lime flavored rice adds so much flavor to every bite.

The good news? You don’t need to visit the restaurant to enjoy this beloved side dish. This copycat Moe’s seasoned rice recipe brings that same Southwest-inspired magic right to your kitchen with simple pantry ingredients and straightforward techniques.

Whether you’re recreating your favorite burrito bowl at home or looking for a flavorful side dish for taco night, this Moe’s rice recipe delivers restaurant-quality results every single time.

What Does Moe’s Seasoned Rice Taste Like?

This Moe’s seasoned rice offers a beautiful balance of savory, slightly spicy, and aromatic flavors that complement Mexican and Southwest cuisine perfectly.

The buttery rice base carries warm notes of cumin and garlic, while chili powder adds a gentle heat without overwhelming your palate. The tomato sauce gives it a subtle tanginess and a gorgeous golden-orange hue, while the chicken broth infuses every grain with rich, savory depth.

Each forkful is fluffy, well-seasoned, and has that distinctive restaurant-style taste that makes you want to go back for seconds. It’s comfort food with a Southwest twist!

Moe’s Seasoned Rice Recipe Ingredients

Main Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons butter – Creates a rich, toasted base for the rice
• 1 cup uncooked white rice – Long-grain white rice works best
• 3 cloves garlic, minced – Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin – The signature earthy, warm spice
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder – Provides mild heat and color
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Enhances overall flavor complexity
• Pinch of cayenne pepper – Adds a subtle kick (optional but recommended)
• 1/4 cup finely diced onion – Contributes sweetness and texture
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce – Gives the rice its characteristic color and tangy flavor
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth – The flavorful cooking liquid that makes all the difference

Kitchen Utensils You’ll Need:

• Large saucepan with tight-fitting lid
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork (for fluffing)
• Garlic press (optional)

Preparation and Cooking Time

• Prep Time: 8 minutes
• Cook Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: 38 minutes
• Servings: 4 servings (approximately 3/4 cup each)

Step-by-Step Moe’s Seasoned Rice Recipe Instructions

Step 1: Toast the Rice

Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is completely melted and begins to foam slightly, add the uncooked white rice. Stir constantly for 3-4 minutes until the rice grains turn just golden and become fragrant. This toasting process is crucial-it adds a nutty flavor and helps the rice maintain a fluffy texture after cooking.

Step 2: Add the Aromatics and Spices

Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the toasted rice. Continue stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. You’ll notice the spices becoming very aromatic as they toast with the rice and butter. This blooming technique releases the essential oils in the spices, creating deeper, more complex flavors.

Step 3: Cook the Onions

Stir in the finely diced onion and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become tender and translucent. The onions should soften but not brown. This step adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory and spicy elements.

Step 4: Add Liquids and Bring to a Boil

Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything thoroughly. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan-those are flavor! Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. You’ll see the liquid bubbling actively across the entire surface.

Step 5: Simmer the Rice

Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice simmer undisturbed for 20-25 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is perfectly tender. Resist the temptation to lift the lid during cooking-this releases essential steam needed for fluffy rice.

Step 6: Fluff and Serve

Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming and makes it easier to fluff. Remove the lid and use a fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains. Your copycat Moe’s seasoned rice is now ready to serve!

Delicious Customization and Pairing Ideas

1. Cilantro-Lime Variation

Transform this Moes rice recipe into a cilantro-lime version by stirring in 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped cilantro and the juice of one lime right after fluffing. This bright, citrusy twist is perfect for fish tacos or shrimp bowls and adds a refreshing element that cuts through rich, cheesy dishes.

2. Burrito Bowl Base

Use your Moe’s seasoned rice as the foundation for homemade burrito bowls. Layer it with Saltgrass Green Beans, grilled chicken or steak, pico de gallo, shredded cheese, sour cream, guacamole, and crispy lettuce for a complete meal that rivals any restaurant offering.

3. Stuffed Pepper Filling

Mix the cooked seasoned rice with ground beef, additional vegetables, and cheese to create an incredible stuffing for bell peppers. The rice’s built-in seasonings mean your stuffed peppers will be bursting with flavor without requiring extra spices.

4. Taco Tuesday Side Dish

Serve this rice alongside your favorite tacos-whether they’re carne asada, carnitas, fish, or vegetarian. The rice’s subtle spice profile complements without competing with your taco fillings, making it an ideal accompaniment.

5. Vegetarian-Friendly Version

Swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth to make this recipe completely vegetarian. You can also use olive oil instead of butter for a vegan-friendly option. The flavor remains robust and satisfying while accommodating different dietary preferences.

6. Protein-Packed Addition

Stir in cooked black beans, pinto beans, or corn kernels during the last 5 minutes of cooking for added protein, fiber, and texture. This transforms the rice from a simple side dish into a more substantial offering that can stand alone as a light meal.

Expert Tips for Perfect Moe’s Seasoned Rice

1. Choose the Right Rice

Long-grain white rice works best for this copycat Moe’s seasoned rice recipe because it cooks up fluffy with distinct, separate grains. Avoid short-grain or sushi rice, which tends to be stickier. Jasmine or basmati rice are excellent premium options that add their own subtle fragrance to complement the seasonings.

2. Don’t Skip the Toasting Step

Toasting the rice in butter before adding liquids is non-negotiable. This technique, called “pilaf method,” coats each grain with fat, which creates a barrier that helps prevent mushiness. It also develops a deeper, nuttier flavor that elevates the entire dish from ordinary to restaurant-quality.

3. Use Quality Chicken Broth

Since chicken broth is a primary flavor component in this Moes rice recipe, quality matters significantly. Low-sodium broth gives you better control over saltiness, while homemade or high-quality store-bought broth adds richness that water simply cannot provide. If your broth is particularly salty, you may want to dilute it slightly with water.

4. Maintain Consistent Low Heat

Once you’ve covered the rice to simmer, keep the heat consistently low. If the heat is too high, the liquid will evaporate too quickly, leaving you with undercooked rice. If it’s too low, the rice may become mushy. The sweet spot is a gentle simmer where you can barely see small bubbles around the edges when you peek under the lid.

5. Keep the Lid On

This cannot be stressed enough-do not lift the lid during cooking! Every time you remove the lid, you release steam that’s essential for properly cooking the rice. Trust the process and timing. If you’re worried about doneness, wait until the full 20 minutes have passed before checking.

6. Adjust Spice Levels to Taste

The cayenne pepper in this recipe provides just a hint of heat. If you prefer spicier rice, increase the cayenne to 1/4 teaspoon or add a diced jalapeño with the onions. For milder rice that’s kid-friendly, simply omit the cayenne altogether. The cumin and chili powder will still provide plenty of Southwest flavor.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store leftover Moe’s seasoned rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a tablespoon of water or broth per cup of rice, cover, and microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat in a covered saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Louis T. Vaught

Moe’s Seasoned Rice Recipe

5 from 2 votes

If you’ve ever enjoyed a burrito bowl at Moe’s Southwest Grill, you know their seasoned rice is absolutely irresistible. That perfectly spiced, fluffy cilantro-lime flavored rice adds so much flavor to every bite. The good news? You don’t need to visit the restaurant to enjoy this beloved side dish. This copycat Moe’s seasoned rice recipe brings that same Southwest-inspired magic right to your kitchen with simple pantry ingredients and straightforward techniques.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 8 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Total Time 38 minutes mins

Servings: 4

Course: Main Dish

Cuisine: American

Calories: 170

Ingredients Equipment Method Video Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tablespoons butter – Creates a rich toasted base for the rice
• 1 cup uncooked white rice – Long-grain white rice works best
• 3 cloves garlic minced – Fresh garlic adds aromatic depth
• 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin – The signature earthy warm spice
• 1/4 teaspoon chili powder – Provides mild heat and color
• 1/4 teaspoon black pepper – Enhances overall flavor complexity
• Pinch of cayenne pepper – Adds a subtle kick optional but recommended
• 1/4 cup finely diced onion – Contributes sweetness and texture
• 1/4 cup tomato sauce – Gives the rice its characteristic color and tangy flavor
• 1 3/4 cups chicken broth – The flavorful cooking liquid that makes all the difference

Equipment

• Large saucepan with tight-fitting lid
• Wooden spoon or silicone spatula
• Sharp knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Fork (for fluffing)
• Garlic press (optional)

Method

 

1. Melt the butter in a large saucepan over medium heat. Once the butter is completely melted and begins to foam slightly, add the uncooked white rice. Stir constantly for 3-4 minutes until the rice grains turn just golden and become fragrant. This toasting process is crucial-it adds a nutty flavor and helps the rice maintain a fluffy texture after cooking.
2. Add the minced garlic, ground cumin, chili powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper to the toasted rice. Continue stirring constantly for about 2 minutes. You’ll notice the spices becoming very aromatic as they toast with the rice and butter. This blooming technique releases the essential oils in the spices, creating deeper, more complex flavors.
3. Stir in the finely diced onion and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onions become tender and translucent. The onions should soften but not brown. This step adds a subtle sweetness that balances the savory and spicy elements.
4. Pour in the tomato sauce and chicken broth, stirring to combine everything thoroughly. Scrape any browned bits from the bottom of the pan-those are flavor! Increase the heat slightly and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. You’ll see the liquid bubbling actively across the entire surface.
5. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid. Let the rice simmer undisturbed for 20-25 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is perfectly tender. Resist the temptation to lift the lid during cooking-this releases essential steam needed for fluffy rice.
6. Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming and makes it easier to fluff. Remove the lid and use a fork to gently fluff the rice, separating the grains. Your copycat Moe’s seasoned rice is now ready to serve!

Video

Notes

Store leftover Moe’s seasoned rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a tablespoon of water or broth per cup of rice, cover, and microwave for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat in a covered saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Frequently Asked Questions

We’re here to help! Below, you’ll find answers to common questions people usually have about this recipe.

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this Moe’s rice recipe?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice requires about 40-45 minutes of simmering and approximately 2 1/4 cups of liquid instead of 1 3/4 cups. The toasting and seasoning steps remain the same, but be patient with the longer cooking time.

What’s the secret to making this taste exactly like Moe’s Southwest Grill?

The key is toasting the rice in butter first, using chicken broth instead of water, and allowing the spices to bloom in the hot butter before adding liquids. These techniques layer flavors in ways that simply adding spices to already-cooked rice cannot achieve.

Can I make this copycat Moe’s seasoned rice recipe in a rice cooker?

While possible, you’ll miss out on the crucial toasting step that gives this rice its signature flavor. If you must use a rice cooker, toast the rice with butter and spices in a separate pan first, then transfer everything to the rice cooker with the liquids and cook according to your machine’s white rice setting.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, this Moes seasoned rice recipe is naturally gluten-free. However, always check your chicken broth and spice labels to ensure they haven’t been processed in facilities with gluten or contain any hidden gluten-containing additives.

Can I freeze cooked Moe’s seasoned rice?

Absolutely! Let the rice cool completely, then portion it into freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat with a splash of broth to restore moisture.

Why is my rice mushy instead of fluffy?

Mushy rice usually results from too much liquid, too high heat, or stirring during cooking. Make sure you’re using the exact measurements, maintaining low heat once covered, and leaving the lid undisturbed during the simmering process.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, but use a larger pot to ensure even cooking. When doubling, you may need to extend the simmering time by 5-10 minutes. Avoid tripling or quadrupling in a single pot, as this can lead to uneven cooking with some rice overcooked and some undercooked.

This copycat Moe’s seasoned rice recipe brings the beloved Southwest Grill favorite straight to your home kitchen with minimal effort and maximum flavor.

The combination of toasted rice, aromatic spices, and savory broth creates a side dish that’s infinitely better than plain rice and pairs beautifully with countless meals.

Whether you’re building burrito bowls, serving tacos, or simply want a flavorful accompaniment to grilled proteins, this Moes rice recipe delivers every time.

Give it a try tonight-your taste buds will thank you, and you might just find yourself making it on repeat!

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