Moe’s Seasoned Rice Recipe

If you’ve ever enjoyed a burrito bowl at Moe’s Southwest Grill, you know their moe’s seasoned rice recipe is truly unforgettable. This flavorful seasoned rice is light, aromatic, and perfectly balanced, making it a must-have base for any Southwest-style meal.

This copycat moe’s seasoned rice recipe captures the same vibrant taste using simple ingredients like long-grain rice, savory broth, and carefully chosen spices. The result is a fluffy, restaurant-quality side that pairs well with tacos, burritos, or bowls.

If you’ve been wondering how to make moe’s seasoned rice, this easy moes rice recipe brings all the bold flavor to your kitchen, letting you recreate your favorite Moe’s experience at home.

What is Moe’s Seasoned Rice and How Does It Taste?

Moe’s seasoned rice is a signature side dish featuring fluffy long-grain basmati rice cooked with chicken or vegetable broth and infused with sautéed aromatics like onion, garlic, ginger, and bell peppers.

The seasoning blend combines seasoned salt, paprika, complete seasoning, and black pepper with fresh herbs like thyme and parsley. The result is a beautifully fragrant rice with layers of savory, slightly peppery, and herbaceous flavors.

Each grain absorbs the rich broth and vegetable essence, creating a moist yet fluffy texture. The addition of fresh carrots and green onions adds subtle sweetness and vibrant color, making this seasoned rice moes style both visually appealing and incredibly tasty.

Moe’s Seasoned Rice Recipe Ingredients

For the Rice Base:

• 1½ cups long-grain basmati rice (or any long-grain rice)
• 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian/vegan version; water works too but broth adds more flavor)

Vegetables & Aromatics:

• 1 medium yellow onion, finely diced (about ¾–1 cup)
• 3–4 cloves garlic, minced (about 1 tablespoon)
• 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
• 1 medium bell pepper (any color), finely diced (about ¾–1 cup)
• ½ cup grated carrots (plus extra for garnish)
• ¼ cup chopped fresh parsley (plus extra if desired)
• 2–3 stalks fresh thyme (leaves stripped, or 1 teaspoon dried thyme)

Seasonings:

• 1 teaspoon seasoned salt (or to taste)
• 1 teaspoon complete seasoning (or all-purpose seasoning blend)
• ½–1 teaspoon paprika
• ½ teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)

Other:

• 2 tablespoons oil (vegetable, canola, or olive oil)
• ¼–½ cup chopped green onions (for garnish, plus extra if desired)

Kitchen Utensils

1. Large pot or deep saucepan with tight-fitting lid
2. Fine-mesh strainer or colander
3. Wooden spoon or spatula
4. Fork (for fluffing rice)
5. Measuring cups and spoons
6. Grater (for carrots and ginger)
7. Chef’s knife and cutting board
8. Aluminum foil

Preparation and Cooking Time

Prep Time: 15 minutes

Cook Time: 30 minutes

Total Time: 45 minutes

Servings: 6-8 servings

Copycat Moe’s Seasoned Rice Recipe

Step 1: Prepare the Rice

Rinse the 1½ cups basmati rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This removes excess starch for fluffier results. Drain well and set aside.

Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics

Heat a large pot or deep saucepan over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons oil and let it heat up. Add the diced yellow onion, minced garlic, grated ginger, diced bell pepper, and chopped fresh parsley. Stir in the seasonings: seasoned salt, complete seasoning, paprika, and black pepper. Cook for about 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables soften slightly and begin to caramelize/release their flavors (the onions should look translucent and fragrant).

Step 3: Toast the Rice

Add the rinsed and drained rice to the pot. Stir everything together well to coat the rice with the oil and aromatics. Cook for about 5 minutes on medium heat, stirring frequently. This step helps the rice absorb all the delicious flavors.

Step 4: Add Liquid & Thyme

Pour in the 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth). Add the fresh thyme (strip the leaves into the pot or add whole stalks and remove later). Stir once to combine. Taste the liquid and adjust seasoning if needed (it should taste well-seasoned since the rice will absorb it).

Step 5: Cook the Rice

Bring the mixture to a gentle boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Let it simmer undisturbed until all the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender (about 15–20 minutes, depending on your rice type – check at 15 minutes). Do not stir during this time.

Step 6: Rest & Fluff

Once the liquid has fully evaporated, remove from heat. Gently fluff the rice with a fork, bringing the bottom rice to the top for even texture. Place a piece of aluminum foil over the top of the pot (under the lid) to trap steam. Return to very low heat (or just let it sit off heat) for an additional 5 minutes – this steams the rice perfectly.

Step 7: Garnish & Serve

Remove the lid and foil. Gently mix in (or sprinkle on top) the chopped green onions and extra grated carrots for freshness and color.

Taste and adjust salt/pepper if needed.

Customization and Pairing Ideas for Moe’s Rice

1. Southwest Burrito Bowl Base

Transform your moes seasoned rice into a complete meal by creating a burrito bowl. Layer the rice with seasoned black beans, grilled fajita vegetables, your choice of protein (carnitas, grilled chicken, or seasoned ground beef), fresh pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, and shredded cheese. This pairing captures the authentic Moe’s Southwest Grill experience.

2. Cilantro-Lime Variation

Give your copycat moe’s seasoned rice recipe a fresh twist by stirring in 2 tablespoons of fresh lime juice and ¼ cup chopped cilantro after cooking. This citrusy, herbaceous variation pairs beautifully with fish tacos, shrimp fajitas, or carne asada. The bright acidity cuts through rich proteins perfectly.

3. Protein-Packed Rice Bowl

Mix cooked seasoned chicken, beef, or shrimp directly into your moes rice for a one-pot meal. Add corn, black beans, and diced tomatoes for extra nutrition and texture. This complete dish works wonderfully for meal prep and makes an excellent quick dinner option.

4. Vegetarian and Vegan Adaptation

Make this moes rice recipe completely plant-based by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth. Pair with roasted vegetables like zucchini, squash, and poblano peppers. Top with vegan cheese, cashew crema, and plenty of fresh avocado for a satisfying meatless meal.

5. Spicy Rice Variation

For those who love heat, add 1-2 diced jalapeños or serrano peppers when sautéing the aromatics. You can also mix in ½ teaspoon cumin and ½ teaspoon chili powder to the rice seasoning blend. Serve alongside spicy salsa verde and pickled jalapeños for an extra kick.

6. Stuffed Pepper Filling

Use your seasoned rice moes style as a base for stuffed bell peppers. Mix the cooked rice with ground turkey or beef, extra cheese, and beans, then stuff into halved peppers and bake until tender. The rice’s existing flavors eliminate the need for additional seasoning.

7. Caribbean-Style Pairing

Serve this flavorful rice alongside jerk chicken, braised oxtail, or fried plantains for a Caribbean fusion meal. The ginger and thyme in the rice complement Caribbean spices beautifully, creating an exciting cross-cultural dining experience.

Essential Tips for Perfect Moe’s Seasoned Rice

1. Rinse Your Rice Thoroughly

The most critical step for fluffy, non-sticky rice is rinsing. Wash your basmati rice under cold running water for 2-3 minutes until the water runs clear. This removes excess surface starch that causes clumping and mushiness. Proper rinsing ensures each grain cooks separately, giving you that signature restaurant-quality texture in your moes seasoned rice recipe.

2. Toast the Rice for Enhanced Flavor

Never skip the toasting step when making this copycat moe’s seasoned rice recipe. Cooking the rice in oil with aromatics for 5 minutes before adding liquid allows each grain to absorb flavors and creates a slightly nutty taste. This technique, called “pilaf method,” also helps seal the rice grains, resulting in a firmer, more defined texture rather than a mushy consistency.

3. Use Quality Broth for Maximum Flavor

The liquid you choose dramatically impacts your final dish. Chicken or vegetable broth provides significantly more depth than plain water. For even richer seasoned rice moes style, use homemade stock or low-sodium versions that allow you to control the salt level. The rice absorbs all these flavors during cooking, making this choice essential for authentic taste.

4. Don’t Peek While Cooking

Resist the temptation to lift the lid while your moes rice simmers. Every time you open the pot, steam escapes, disrupting the cooking process and potentially leaving you with undercooked, crunchy rice. Trust the process and only check after the full 15-20 minute cooking time. The steam trapped inside creates the perfect cooking environment.

5. Let It Rest After Cooking

The resting period is when magic happens. After removing from heat, covering with foil and letting the rice sit for 5 minutes allows residual steam to finish cooking any remaining firm grains while redistributing moisture evenly. This step transforms good rice into exceptional rice with perfectly tender, fluffy results every single time.

6. Fluff Gently with a Fork

When it’s time to fluff your rice, use a fork rather than a spoon and employ gentle lifting motions rather than stirring. Aggressive mixing can break the delicate grains and create a gummy texture. Work from the edges toward the center, turning the rice over to release steam and separate the grains while maintaining their integrity.

7. Adjust Seasonings to Your Preference

Every brand of seasoned salt and complete seasoning varies in intensity and flavor profile. Start with the amounts listed in this moes rice recipe, but always taste your cooking liquid before adding the rice. It should taste slightly over-seasoned since the rice will dilute it. Don’t hesitate to add extra paprika for color, more black pepper for heat, or additional herbs for freshness based on your personal taste preferences.

Storage and Reheating Guidance

Store leftover moe’s seasoned rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4-5 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or broth, covered, for 1-2 minutes, stirring halfway through. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop over low heat with added liquid, fluffing occasionally until warmed through.

Common Queries and FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice for this moes seasoned rice recipe?

Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid. Brown rice typically requires 40-45 minutes of cooking time and approximately 3½ to 4 cups of broth instead of 3 cups. The rice seasoning and preparation method remain the same.

What if I don’t have complete seasoning or seasoned salt?

You can make your own blend by combining garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and a pinch of turmeric or cumin. For seasoned salt specifically, mix regular salt with paprika, garlic powder, and onion powder in a 4:1:1:1 ratio. These substitutions work perfectly in this copycat moe’s seasoned rice recipe.

Why is my rice mushy instead of fluffy?

Mushy rice usually results from too much liquid, not rinsing the rice beforehand, or stirring during the cooking process. Make sure to rinse your basmati rice thoroughly, measure liquid precisely, and resist opening the lid while the rice cooks. Following these steps ensures properly textured seasoned rice moes style.

Can I make this moes rice recipe in a rice cooker?

Absolutely! After sautéing the aromatics and toasting the rice in a separate pan, transfer everything to your rice cooker with the broth and seasonings. Use the white rice setting and let it complete its cycle. The resting time happens automatically, and you’ll still achieve excellent results.

How do I make this recipe spicier?

Add diced jalapeños or serrano peppers when sautéing the aromatics, include ½ teaspoon cayenne pepper with your seasonings, or stir in a tablespoon of your favorite hot sauce before serving. You can also top the finished rice with sliced fresh chilies or a drizzle of spicy salsa for adjustable heat.

Can I freeze moe’s seasoned rice?

Yes, this rice freezes beautifully for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely, then portion into freezer-safe containers or bags, removing as much air as possible. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat with a splash of broth. The texture remains excellent, making this perfect for meal prep.

What’s the best rice variety for authentic results?

Long-grain basmati rice produces the most authentic texture with separated, fluffy grains. However, jasmine rice, regular long-grain white rice, or even Carolina rice work well. Avoid short-grain or sushi rice varieties, as they contain more starch and create a stickier consistency unsuitable for this moes rice recipe.

This moe’s seasoned rice recipe delivers restaurant-quality results right in your home kitchen. With aromatic vegetables, perfectly balanced rice seasoning, and the richness of flavorful broth, you can now recreate the beloved Moe’s Southwest Grill experience whenever you crave it.

Whether serving this seasoned rice moes style as a burrito bowl base, alongside grilled meats, or as a standalone vegetarian dish, it’s guaranteed to impress. Master how to make moe’s seasoned rice once, and it’ll become a regular staple in your meal rotation. Enjoy every flavorful, fluffy bite!

We’d love to hear how this recipe turns out for you! Give it a try, then drop a comment below to share your thoughts and tips with us.

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