Lazy Microwave Boxed Rice With Canned Diced Tomatoes

Craving a hearty meal without the hassle? This lazy microwave boxed rice recipe transforms pantry staples into a flavorful dish in under five minutes. No pots, no chopping, just dump-and-zap convenience.

We’re talking fluffy rice infused with tangy tomato goodness—ideal for busy weeknights or when even takeout feels like too much effort. Bonus: Your microwave does all the heavy lifting while you binge your latest show.

Below, we break down everything from microwaving safety to flavor-boosting tweaks that’ll make you feel like a lazy genius.

Can You Microwave Boxed Rice and Canned Tomatoes?

Absolutely – we’ve tested this combo more times than George (my dad) has accidentally set off the smoke alarm. Most boxed rice brands like Zatarain’s or Rice-A-Roni have microwave instructions printed right on the box. Just remember to use a microwave-safe bowl – those flimsy takeout containers from last night’s lo mein? Not your friends here.

Canned tomatoes add moisture, so reduce the water slightly. John (my husband) learned this the hard way during his “bachelor chef” phase – his first attempt looked more like tomato soup with rice islands. Aim for 1-2 tablespoons less water per half-cup of canned tomatoes. Always vent the lid slightly to prevent microwave geysers!

What Does Boxed Rice With Canned Tomatoes Taste Like?

Imagine your favorite Spanish rice meets lazy Sunday vibes. The tomatoes bring bright acidity that cuts through the starch, while the rice absorbs their savory juices. Texture-wise? Think fluffy grains with occasional pops of tomato flesh – like edible confetti. If you’re craving a quick and flavorful meal, a microwave Mexican rice recipe can bring these elements together effortlessly. This simple cooking method allows you to enjoy delicious rice without spending too much time in the kitchen.

George used to pack this in my school lunches with shredded cheese melted on top. Kids called it “pizza rice” and begged for trades. Pro move: A dash of smoked paprika or garlic powder elevates it from dorm-room snack to “did you really make this in a microwave?” territory. It’s one of those lazy microwave meals that’s surprisingly good.

Ready to raid your pantry? Let’s break down the simple ingredients that make this lazy hack sing.

Ingredients for Lazy Microwave Boxed Rice With Canned Diced Tomatoes

Let’s raid those cabinets! You likely have everything already. Our base formula requires just three components: boxed rice mix (any flavor), canned diced tomatoes, and water. My college roommate once substituted SpaghettiOs – we don’t recommend that level of creativity for any microwave rice recipes.

Essential Ingredients &Amp; Microwave-safe Substitutes

• Boxed rice: Zatarain’s Yellow Rice or Knorr Spanish Rice work best. Gluten-free? Use Lundberg’s.
• Canned diced tomatoes: Fire-roasted add smokiness. No-salt versions let you control sodium.
• Microwave-safe bowl: Glass or ceramic (2-qt minimum). John still mourns his melted “Star Wars” plastic tub.

Also See: Quick 2-minute Microwave Bacon & Egg Breakfast Mug

How to Make Lazy Microwave Boxed Rice With Canned Diced Tomatoes

I’ve made this during commercial breaks – it’s that fast. Total hands-on time: 90 seconds. Perfect for when your pet is judging your life choices.

Step 1: Preparing Ingredients for Microwave Cooking

Drain tomatoes but keep 2 tbsp of their juice – that’s flavor gold. Reduce water by ¼ cup (tomatoes add moisture). George once ignored this and created rice soup. We drank it with straws. Don’t be George. For a delightful twist, consider making creamy tomato soup in one pot using the microwave. This method not only saves time but also allows for a rich and smooth texture without the fuss.

Step 2: Layering and Microwaving Techniques

Combine everything in your bowl – rice, tomatoes, adjusted water. No stirring! Microwaves hate layered dishes. Cover loosely with a plate or vented lid. Nuke on high 5-7 minutes (varies by wattage). Your microwave will hum like a content cat. This method is perfect for creating a quick meal, like a lazy microwave frozen chicken nugget rice bowl, which combines convenience and flavor effortlessly.

Step 3: Fluffing and Final Adjustments

Let sit 1 minute – this finishes absorption. Fluff with a fork like you’re combing a tiny rice poodle. Taste and add ⅛ tsp cumin or chili powder if feeling fancy. Top with cheese shreds? John says “always.” Serve it alongside our creamy corn chowder for a comforting meal.

Also See: 2-minute Microwave Caprese Salad in a Mug

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Mistake: Ignoring your microwave’s wattage. 1000W? Start with 5 minutes. 700W? Try 7. Burnt edges taste like regret. It’s essential to know how to properly use a microwave to avoid common mistakes. Many people mistakenly microwave food that could lead to uneven cooking or even messes, so understanding which foods are often microwaved incorrectly can save both time and frustration.

Mistake: Sealing the container tightly. Steam needs escape routes! I once forgot and redecorated the microwave walls with tomato confetti. Not my best DIY project. Always remember that improperly sealing containers can lead to overheating issues, potentially causing your microwave to blow up. Keeping safety in mind is crucial when using microwaves to avoid disastrous outcomes.

Mistake: Using jumbo tomatoes. Diced size matters – larger chunks create soggy spots. If you only have whole tomatoes, crush them first with (clean!) fingers. For an easy meal option, pair those diced tomatoes with cheap microwave instant mashed potatoes. It makes for a quick, delicious side dish that’s perfect for busy weeknights.

Mastered the basics? Let’s talk about customizing your lazy masterpiece with smart swaps and flavor boosts…

Substitutions and Recipe Variations

We’ve all stared into an empty pantry at 8PM. Here’s how to adapt this recipe when life (or your grocery list) falls short. Rule #1: Your microwave doesn’t judge. In fact, there are many foods that come out tasting even better when microwaved instead of baked. This technique can elevate your meals and save time, especially when you’re in a pinch.

• No canned tomatoes? Use ½ cup salsa + 1 tbsp water. My 2020 quarantine hack – tastes like nacho rice!
• Vegan? Swap butter-containing rice mixes for Near East Spanish Rice. Skip cheese toppings.
• Extra protein: Stir in canned black beans or rotisserie chicken post-microwave. John adds Spam – we don’t talk about that.

For flavor twists, try:

• Italian style: Basil + diced olives
• Indian vibe: Curry powder + frozen peas
• Breakfast mode: Fried egg on top (George’s “hangover special”)

How to Store Microwave Boxed Rice With Tomatoes

This dish stores better than my holiday sweaters. Cool completely within 2 hours – lingering warmth breeds bacteria faster than George breeds conspiracy theories.

Use shallow airtight containers (glass preferred). Flatten rice to 2-inch depth for even chilling. Fridge life: 3-4 days. Freezer? Portion into silicone molds for single-serving bricks (lasts 3 months).

• Don’t: Leave at room temperature >1 hour
• Do: Label with dates – mystery freezer blobs are never fun

Pro tip: Freeze with cheese under the rice to prevent that weird melted-then-reheated texture. Trust me – your future self will high-five you. When it’s time to enjoy your rice again, reheating it in the microwave is a quick and easy option. A few splashes of water can help keep it moist while warming up in the microwave.

Now that your leftovers are stashed like a squirrel’s winter nuts, let’s tackle the art of reheating without turning rice into rubber. For a quick and tasty meal option, consider using leftover rice to make cheap microwave egg fried rice. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also transforms those leftovers into a delicious and satisfying meal.

Now It’s Your Turn to Try!

We’ve walked through every step—from selecting microwave-safe ingredients to perfecting the fluffing technique. This lazy microwave boxed rice with canned diced tomatoes delivers a 5-minute meal with minimal cleanup and maximum flavor.

Grab your favorite boxed rice blend, pop open those tomatoes, and let your microwave do the heavy lifting. Don’t forget to tweak spices or add protein for your signature twist. Happy microwaving!