Navigating a plethora of delicious rice-based options can be overwhelming, especially when searching for easy-to-make dishes with minimal ingredients. Fortunately, we have curated an impressive collection of recipes that cater to your needs!
Fried Rice
Zest up your weeknights with a simple yet satisfying dish: fried rice. This versatile recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner on-the-go, as the leftovers are just as delicious the next day. Plus, making a big batch and freezing it in advance ensures you have a convenient meal option whenever you need it. The key to creating great fried rice lies in using pre-cooked refrigerated rice to avoid a soggy mess.
This base allows you to pack in an array of vegetables for added nutrition, while also providing a solid foundation for the dish’s full-bodied flavors. To take it up another notch, consider adding your choice of protein like chicken or shrimp to make it even more substantial and filling.
Creamy Rice Pudding
Honoring traditional dessert recipes with a modern twist, Creamy Rice Pudding is a must-try for those who have never considered rice as a sweet treat before! This timeless classic can be served warm and comforting or chilled to perfection, making it an ideal option for any occasion. Cooked white rice is carefully blended with milk, sugar, and salt to create a smooth base, while an egg mixture adds depth and richness to the pudding.
French Onion Rice Bake
Making this French Onion Rice Bake is a breeze thanks to its simple ingredient list of just four items, which belies its big, rich flavor. The rice is cooked to perfection in a savory mixture of beef broth, French onion soup, and melted butter, creating a mouthwatering side dish that’s perfect for holiday gatherings. Whether you’re hosting a large group or need to feed a smaller crowd, this recipe can be easily scaled up by doubling or tripling the ingredients.
You can also customize it with added protein like cooked meat or vegetables to make it a heartier meal. For best results, store any leftovers in the refrigerator for up to five days.
Chicken Rice Soup
Packed with nutritious ingredients and a touch of creamy goodness, this freezer-friendly soup is an excellent choice for meal prep. Perfectly suited for quick lunches when reheated in individual portions, it also makes a satisfying dinner when served with crusty bread and a side salad. Its hearty composition ensures that you’ll feel warm and comforted on those chilly days when you need a boost. The use of evaporated milk is the secret to its silky texture, making each spoonful a delight.
When storing, be sure to portion it out into freezer containers for up to 6 months or refrigerate for up to a week.
Easy Better-Than-Takeout Chicken Fried Rice
Unwind after a long day with this incredibly easy and satisfying skillet meal that’s perfect for both quick dinners and lunches. Underpinning its simplicity is a depth of flavor reminiscent of high-end Asian restaurants, thanks to the expert combination of ingredients from Averie Cooks’ Better-Than-Takeout Chicken Fried Rice recipe. United by a medley of aromatic garlic, green onion, soy sauce, and sesame oil, this dish bursts with classic Asian flavors that will leave you wanting more.
Unsurprisingly, this meal is packed with wholesome goodness – peas, carrots, chicken, and scrambled eggs come together to create a filling and nutritious option. A pro tip: if you don’t have leftover rice on hand, simply swap it out for ready-to-serve pouches of rice; it’s just as effective! And remember, leftovers are always a bonus – they’re even better the next day!
Korean Beef and Rice
Generally speaking, Korean Beef and Rice is a highly sought-after dish among home cooks due to its impressive flavor profile and budget-friendliness. One of the key ingredients that set this meal apart from others is the use of ground beef that’s been expertly seasoned with a sauce made from a blend of soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, red pepper flakes, and ginger. The addition of sesame oil gives the sauce a distinctive Asian flair that’s hard to replicate with other ingredients.
To complete the dish, the beef is served atop nutritious brown rice, which pairs perfectly with the savory flavors of the meat. Additionally, you can serve this dish with white sticky rice if preferred, and the recipe’s freezer-friendliness makes it an excellent option for meal prep enthusiasts who want to enjoy a delicious lunch without the hassle of cooking from scratch.
Spanish Paella
Creating a memorable dinner experience with rice can be achieved through Spanish Paella, a classic countryside dish that has its roots in the Valencia region of Spain. This traditional meal consists of a combination of rice, meats, and vegetables cooked together in a rich broth within a shallow pan. The recipe may differ slightly depending on personal preferences, but essential ingredients such as saffron, chicken, and various vegetables remain constant across different variations.
Ultimately, this delectable one-pot dish deserves a spot in your regular meal planning to elevate your rice-based meals.
Easy Dirty Rice
Crafted from humble origins, Dirty Rice is a timeless recipe that has been a staple of Southern cuisine for generations. This hearty dish combines ground beef, peppers, celery, onions, and various seasonings cooked in a rich beef broth, making it a satisfying meal on its own or served alongside a main course like baked chicken or fish.
The history of Dirty Rice dates back to the plantation era, where enslaved individuals would combine whatever scraps of meat and vegetables they had available with rice to create a one-pot meal that could feed many people. Although its origins are rooted in a painful chapter in American history, Dirty Rice remains a beloved classic that continues to bring families together.
Creamy Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Zeroing in on the flavors of this delectable, creamy chicken soup is its star ingredient – wild rice, which adds an unparalleled nutty taste. The herbaceous notes provided by thyme, marjoram, sage, and rosemary harmonize perfectly to give this soup a rustic, comforting quality that’s quintessential for a cold winter’s night. Due to the presence of cream, storing this soup in the freezer isn’t feasible; however, it can be refrigerated for up to 3 days.
Furthermore, making this soup gluten-free is easy by swapping out the flour with cornstarch, and using turkey instead of chicken makes it an ideal way to repurpose leftovers from a holiday meal.
Classic Nigerian Jollof Rice
Often considered a staple dish in West Africa, Nigerian Jollof Rice is a hearty meal consisting of rice cooked in a rich tomato base with a blend of aromatic spices. This flavorful dish is typically served alongside fried plantains and coleslaw as an everyday accompaniment, but it’s often transformed into the more elaborate ‘Party Rice’ for special occasions such as gatherings and celebrations.
The use of red peppers, onions, curry powder, and thyme contributes to a deep and satisfying flavor profile, while white pepper and regular pepper add an extra layer of complexity. To further enhance the taste, one can opt to stir in additional onions and tomatoes towards the end of cooking time. Interestingly, Jollof Rice is said to be the precursor to the more popular jambalaya dish, adding a fascinating historical context to its culinary significance.
As an added bonus, leftovers can be stored for future meals.
Curried Rice
Delighting in its simplicity, curried rice is a timeless classic side dish enjoyed globally alongside numerous main courses. Its undeniable charm lies in the fact that it’s just as satisfying on its own as it is with accompanying entrees. The aromatic blend of Basmati rice cooked in either chicken or vegetable stock and infused with an assortment of spices such as chili, ginger, curry, paprika, and cumin yields a dish with an incredible depth of flavor.
This harmony of tastes creates multiple layers that tantalize the palate. To add some freshness and texture, peas and carrots are often incorporated alongside cashews for their distinctive nutty undertone. As a result, this curried rice recipe becomes a beloved staple in many households, destined to become a go-to comfort food choice.
Thai Mango Sticky Rice Dessert
Years ago, I discovered khao niaow ma muang, a delectably delicious Thai street-style dessert that quickly became one of my favorites. This sweet treat is perfect for using up overripe mangos and making the most of their flavor. The combination of brown sugar and coconut milk in the sauce creates a rich and indulgent taste experience that’s elevated by the sweetness of the mango. To add an extra layer of texture, top with sesame seeds or coconut flakes for a delightful finish.
One helpful tip is to prepare the components separately – the rice and sauce – until you’re ready to serve, allowing you to assemble this dessert at your convenience.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Making the most of cilantro lovers’ favorite dishes is what this versatile recipe is all about. Cilantro Lime Rice is an excellent addition to burritos and can also be served as a side dish. This simple yet flavorful recipe makes it perfect for serving as the base of burrito bowls, and its adaptability extends to various Mexican or Asian-inspired dishes. The inclusion of lime zest gives this recipe a certain je ne sais quoi that truly elevates it!
While Basmati long-grain rice is recommended for this recipe, other types of rice can also be used. This versatile recipe lends itself well to being doubled and portioned out into airtight containers with other ingredients for easy weekly meal prep, making it an excellent addition to any meal planning routine!
Mamaw’s Chicken and Rice Casserole
Knowing what to make with rice can be a challenge, but Mama’s Chicken and Rice Casserole is a timeless solution! This comforting dish has stood the test of time due to its simplicity and satisfying flavor profile. It’s made by baking rice and chicken in a mixture of condensed soups and water, resulting in a creamy, indulgent experience that’s both filling and delicious. The best part? It’s perfect for sharing with others, whether you’re hosting a party or bringing a potluck dish to a gathering.
Plus, making a few extra casseroles and storing them in the freezer ensures you’ll always have a quick meal on hand, easily reheatable and ready to serve whenever hunger strikes.
Mexican Rice II
Essentially, Mexican rice is a staple accompaniment to many dishes in Mexican cuisine. Its simplicity belies its rich flavor profile, which stems from cooking the rice in chicken broth and tomato sauce, resulting in the classic red hue commonly associated with traditional Mexican fare. The addition of garlic salt and cumin, along with sautéed chopped onion, provides a depth of flavor that perfectly complements the dish.
This recipe’s versatility is one of its most notable characteristics, as it can be easily customized to suit various tastes by incorporating meats, beans, and vegetables for added nutritional value or served on the side as a simple accompaniment to your favorite meals.
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
Savoring a taste of Thailand, Thai pineapple fried rice is a beloved dish that has gained popularity worldwide. Its origins are not well-documented, but its unique flavor profile has made it a staple in many cuisines. What might seem like an unusual combination at first – sweet pineapple in a savory recipe – is actually a stroke of culinary genius. The pineapple caramelizes beautifully during cooking, infusing the dish with a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist.
A few helpful tips will ensure your Thai pineapple fried rice turns out perfectly: prepare the rice a day ahead and refrigerate it before making, as this allows the flavors to meld together seamlessly. Additionally, have all your ingredients ready to go, as the meal cooks up quickly and efficiently.
Vegetarian Bean and Rice Burrito
Taking advantage of leftover ingredients is a great way to reduce food waste, and one delicious solution is to make burritos. This basic vegetarian bean and rice burrito recipe is incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort and time. In addition to being quick to make, these burritos are also ideal for meal prep, as they can be made in bulk and frozen for future meals. They offer a convenient and nutritious solution for busy days when you need a satisfying lunch or dinner.
By adding a squeeze of fresh lime juice to the rice, you’ll elevate its flavor and create a more vibrant dish. Cilantro and garlic add even more depth and complexity to the burrito’s taste profile. Some tasty variations on this recipe include adding corn kernels for natural sweetness or pico de gallo for an extra burst of flavor. To give your burritos an added kick, you can also incorporate green chiles and jalapeno peppers into the mix.
Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole
Making mealtime easier and more enjoyable has never been simpler than with Chicken Broccoli Rice Casserole. This one-pan baked delight combines rice, chicken, and broccoli in a creamy cheesy sauce, topped with a crunchy buttery cracker topping that’s sure to become a family favorite. By using leftover rotisserie chicken, you can minimize prep time even further, making it an ideal solution for busy households.
What’s more, this versatile recipe is also perfect as a freezer meal, allowing you to store it for up to 3 months before serving. For those looking to mix things up, consider swapping out the chicken with other meats like ham or beef, yielding great results and adding a new twist to this comforting classic.
Salsa Rice
You can’t go wrong with a flavorful Salsa Rice that’s ready in no time. When time is of the essence but taste buds still crave something exciting, this speedy recipe comes to the rescue. With just four essential ingredients, you can easily elevate it from a simple side dish to a main course by incorporating other components. For convenience and speed, Minute Rice is utilized in place of regular rice, which cooks quickly and efficiently.
Simply add your favorite chunky salsa and shredded cheese to give it that perfect blend of flavors. Whether you choose to serve it on the side or combine it with various vegetables and meats to create a satisfying, well-rounded meal, Salsa Rice delivers!
Jambalaya
Making its way through the culinary landscape of New Orleans, this one-pot Jambalaya recipe has earned itself a place among the city’s beloved comfort foods. Characterized by its rich flavors and harmonious blend of creole Cajun spices, vegetables, chicken, and succulent shrimp cooked in a savory tomato-flavored broth infused with wine, Jambalaya is more than just a meal – it’s an experience.
While it shares some similarities with the Spanish dish Paella, Jambalaya sets itself apart with its bold heat level and lack of saffron as a main ingredient. Whether you’re hosting a large gathering or simply seeking a satisfying meal, this recipe is an excellent choice, requiring no additional accompaniments other than perhaps a side of fresh cornbread for those who prefer it.
Ginger Rice
Versatile and flavorful, this Ginger Rice recipe is an excellent option when you’re looking to mix things up from plain rice. You can use jasmine rice as the base, but feel free to substitute it with any type of rice you have on hand in your pantry. The addition of garlic and ginger infuses a rich depth of flavor, while black pepper and green onions add a nice finishing touch.
To take it up a notch, try using chicken broth instead of plain water when cooking the rice for an extra boost of flavor. This simple side dish is perfect to serve alongside your favorite Asian-inspired meals or enjoyed on its own as a comforting accompaniment. We’re confident that once you try this recipe, it’ll become a staple in your menu planning and a regular rotation in your household.
Coconut Rice
Need a authentic coconut rice recipe that skips the gluey texture? The Coconut Rice from Recipetineats is remarkably similar to what you’d get at a restaurant, and for good reason. The creator’s expert tips for achieving that fluffy rice texture are invaluable – particularly their advice to rinse the rice before cooking it to remove excess starch, as well as diluting the coconut milk before adding it to the rice.
Don’t forget to make a special trip to your local Asian grocer to track down those Pandam leaves, an essential component of traditional Asian coconut rice that adds depth and authenticity to this beloved dish.
Shrimp Scampi Risotto
Elevate your dinner game with this mouth-watering Shrimp Scampi Risotto! This indulgent main dish is sure to impress, boasting a rich, buttery flavor profile that’s both garlicky and ultra-creamy. Perfect for a romantic evening in or a special occasion, this risotto recipe is an ideal choice when you want to treat yourself and your loved ones to something truly exceptional.
Garlic Butter Rice
Need a side dish that’s both flavorful and easy to prepare? Look no further than this garlic butter rice recipe! Not only does it pair perfectly with your main course, but it can also be enjoyed on its own as a satisfying one-bowl meal. The beauty of this simple yet versatile recipe lies in its ability to be customized to suit your taste preferences. To make it, you’ll simply cook rice in chicken broth and add a blend of garlic, pepper, salt, and butter for added depth of flavor.
Once cooked, finish the dish with a sprinkle of chopped parsley for a pop of freshness.
Horchata
Fancying something new to quench your thirst during the summer months? Horchata should be top of your list! This revitalizing rice-based drink is traditionally served on special occasions such as Cinco de Mayo, but with this DIY recipe, you can now enjoy it throughout the entire season. Horchata is a rich and velvety Mexican beverage made from a combination of ingredients including rice, almonds, milk, cinnamon, vanilla, and sugar.
It’s typically served chilled over ice and garnished with a cinnamon stick, making for a delightful and satisfying drink perfect for hot days. You can also prepare this recipe up to 3 days in advance, ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next gathering or event.
Easy Bacon Fried Rice
Join the ranks of those who love experimenting with new flavors in their traditional dishes. Just think about it – adding bacon to fried rice is an unconventional move that’s actually genius! The smoky, savory taste of crispy bacon pairs perfectly with the usual peas and carrots, onions, and scrambled eggs found in a classic fried rice recipe. This one-skillet meal is ideal for a weeknight dinner, as it’s quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
To get that authentic Chinese taste, don’t forget to use sesame oil – it’s an essential component of this dish that will elevate the flavors and make your taste buds do the happy dance. If you’re looking to serve something alongside this rice, consider pairing it with Sweet and Sour Chicken, Mongolian Beef, or Cashew Chicken. But honestly, this bacon fried rice is so delicious on its own that you won’t need any other dishes to accompany it!
27 Easy Rice Recipes
Pleasing your family and friends with a delicious side dish is just a matter of following this simple recipe. Preparing it only takes 20 minutes, making it perfect for last-minute gatherings or potlucks. This American-style side dish is easy to make and serves 8-10 people. The ingredients are straightforward: uncooked parboiled rice, vegetable oil, smoked pork sausage, onion, bell pepper, tomato paste, granulated sugar, garlic powder, kosher salt, and fresh cracked black pepper.
The quantities needed are provided in the list below.2 cups of uncooked parboiled rice1/4 cup of vegetable oil8 ounces of smoked pork sausage (finely diced)1 large onion (finely diced)1 bell pepper (finely diced)Two 6-ounce cans of tomato paste4 teaspoons of granulated sugar1 tablespoon of garlic powder1 tablespoon of kosher salt1 tablespoon of fresh cracked black pepperTo start, preheat the oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Rinse the rice in a fine colander until the water runs clear.
In a large frying pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add onions, peppers, and sausage to the pan and cook until the vegetables are tender and slightly browned at the sides (about 3-4 minutes). Stir the tomato paste, sugar, garlic powder, salt, and pepper into the vegetables and sausage. Then add the rice to the tomato mixture and cook uncovered for about 5 minutes, stirring occasionally to avoid sticking. Remove from heat and transfer the rice mixture to a prepared 9×13 pan.
Add just enough water (about 2 cups) to the pan to cover the rice and tightly cover the pan with baking foil. Bake for 30 minutes without removing the foil during baking time. After that, remove the pan, turn off the oven, and fluff the rice. Recover the pan and return it to the warm oven for about 10 minutes to allow the rice to soak up any remaining liquid. Finally, remove from the oven, fluff again, and serve hot.
