Are you tired of the same old takeout routine on busy weeknights? Do you wish you had more time to cook a delicious meal that still allows for relaxation after a long day? Look no further! With 20 easy and mouth-watering rice cooker recipes, you can impress your family and friends without sacrificing precious time.
Rice cookers have become an essential tool in many kitchens due to their versatility and ease of use. From savory dishes to sweet treats, these appliances can do it all. In this article, we’ll explore the world of rice cookers and share our top 20 recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. Whether you’re a seasoned chef or a culinary newbie, you’ll find something to love in this collection.
Garlic Butter Rice with Herbs
Elevate your meals with this simple yet flavorful side dish that combines the richness of garlic butter with the freshness of herbs. Perfect for accompanying grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a base for a hearty bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with butter and garlic mixture.
4. Cook for 2-3 minutes, or until the rice is lightly toasted.
5. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is cooked.
7. Fluff with a fork and stir in chopped herbs. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Jasmine Rice with Lime
Experience the exotic flavors of Southeast Asia with this simple and aromatic recipe. Coconut Jasmine Rice with Lime is a perfect side dish for any Asian-inspired meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 lime, juiced (about 2 tablespoons)
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the jasmine rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the rice and combine it with coconut milk, vegetable oil, and grated ginger in a medium saucepan.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and cover.
4. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in lime juice and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Rice Cooker Jambalaya
Get ready to experience a flavorful one-pot wonder! This recipe combines the classic Louisiana dish with the convenience of a rice cooker, resulting in a delicious and easy-to-make meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add rice, water, chicken, onion, garlic, bell pepper, tomatoes, thyme, and cayenne pepper (if using) to the rice cooker.
2. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
3. Cook on high pressure for 10-12 minutes or low pressure for 20-22 minutes.
4. Let the pressure release naturally for 5 minutes before opening the cooker.
5. Stir well and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-22 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice with Tofu
A classic Chinese dish, Vegetable Fried Rice with Tofu is a flavorful and nutritious meal that can be prepared quickly. This recipe combines the savory taste of fried rice with the protein-richness of tofu, making it an excellent option for vegetarians and vegans.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu and cook until golden brown, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic to the pan and stir-fry until the onion is translucent.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice to the pan, stirring constantly for about 5 minutes.
5. Add the soy sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Return the tofu to the pan and stir-fry for an additional minute.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spanish Rice with Saffron and Peas
A flavorful and aromatic twist on the classic Spanish rice dish, this recipe adds a luxurious touch of saffron and sweet peas for a delightful meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Add the water and soaked saffron threads to the rice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Stir in the frozen peas during the last 2-3 minutes of cooking.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Rice Cooker Chicken and Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole recipe is a perfect solution for a busy day when you need a delicious meal quickly. With the help of your rice cooker, you can cook chicken, rice, and vegetables in one pot without any fuss.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (e.g., parsley, thyme)
Instructions:
1. Add the chicken, rice, onion, garlic, and mixed vegetables to your rice cooker.
2. Pour in the chicken broth and add the olive oil.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Cook on high pressure for 6-8 minutes or low pressure for 12-14 minutes, depending on your rice cooker model.
5. Let it rest for 5 minutes before serving. Garnish with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowl
A flavorful and nutritious bowl filled with grilled salmon, savory teriyaki sauce, and fluffy Japanese rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup sliced green onions
– 1/4 cup toasted sesame seeds
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or broiler to medium-high heat.
2. Season salmon fillets with salt and pepper. Grill or broil for 4-5 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Fluff with a fork and set aside.
4. In a small saucepan, warm teriyaki sauce over low heat.
5. Assemble the bowls by placing grilled salmon on top of cooked rice, spooning warmed teriyaki sauce over the fish, and garnishing with green onions and sesame seeds.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Fried Rice with Fried Egg
A twist on classic fried rice, this Korean-inspired dish combines the spicy kick of kimchi with a runny fried egg and savory rice. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the kimchi and cook for an additional minute.
4. Push the kimchi mixture to one side of the pan. Crack an egg into the other side and scramble it until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the kimchi mixture. Then, add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry the rice with the kimchi and egg for about 2-3 minutes, until everything is well combined.
7. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rice Cooker Mushroom Risotto
This recipe transforms Arborio rice into a creamy, savory risotto with the help of a rice cooker. With minimal stirring required, you can focus on savoring the flavors of sautéed mushrooms and aromatic vegetables.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese, for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in the rice cooker; add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add garlic, mushrooms, and salt; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add Arborio rice; stir to combine with mushroom mixture.
4. If using wine, add it and stir to deglaze the pan.
5. Pour in chicken broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring after each addition and allowing liquid to absorb before adding more.
6. Cook for approximately 20-25 minutes or until rice is tender and creamy.
7. Serve hot, topped with Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Rice
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with a spicy kick, perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh pineapple
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon ground coriander
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, cumin, coriander, and cayenne pepper. Cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the spice mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add the water and pineapple juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Stir in chopped pineapple and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rice Cooker Lentil and Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf recipe is a perfect blend of nutritious lentils and aromatic spices, cooked to perfection in your rice cooker. Serve as a main course or use as a side dish for your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, rice, water, olive oil, onion, garlic, and cumin to your rice cooker.
2. Stir well to combine.
3. Cook on the “White Rice” or “Brown Rice” setting according to manufacturer’s instructions (usually 30-40 minutes).
4. Once cooked, fluff with a fork and season with salt to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting and satisfying side dish that combines the flavors of broccoli, cheese, and rice in a simple casserole. Perfect for family dinners or potlucks!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, and grated cheese.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and stir until smooth.
4. Pour the cheesy sauce over the rice mixture and mix well.
5. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13-inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rice Cooker Quinoa and Black Bean Bowl
Elevate your meal prep with this simple and nutritious recipe that combines the creaminess of quinoa with the bold flavor of black beans, all cooked to perfection in a rice cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 can (15 oz) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped cilantro, scallions, or avocado for topping
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and add to the rice cooker.
2. Add water or broth, black beans, olive oil, onion, and garlic to the rice cooker.
3. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes, then let natural pressure release for 5 minutes.
4. Open the cooker, fluff quinoa with a fork, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve in bowls and customize with your favorite toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Thai Basil Rice with Chicken
This flavorful dish combines the aroma of Thai basil with juicy chicken and fluffy rice, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunchbox addition.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions with 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat 1 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Remove chicken from pan and set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add remaining 1 tbsp of oil, garlic, and Thai basil. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add cooked chicken back into the pan and stir in soy sauce. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Combine cooked rice with the chicken mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rice Cooker Beef Stew with Rice
Savor a hearty and comforting stew cooked to perfection in your rice cooker, accompanied by fluffy white rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef cubes (such as chuck or round)
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (carrots, potatoes, peas, etc.)
– 2 cups beef broth
– 1 cup water
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
Instructions:
1. Add beef cubes, mixed vegetables, beef broth, water, tomato paste, and thyme to the rice cooker.
2. Cook on the “stew” or “beef” setting for 6-8 hours or according to your rice cooker’s instructions.
3. About 30 minutes before serving, add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Once cooked, fluff the beef and vegetables with a spoon.
5. Serve hot over a bed of fluffy white rice.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours
Lemon Herb Rice with Roasted Vegetables
Elevate your weeknight dinner with this bright and flavorful side dish. This recipe combines the warmth of roasted vegetables with the zesty kick of lemon and herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh dill
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 lemon, juiced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2-3 cups mixed vegetables (such as broccoli, carrots, bell peppers)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until water is absorbed.
3. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, parsley, dill, garlic, salt, and pepper.
4. Toss mixed vegetables with the herb mixture and spread on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-25 minutes or until tender.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork. Stir in lemon juice. Serve alongside roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Rice Cooker Arroz con Pollo
A classic Latin American dish gets a modern twist with this simple and flavorful recipe for Rice Cooker Arroz con Pollo.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 tsp cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add rice, chicken broth, and chicken pieces to the rice cooker.
2. In a separate pan, sauté onion, garlic, and red bell pepper until tender.
3. Add cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper to the pan and stir to combine.
4. Pour the cooked vegetable mixture over the rice and chicken in the rice cooker.
5. Cook according to manufacturer’s instructions (typically 30-40 minutes).
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Spicy Cajun Shrimp and Rice
This classic Louisiana dish combines succulent shrimp with spicy Cajun seasoning, served over flavorful jasmine rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– 1 tsp paprika
– 1/2 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp onion powder
– 1/4 tsp cayenne pepper
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook jasmine rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
3. Remove shrimp from skillet and set aside. Reduce heat to medium.
4. Add Cajun seasoning, paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, and cayenne pepper to the skillet. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add cooked shrimp back into the skillet and stir to combine with spice mixture.
6. Serve shrimp over jasmine rice and garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rice Cooker Stuffed Bell Peppers
Transform ordinary bell peppers into a flavorful and nutritious meal with this simple recipe that uses a rice cooker to prepare the filling.
Ingredients:
– 4 bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat the rice cooker with 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate bowl, mix cooked rice, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Cut off the tops of the bell peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in the rice cooker.
4. Add the rice mixture on top of each bell pepper.
5. Close the rice cooker lid and cook for 30-40 minutes or until the peppers are tender.
6. Serve warm, garnished with cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Chocolate Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
Elevate your dessert game with this comforting and easy-to-make chocolate rice pudding infused with the warmth of cinnamon.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups whole milk
– 1/2 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons unsweetened cocoa powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and combine it with milk, sugar, cocoa powder, cinnamon, and salt in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer, covered, for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is tender and creamy.
3. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter until fully incorporated.
4. Let it cool slightly before serving warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your weeknight meals with these easy and delicious rice cooker recipes! From savory dishes like Garlic Butter Rice with Herbs, One-Pot Jambalaya, and Spanish Rice with Saffron and Peas, to sweet treats like Chocolate Rice Pudding with Cinnamon, there’s something for everyone. Try making a comforting casserole with Chicken and Rice, or whip up a quick and healthy Quinoa and Black Bean Bowl. With these 20 easy recipes, you’ll never have to worry about cooking again – just toss everything in the rice cooker and voila!
