When it comes to cooking, few grains are as versatile and beloved as rice. Whether you’re in the mood for a spicy stir-fry or a comforting casserole, rice is always a great choice. And with so many different types of rice to choose from – jasmine, basmati, Arborio, and more – the possibilities are truly endless. In this article, we’ll explore 18 flavorful rice dishes that will take your meals to the next level. From international twists like Vegetable Coconut Curry Rice and Thai Basil Beef Rice, to classic comfort foods like Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole and One-Pot Chicken and Rice, there’s something for everyone. So let’s dive in and get cooking!
Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines succulent shrimp with savory garlic butter and a hint of soy sauce. Perfect as a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal for a crowd.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add shrimp and cook until pink and just cooked through, about 4-5 minutes.
4. In a separate pan, melt butter over low heat. Add soy sauce and stir to combine.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet or wok with the onion mixture; stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes.
6. Pour garlic butter mixture over rice and shrimp; stir until well combined.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 12-15 minutes
Vegetable Coconut Curry Rice
This flavorful and aromatic curry rice dish combines tender vegetables with creamy coconut milk and a hint of spices, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep time and easy cooking instructions, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your household.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large pan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper and carrot; cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until tender.
4. Stir in coconut milk, curry powder, and cumin. Bring to a simmer and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the sauce thickens slightly.
5. Serve the curry over cooked rice. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice
A flavorful twist on traditional fried rice, this spicy kimchi variation combines the bold flavors of Korean kimchi with the comforting warmth of a wok-cooked meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 teaspoon Gochujang (Korean chili paste)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; stir-fry until translucent.
3. Add kimchi and Gochujang; stir-fry for 2 minutes.
4. Push ingredients to one side of the wok. Crack eggs into the empty side and scramble until cooked through.
5. Mix eggs with kimchi mixture. Add cooked rice, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry until combined and heated through.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
This recipe serves a flavorful and satisfying Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl that combines the sweetness of teriyaki sauce with the savory taste of grilled chicken, served over a bed of fluffy Japanese-style rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp sake (or water)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup Japanese-style short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and sake (or water). Brush the mixture on both sides of the chicken breast.
3. Grill the chicken for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Cook Japanese-style rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
5. In a small bowl, whisk together vegetable oil and soy sauce (optional).
6. Serve grilled chicken over a bed of cooked rice, drizzled with teriyaki sauce (if using).
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course. This simple recipe combines the brightness of lemon, the earthiness of herbs, and the comfort of rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with oil and mix with onions and garlic.
5. Add the water, lemon juice, thyme, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff the rice pilaf with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice
Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish infused with the bright citrusy taste of lime, the pungency of cilantro, and a hint of Mexican spices.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
- 2 cups water
- 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
- 2 tablespoons lime juice
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 1 small onion, finely chopped
- Salt to taste
- Cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
- Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
- Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with the onion. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
- Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Fold in the chopped cilantro and lime juice. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a simple and satisfying side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups steamed broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and grated cheese.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Whisk in flour and cook for 1 minute.
4. Gradually add milk, whisking until smooth. Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened.
5. Pour the cheese sauce over the rice mixture and stir until combined.
6. Transfer the casserole to a baking dish and sprinkle with paprika.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Pineapple Fried Rice with Cashews
A sweet and savory twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe adds juicy pineapple chunks and crunchy cashews to create a flavorful and textured dish perfect for any meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped cashews
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Add the pineapple chunks and cashews to the skillet. Stir-fry for another 2-3 minutes until everything is well combined.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Rice Salad
Transform plain rice into a flavorful and nutritious salad with the bold flavors of the Mediterranean.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1/2 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, cherry tomatoes, olives, artichoke hearts, and feta cheese (if using).
2. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and toss to coat.
3. Squeeze lemon juice over the salad and toss again to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with fresh parsley or basil leaves.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Thai Basil Beef Rice
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand with this aromatic and spicy rice dish, packed with tender beef, crunchy basil, and a hint of soy sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon fish sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high. Add beef; cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), and chopped basil. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Combine cooked rice with beef mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Jambalaya Rice with Sausage
This classic Louisiana-inspired dish combines spicy sausage, flavorful rice, and a medley of vegetables for a hearty and satisfying meal. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille or Kielbasa), sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 3 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (any color), diced
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from the skillet.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the bell peppers and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
5. Stir in the chicken broth, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil.
6. Add the rice and stir to combine. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Wild Mushroom Risotto
A hearty and earthy Italian-inspired dish, this Wild Mushroom Risotto combines the rich flavors of Arborio rice with a medley of wild mushrooms for a truly satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed wild mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add white wine (if using); cook until absorbed, stirring frequently.
5. Warm broth in a separate pot. Add 1/2 cup warmed broth to the skillet and stir until mostly absorbed. Repeat process, adding broth in 1/2 cup increments and stirring until absorbed, about 20-25 minutes or until rice is cooked and creamy.
6. Remove from heat; stir in butter and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Saffron Rice
This traditional Spanish rice dish is flavored with saffron, a prized spice known for its unique aroma and flavor. This recipe yields a flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of Mediterranean-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion.
4. Add the water and soaked saffron threads to the saucepan. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pineapple Rice
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the sweetness of pineapple with the tanginess of a sweet and sour sauce, all wrapped up in a bed of fluffy rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the pineapple chunks and cook until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together sugar, soy sauce, and vinegar. Pour the mixture into the skillet with the pineapple and stir to combine.
4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and add it to the skillet. Stir-fry everything together until well combined.
5. Season with salt to taste, then garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Rice
Cook a delicious and satisfying meal with minimal cleanup using this easy one-pot recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Stir in the uncooked rice, chicken broth, thyme, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Stuffed Bell Peppers with Rice
Savory bell peppers filled with flavorful rice, vegetables, and seasonings make for a delicious and nutritious meal.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers (any color), seeded and chopped in half
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., chopped onion, carrot, corn)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: ground beef or turkey, diced tomatoes
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, mixed vegetables, olive oil, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well.
3. Stuff each bell pepper half with the rice mixture, mounding slightly.
4. Place stuffed peppers in a baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 30 minutes. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until bell peppers are tender.
6. Serve warm.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetable Biryani
A flavorful and aromatic one-pot dish that combines the goodness of basmati rice with a medley of colorful vegetables, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic, mixed vegetables, cumin powder, coriander powder, and salt. Stir well.
4. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan and stir gently to combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Add 2 cups of water and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Rice Pudding with Cinnamon
Warm Up with a Classic Rice Pudding
This comforting dessert is a staple of many cuisines, and our recipe adds a hint of cinnamon for an extra layer of flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding has thickened.
4. Remove from heat and stir in cinnamon and melted butter.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
6. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime routine with these 18 creative rice dishes! From savory and spicy to sweet and comforting, this collection has something for everyone. Try Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice for a decadent seafood twist or Vegetable Coconut Curry Rice for a flavorful vegetarian option. For meat lovers, Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is a mouthwatering choice. And don’t forget the sweet treats like Pineapple Fried Rice with Cashews and Rice Pudding with Cinnamon. Whether you’re in the mood for international flavors or classic comfort food, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings!
