When it comes to pairing chicken dishes with side dishes, one option often overlooked is a delicious and flavorful rice recipe. But not anymore! In this article, we’ll be exploring 20 mouthwatering rice recipes that are sure to complement your favorite chicken dishes. Whether you’re in the mood for something classic and comforting or exotic and adventurous, we’ve got you covered.
From creamy garlic butter parmesan rice to spicy Cajun dirty rice, each of these recipes offers a unique flavor profile that will elevate your chicken dinner game. So go ahead, get creative, and start cooking up some amazing rice dishes to serve alongside your favorite chicken recipes!
Garlic Butter Parmesan Rice
Elevate your meals with this simple and flavorful rice dish infused with the richness of garlic butter and parmesan cheese. Perfect as a side or base for a variety of main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions until tender.
2. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, parmesan cheese, salt, and pepper.
4. Continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes, stirring constantly, until the cheese is melted and the mixture is well combined.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Lime Jasmine Rice
Elevate your meals with this aromatic and flavorful side dish that combines the sweetness of jasmine rice with the brightness of lime and the creaminess of coconut. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, seafood, or as a base for other dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 1 cup water
– 1/2 cup shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
3. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in the shredded coconut, lime juice, and butter until well combined.
4. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spanish Saffron Rice
This classic Spanish dish is a staple at many holiday gatherings and special occasions. This simple yet flavorful recipe combines saffron-infused rice with onions, garlic, and chicken broth for a truly authentic taste of Spain.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water or chicken broth
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
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 and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Add the water or chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
7. Stir in the soaked saffron threads and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Herbed Lemon Rice Pilaf
This flavorful pilaf combines the brightness of lemon with the warmth of herbs, perfect as a side dish or light meal. With its fluffy rice and aromatic notes, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– 1/2 teaspoon dried parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
2. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
3. Add rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add water, lemon juice, thyme, and parsley. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until water is absorbed and rice is tender.
5. Fluff pilaf with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice
This flavorful side dish is a staple of Mexican cuisine, perfect for accompanying grilled meats, vegetables, or as a base for your favorite tacos. With its bright citrus notes and fresh cilantro, this rice dish will transport you to the vibrant streets of Mexico.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 2-3 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add the water, lime juice, and salt to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the chopped cilantro.
5. Serve hot, garnished with additional cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Teriyaki Fried Rice
Transform leftover rice into a flavorful and savory dish with this simple Teriyaki Fried Rice recipe.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons Teriyaki sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
4. Stir in the mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Cook for about 5 minutes, stirring frequently, until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
7. Stir in the Teriyaki sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Basmati Rice with Sautéed Vegetables
This flavorful dish combines the nutty taste of Basmati rice with a colorful medley of sautéed vegetables. Perfect as a side dish or main course, this recipe is quick and easy to prepare.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, sliced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh sieve until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent (3-4 minutes).
3. Add the bell pepper and carrot to the saucepan. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables are tender-crisp (5-6 minutes).
4. Add the rice to the saucepan, stirring to combine with the vegetables. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the water to the saucepan, bringing 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.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
A comforting and flavorful side dish perfect for family gatherings or weeknight meals.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli florets, and cheddar cheese.
3. In a separate bowl, mix milk, butter, salt, and pepper. Pour the mixture over the rice mixture and stir until combined.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13-inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 25 minutes. Remove the foil and continue baking for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the top is lightly browned.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Curried Rice with Peas and Carrots
This flavorful dish is a perfect blend of Indian-inspired spices, fresh peas, and sweet carrots, all wrapped up in a warm and comforting bowl of curried rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 1 cup frozen peas
– 1 medium carrot, peeled and grated
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh strainer, then combine with water in a medium saucepan.
2. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
3. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in curry powder and cumin; cook for 1 minute.
5. Add peas and carrot; cook until tender, about 5-7 minutes.
6. Fluff cooked rice with a fork. Stir in pea and carrot mixture.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Wild Rice and Mushroom Medley
This hearty dish combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the earthy taste of sautéed mushrooms, perfect for a cozy evening meal. With minimal prep time and easy cooking instructions, this medley is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse wild rice and cook according to package instructions with water or broth.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and sauté until translucent.
3. Add mixed mushrooms, garlic, and thyme to the skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their moisture and start to brown (about 5 minutes).
4. Fluff cooked wild rice with a fork and combine with mushroom mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot, garnished with fresh herbs if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Jollof Rice with Spicy Tomato Sauce
Jollof rice, a popular West African dish, gets a spicy kick with this flavorful recipe. This one-pot wonder combines the classic tomato-based sauce with a hint of heat from Scotch bonnet peppers.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups uncooked long-grain rice
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 Scotch bonnet peppers (or substitute with jalapeño), chopped
– 1 can (14 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons tomato paste
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and black pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for cooking
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tablespoons of oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add chopped onion, minced garlic, and Scotch bonnet peppers; sauté until the vegetables are tender (5 minutes).
3. Add diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, tomato paste, cumin, salt, and black pepper. Stir well.
4. Add uncooked rice to the saucepan; stir to coat with the spice mixture.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Sticky Rice with Soy Glaze
This sweet and savory sticky rice dish is a popular Chinese-inspired recipe that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice (such as Koshihikari)
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 scallion, thinly sliced
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and cook according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a small saucepan, combine soy sauce, honey, and vegetable oil. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until thickened slightly.
3. Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the soy glaze until well combined.
4. Garnish with thinly sliced scallion and serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Tomato Basil Rice
This simple yet flavorful side dish is perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a base for a fresh salad. With the sweetness of tomatoes and the brightness of basil, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring constantly.
4. Stir in canned tomatoes and chopped basil. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is heated through.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir in tomato-basil mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Feta Rice Bake
Spinach and Feta Rice Bake: A creamy, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Stir in chopped spinach and cook until wilted.
6. Mix cooked rice with the spinach mixture and crumbled feta cheese.
7. Transfer to a baking dish and season with salt and pepper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the top is golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
Experience the sweet and savory fusion of Thai flavors in this mouthwatering pineapple fried rice dish!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup diced pineapple
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 3 minutes.
3. Push the vegetables aside, leaving space for the pineapple.
4. Add diced pineapple and cook for 1 minute, until caramelized.
5. Crack in eggs and scramble them into the pineapple mixture.
6. Combine the rice with the vegetable-pineapple-egg mixture, stirring well to combine.
7. Season with soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper.
8. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Cajun Dirty Rice
This classic Cajun recipe is a staple at many Southern tables. With its rich, bold flavors and satisfying texture, it’s the perfect accompaniment to your favorite proteins.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound ground pork sausage (such as Andouille or Cajun-style)
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 3 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F.
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
4. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
5. Add ground sausage, paprika, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
6. Stir in cooked rice and chicken broth. Bring to a boil, then cover and transfer to the preheated oven.
7. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Mediterranean Rice with Olives and Artichokes
A flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the classic Mediterranean trio: rice, olives, and artichokes. This simple recipe is perfect for accompanying your favorite grilled meats or as a vegetarian main course.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup pitted green olives, sliced
– 1 (14 oz) can artichoke hearts, drained and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Bring the water to a boil in a medium saucepan. Add the rice and reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the garlic and cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the sliced olives and chopped artichoke hearts. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the mixture is heated through.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the olive-artichoke mixture. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Risotto with Peas and Parmesan
A classic Italian dish that’s both comforting and flavorful, this creamy risotto is a perfect side dish for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable or chicken broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup fresh peas (or frozen)
– 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the chicken or vegetable broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the Arborio rice and cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly, until the rice is coated with oil and slightly toasted.
4. Add the warmed broth, one cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
5. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, add the peas and continue cooking for an additional 2-3 minutes or until they’re tender.
6. Stir in the Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 25-30 minutes
Fried Rice with Egg and Green Onions
A classic Chinese dish that’s quick, easy, and delicious, fried rice is a staple for any meal. This recipe adds a protein boost with scrambled eggs and a pop of freshness from green onions.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1/4 cup chopped green onions
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: cooked chicken, shrimp, or other protein of your choice
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Push the rice to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
3. Mix the eggs with the rice.
4. Add chopped green onions, soy sauce, salt, and pepper to the rice mixture. Stir-fry everything together for about 2-3 minutes.
5. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Turmeric Ginger Rice with Cashews
This aromatic rice dish is infused with the warmth of turmeric, the spiciness of ginger, and the crunch of cashews. Perfect as a side dish or a light meal, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup cashews, chopped
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and grated ginger; cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice, water, turmeric, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in chopped cashews.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
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