24 rice ideas that show off how simple can still be impressive
There’s a reason rice has been on tables for centuries, it just works. It soaks up flavors, stretches a meal, and never complains about being paired with bold sauces. Sometimes, the simplest ingredient ends up stealing the show.
Katsudon Japanese Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl
Katsudon is a Japanese rice bowl with crispy pork cutlet, egg, and sautéed onions in a sweet-savory sauce. Hearty, satisfying, and easy to make, it’s comfort food you can enjoy any day of the week. Get the recipe: Katsudon Japanese Pork Cutlet Rice Bowl
Baked Lemon Chicken and Rice
One pan baked lemon chicken and rice is a delicious, easy dinner recipe made in less than an hour from start to finish, with simple ingredients. Get the recipe: Baked Lemon Chicken and Rice
Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
Authentic Cajun chicken and sausage gumbo straight from a Louisiana native with rich, bold flavors. Smoky andouille sausage and seasoned chicken simmer together in a flavorful roux and are perfect served over fluffy white rice. Get the recipe: Chicken and Sausage Gumbo
Chicken and Rice Salad
This chicken and rice salad with fresh basil and lemon is a refreshing and flavorful recipe that combines tender chicken, hearty rice, and fragrant basil with a tangy lemon dressing. It is easy to make and perfect for a light lunch or dinner. Get the recipe: Chicken and Rice Salad
Taco Rice Bowl Recipe with Ground Beef
This taco rice bowl recipe with ground beef is a healthy and popular family dinner. This easy meal all comes together in less than thirty minutes! Get the recipe: Taco Rice Bowl Recipe with Ground Beef
Thai Chicken and Rice (One Pan)
This Thai chicken and rice gives the classic a flavorful upgrade with minimal effort. It’s healthy, packed with flavor, and comes together in one pan—ideal for meal prep. Get the Recipe: Thai Chicken and Rice (One Pan)
Easy Fried Rice
This Chinese fried rice is perfect for any night, better than takeout, and customizable. Serve it solo or with your favorite Asian dishes. Get the recipe: Easy Fried Rice
Instant Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls
This easy Instant Pot chicken burrito bowls recipe is basically meal prep magic. It’s gluten-free, high in fiber and protein, and your whole crew will actually eat it. Get the recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Burrito Bowls
Tuna Mayo Rice Balls
These tuna mayo rice balls are a simple, delicious snack or meal with just five ingredients. They’re quick to make and perfect for when you need something easy and satisfying. Get the recipe: Tuna Mayo Rice Balls
Instant Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice
This Instant Pot Cajun chicken and rice recipe comes together quickly. Chicken, seasoned rice, and a blend of Cajun spices make it a perfect one-pot meal for busy nights when you want something delicious. Get the recipe: Instant Pot Cajun Chicken and Rice
Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
A warm and comforting meal in a bowl! Learn how to make chicken wild rice soup, a creamy chicken soup that is full of flavor. Enjoy the taste of turmeric, ginger, coconut milk, fresh basil, and rich chicken broth. Get the recipe: Chicken and Wild Rice Soup
Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet
Mexican beef and rice skillet is an easy, one-pan meal that brings big flavor with minimal effort. This simple recipe turns ground beef into a hearty, no-fuss dinner. Get the recipe: Mexican Beef and Rice Skillet
Enchilada Chicken Rice Bake
Mexican-style rice is so popular, why not spin it into a full meal? By using whole grain rice, this enchilada chicken rice bake is much more nutritious, making it a delicious gluten-free choice the family will gobble up. Get the recipe: Enchilada Chicken Rice Bake
Cowboy Caviar Salad
Turn Texas Caviar into this healthy cowboy caviar salad. Rice, black beans, corn, creamy avocado, fresh cilantro, and a sweet and spicy chili maple dressing. A delicious lunch or side dish for a BBQ. Get the recipe: Cowboy Caviar Salad
Cilantro Lime Brown Rice
This cilantro lime brown rice Chipotle copycat recipe is a tasty and aromatic side dish. The flavorful combination of fresh cilantro and tangy lime juice makes it a popular choice for Mexican and Southwestern-inspired dishes. Get the recipe: Cilantro Lime Brown Rice
How to Cook Brown Rice in Broth
Learn how to cook brown rice in broth and add extra flavour and richness to your dish. This easy method gives you a batch of tender, chewy rice and is always perfect. Get the recipe: How to Cook Brown Rice in Broth
Tex-Mex Casserole with Ground Beef
This easy Tex-Mex Casserole is a crowd-pleasing recipe that is in high rotation in many kitchens. A cheesy, baked dish with ground beef and beans. A filling meal that is packed with protein. Get the recipe: Tex-Mex Casserole
Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice
This one-skillet Hawaiian fried rice comes together in just 30 minutes and might just change your dinner game. With ham and pineapple, it’s a fun and tasty way to use up leftover ham. Get the recipe: Ham and Pineapple Fried Rice
Rice Salad with Tuna
This rice salad with tuna is packed with protein and flavor. It’s easy to make, really satisfying for lunch or a light dinner, and an excellent option for meal prep. Get the recipe: Rice Salad with Tuna
How to Make Spanish Paella
Paella is the ultimate Spanish dish with saffron-infused rice, meat, seafood, and veggies. It’s a crowd-pleaser with bold, traditional flavors that’s easier to make than you’d think. Get the recipe: How to Make Spanish Paella
Chicken Étouffée
Chicken étouffée is a rich, savory Louisiana-style stew with chicken and rice in a creamy, flavorful sauce. It is the perfect comfort meal when you are craving something cozy, and it works beautifully served over white rice. Get the recipe: Chicken Étouffée
Fruit and Nut Salad
This fruit and nut salad has a really great texture with tons of delicious flavours. It features dried fruit and toasted nuts mixed with whole grain rice and a lovely, fresh dressing. It is nicknamed ‘trail mix salad’. Get the recipe: Fruit and Nut Salad
Copycat Panda Express Fried Rice
Making your own fried rice is super easy! Budget-friendly, one-pan, and all the perks of a homemade meal. Get the Recipe: Copycat Panda Express Fried Rice
Kung Pao Beef
If you’re craving Chinese takeout but want it on the table in under 30 minutes, this kung pao beef hits the spot. Tender beef stir-fried with bell peppers, onions, and peanuts in a savory, sweet sauce. Get the Recipe: Kung Pao Beef