10+ Easy Rice Recipes for Delicious Meals in No Time

Rice is a staple in many households because it is versatile and easy to cook. You can create simple and delicious rice dishes with just a few ingredients, making them perfect for any meal.

Whether you are short on time or just want a tasty side dish, there are many easy rice recipes to explore.

From fried rice to seasoned options, the possibilities are endless. These recipes can fit any dietary preference and are budget-friendly, allowing you to enjoy hearty meals without breaking the bank. Get ready to discover how quick and satisfying cooking with rice can be!

1) Garlic Cilantro Lime Rice

Garlic cilantro lime rice is a tasty side dish that complements many meals. It’s simple and quick to make, perfect for busy nights. The fresh flavors of garlic, lime, and cilantro make it stand out.

To start, heat some oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add minced garlic and chopped onions, cooking until fragrant. This takes about 3 to 4 minutes.

Next, stir in cooked rice and salt. Reduce the heat and mix in lime juice and freshly chopped cilantro. Cook for a few more minutes until everything is heated through.

This rice is great with tacos, grilled chicken, or any dish you love. Enjoy the bright flavors that this easy recipe brings!

Ingredients:

• 2 cups cooked rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon salt
• Juice of 1 lime
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and onion; cook for 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in rice and salt; mix well.
4. Reduce heat; add lime juice and cilantro.
5. Cook until heated through and serve.

2) Iranian Yellow Rice with Saffron

Iranian Yellow Rice with Saffron is a delicious dish that adds color and flavor to your meal. The gorgeous yellow hue comes from saffron, a unique spice that gives each bite a lovely aroma.

Making this rice is simple and enjoyable. You cook basmati rice with butter and saffron, giving it a fluffy texture. The dish can be served alongside meats or as part of a vegetarian meal, making it versatile.

Ingredients

• 2 cups basmati rice
• 1/4 cup butter
• 1 teaspoon saffron threads
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 4 cups water

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the basmati rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Soak the rice in water for 30 minutes, then drain.
3. In a pot, bring 4 cups of water to a boil.
4. Add the soaked rice and salt, cooking for about 10 minutes until nearly tender.
5. In a small bowl, steep saffron threads in 2 tablespoons of hot water.
6. Drain the rice and return it to the pot. Stir in butter and saffron water.
7. Cover and cook on low heat for another 10 minutes, allowing the flavors to blend.

3) Curried Chicken and Rice Soup

Curried Chicken and Rice Soup is a warm and comforting dish. It combines juicy chicken, tender rice, and flavorful spices. This recipe is perfect for a quick meal on a chilly day.

For this soup, you will need boneless chicken, rice, and a few simple vegetables. The curry powder adds a delightful taste that your family will love.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 1 cup rice
• 4 cups chicken broth
• 1 cup carrots, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned.
3. Stir in curry powder and turmeric.
4. Add chicken broth, rice, and carrots.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 20 minutes.
6. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

4) Classic Fried Rice

Classic fried rice is a quick and tasty dish you can make using leftover rice. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables, proteins, or sauces.

Start by heating a large skillet or wok over medium heat. Add some oil and toss in garlic and onions for flavor. When they’re fragrant, add your vegetables like peas and carrots.

Next, push the veggies to one side and scramble some eggs in the empty space. Mix the eggs with the vegetables and add the rice. Stir everything together and season it with soy sauce.

Serve it hot, garnished with scallions. This dish is perfect for a busy weeknight meal!

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked rice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 2 eggs
• 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 scallions, chopped
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat (350°F/175°C).
2. Add garlic and onions, cooking until fragrant.
3. Add frozen peas and carrots, stir for a few minutes.
4. Push veggies aside, scramble eggs in the pan.
5. Mix eggs with veggies, then add cooked rice.
6. Stir in soy sauce and garnish with scallions. Serve warm.

5) Buttery Seasoned Rice

Buttery seasoned rice is a simple and tasty side dish. It adds flavor to any meal and is quick to make. You will love how fluffy and delicious it can be!

To prepare this dish, you will need just a few ingredients: rice, butter, and water. The butter adds a rich taste that enhances the rice.

Begin by melting butter in a pot. Then, add the rice and toast it lightly. After that, pour in water and bring it to a boil.

Once it boils, reduce the heat and cover the pot. Let it simmer until the rice is tender. Fluff it up with a fork before serving.

Ingredients:

• 1 cup of rice
• 2 tablespoons of butter
• 2 cups of water

Cooking Instructions:

1. Melt butter in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add rice and stir for a minute.
3. Pour in water and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
5. Fluff with a fork and serve.

6) Easy Rice Pilaf

Easy rice pilaf is a tasty and quick side dish. It’s perfect to serve with meats like chicken or pork. You can make it with just a few simple ingredients.

To start, you’ll need rice, broth, and some flavorful additions. Butter and onions give it a rich taste, while garlic adds a nice touch. It cooks up fluffy and golden, making your meal even more enjoyable.

You can make this dish in about 30 minutes. It’s an excellent way to add variety to your dinner table.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1/2 cup orzo pasta
• 1/2 cup diced onion
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup white long grain rice, uncooked
• 2 cups chicken broth
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until soft.
3. Stir in the orzo and rice, and cook for a few minutes.
4. Add the chicken broth and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil.
5. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 15-20 minutes.
6. Fluff with a fork before serving. Enjoy!

7) Garlic Butter Rice

Garlic Butter Rice is a delicious and easy side dish you can make in under 30 minutes. This rice is flavored with rich butter and fresh garlic, making every bite tasty.

You will need long grain white rice, butter, garlic, and chicken broth. The garlic gives it a nice aroma and flavor that pairs well with many meals.

To make it, melt the butter in a saucepan and sauté the minced garlic. Then, add the rice and broth, bringing it to a boil. Cover and simmer until the rice is tender.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups long grain white rice
• 4 tablespoons butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 3 cups chicken broth

Cooking Instructions

1. Melt the butter in a saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Stir in the rice until coated in the butter.
4. Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil.
5. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for about 18-20 minutes.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

8) Turmeric Rice

Turmeric rice is a flavorful and colorful dish that’s easy to make. This rice gets its bright yellow color from turmeric, which also adds a warm, earthy taste. You can serve it with a variety of meals or enjoy it on its own.

To make this dish, use basmati rice or jasmine rice. The combination of garlic, butter, and onion will enhance the flavor even more. It’s a perfect side for curries or grilled meats.

Ingredients

• 1 cup basmati or jasmine rice
• 1 tablespoon turmeric
• 2 cups water or chicken broth
• 1 tablespoon butter
• 1 chopped onion
• 1 minced garlic clove
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pot, melt the butter over medium heat (350°F or 175°C).
3. Sauté the onion and garlic until soft.
4. Add the turmeric and stir for 1 minute.
5. Pour in the rice and water or broth along with salt.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
7. Cook for 15-20 minutes until the rice is tender.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve.

9) Spanish Rice with Bell Peppers

Spanish rice with bell peppers is a colorful and tasty dish. It’s perfect as a side for many meals. The bell peppers add sweetness and crunch to the rice.

This dish needs simple ingredients. Olive oil helps sauté the onion and bell pepper. Use long-grain white rice for a fluffy texture.

The recipe is easy to follow and quick to prepare. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes.

Ingredients:

• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1/2 medium onion, finely chopped
• 1/2 red bell pepper, finely chopped
• 2 cups white rice
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: chopped cilantro for garnish

Cooking Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add onion and red bell pepper; cook until soft.
3. Stir in rice and cook for a few minutes.
4. Add broth, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low.
6. Simmer for about 20 minutes, or until rice is tender.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

10) Broccoli Cheddar Rice

Broccoli Cheddar Rice is a simple and delicious dish. It’s a great way to add some healthy greens to your meal while enjoying the cheesy flavors you love.

This dish needs broccoli florets and sharp cheddar cheese. The creaminess from the cheese pairs perfectly with the rice and broccoli.

The recipe is quick to prepare, and you can have it on your table in no time. It works well as a side or a main dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups white rice
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup sharp cheddar cheese, shredded
• 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1/4 teaspoon salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add rice, then stir for a minute.
3. Pour in broth and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce the heat, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes.
5. Add broccoli and cheese.
6. Stir until the cheese melts and broccoli is tender.