16 Rice Recipes That Are Anything but Boring
Rice is a staple ingredient in countless cuisines, and this list highlights just how flexible it can be. From stir-fried classics and bold one-pot meals to hearty bowls and comforting casseroles, these recipes showcase rice in savory forms. Whether you’re craving something fast, filling, or full of global flavor, there’s plenty here to mix up your routine. These dishes are easy to pull together and packed with taste from the first bite to the last.
Easy Shrimp Mei Fun Recipe (Stir Fry Rice Noodles)
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Thin rice noodles are stir-fried with shrimp and vegetables in this fast and flavorful dish. The texture is light and springy with just enough sauce to coat. It cooks quickly in one pan, making it ideal for busy nights. Serve with a splash of soy sauce or chili oil.
Get the Recipe: Easy Shrimp Mei Fun Recipe (Stir Fry Rice Noodles)
Easy Spinach Mushroom Rice Recipe (Vegan Friendly)
Earthy mushrooms and fresh spinach are stirred into rice for a simple, satisfying bowl. Everything comes together in one pot with minimal prep. The greens wilt into the rice while the mushrooms add a meaty bite. Good as a main or side.
Get the Recipe: Easy Spinach Mushroom Rice Recipe (Vegan Friendly)
Easy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe: For Busy Weeknights
Cubed tofu and rice are tossed with vegetables in a quick stir-fry that’s high on flavor. The tofu gets crispy around the edges and the rice absorbs all the seasoning. A splash of soy sauce or sesame oil finishes it off. Great for clearing out the fridge.
Get the Recipe: Easy Tofu Fried Rice Recipe: For Busy Weeknights
Festive Mexican Rice Salad
This cold salad mixes seasoned rice with beans, corn, peppers, and a zesty dressing. It’s colorful, tangy, and holds up well in the fridge. Perfect for cookouts, potlucks, or lunch prep. You can top it with avocado or serve over greens.
Get the Recipe: Festive Mexican Rice Salad
French Onion Chicken and Rice
Chicken simmers with caramelized onions and rice in a savory one-pan dish. The flavors are rich and slightly sweet, with a golden crust on top. It’s cozy and filling with minimal cleanup. A nice twist on a casserole.
Get the Recipe: French Onion Chicken and Rice
Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice
Juicy chicken and fluffy rice are cooked together in garlic butter for a dish that’s rich and fragrant. The rice soaks up all the juices while the chicken stays tender. You can finish with herbs or lemon for brightness. All made in one pan.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Butter Chicken and Rice
Garlic Fried Rice
This simple fried rice is loaded with golden garlic pieces and has a bold, toasty flavor. Best made with day-old rice for the right texture. It can be eaten on its own or topped with an egg. Quick and satisfying.
Get the Recipe: Garlic Fried Rice
Greek Brown Rice Bowls
Brown rice is layered with cucumber, olives, tomatoes, and a tangy dressing for a fresh, Mediterranean-style bowl. You can add chickpeas, feta, or grilled protein. Each bite is hearty and balanced. Works for lunch or dinner.
Get the Recipe: Greek Brown Rice Bowls
Green Rice Casserole
This baked dish mixes spinach, herbs, and cheese into rice for a creamy, herb-forward bake. It’s mild but flavorful, with a soft, spoonable texture. You can add protein or serve as a side. Makes great leftovers.
Get the Recipe: Green Rice Casserole
Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner
Everything cooks in one skillet for a fast and filling meal. Ground beef is browned with onion, then mixed with rice, broth, and seasonings. It’s savory and budget-friendly. Serve with hot sauce or cheese on top.
Get the Recipe: Ground Beef and Rice Skillet Dinner
Ham Fried Rice
Leftover ham adds saltiness and texture to this fried rice. Combined with peas, eggs, and scallions, it’s a full meal in a bowl. The rice fries up quickly for crisp bits throughout. Works well with fresh or leftover meat.
Get the Recipe: Ham Fried Rice
Hawaiian Pineapple Fried Rice
This tropical take on fried rice includes pineapple chunks, ham or tofu, and a sweet-savory sauce. It’s colorful, bright, and balanced. Often served in a hollowed-out pineapple for flair. A popular twist that’s easy to make at home.
Get the Recipe: Hawaiian Pineapple Fried Rice
Hibachi Fried Rice
This restaurant-style fried rice uses butter, garlic, and soy sauce for bold flavor. Scrambled eggs and peas are folded in last. Best with a hot pan to get that signature sear. Serve with steak, shrimp, or grilled veggies.
Get the Recipe: Hibachi Fried Rice
Instant Pot Cajun Chicken Rice
Bold Cajun seasoning and tender chicken come together with rice in this pressure-cooked dish. It’s hands-off but deeply flavored. The rice cooks evenly and stays fluffy. A weeknight meal with heat and heartiness.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cajun Chicken Rice
Instant Pot Cajun Rice and Sausage
Sausage adds smoky flavor to this fast, spicy dish. Everything cooks together in the pressure cooker for minimal effort. The rice absorbs all the seasoning. Great for meal prep or feeding a crowd.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Cajun Rice and Sausage
Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice
Chicken thighs cook directly over seasoned rice in this simple pressure cooker recipe. The meat stays juicy while the rice picks up all the flavor. No need to brown or babysit. An efficient way to get dinner on the table.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Chicken Thighs and Rice
Instant Pot Coconut Rice
This version uses coconut milk for a lightly sweet, creamy rice. It’s fragrant, soft, and goes well with curries, grilled meats, or tropical dishes. Quick to make in the Instant Pot with consistent results. A flavorful side that’s anything but plain.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Coconut Rice
