Rice is a staple food in many cuisines around the world, and it’s no wonder why – it’s versatile, easy to cook, and pairs well with so many flavors. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, rice can be a key component. In this article, we’ll explore 18 delicious good rice recipes that are sure to flavor your meals. From spicy kimchi fried rice to sticky rice with mango, we’ve got a range of ideas to get you started. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory or sweet, we’ve got a recipe that’s sure to satisfy.
Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice
A twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe adds the savory flavors of garlic butter and succulent shrimp to create a delicious and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup cooked and peeled shrimp
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter, melted
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the mixed frozen vegetables and cooked shrimp; cook for 2-3 minutes.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet or wok, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
6. Stir-fry the rice mixture for about 5 minutes, adding soy sauce and oyster sauce (if using) to taste.
7. Season with salt and pepper as needed.
8. Serve hot, topped with melted butter and garnished with green onions or scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Coconut Lime Jasmine Rice
This aromatic side dish combines the creamy richness of coconut milk with the bright, citrusy flavor of lime and the fluffy texture of jasmine rice. Perfect for accompanying your favorite Southeast Asian-inspired dishes or as a unique addition to your next dinner party.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and combine with water in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together coconut milk, lime juice, and grated ginger.
3. Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and stir in the coconut milk mixture. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice
A flavorful and spicy twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comfort of a warm bowl of rice. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish to add some excitement to your meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/4 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: scallions, sesame seeds, or chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Push the mixture to one side of the pan. Crack the egg into the other half and scramble it until cooked through.
4. Mix the egg with the onion mixture.
5. Add the kimchi and rice to the pan, stirring-frying for 2-3 minutes or until the rice is heated through and starting to brown.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, garnished with optional scallions, sesame seeds, or chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
A classic Japanese-inspired dish, this Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl is a flavorful and nutritious meal perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 cups cooked Japanese-style rice (such as short-grain rice)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
– 2 green onions, thinly sliced
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce and chicken pieces. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Cook Japanese-style rice according to package instructions.
4. Remove chicken from marinade and place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, sauté mixed vegetables in a little oil until tender.
6. Assemble bowls by placing cooked rice at the bottom, followed by chicken, vegetables, and garnishes if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Vegetable Biryani with Basmati Rice
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish from India, Vegetable Biryani is a perfect blend of spices, vegetables, and basmati rice. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and grated
– 1 potato, peeled and diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14 oz) of mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, corn)
– 1 teaspoon cumin powder
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, 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 onion, garlic, carrot, potato, and bell pepper. Cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add mixed vegetables, cumin powder, coriander powder, turmeric powder, and salt. Mix well.
4. Add the soaked rice to the saucepan and stir gently to combine with the vegetable mixture.
5. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice
This recipe combines the brightness of lime juice with the freshness of cilantro to create a delicious and aromatic Mexican-inspired rice dish. Perfect as a side or used as a base for burritos, tacos, and more!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork.
5. Stir in chopped cilantro, lime juice, and olive oil.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
This classic Thai dish combines sweet and savory flavors with a hint of spice. A simple yet flavorful recipe that’s perfect for any meal or gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten
– Chopped green onions and toasted cashews for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and mixed vegetables; cook until tender, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push ingredients to one side of the pan. Crack in eggs and scramble until cooked through.
4. Mix eggs with the vegetable mixture.
5. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps. Stir-fry for about 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
6. Add soy sauce, cumin, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for another minute.
7. Stir in diced pineapple and cook for an additional 30 seconds.
8. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and toasted cashews if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Spanish Saffron Rice with Chorizo
Experience the rich flavors of Spain with this classic dish that combines aromatic saffron-infused rice with spicy chorizo sausage.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 1/2 pound Spanish chorizo, sliced
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture.
5. Add the water, saffron, and chorizo. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is cooked and fluffy.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf
This citrusy rice pilaf is a perfect accompaniment to grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or as a light and refreshing main course. The combination of lemon zest, chopped herbs, and toasted pine nuts adds a delightful twist to this classic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown 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 grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley and/or dill
– Salt, to taste
– Toasted pine nuts, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. Add water, lemon juice, zest, and herbs. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Fluff with a fork. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with toasted pine nuts, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This classic comfort food dish is a staple for any occasion. With its creamy cheese sauce, tender broccoli, and fluffy rice, it’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups 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 (175°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli florets, and grated cheese.
3. In a separate saucepan, melt butter over medium heat. Add milk and paprika; whisk until smooth.
4. Pour the cheesy sauce over the rice mixture and stir until combined.
5. Transfer the casserole to a 9×13 inch baking dish and bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Mediterranean Rice Salad
This refreshing salad combines the flavors of the Mediterranean with a flavorful rice base, perfect for a light and satisfying meal or side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably leftover)
– 1/2 cup Kalamata olives, pitted
– 1/4 cup artichoke hearts, canned or marinated
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, olives, artichoke hearts, feta cheese, and parsley.
2. Squeeze lemon juice over the mixture and stir gently to combine.
3. Drizzle olive oil over the salad and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with chopped red bell pepper if desired.
5. Serve at room temperature or chilled.
Cooking Time: 10 minutes
Jambalaya with Andouille Sausage
This classic Southern dish combines the rich flavors of Andouille sausage, chicken, and seafood with the “holy trinity” of Cajun cooking: onions, bell peppers, and celery. Serve over rice for a hearty and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Andouille sausage, sliced
– 1 lb boneless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 cups mixed seafood (shrimp, scallops, crab), thawed
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Cook sausage in a large skillet over medium-high heat, browning on both sides. Remove from heat.
2. Add olive oil, onion, garlic, and bell peppers. Cook until vegetables are tender.
3. Add chicken and cook until browned. Then add seafood and cook until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in thyme, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper.
5. Serve over rice with chicken broth spooned on top.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Wild Rice and Mushroom Soup
This hearty soup is a perfect blend of nutty wild rice and earthy mushrooms, simmered in a rich chicken broth. Serve with crusty bread for a cozy meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons butter
Instructions:
1. In a large pot, sauté the onion and garlic in butter until softened.
2. Add the mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start to brown.
3. Add the wild rice, chicken broth, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until the rice is tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Curried Rice with Chickpeas
A flavorful and nutritious dish that combines the comfort of curried rice with the protein-packed goodness of chickpeas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of curry powder over medium heat for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add chickpeas, garlic, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine.
5. Once rice is cooked, fluff with a fork and add it to the skillet with the chickpea mixture. Stir until combined.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, allowing flavors to meld together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Sticky Rice with Mango
This classic Southeast Asian dessert combines the comforting warmth of sticky rice with the sweetness of ripe mango, creating a match made in heaven. Perfect for a quick snack or a light dessert.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup of glutinous (sweet) rice
– 2 cups of water
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the glutinous rice thoroughly and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain the water and cook the rice according to package instructions using a rice cooker or steamer.
3. Heat the vegetable oil in a pan over medium heat. Add the diced mango and cook until caramelized, stirring occasionally (about 5-7 minutes).
4. Once the sticky rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains.
5. Combine the cooked sticky rice and caramelized mango. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes (including soaking time)
Risotto with Parmesan and Peas
This classic Italian dish is a staple of comfort food, with the creamy risotto, salty parmesan cheese, and sweet peas coming together in perfect harmony. This recipe serves 4-6 people.
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 or frozen peas
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
- 1. Heat the broth in a separate pot and keep warm.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the garlic and Arborio rice, stirring to coat with oil. Cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Add 1/2 cup of warmed broth to the rice mixture, stirring constantly. Repeat this process until all broth is used (about 20-25 minutes).
5. Stir in the frozen peas and cook until thawed. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Remove from heat and stir in grated Parmesan cheese. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Fried Rice with Crispy Tofu
Transform plain fried rice into a flavorful and satisfying meal with the addition of crispy tofu. This recipe is perfect for using up leftover rice and veggies.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1/2 cup firm tofu, cut into small cubes
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add tofu cubes and cook until golden brown and crispy, about 3-4 minutes per side.
3. Remove tofu from the pan and set aside.
4. In the same pan, add diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until onion is translucent.
5. Add mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp.
6. Add cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for about 2 minutes.
7. Add soy sauce and stir-fry for another minute.
8. Return crispy tofu to the pan and stir-fry everything together.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 15-20 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Crispy Tofu Fried Rice!
Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins
Warm and comforting, this classic Rice Pudding with Cinnamon and Raisins recipe is a perfect treat for any occasion. With its creamy texture and sweet flavor, it’s sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup raisins
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooked rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened and the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Stir in the raisins and cook for an additional minute.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Summary
Looking for some flavorful rice recipes to spice up your meal routine? You’re in luck! This collection of 18 delicious good rice recipes offers a variety of international flavors and cuisines. From savory options like Garlic Butter Shrimp Fried Rice, Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl, and Jambalaya with Andouille Sausage, to sweet and spicy dishes like Sticky Rice with Mango and Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re in the mood for a comforting casserole or a refreshing salad, these recipes are sure to satisfy your cravings and inspire new cooking ideas.
Sophia Brennan is the cook and writer behind Go Jack Rabbit Go. She spent years working in Portland’s restaurant world before bringing that same warm, unfussy approach into her home kitchen. These days, she focuses on simple, comforting recipes inspired by real life, family routines, and the rhythm of cooking without overthinking it.
