Rice is a kitchen staple beloved worldwide for its versatility, affordability, and ability to complement countless flavors.
Whether you’re craving something comforting, exotic, or quick to prepare, rice dinners offer endless possibilities.
From vibrant stir-fries and hearty casseroles to fragrant pilafs and savory one-pot meals, rice can be transformed into a delicious dinner for any occasion.
This collection of 24+ rice dinner recipes will inspire you to get creative in the kitchen and enjoy satisfying meals featuring this beloved grain.
24+ Delicious Rice Dinner Recipes to Try Tonight
With so many ways to enjoy rice, it’s easy to see why it’s a go-to ingredient for dinner.
These recipes showcase the diversity of rice dishes — from spicy Cajun jambalaya and creamy risottos to fresh Mediterranean salads and comforting casseroles.
Incorporating these ideas into your meal rotation will bring variety, flavor, and nourishment to your dinner table without any hassle.
Chicken Fried Rice
Chicken fried rice is a classic, flavorful dinner that transforms simple leftover rice into a satisfying meal.
Stir-fried with tender chicken pieces, eggs, and colorful vegetables, it’s a quick and versatile dish perfect for busy weeknights.
Ingredients:
- Cooked rice (preferably chilled)
- Chicken breast, diced
- Eggs, beaten
- Peas and carrots
- Green onions, sliced
- Soy sauce
- Garlic, minced
- Vegetable oil
Instructions:
Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant. Add chicken pieces and cook until no longer pink. Push chicken to one side and scramble eggs on the other side of the pan. Mix eggs and chicken together, then add peas, carrots, and cooked rice. Stir-fry until heated through. Add soy sauce and green onions, mix well, and serve hot.
Chicken fried rice is a perfect way to use up leftovers while creating a tasty, balanced dinner.
The combination of protein, vegetables, and rice makes it a satisfying and crowd-pleasing meal.
Spanish Rice with Vegetables
Spanish rice with vegetables is a colorful, hearty dinner full of vibrant flavors.
Cooked with tomatoes, bell peppers, and spices, this dish offers a delicious twist on plain rice that’s both comforting and nutritious.
Ingredients:
- Long grain white rice
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Bell peppers, diced
- Diced tomatoes
- Chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Cumin
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
In a skillet, heat olive oil and sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until soft. Stir in rice and cook for a couple of minutes to toast slightly. Add diced tomatoes, chicken broth, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed, about 20 minutes. Fluff with a fork before serving.
This Spanish rice dish is a great side or main course that brings bold flavor and vibrant color to your dinner table.
It pairs wonderfully with grilled meats or beans for a complete meal.
Coconut Curry Rice
Coconut curry rice is a fragrant and creamy dinner option that infuses rice with the rich flavors of coconut milk and warming spices.
This dish is easy to prepare and pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins or vegetables.
Ingredients:
- Jasmine or basmati rice
- Coconut milk
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Curry powder
- Ginger, grated
- Vegetable broth
- Cilantro, chopped (optional)
- Salt
Instructions:
In a pot, sauté onion, garlic, and ginger until softened. Add rice and curry powder, stirring to coat the grains. Pour in coconut milk and vegetable broth, add salt, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed. Garnish with chopped cilantro before serving.
This coconut curry rice is a flavorful, comforting dish that adds an exotic touch to your dinner.
Its creamy texture and fragrant spices make it a perfect accompaniment to grilled chicken, tofu, or roasted vegetables.
Shrimp and Rice Skillet
Shrimp and rice skillet is a quick and flavorful dinner that combines juicy shrimp with tender rice and a medley of vegetables.
Cooked all in one pan, it’s a convenient and satisfying meal perfect for busy nights.
Ingredients:
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Long grain rice
- Bell peppers, diced
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers until soft. Add rice and stir to coat. Pour in chicken broth and season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook until rice is nearly tender. Add shrimp on top, cover, and cook until shrimp are opaque and rice is fully cooked. Fluff before serving.
This shrimp and rice skillet offers a balanced and tasty dinner that’s simple to prepare yet impressive in flavor, making it a great choice for weeknight meals.
Vegetable Biryani
Vegetable biryani is a fragrant and colorful rice dish layered with spiced vegetables and aromatic herbs.
It’s a flavorful vegetarian dinner option inspired by traditional Indian cuisine.
Ingredients:
- Basmati rice
- Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, beans)
- Onion, sliced
- Garlic and ginger paste
- Yogurt
- Biryani spices (cumin, coriander, turmeric, garam masala)
- Fresh cilantro and mint
- Ghee or oil
Instructions:
Sauté onions in ghee or oil until golden. Add garlic-ginger paste and mixed vegetables, cooking until tender. Stir in yogurt and biryani spices. Layer partially cooked rice over the vegetable mixture in a pot. Cover and cook on low heat until rice is fully cooked and flavors meld. Garnish with fresh cilantro and mint.
This vegetable biryani is a comforting and aromatic dinner that’s rich in flavor and perfect for those seeking a satisfying meat-free rice dish.
Cajun Jambalaya
Cajun jambalaya is a hearty and spicy rice dinner that combines smoked sausage, chicken, and vegetables in a bold tomato-based sauce.
It’s a flavorful dish with roots in Louisiana’s vibrant culinary tradition.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Smoked sausage, sliced
- Chicken thighs, diced
- Onion, celery, and bell pepper (the “holy trinity”)
- Garlic, minced
- Diced tomatoes
- Cajun seasoning
- Chicken broth
- Olive oil
Instructions:
In a large pot, heat olive oil and brown sausage and chicken. Remove and set aside. Sauté onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic until softened. Add rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and Cajun seasoning. Return sausage and chicken to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
This jambalaya is a bold, satisfying dinner that’s perfect for fans of spicy and flavorful rice dishes.
It’s a complete meal packed with protein and vibrant spices.
Beef and Broccoli Rice Bowl
Beef and broccoli rice bowl is a hearty and balanced dinner combining tender strips of beef, crisp broccoli florets, and steamed rice all coated in a savory soy-based sauce.
It’s a comforting, crowd-pleasing meal that’s simple to prepare.
Ingredients:
- Thinly sliced beef (such as flank steak)
- Broccoli florets
- Cooked white or brown rice
- Soy sauce
- Garlic, minced
- Ginger, minced
- Sesame oil
- Cornstarch (optional, for thickening)
Instructions:
Marinate beef in soy sauce, garlic, and ginger for about 15 minutes. In a hot skillet, cook beef until browned. Remove and set aside. Stir-fry broccoli until crisp-tender, then return beef to the pan. Add a splash of soy sauce and a little cornstarch mixed with water to thicken if desired. Serve over steamed rice.
This dish offers a delicious low-effort dinner packed with protein and vegetables.
The rich sauce ties everything together for a satisfying meal.
Mediterranean Rice Pilaf
Mediterranean rice pilaf is a fragrant, flavorful side or main dish featuring rice cooked with sautéed onions, garlic, and a mix of fresh herbs, nuts, and vegetables.
It’s a versatile recipe that brings a taste of the Mediterranean to your dinner table.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice or basmati rice
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Olive oil
- Toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds
- Chopped parsley and dill
- Lemon juice
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Sauté onions and garlic in olive oil until softened. Add rice and cook briefly until lightly toasted. Pour in water or broth and cook rice according to package instructions. Stir in toasted nuts, fresh herbs, and lemon juice before serving.
This pilaf is a light and aromatic rice dish that complements grilled meats or vegetables beautifully and can also be enjoyed as a standalone meal.
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
Thai pineapple fried rice is a vibrant and flavorful dinner featuring fragrant jasmine rice stir-fried with sweet pineapple chunks, vegetables, and savory seasonings.
It’s a perfect balance of sweet, salty, and spicy notes.
Ingredients:
- Cooked jasmine rice
- Pineapple chunks
- Bell peppers, diced
- Green onions, sliced
- Garlic, minced
- Soy sauce or fish sauce
- Cashews or peanuts
- Curry powder
- Cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
In a wok or large skillet, sauté garlic and bell peppers. Add rice and stir to combine. Mix in pineapple chunks, soy sauce, curry powder, and nuts. Cook until heated through. Garnish with cilantro and green onions before serving.
This dish is a colorful and exotic low-effort dinner that’s both satisfying and packed with exciting flavors.
It’s a great way to enjoy rice with a tropical twist.
Cajun Chicken and Rice
Cajun chicken and rice is a spicy, flavorful dinner that combines tender chicken seasoned with bold Cajun spices and fluffy rice cooked with aromatic vegetables.
It’s a hearty, one-pan meal that delivers warmth and zest in every bite.
Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- Long grain rice
- Onion, celery, and bell pepper (the “holy trinity”)
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken broth
- Cajun seasoning
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Sauté diced chicken in olive oil until browned. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, cook onion, celery, bell pepper, and garlic until softened. Add rice and stir to coat. Pour in chicken broth and sprinkle Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Return chicken to the pan, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered until rice is tender and liquid absorbed.
This Cajun chicken and rice recipe is perfect for those who crave bold, spicy flavors with minimal cleanup.
It’s a satisfying and easy dinner packed with Southern charm.
Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom risotto is a creamy, comforting rice dinner that combines tender Arborio rice with earthy mushrooms and savory broth.
Slowly cooked and stirred to perfection, it’s a luxurious yet simple meal.
Ingredients:
- Arborio rice
- Mushrooms, sliced
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Vegetable or chicken broth
- White wine (optional)
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until tender. Stir in Arborio rice and toast slightly. Gradually add warm broth, stirring frequently until liquid is absorbed before adding more. Continue until rice is creamy and cooked through. Stir in Parmesan cheese if desired, and season with salt and pepper.
This risotto is an elegant and comforting dinner that showcases how simple ingredients can create a rich, satisfying meal perfect for special occasions or cozy nights in.
Spanish Paella
Spanish paella is a vibrant, flavorful rice dish that combines seafood, chicken, and vegetables cooked together with saffron and spices.
It’s a festive and hearty dinner that brings the taste of Spain to your table.
Ingredients:
- Short grain rice (such as bomba)
- Chicken thighs, diced
- Shrimp and mussels (or other seafood)
- Bell peppers, diced
- Peas
- Onion and garlic, chopped
- Saffron threads
- Chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Paprika
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Sauté chicken in olive oil until browned. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers and cook until softened. Stir in rice, saffron, paprika, salt, and pepper. Pour in chicken broth and simmer without stirring until rice is nearly tender. Add seafood and peas, cover, and cook until seafood is done and liquid absorbed.
This paella is a rich, colorful dinner that’s perfect for gatherings and celebrations, offering a wonderful combination of flavors and textures.
Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowl
Teriyaki salmon rice bowl is a flavorful and balanced dinner combining tender, glazed salmon with steamed rice and fresh vegetables.
The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce adds depth while keeping the meal light and satisfying.
Ingredients:
- Salmon fillets
- Cooked white or brown rice
- Broccoli florets
- Carrots, sliced
- Teriyaki sauce (store-bought or homemade)
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Green onions, sliced
Instructions:
Marinate salmon in teriyaki sauce for at least 30 minutes. Bake or pan-sear salmon until cooked through and caramelized. Steam broccoli and carrots until tender-crisp. Serve salmon over rice topped with vegetables, drizzle with extra teriyaki sauce, and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions.
This dish offers a perfect combination of flavors and textures, making it a wholesome and delicious low-effort dinner option.
Greek Lemon Rice with Chicken
Greek lemon rice with chicken is a bright and comforting dinner featuring tender chicken cooked alongside fragrant rice infused with lemon and herbs.
It’s a Mediterranean-inspired meal that’s both hearty and refreshing.
Ingredients:
- Chicken thighs or breasts
- Long grain rice
- Lemon juice and zest
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken broth
- Fresh oregano or thyme
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Sauté chicken in olive oil until browned. Remove and set aside. In the same pan, sauté garlic, then add rice and toast briefly. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and zest. Return chicken to the pan, add herbs, and simmer covered until rice is cooked and chicken is tender.
This recipe is a flavorful way to enjoy a light yet satisfying dinner that highlights fresh Mediterranean flavors.
Spicy Mexican Rice and Beans
Spicy Mexican rice and beans is a hearty and nutritious dinner that pairs seasoned rice with protein-rich beans.
Flavored with chili powder, cumin, and fresh cilantro, this dish is a vibrant and filling option.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Black or pinto beans, cooked or canned
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Diced tomatoes
- Chili powder
- Cumin
- Cilantro, chopped
- Vegetable broth or water
- Olive oil
Instructions:
Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Add rice and cook until slightly toasted. Stir in diced tomatoes, beans, chili powder, cumin, and broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered until rice is tender. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.
This dish provides a flavorful and satisfying dinner that’s easy to prepare and packed with nutrients, perfect for vegetarian or vegan diets.
Cajun Shrimp and Rice
Cajun shrimp and rice is a spicy and vibrant dinner that combines succulent shrimp with seasoned rice and bold Cajun spices.
This dish is packed with flavor and perfect for those who love a little heat in their meals.
Ingredients:
- Shrimp, peeled and deveined
- Long grain rice
- Bell peppers, diced
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Cajun seasoning
- Chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Sauté onion, garlic, and bell peppers in olive oil until softened. Add rice and stir to coat with the seasoning. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer until rice is nearly cooked. Add shrimp on top, cover again, and cook until shrimp are pink and rice is tender. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
This dish is a quick and flavorful dinner option that combines the zest of Cajun spices with tender shrimp and fluffy rice for a satisfying meal.
Mushroom and Pea Risotto
Mushroom and pea risotto is a creamy and comforting rice dinner made with tender Arborio rice, earthy mushrooms, and sweet peas.
This recipe is perfect for those seeking a rich yet meatless meal.
Ingredients:
- Arborio rice
- Mushrooms, sliced
- Green peas (fresh or frozen)
- Onion, finely chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Vegetable broth
- White wine (optional)
- Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Olive oil or butter
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until translucent. Add mushrooms and cook until tender. Stir in Arborio rice and toast briefly. Gradually add warm broth, stirring frequently until absorbed, repeating until rice is creamy and cooked through. Stir in peas during the last few minutes of cooking. Finish with Parmesan cheese if desired, and season with salt and pepper.
This risotto offers a luxurious yet wholesome dinner experience, perfect for cozy nights or special occasions.
Chicken and Vegetable Rice Casserole
Chicken and vegetable rice casserole is a comforting, all-in-one dinner that combines tender chicken, mixed vegetables, and rice baked together with herbs and a light sauce.
It’s an easy and hearty meal that the whole family will enjoy.
Ingredients:
- Chicken breasts or thighs, diced
- Long grain rice
- Mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, corn)
- Onion, chopped
- Garlic, minced
- Chicken broth
- Olive oil
- Thyme or rosemary
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Sauté onion and garlic in olive oil until soft. Mix chicken, rice, vegetables, sautéed onion and garlic, broth, and herbs in a baking dish. Season with salt and pepper. Cover with foil and bake for about 45 minutes until rice is tender and chicken is cooked through.
This casserole is a simple, wholesome dinner that brings together protein, vegetables, and rice in a flavorful, easy-to-make dish perfect for any night of the week.
Garlic Butter Rice with Mushrooms
Garlic butter rice with mushrooms is a rich and savory dinner option that combines fragrant garlic, tender mushrooms, and buttery rice.
This simple yet flavorful dish is perfect as a comforting vegetarian main or a side.
Ingredients:
- Long grain rice
- Mushrooms, sliced
- Garlic, minced
- Butter or olive oil
- Vegetable broth
- Fresh parsley, chopped
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
In a skillet, melt butter and sauté garlic until fragrant. Add mushrooms and cook until tender. Stir in rice and toast lightly. Pour in vegetable broth, bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer covered until rice is cooked and liquid absorbed. Garnish with chopped parsley and season with salt and pepper.
This dish offers a warm, comforting dinner with deep flavors and a creamy texture, perfect for mushroom lovers seeking a satisfying low-effort meal.
Chicken Burrito Bowl
Chicken burrito bowl is a fresh and filling dinner featuring seasoned chicken served over fluffy rice with beans, fresh vegetables, and zesty toppings.
It’s a customizable and nutritious meal packed with vibrant flavors.
Ingredients:
- Cooked rice
- Grilled or sautéed chicken, seasoned with taco spices
- Black beans or pinto beans
- Corn kernels
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Avocado slices
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
Instructions:
Arrange cooked rice as the base in a bowl. Top with seasoned chicken, beans, corn, tomatoes, and avocado. Garnish with fresh cilantro and squeeze lime juice over the top. Serve immediately.
This bowl is a delicious, balanced dinner that combines protein, fiber, and fresh veggies, perfect for a quick and flavorful meal.
Lemon Herb Rice with Roasted Vegetables
Lemon herb rice with roasted vegetables is a light, refreshing dinner full of bright flavors and wholesome ingredients.
The zesty lemon and fresh herbs enhance the nutty rice and tender roasted veggies.
Ingredients:
- Brown or white rice
- Zucchini, bell peppers, and cherry tomatoes
- Olive oil
- Lemon juice and zest
- Fresh parsley and thyme
- Garlic powder
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
Toss chopped vegetables with olive oil, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Roast at 400°F (200°C) until tender and slightly caramelized. Cook rice according to package instructions. Stir lemon juice, zest, and chopped herbs into the cooked rice. Serve rice topped with roasted vegetables.
This dish is a vibrant, healthy dinner option that’s perfect for those who love fresh, simple flavors with plenty of texture and color.
Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
Teriyaki chicken rice bowl is a flavorful and easy dinner that pairs tender chicken glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce with fluffy rice and steamed vegetables.
It’s a balanced meal perfect for any night of the week.
Ingredients:
- Chicken breast or thighs, sliced
- Cooked white or brown rice
- Broccoli florets
- Carrots, sliced
- Teriyaki sauce
- Sesame seeds (optional)
- Green onions, chopped
Instructions:
Sauté chicken in a skillet until cooked through. Add teriyaki sauce and cook until the chicken is well coated and caramelized. Steam broccoli and carrots until tender-crisp. Serve chicken and vegetables over rice, garnished with sesame seeds and green onions.
This dish offers a satisfying combination of sweet and savory flavors with wholesome ingredients, making it an easy and delicious dinner option.
Mediterranean Rice Salad
Mediterranean rice salad is a refreshing and healthy dinner that combines cooked rice with fresh vegetables, olives, feta cheese, and a tangy lemon-oregano dressing.
It’s perfect served cold or at room temperature.
Ingredients:
- Cooked long grain or basmati rice
- Cherry tomatoes, halved
- Cucumber, diced
- Kalamata olives, sliced
- Feta cheese, crumbled
- Red onion, finely chopped
- Lemon juice
- Olive oil
- Oregano
- Salt and pepper
Instructions:
In a large bowl, combine rice, tomatoes, cucumber, olives, feta, and red onion. Whisk together lemon juice, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper for the dressing. Toss salad with dressing and chill before serving.
This salad is a light and flavorful dinner option that’s easy to prepare and packed with Mediterranean goodness.
Beef and Vegetable Stir-Fry with Rice
Beef and vegetable stir-fry with rice is a quick and hearty dinner that combines tender strips of beef with colorful vegetables sautéed in a savory sauce.
Served over steamed rice, it’s a complete and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
- Thinly sliced beef (such as flank steak)
- Mixed vegetables (bell peppers, snap peas, carrots)
- Garlic and ginger, minced
- Soy sauce
- Sesame oil
- Cooked rice
Instructions:
Heat sesame oil in a wok or skillet. Stir-fry garlic and ginger until fragrant. Add beef strips and cook until browned. Add vegetables and cook until tender-crisp. Pour in soy sauce and stir to coat. Serve hot over steamed rice.
This stir-fry is a quick and delicious dinner that combines protein, veggies, and rice for a well-rounded and flavorful meal.
Conclusion
Rice dinners are the perfect blend of convenience, taste, and nutrition. Whether you prefer bold, spicy dishes or light, fresh flavors, this collection of recipes has something for everyone. Embrace the versatility of rice and try out these dishes to enjoy easy, delicious, and satisfying dinners that will quickly become family favorites.
