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Home » Easy Rice Dishes For Dinner

Simple Rice Recipes For Dinner

Dec 30, 2023 · Modified: Dec 30, 2023 by Emily · Leave a Comment

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Dinner becomes an art form without the fuss with our handpicked collection of simple rice recipes for dinner that are sure to delight.

Whether you're a seasoned chef or just looking for a quick and delicious solution to the dinner dilemma, we've got you covered.

Images of rice recipes for dinner.
Jump to:
  • 38 Quick and Easy Dinner Ideas With Rice
  • FAQ
  • Helpful Rice Cooking Tips
  • What rice is used for what?
  • More Mains Recipes
  • Recipe
  • Comments

Crafted for convenience, these simple rice recipes for dinner are perfect for busy weeknights or unexpected guests.

From the irresistible Korean delight of tteokbokki to aromatic Thai pad mee noodles, each recipe promises a burst of deliciousness that's quick to prepare.

With these easy-to-follow recipes, enjoy the pleasure of a homemade dinner without compromising on taste, whether you're cooking for family, friends, or just for yourself.

So whether you are wondering what to eat for dinner with rice, or just after some delicious and easy to make recipes, read on and make a tasty and simple rice recipe for dinner tonight.

38 Quick and Easy Dinner Ideas With Rice

1. Chicken Pulao Recipe

Close up image of chicken pulao.

This quick and easy chicken pulao is perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

The aromatic blend of spices and tender chicken makes it a delightful meal.

Ideal for celebrations or dinner parties, this dish effortlessly brings people together around a comforting bowl of goodness.

Chicken Pulao Recipe

2. Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl

Teriyaki rice bowl with green peas and carrots on a woven mat.

Streamline your meal prep with the teriyaki chicken rice bowl – a savory delight that's quick, easy, and versatile.

Perfect for busy schedules, this recipe ensures a delicious and nutritious option for lunch or dinner.

The sweet and savory flavors make it a family favorite, providing a convenient and satisfying option for those on the go.

Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl

3. Pumpkin Rice Recipe

Pumpkin rice on a wooden board with a spoon.

Embrace the autumn spirit with this pumpkin rice recipe – a delightful blend of seasonal flavors.

Quick and easy, this dish is a go-to for busy weeknights.

Whether for a family dinner or a festive celebration, the subtle sweetness of pumpkin adds a unique twist to traditional rice, making it a comforting choice for fall gatherings.

Pumpkin Rice Recipe

4. Chicken Katsudon Recipe

Close up image of katsudon.

Crispy fried chicken meets a bed of rice in the chicken katsudon recipe – a quick and easy solution for dinner parties or busy weeknights.

The flavorful combination of tender chicken, onions, and a sweet soy-based sauce creates a satisfying meal.

Impress your guests with this Japanese-inspired dish that balances simplicity and taste.

Chicken Katsudon Recipe

5. Garlic Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice in a white bowl.

Transform ordinary rice into a flavor-packed delight with this easy garlic fried rice recipe.

Quick and versatile, it's a go-to option for family dinners or dinner parties.

The aromatic blend of garlic and perfectly fried rice makes it a crowd-pleaser.

Ideal for busy weeknights, this dish ensures a tasty and satisfying meal with minimal effort.

Garlic Fried Rice Recipe

6. Sweet Potato Rice Recipe

Rice with sweet potatoes in a bowl.

Quick and easy to prepare, it's perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

The natural sweetness of sweet potatoes adds a unique flavor profile, making it a great choice for celebrations or dinner parties.

Enjoy the comfort of a wholesome and tasty meal.

Sweet Potato Rice Recipe

7. Yellow Rice in Instant Pot

Yellow rice on a plate.

Simplify your cooking with yellow rice in the Instant Pot – a quick and easy solution for busy weeknights or meal prep.

The vibrant color and fragrant spices make it a visually appealing dish for family dinners or celebrations.

With the Instant Pot's efficiency, this recipe ensures a flavorful and perfectly cooked side dish, making it a versatile addition to your repertoire.

Yellow Rice in Instant Pot

8. Vegetable Rice Soup

Vegetable rice soup in a grey mug.

Warm up your dinner with a hearty vegetable rice soup – a comforting option for family dinners or cozy weeknights.

Quick and easy to prepare, this soup is a nutritious and flavorful choice.

It's also a great way to use up any leftover rice you may have.

Packed with wholesome vegetables and aromatic spices, it's ideal for celebrations or dinner parties, providing a satisfying and nourishing option for any occasion.

Vegetable Rice Soup

9. Jeera Rice Recipe

Jeera rice on a black plate with curry in a bowl on the side.

Add a burst of flavor to your dinner with the jeera rice recipe – a quick and easy side dish perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

The fragrant aroma of cumin seeds enhances the simplicity of rice, making it a versatile accompaniment for various main courses.

Whether for celebrations or dinner parties, this dish is sure to impress with its delightful taste.

Jeera Rice Recipe

10. Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl

Burrito bowl on a benchtop.

Spice up your dinner with this delicious chipotle chicken burrito bowl – a flavorful and easy-to-make option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

The bold combination of chipotle-seasoned chicken, rice, and fresh toppings creates a satisfying meal.

Ideal for family dinners or dinner parties, this recipe allows you to bring the vibrant flavors of a burrito bowl to your table with minimal effort.

Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl

11. Ketchup Fried Rice

Fried rice in a bowl on a wooden board.

Turn ordinary rice into a flavor-packed delight with ketchup fried rice – a quick and easy twist perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

The familiar tang of ketchup adds a unique touch, making this dish a hit with both kids and adults.

Great for meal prep, this recipe offers a delightful alternative to traditional fried rice, bringing a burst of flavor to your table.

Don't have ketchup? Well, you can always make this delicious dish with tomato sauce too.

Ketchup Fried Rice

12. Mediterranean Yellow Rice

Mediterranean rice in a plate.

Transport your taste buds to the Mediterranean with this yellow rice recipe.

Quick, easy, and bursting with flavors, it's perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

The vibrant colors and aromatic herbs and spice make it an ideal choice for celebrations or dinner parties.

Mediterranean Yellow Rice

13. How To Make Egg Fried Rice

Fried rice with egg and green onions in a bowl.

Master the art of creating the perfect egg fried rice with this easy-to-follow recipe.

Quick and versatile, this dish is great for busy weeknights or family dinners.

The combination of fluffy rice, scrambled eggs, and savory soy sauce creates a satisfying meal.

Impress your guests with this classic Chinese dish that's not only delicious but also a breeze to prepare.

How To Make Egg Fried Rice

14. Tteokbokki with Cheese

Tteokbokki with melted cheese on top in a pan.

Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors with tteokbokki with cheese – a Korean favorite that's perfect for dinner parties or celebrations.

The chewy rice cakes bathed in a spicy-sweet sauce and melted cheese create a unique and satisfying dish.

Quick to prepare, this recipe is a crowd-pleaser, making it a fantastic choice for those looking to explore the world of Korean cuisine.

Tteokbokki with Cheese

15. Maltese Baked Rice Recipe

Slice of baked rice on a rectangle plate.

Experience the taste of Malta with our baked rice recipe – a comforting and hearty dish perfect for family dinners or cozy weeknights.

The layers of rice, meat, and cheese create a satisfying combination.

Quick and easy, this recipe is a great option for celebrations or dinner parties, providing a taste of Maltese cuisine in the comfort of your home.

Maltese Baked Rice Recipe

16. Hosomaki

Ginger being placed on a piece of sushi.

Dive into the world of sushi with the hosomaki – a simple and elegant option for family dinners, dinner parties, or even as appetizers for those special occasions like game days, Easter, or Christmas.

Quick and easy to assemble, these bite-sized rolls are perfect for celebrations.

The combination of rice, seaweed, and fresh ingredients offers a delightful burst of flavors.

Hosomaki

17. Ho Fun Noodles

Noodles in a bowl.

Explore the world of Asian cuisine with ho fun noodles – a quick and easy option for busy weeknights or family dinners.

The wide rice noodles soak up the savory flavors of the accompanying ingredients, creating a satisfying meal.

Great for meal prep, this recipe allows you to enjoy the rich and comforting taste of ho fun noodles whenever you crave it.

Ho Fun Noodles

18. Bagara Rice

Close up image of bagara rice in a bowl.

Shake up your dinner routine with bagara rice – a flavorful and aromatic dish perfect for celebrations or dinner parties.

Quick and easy to prepare, this recipe showcases the rich flavors of spices and basmati rice.

Bagara Rice

19. Easy Fried Rice with Frozen Vegetables

Fried rice with vegetables in a bowl.

Simplify your dinner with easy fried rice featuring frozen vegetables – a quick and convenient option for busy weeknights or meal prep.

The combination of fluffy rice and a colorful array of veggies creates a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Versatile and delicious, this recipe is great for family dinners or when you're short on time but still want a homemade, flavorful dish.

Easy Fried Rice with Frozen Vegetables

20. Korean Tuna Rice Bowl

Korean rice bowl in a black bowl on a bamboo mat.

Experience the bold flavors of Korean cuisine with the tuna rice bowl – a quick and easy option for busy weeknights or family dinners.

The combination of seasoned tuna, rice, and fresh vegetables creates a satisfying and nutritious meal.

Ideal for celebrations or dinner parties, this recipe offers a taste of Korea in a simple and delicious package.

Korean Tuna Rice Bowl

21. Pad Mee

Pad mee noodles in a shallow bowl.

Change up your stir-fry game with pad mee – a quick and flavorful option for busy weeknights or family dinners.

This Thai-inspired noodle dish offers a delightful blend of textures and tastes.

Pair it with your favorite protein or veggies for a complete and satisfying meal.

Quick and easy, Pad Mee is a go-to recipe for those looking to add a touch of Southeast Asian cuisine to their dinner rotation.

Pad Mee

22. Sushi Bake Recipe

A piece of baked sushi in nori (seaweed sheet) on a white plate.

Bring the joy of sushi to your table with this sushi bake recipe.

This deconstructed sushi casserole is quick to prepare and offers endless possibilities for customization.

Serve with a variety of toppings like avocado, spicy mayo, and seaweed for a personalized sushi experience that's perfect for sharing and celebrating.

Sushi Bake Recipe

23. Chicken Rice Balls

Chicken rice balls on a brown serving board.

Add a creative twist to your dinner with chicken rice balls – a playful and delicious option for family dinners or celebrations.

These bite-sized delights are not only flavorful but also fun to make.

Serve as an appetizer or side dish with dipping sauces to enhance the experience.

Chicken Rice Balls

24. Risotto Ai Funghi (Mushroom Risotto)

Mushroom risotto on a white plate and green napkin with yellow spots.

Indulge in the creamy richness of risotto ai funghi – a classic Italian dish perfect for intimate dinners or special occasions like Valentine's day.

The earthy flavor of mushrooms combined with the creamy texture of risotto creates a comforting and sophisticated meal.

Pair it with a glass of white wine and a sprinkle of parmesan for a truly delightful dining experience.

Risotto Ai Funghi (Mushroom Risotto)

25. Tuna Fried Rice

Fried rice with tuna in a black bowl.

Here is a quick and easy option for those busy weeknights or family dinners.

The savory combination of tuna and rice, along with colorful vegetables, creates a balanced and flavorful dish.

Serve with a side of soy sauce or hot sauce for an extra kick.

And it uses pantry staples too.

Tuna Fried Rice

26. Spam Fried Rice Recipe

Fried rice with spam on a white plate.

Transform a pantry staple into a delicious meal with spam fried rice.

The salty and savory flavors of spam complement the rice and veggies, creating a tasty dish.

Serve with a drizzle of teriyaki sauce or a sprinkle of green onions for added freshness.

Spam fried rice is an easy and flavorful way to enjoy a classic comfort food.

Spam Fried Rice Recipe

27. Instant Pot Coconut Rice

Rice in a white bowl.

Simplify your rice cooking with Instant Pot coconut rice – a quick and aromatic side dish perfect for busy weeknights or family dinners.

The addition of coconut milk adds a subtle sweetness and creaminess to the rice.

Pair it with your favorite curry or grilled meats for a complete meal.

Quick and convenient, this recipe allows you to enjoy the tropical flavors of coconut rice with minimal effort.

Instant Pot Coconut Rice

28. Steamed Rice Rolls

Steamed rice roll on a blue plate.

These silky rolls can be filled with a variety of ingredients, such as shrimp or barbecue pork, offering a customizable dining experience.

Serve with soy sauce or a chili dipping sauce for an extra kick.

Steamed Rice Rolls bring a touch of elegance to your table with minimal preparation.

Steamed Rice Rolls

29. Ghee Rice Recipe

Ghee rice on a round white plate on a red napkin.

The rich, nutty flavor of ghee enhances the basmati rice, creating a side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses.

Serve alongside your favorite curry or grilled meats for a delicious and satisfying meal.

Ghee Rice Recipe

30. Chorizo Fried Rice

Fried rice in a white bowl with a spoon.

Spice up your dinner routine with chorizo fried rice – a savory and bold option for busy weeknights or family dinners.

The smoky and spicy flavors of chorizo add a unique twist to the classic fried rice, creating a satisfying and hearty dish.

Serve as a main course or a side dish, and consider topping with a fried egg for an extra layer of richness.

Chorizo Fried Rice

31. Crispy Rice Paper Rolls

Crispy rice paper rolls on a plate with sauce.

Experience the delightful crunch of crispy rice paper rolls.

These rolls, filled with veggies or proteins, are quick to assemble and perfect for sharing.

Serve with your favorite dipping sauce, such as sweet chili or hoisin, for a flavorful and satisfying appetizer or snack.

Crispy Rice Paper Rolls

32. Risotto Al Limone (Lemon Risotto)

Close up image of lemon risotto in a bowl on a blue napkin.

Brighten up your dinner with the refreshing flavors of risotto al limone – a zesty and luxurious Italian dish perfect to enjoy all year round.

The combination of creamy risotto and the citrusy brightness of lemon creates a delightful and sophisticated meal.

Pair it with grilled chicken or seafood for a memorable dining experience.

Risotto Al Limone (Lemon Risotto)

33. Basmati Rice on the Stovetop

Cooked basmati rice in a white bowl.

Master the art of cooking Basmati Rice on the stovetop.

The fragrant and fluffy texture of basmati rice makes it a perfect side dish for a variety of cuisines.

Serve alongside your favorite curry, stir-fry, or grilled meats for a simple and satisfying meal.

Basmati Rice on the Stovetop

34. Vietnamese Egg Omelette

Close up image of cut pieces of Vietnamese egg omelette.

Enjoy the simplicity and flavor of a Vietnamese Egg Omelette – a quick and nutritious option for breakfast or light dinners.

The combination of eggs, herbs, and optional fillings creates a light and fluffy omelette.

Serve with a side of steamed rice or in a banh mi sandwich for a delicious and satisfying Vietnamese-inspired meal.

Vietnamese Egg Omelette

35. Jajang Tteokbokki

Explore the rich and savory flavors of jajang tteokbokki.

The chewy rice cakes bathed in a black bean sauce create a unique and satisfying dish.

Serve with a side of pickled radishes and kimchi for a delicious and simple meal.

Jajang Tteokbokki

36. Risotto For One

Risotto in a white bowl on a wooden board.

Treat yourself to a cozy and comforting meal with risotto for one – a simple and customizable option for solo dinners.

The creamy texture of risotto paired with your favorite ingredients creates a satisfying and indulgent experience.

Personalize with mushrooms, peas, or Parmesan for a dish that caters to your individual taste preferences.

Risotto For One

37. Seafood Paella Recipe

Paella with mussels, prawns, and squid in a paella pan.

Transport your taste buds to Spain with the vibrant and flavorful seafood paella recipe – a show-stopping option for family dinners or festive gatherings.

The combination of saffron-infused rice and a variety of seafood creates a visually appealing and delicious dish.

Serve with a wedge of lemon and a side of aioli for a true taste of Spanish cuisine.

Seafood Paella Recipe

38. Salmon Congee Recipe

Close up image of salmon congee in a blue bowl.

Salmon congee is the ultimate comfort food.

It's a warm and nourishing option for breakfast or soothing dinners.

The silky texture of congee paired with flaky salmon creates a delicious and easy-to-digest meal.

Top with green onions, cilantro, or a dash of soy sauce for added flavor.

This recipe is ideal for when you crave a bowl of comforting goodness.

Salmon Congee Recipe

FAQ

What can I add to plain rice to make dinner?

You can enhance plain rice by adding vegetables, proteins like chicken or tofu, and spices for flavor. For example, you could make a simple fried rice, or use cooked rice in a soup.

What can I mix with rice to eat?

Pair rice with diverse options such as curry, beans, grilled vegetables, or seafood. You could even add seasonings such as salt, fresh herbs, or spices.

What sauces are good on rice?

There are many types of sauces you can serve with rice. Some popular delicious sauces you might like to try include soy sauce, teriyaki, curry, salsa, and peanut sauce.

Collage of rice recipes.

Helpful Rice Cooking Tips

Want to know how to cook rice or just need a little refresher?

Check out how to easily cook basmati rice, sushi rice, and jasmine rice on the stovetop.

Or, why not check out our recipes on how to make basmati rice, jasmine rice, and sushi rice in the Instant Pot.

What rice is used for what?

Ever wondered which might be the best rice to use for a dish you’re about to make.

Or maybe you’re just curious and want to know more about rice in general.

Why not check out our pages on what is basmati rice and what is jasmine rice.

More Mains Recipes

  • Chop Suey Recipes
  • Is Brown Rice Gluten Free?
  • Instant Pot Fried Rice Recipes
  • Mediterranean Tomato Cucumber Salad
  • Chicken Rice Balls
  • What To Serve With Pork Fried Rice

Recipe

Rice recipe images.

Simple Rice Recipes For Dinner

Emily
These delicious simple rice recipes for dinner are something you just have to try.
There is something to enjoy all year round, and they are perfect for those busy weeknights, lazy weekends, and even those last minute dinner parties.
PRINT RECIPE PIN RECIPE
Prep Time 5 minutes mins
Cook Time 30 minutes mins
Resting Time 10 minutes mins
Total Time 45 minutes mins
ESTIMATED COST : $9.80 or $1.63 a serve
Course Main Course
Cuisine Indian
Servings 4 to 6 serves
Calories 404 kcal

Ingredients
  

  • Chicken Pulao Recipe
  • Teriyaki Chicken Rice Bowl
  • Pumpkin Rice Recipe
  • Chicken Katsudon Recipe
  • Garlic Fried Rice Recipe
  • Sweet Potato Rice Recipe
  • Yellow Rice in Instant Pot
  • Vegetable Rice Soup
  • Jeera Rice Recipe
  • Chipotle Chicken Burrito Bowl
  • Ketchup Fried Rice
  • Mediterranean Yellow Rice
  • How To Make Egg Fried Rice
  • Tteokbokki with Cheese
  • Maltese Baked Rice Recipe
  • Hosomaki
  • Ho Fun Noodles
  • Bagara Rice
  • Easy Fried Rice with Frozen Vegetables
  • Korean Tuna Rice Bowl
  • Pad Mee
  • Sushi Bake Recipe
  • Chicken Rice Balls
  • Risotto Ai Funghi (Mushroom Risotto)
  • Tuna Fried Rice
  • Spam Fried Rice Recipe
  • Instant Pot Coconut Rice
  • Steamed Rice Rolls
  • Ghee Rice Recipe
  • Chorizo Fried Rice
  • Crispy Rice Paper Rolls
  • Risotto Al Limone (Lemon Risotto)
  • Basmati Rice on the Stovetop
  • Vietnamese Egg Omelette
  • Jajang Tteokbokki
  • Risotto For One
  • Seafood Paella Recipe
  • Salmon Congee Recipe

Instructions
 

  • Choose your favorite recipe from the list above.
  • Gather all the ingredients.
  • Follow the recipe directions and make a delicious rice recipe for dinner.

Notes

Nutrition, serving size and cook times are based on the first recipe on the recipe card.

Nutrition

Serving: 1 serveCalories: 404kcalCarbohydrates: 63gProtein: 19gFat: 8gSaturated Fat: 1gPolyunsaturated Fat: 2gMonounsaturated Fat: 2gCholesterol: 53mgSodium: 166mgPotassium: 697mgFiber: 5gSugar: 4g
Nutrition Disclosure
Tried this recipe?Let us know how it went!

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Author image.

Hi, I'm Emily! There's much more to rice than just cooking it on the stove. It's so versatile and you can create so many beautiful dishes with it. From puddings and desserts to main meals and even finger foods. There is something for everyone!

More about me →

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