15 Dinner Ideas with Rice for a Flavorful and Easy Meal

Looking for some delicious dinner ideas that revolve around the humble yet versatile ingredient, rice? You’ve come to the right place!

Whether you’re in the mood for something comforting and familiar or eager to try a new culinary adventure, rice is the perfect base to build on.

From fragrant pilafs to hearty stir-fries and creamy risottos, these dinner ideas will transform your regular weeknight meals into something special.

Let’s dive in and explore the world of rice-based dinners that are sure to delight your taste buds and bring joy to your dinner table!

1. One-Pot Lemon Garlic Chicken and Rice

This one-pot lemon garlic chicken and rice is a true weeknight hero. Imagine succulent chicken thighs cooked to perfection with fluffy, flavorful rice that soaks up all the delicious juices. The bright lemon zest and aromatic garlic bring a zesty, comforting vibe to the whole dish. It’s easy to make, and the cleanup is a breeze!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 4 chicken thighs
• 1 cup rice
• 1 lemon (zested and juiced)
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1 teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Fresh parsley (for garnish)
• Lemon slices (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Season chicken thighs with salt and pepper, then sear them in the pot until golden brown. Remove and set aside.
3. In the same pot, add minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add rice and stir to coat with the oil and garlic.
5. Pour in chicken broth, lemon juice, and lemon zest, and bring to a boil.
6. Place chicken thighs back into the pot, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20 minutes until rice is cooked and chicken is tender.
7. Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon slices before serving.

Serve with: A fresh green salad with a light vinaigrette.

Drink: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing lemonade.

2. Spicy Shrimp Fajita Bowls with Cilantro Lime Rice

Spice up your dinner routine with these vibrant Spicy Shrimp Fajita Bowls! Juicy shrimp, sautéed with colorful bell peppers and onions, sit atop a bed of fluffy cilantro lime rice. Each bite is a delightful mix of spicy, tangy, and fresh flavors that will leave you craving more. Plus, it’s all ready in under 30 minutes!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 lime (juiced and zested)
• 1/2 cup cilantro (chopped)
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 yellow bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 onion (sliced)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Once cooked, stir in lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat.
4. Add sliced bell peppers and onions, cooking until softened.
5. Add shrimp, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper, cooking until shrimp is pink and cooked through.
6. Serve the spicy shrimp and vegetables over the cilantro lime rice.

Serve with: Guacamole and tortilla chips.

Drink: A refreshing margarita or a cold Mexican beer like Corona.

3. Jambalaya

Dive into a hearty bowl of Jambalaya, packed with rich flavors and a bit of southern charm. This classic Creole dish features juicy chicken, succulent shrimp, and spicy andouille sausage, all simmered with tomatoes, rice, and a medley of spices. It’s a one-pot wonder that’s perfect for any occasion, bringing a taste of New Orleans right to your kitchen.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast (cubed)
• 1/2 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1/2 lb andouille sausage (sliced)
• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 green bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 celery stalks (chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon thyme
• 1 teaspoon cayenne pepper
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil

Instructions:

1. In a large pot, heat olive oil over medium heat.
2. Cook chicken until browned, then add sausage and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
3. Add bell pepper, onion, celery, and garlic, cooking until vegetables are tender.
4. Stir in rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes, and spices. Bring to a boil.
5. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 25 minutes.
6. Add shrimp, cover, and cook for another 5 minutes until shrimp is pink and rice is cooked.
7. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Serve with: Cornbread or a crusty baguette.

Drink: A cold beer or a glass of sweet iced tea.

4. Veggie Fried Rice

Veggie Fried Rice is a quick and colorful dish that’s perfect for using up leftover vegetables. This recipe transforms simple ingredients into a delightful meal, with tender-crisp veggies, perfectly cooked rice, and a savory sauce. It’s a go-to for busy weeknights and pairs well with just about anything!

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 3 cups cooked rice
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, corn, bell peppers)
• 2 eggs (beaten)
• 3 green onions (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Sriracha or chili sauce for heat
• Sesame seeds for garnish

Instructions:

1. Heat vegetable oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
4. Push vegetables to the side, add beaten eggs, and scramble until cooked.
5. Stir in cooked rice, soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, mixing well.
6. Add green onions, season with salt and pepper, and cook until everything is heated through.
7. Garnish with sesame seeds and serve hot.

Serve with: Spring rolls or a light Asian salad.

Drink: Green tea or a cold Asian beer like Sapporo.

5. Creamy Coconut Curry with Chicken and Rice

Indulge in the rich and creamy flavors of Coconut Curry with Chicken and Rice. This dish features tender chicken pieces simmered in a luscious coconut curry sauce, served over perfectly cooked rice. The blend of spices, coconut milk, and fresh herbs creates a comforting meal that’s both exotic and familiar.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast (cubed)
• 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
• 1 cup rice
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
• 2 tablespoons red curry paste
• 1 tablespoon fish sauce
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 cup snap peas
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
4. Stir in red curry paste and cook for 2 minutes.
5. Add chicken and cook until no longer pink.
6. Pour in coconut milk, fish sauce, and soy sauce, stirring well.
7. Add bell pepper and snap peas, simmering until vegetables are tender and chicken is cooked through.
8. Serve curry over rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Serve with: Naan bread or a simple cucumber salad.

Drink: A chilled Riesling or a coconut water.

6. Weeknight Black Bean Burgers with Chipotle Mayo and Cilantro Lime Rice

These vegetarian burgers are a delicious and healthy alternative. Black beans are mashed with spices and breadcrumbs, then formed into patties and cooked. Serve on buns with creamy chipotle mayo and fluffy cilantro lime rice for a satisfying meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 2 cans black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
• 1 egg
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 cup corn kernels
• 1/2 cup bell pepper (chopped)
• 1/4 cup onion (chopped)
• 2 tablespoons cilantro (chopped)
• 1 cup rice
• 1 lime (juiced and zested)
• 1/2 cup mayonnaise
• 1 chipotle pepper in adobo (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil

Instructions:

1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. Once cooked, stir in lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro.
3. In a bowl, mash black beans with a fork or potato masher.
4. Mix in breadcrumbs, egg, cumin, chili powder, corn, bell pepper, onion, and cilantro. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Form mixture into patties.
6. Heat vegetable oil in a skillet over medium heat. Cook patties for 4-5 minutes per side until golden brown.
7. In a small bowl, mix mayonnaise and chopped chipotle pepper.
8. Serve black bean burgers with chipotle mayo and cilantro lime rice.

Serve with: Sweet potato fries or a mixed green salad.

Drink: A cold iced tea or a refreshing mojito.

7. Greek Chicken and Rice Bowls with Lemon-Herb Marinade

Take your taste buds on a Mediterranean adventure with these Greek Chicken and Rice Bowls. Tender chicken marinated in a zesty lemon-herb mixture is paired with fluffy rice and fresh veggies. This dish is as colorful as it is delicious, making it a perfect choice for a light yet satisfying meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast (sliced)
• 1 cup rice
• 1 cucumber (diced)
• 1 cup cherry tomatoes (halved)
• 1/4 cup red onion (sliced)
• 1/4 cup Kalamata olives (sliced)
• 1/4 cup feta cheese (crumbled)
• 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix lemon juice, lemon zest, olive oil, oregano, salt, and pepper.
3. Add chicken to the marinade and let it sit for 15 minutes.
4. Heat a skillet over medium heat and cook chicken until fully cooked and browned.
5. Assemble bowls with rice, chicken, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, red onion, olives, and feta cheese.
6. Drizzle with Greek yogurt and serve.

Serve with: Pita bread and hummus.

Drink: A crisp white wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling water with lemon.

8. Shrimp Scampi with Garlic Butter Rice

This restaurant favorite is surprisingly easy to make at home. Plump shrimp are cooked in a garlicky butter sauce with white wine and lemon juice. Serve over rice for a luxurious and satisfying meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup rice
• 1/4 cup butter
• 4 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1/4 cup white wine
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• 1/4 cup parsley (chopped)
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Optional: Red pepper flakes for heat

Instructions:

1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil and butter over medium heat.
3. Add garlic and cook until fragrant.
4. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes per side.
5. Pour in white wine, lemon juice, and lemon zest, simmering for another 2 minutes.
6. Stir in parsley and season with salt, pepper, and red pepper flakes if desired.
7. Serve shrimp scampi over garlic butter rice.

Serve with: A side of steamed asparagus or a simple green salad.

Drink: A chilled glass of Chardonnay or a sparkling water with lime.

9. Mexican Shrimp and Rice with Corn and Black Beans

Mexican Shrimp and Rice with Corn and Black Beans is a vibrant and hearty dish that brings the flavors of Mexico to your table. Juicy shrimp, sweet corn, and hearty black beans are mixed with seasoned rice, creating a meal that’s bursting with color and taste.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb shrimp (peeled and deveined)
• 1 cup rice
• 1 can black beans (drained and rinsed)
• 1 cup corn kernels
• 1 red bell pepper (chopped)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell pepper, cooking until softened.
4. Stir in corn, black beans, chili powder, and cumin.
5. Add shrimp and cook until pink and cooked through.
6. Mix in cooked rice and season with salt and pepper.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Serve with: A side of guacamole and tortilla chips. Drink: A refreshing margarita or a cold Mexican beer like Modelo.

10. Curried Lentil Soup with Coconut Rice

Warm up with a comforting bowl of Curried Lentil Soup served alongside Coconut Rice. This dish is a wonderful blend of aromatic spices, tender lentils, and creamy coconut milk. It’s nourishing, flavorful, and perfect for a cozy evening at home.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup lentils
• 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
• 2 tablespoons curry powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup rice
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Fresh cilantro (for garnish)

Instructions:

1. Cook rice with water and half the coconut milk according to package instructions.
2. In a large pot, heat vegetable oil over medium heat.
3. Add onion, garlic, and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
4. Stir in curry powder and cumin, cooking for another minute.
5. Add lentils and vegetable broth, bringing to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes until lentils are tender.
7. Stir in remaining coconut milk and season with salt and pepper.
8. Serve soup with coconut rice, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Serve with: Naan bread or a side salad.

Drink: A glass of cold mango lassi or herbal tea.

11. Weeknight Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry with Brown Rice

This Chicken and Broccoli Stir-Fry is a perfect weeknight meal, combining tender chicken pieces, crisp broccoli, and a savory sauce. Served over nutty brown rice, it’s a wholesome and delicious dinner that comes together in no time.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast (sliced)
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 1 cup brown rice
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon oyster sauce
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 1 tablespoon ginger (grated)
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a wok or skillet, heat vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add garlic and ginger, cooking until fragrant.
4. Add chicken and cook until browned and cooked through.
5. Add broccoli florets and cook until tender-crisp.
6. Stir in soy sauce, oyster sauce, and sesame oil, mixing well.
7. Serve stir-fry over brown rice.

Serve with: Egg rolls or a cucumber salad.

Drink: A cold Asian beer or jasmine tea.

12. Chicken and Rice Casserole with Sun-Dried Tomatoes

This Chicken and Rice Casserole is a creamy, comforting dish featuring tender chicken, flavorful rice, and tangy sun-dried tomatoes. It’s baked to perfection with a cheesy topping that makes it a crowd-pleaser for any night of the week.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast (cubed)
• 1 cup rice
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/2 cup sun-dried tomatoes (chopped)
• 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
• 1/2 cup heavy cream
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 2 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cook rice according to package instructions.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Add chicken, cooking until browned and cooked through.
5. Stir in onion and garlic, cooking until fragrant.
6. In a casserole dish, combine cooked rice, chicken, sun-dried tomatoes, chicken broth, heavy cream, and half the mozzarella cheese.
7. Mix well, then top with remaining cheese.
8. Bake for 25 minutes until bubbly and golden.
9. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Serve with: A side of steamed green beans or a garden salad.

Drink: A glass of white wine like Chardonnay or a sparkling water.

13. Mango Salsa Chicken with Coconut Rice

This tropical-inspired dish is bursting with freshness. Grilled chicken is topped with a vibrant mango salsa made with fresh mango, red onion, cilantro, and lime juice. Serve over coconut rice for a delicious and healthy meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken breast (sliced)
• 1 cup rice
• 1 can coconut milk (14 oz)
• 1 mango (diced)
• 1/2 red bell pepper (diced)
• 1/4 red onion (diced)
• 1/4 cup cilantro (chopped)
• 1 lime (juiced)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: Jalapeño for heat

Instructions:

1. Cook rice with coconut milk according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix mango, red bell pepper, red onion, cilantro, lime juice, and jalapeño (if using) to make salsa.
3. In a skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
4. Season chicken with paprika, salt, and pepper, then cook until browned and cooked through.
5. Serve chicken with mango salsa on top and coconut rice on the side.

Serve with: A side of black beans or a mixed green salad.

Drink: A tropical smoothie or a chilled white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

14. Spanish Chicken and Chorizo Paella

This iconic Spanish dish is a one-pot wonder. Chicken, chorizo sausage, and vegetables are simmered with rice in a saffron-infused broth. A perfect choice for a celebratory dinner with a taste of Spain.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 lb chicken thighs (sliced)
• 1/2 lb chorizo (sliced)
• 1 cup paella rice (or Arborio rice)
• 1/2 cup peas
• 1 red bell pepper (sliced)
• 1 onion (chopped)
• 3 garlic cloves (minced)
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1/2 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

1. Heat olive oil in a paella pan or large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add chicken and chorizo, cooking until browned.
3. Stir in onion, garlic, and red bell pepper, cooking until softened.
4. Add rice, smoked paprika, and saffron, stirring to coat the rice.
5. Pour in chicken broth and diced tomatoes, bringing to a boil.
6. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes until rice is cooked and liquid is absorbed.
7. Stir in peas and cook for another 5 minutes.
8. Season with salt and pepper before serving.

Serve with: A side of crusty bread or a simple salad.

Drink: A glass of Sangria or a light Spanish beer.

15. Sushi Bowls

These deconstructed sushi bowls are a fun and customizable way to enjoy your favorite sushi flavors. Cooked sushi rice is topped with a variety of ingredients like raw or cooked fish, vegetables, seaweed salad, and avocado. Drizzle with your favorite sushi sauces for a delicious and interactive meal.

Recipe

Ingredients:

• 1 cup sushi rice
• 2 cups water
• 1/4 cup rice vinegar
• 1 tablespoon sugar
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 1/2 lb fresh fish (like tuna or salmon, sliced)
• 1 avocado (sliced)
• 1 cucumber (sliced)
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• Optional: Pickled ginger, wasabi, nori strips for garnish

Instructions:

1. Rinse sushi rice under cold water until water runs clear.
2. Cook rice with water according to package instructions.
3. In a small bowl, mix rice vinegar, sugar, and salt until dissolved.
4. Stir vinegar mixture into cooked rice and let cool slightly.
5. Assemble bowls with sushi rice, fresh fish, avocado, cucumber, and any optional toppings.
6. Drizzle with soy sauce before serving.

Serve with: Miso soup or seaweed salad.

Drink: Green tea or a cold Japanese beer like Asahi.

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