What to Make with White Rice: 21 Easy and Delicious White Rice Recipes
Ready to dive into the delicious world of white rice recipes? You’re in for a treat! This collection of rice-based dishes will showcase just how versatile and satisfying this humble ingredient can be.
From classic comfort foods like creamy rice puddings and fried rice to innovative takes like cilantro lime rice and coconut rice, there’s something here for every rice lover. Whether you’re craving something savory, sweet, or a bit on the lighter side, these recipes will help you unlock the full potential of white rice in your kitchen.
So grab your rice, roll up your sleeves, and let’s get cooking! Get ready to savor the incredible flavors and textures that white rice can bring to your table!
21 White Rice Recipes
1. Garlic Butter Rice
Sauté minced garlic in butter until fragrant, then stir in cooked white rice.
Add a splash of chicken broth for extra flavor and let the rice absorb the buttery goodness. Season with salt, pepper, and a sprinkle of fresh parsley.
This quick side dish complements almost any meal. It’s rich, savory, and incredibly satisfying.
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2. Fried Rice
Use leftover white rice to make a delicious fried rice. Sauté diced onions, garlic, and veggies like peas and carrots in a hot pan.
Push the veggies to the side, scramble some eggs, and mix them in with the rice. Drizzle in soy sauce and sesame oil, then stir everything together. Garnish with green onions and serve hot.
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3. Coconut Rice
Cook white rice with coconut milk for a creamy and subtly sweet twist. Add a pinch of salt and a bit of sugar to enhance the coconut flavor.
This rice pairs wonderfully with curry or grilled meats. It’s easy to make and adds a tropical flair to any meal. Top with toasted coconut flakes for extra crunch.
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4. Lemon Rice
Make a refreshing lemon rice by cooking the rice with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice and zest. Once cooked, stir in sautéed mustard seeds, curry leaves, and a pinch of turmeric.
This tangy and aromatic rice is perfect as a side to grilled chicken or fish. It’s light, zesty, and full of flavor. Garnish with cilantro before serving.
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5. Tomato Rice
Sauté onions, garlic, and chopped tomatoes with spices like cumin, coriander, and turmeric. Add the cooked rice and mix it into the tomato mixture, letting the flavors meld together.
This rice is slightly tangy, savory, and vibrant. Serve with yogurt or as a base for curries. It’s a simple yet flavorful dish that works with any protein.
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6. Chicken and Rice
Cook chicken thighs or breasts with white rice in a one-pot dish. Season with garlic, onion, and herbs like thyme or rosemary.
Add chicken broth to create a savory and aromatic base. Let the rice absorb the flavors of the chicken for a deliciously hearty meal. This dish is comforting and easy to make.
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7. Vegetable Rice Pilaf
Sauté diced carrots, onions, and celery in butter until softened. Stir in the cooked rice and season with salt, pepper, and your favorite herbs.
Add peas, corn, or any other veggies you like for color and flavor. This pilaf is a light, colorful side dish that pairs well with chicken or fish. It’s quick, easy, and packed with nutrients.
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8. Rice Pudding
For a sweet treat, cook white rice with milk, sugar, and a cinnamon stick.
Let it simmer until the rice is soft and the mixture thickens into a creamy pudding. Top with a dash of cinnamon or fresh fruit.
This dessert is perfect for a comforting, indulgent snack. It’s easy to make and always a crowd-pleaser.
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9. Spicy Rice with Sausage
Sauté sliced sausage with onions, bell peppers, and garlic until browned.
Stir in cooked white rice and season with cayenne pepper, paprika, and cumin for a spicy kick. Add a splash of chicken broth to bring everything together.
This dish is bold, flavorful, and perfect for a quick dinner. Serve with a side of steamed veggies for balance.
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10. Rice with Beans
Cook white rice and mix it with seasoned black beans, kidney beans, or pinto beans. Add cumin, garlic, onion, and a bit of lime juice for a flavorful twist.
This dish is hearty, filling, and perfect for a vegetarian meal. You can also add a bit of cheese or avocado on top. It’s a simple and nutritious dish that’s easy to make.
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11. Mushroom Rice
Sauté sliced mushrooms with onions and garlic until golden brown. Stir in cooked white rice and season with thyme, salt, and pepper.
Add a splash of vegetable broth to moisten the rice and infuse it with the earthy mushroom flavor. This dish is savory, comforting, and works well with steak or roasted chicken. It’s a great side or even a main dish.
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12. Curry Rice
Cook white rice and mix it with a fragrant curry sauce made from coconut milk, curry powder, and garlic. You can add veggies like peas, carrots, and potatoes for more texture.
The creamy sauce and spices give the rice a rich flavor. This dish pairs perfectly with grilled or roasted chicken. It’s a great alternative to traditional curry dishes.
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13. Herb-Infused Rice
Cook white rice with fresh herbs like rosemary, thyme, and bay leaves. Once the rice is done, remove the herbs and fluff it with a fork.
This simple, aromatic rice works well as a side dish for roasted meats or vegetables. It’s light, fragrant, and easy to prepare. Add a squeeze of lemon juice for extra freshness.
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14. Rice with Shrimp
Sauté shrimp with garlic, ginger, and scallions, then stir in the cooked white rice.
Add soy sauce, sesame oil, and a little chili sauce for flavor. This quick stir-fry is packed with savory umami and a bit of heat.
It’s a light, delicious meal that’s perfect for lunch or dinner. Garnish with cilantro and lime for a refreshing touch.
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15. Peach and Rice Salad
Combine cooked white rice with fresh diced peaches, bell peppers, and green onions.
Toss with a simple vinaigrette made of olive oil, balsamic vinegar, and honey. This rice salad is light, fruity, and perfect for summer picnics or BBQs.
It’s refreshing and pairs beautifully with grilled meats or fish. Garnish with fresh basil for an herbaceous finish.
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16. Saffron Rice
Cook white rice with a few strands of saffron to infuse it with a golden color and delicate flavor. Add a pinch of salt and a knob of butter to enhance the richness.
This vibrant rice pairs well with chicken, lamb, or seafood. It’s a simple yet elegant side dish that adds a touch of luxury to any meal. It’s perfect for special occasions or family dinners.
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17. Rice and Broccoli
Steam broccoli florets until tender, then toss them with cooked white rice. Sauté garlic in olive oil and mix it into the rice and broccoli for extra flavor.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice and some grated Parmesan for richness. This dish is healthy, quick, and a great way to sneak in some veggies. It works well as a side dish or a light main course.
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18. Rice with Lemon and Feta
Toss cooked white rice with crumbled feta cheese, lemon juice, and a bit of olive oil. Add chopped mint or parsley for freshness.
This tangy, cheesy rice is a great accompaniment to grilled lamb, chicken, or fish. It’s light, flavorful, and perfect for a Mediterranean-inspired meal. You can also add olives for a briny punch.
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19. Chicken Fried Rice
Use leftover cooked rice to make chicken fried rice. Sauté diced chicken with onions, garlic, and vegetables, then add the rice to the pan.
Stir in soy sauce, sesame oil, and a dash of white pepper. Scramble in some eggs and toss until everything is well combined. It’s a quick, filling dish that’s perfect for using up leftovers.
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20. Cilantro Lime Rice
Cook white rice and mix it with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro.
Add a touch of olive oil and a pinch of salt to bring out the flavors. This zesty rice pairs wonderfully with tacos, grilled meats, or seafood.
It’s light, aromatic, and packed with fresh flavors. It’s a great side dish for any Mexican-inspired meal.
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21. Rice with Raisins and Almonds
Toast sliced almonds in a pan until golden, then stir them into cooked rice with raisins.
Season with cinnamon and a pinch of salt for a warm, comforting flavor. This rice is sweet, savory, and works wonderfully as a side to roasted meats or a vegetarian main.
It’s easy to make and adds a touch of elegance to any meal. Garnish with fresh herbs for a vibrant finish.
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