7 Best Rice Recipes for Dinner: Delicious Dishes to Satisfy Your Hunger

Rice is a versatile staple that can elevate any dinner. I believe that incorporating rice into my meals opens up a world of delicious possibilities. Whether you’re looking for something comforting or a bit more adventurous, there’s a rice dish to suit every taste.

In this article, I’ll share my favorite rice recipes that are perfect for dinner. Each one not only highlights the flavors of rice but also complements a variety of ingredients. Get ready to explore new ways to enjoy this beloved grain!

1. Chicken Biryani

Chicken Biryani is a flavorful rice dish made with marinated chicken, spices, and basmati rice. It’s popular in many South Asian cuisines and often served at special occasions.

Making Chicken Biryani is easier than it seems. I enjoy cooking it because it allows for simple preparation with a rich, satisfying result.

To start, I marinate chicken in yogurt, ginger, garlic, and spices like cumin and coriander. This step makes the chicken tender and tasty.

Next, I cook the basmati rice separately until it’s about 70% done. It usually takes around 7-8 minutes.

In a large pot, I layer half the rice, add the marinated chicken, and top it with the remaining rice. I cook everything together on low heat for about 30 minutes. This steaming process blends all the flavors beautifully.

Finally, I serve Chicken Biryani with raita or a side salad for a complete meal. It’s a wonderful dish that is both filling and packed with rich tastes.

2. Fried Rice with Shrimp

Fried rice with shrimp is a popular Asian dish that combines rice, shrimp, and vegetables in a savory stir-fry. It’s quick to prepare and perfect for using leftover rice.

I find this recipe quite easy to make. You need just a few key ingredients: cooked rice, shrimp, eggs, soy sauce, and your choice of vegetables.

Here are some simple steps to follow:

1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
2. Add shrimp and cook until pink, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Push shrimp to one side and scramble 2 beaten eggs in the same pan.
4. Add 3 cups of cooked rice and 1 cup of mixed vegetables.
5. Pour in 2 tablespoons of soy sauce and stir everything together.
6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally.

This dish is not only easy to make but also allows for flexibility in ingredients. You can adjust the vegetables or add spices based on your taste.

3. Risotto alla Milanese

Risotto alla Milanese is a classic Italian dish known for its creamy texture and rich flavor. It features Arborio rice cooked slowly with broth and flavored with saffron, giving it a beautiful golden color.

Making this dish is quite easy, even for a beginner. It requires some attention, but the steps are straightforward.

Here’s how I prepare Risotto alla Milanese:

1. In a pot, heat 4 cups of chicken or vegetable broth and keep it warm.
2. In a separate large pan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter and add 1 chopped onion, cooking until soft.
3. Stir in 1 cup of Arborio rice, toasting it lightly for about 2 minutes.
4. Gradually add the warm broth, one ladle at a time, stirring constantly until the rice absorbs the liquid.
5. After about 15 minutes, add a pinch of saffron and continue adding broth until the rice is creamy and al dente.
6. Finish with ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese and serve hot.

This dish pairs well with a simple salad or grilled vegetables. Enjoy the delightful flavors of Italy in your own home!

4. Spanish Paella

Spanish Paella is a traditional rice dish from Spain, known for its rich flavors and colorful presentation. It typically includes rice, saffron, vegetables, and a variety of proteins like chicken, seafood, or rabbit.

Making Paella is not overly complicated. I enjoy how accessible it is, even for beginner cooks. The key is to use a wide, shallow pan to ensure even cooking.

To prepare Paella, follow these simple steps:

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
2. Sauté onion and garlic until soft, about 3 minutes.
3. Add diced tomatoes and cook for another 5 minutes.
4. Stir in 2 cups of rice and coat with the mixture.
5. Pour in 4 cups of chicken or seafood broth.
6. Add saffron and your choice of protein, like shrimp or chicken.
7. Simmer without stirring for about 20 minutes until the rice absorbs the liquid.
8. Let it sit for 5 minutes before serving.

This dish is perfect for dinner and can be customized with seasonal ingredients.

5. Jambalaya

Jambalaya is a flavorful rice dish from Louisiana. It combines rice with meat, seafood, vegetables, and spices. It’s hearty and great for a filling dinner.

Making jambalaya is quite easy. You can prepare it in one pot, which saves time on cleanup. It usually takes about 30 minutes to cook.

Here’s a simple way to make jambalaya:

1. Gather Ingredients: You’ll need rice, chicken, sausage, shrimp, bell peppers, onion, garlic, diced tomatoes, and spices like paprika and cayenne.
2. Cook Meat: In a large pot, brown 1 pound of sausage and 1 pound of diced chicken over medium heat for about 5-7 minutes.
3. Add Vegetables: Stir in chopped onion, bell pepper, and garlic. Cook for 2-3 minutes until soft.
4. Add Rice and Spices: Mix in 2 cups of rice, 1 can of diced tomatoes, and your spices. Stir well.
5. Add Liquid: Pour in 4 cups of chicken broth. Bring to a boil.
6. Simmer: Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for around 20 minutes. Add 1 pound of shrimp in the last 5 minutes.
7. Serve: Once the rice is tender, stir and serve hot. Enjoy your delicious jambalaya!

6. Arroz con Pollo

Arroz con Pollo is a classic dish from Latin America. It features chicken cooked with seasoned rice and vegetables. The flavors blend well, making it a comforting and satisfying meal.

I find it easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner. The ingredients are simple and can usually be found in my kitchen.

To prepare, I start with these steps:

1. Heat oil in a large pot.
2. Add chopped onions, garlic, and bell peppers. Sauté until tender.
3. Include chicken pieces, and cook until lightly browned.
4. Stir in rice, diced tomatoes, and spices like saffron or cumin.
5. Pour in chicken broth and bring to a boil.
6. Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for about 20 minutes.

Once the rice is fluffy, I let it sit for a few minutes before serving. I enjoy it with a sprinkle of cilantro on top for extra flavor. Arroz con Pollo is not only delicious but also a great way to share a taste of culture with friends and family.

7. Thai Green Curry with Jasmine Rice

Thai Green Curry is a flavorful dish that combines aromatic spices and fresh ingredients. It is rich and creamy, thanks to coconut milk, making it a satisfying meal.

I find this recipe easy to make, perfect for a weeknight dinner. Here are the steps:

1. Ingredients: Gather green curry paste, coconut milk, vegetables (like bell peppers and zucchini), protein (chicken or tofu), basil, and jasmine rice.
2. Cook Rice: Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice. Add it to 1 ¾ cups of water in a pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover. Cook for 15 minutes.
3. Prepare Curry: In a pan, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add 2 tablespoons of green curry paste and stir for 1 minute.
4. Add Ingredients: Pour in 1 can of coconut milk, and then add 2 cups of your chosen vegetables and 1 pound of chopped protein.
5. Simmer: Let it simmer for about 10-15 minutes until the protein is cooked and the vegetables are tender.
6. Finish: Stir in a handful of fresh basil just before serving.

Serve this delightful curry over the fluffy jasmine rice for a complete and tasty meal.

What Are the Different Types of Rice?

Rice comes in various types, each with unique flavors and cooking methods. I’ll cover some of the most common types, focusing on what makes each one special.

What Is White Rice?

White rice is the most common variety found in kitchens today. It is milled to remove the husk, bran, and germ, resulting in polished grains with a soft texture.

I find it easy to cook, often taking about 15-20 minutes to prepare. This rice is versatile and pairs well with many dishes, from stir-fries to curries.

There are different kinds of white rice, including basmati and jasmine. Basmati has a nutty flavor and is perfect for Indian dishes, while jasmine offers a fragrant aroma that enhances Thai meals.

What Is Brown Rice?

Brown rice retains its bran and germ, making it more nutritious than white rice. This type is higher in fiber and essential nutrients, contributing to better health.

Cooking brown rice takes longer, usually about 40-50 minutes. The texture is chewier, and the flavor is nuttier, which I really enjoy.

I often use brown rice in salads or as a base for hearty bowls. It pairs well with roasted vegetables, beans, and lean proteins, making for a balanced meal.

What Is Wild Rice?

Wild rice is not technically rice but a water grass seed. It has a distinctive nutty flavor and a chewy texture. I appreciate its unique taste and nutritional benefits, being rich in antioxidants and protein.

Cooking wild rice takes longer, around 45-60 minutes. I often mix it with other types of rice for added flavor and texture.

I find wild rice great for soups, salads, or as a side dish with meats, adding depth to any meal.