11 Quick & Easy Rice Dinner Recipes: Crockpot Chicken, Shrimp, Taco Rice & More for Weeknight Meals

Rice is a fantastic base for wholesome meals that are quick to prepare and satisfying to eat. If you’re craving something delicious without spending hours in the kitchen, these 11 rice dinner recipes are your go-to solution. Packed with flavor and simplicity, they’ll help you whip up a tasty dinner in no time.

One-Pan Chicken and Rice Delight

This One-Pan Chicken and Rice Delight is a simple yet satisfying dish that brings wholesome flavors right to your dinner table. The chicken is juicy and tender, perfectly complemented by seasoned rice that soaks up all the delicious juices. It’s a meal that feels special but is quick to prepare, making it great for weeknight dinners.

The combination of spices and ingredients creates a lovely aroma that fills your kitchen, inviting everyone to gather around the table. Plus, having everything cooked in one pan means less cleanup, which is always a bonus!

Ingredients

• 4 chicken thighs, skin-on
• 1 cup long-grain rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• Fresh parsley, for garnish

Instructions

1. Heat a large skillet over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs, skin-side down, and sear until golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.
2. In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and bell pepper. Sauté until the vegetables are soft, about 3-4 minutes. Stir in the garlic, paprika, and oregano, cooking for an additional minute.
3. Add the rice to the skillet, stirring to coat it in the spices. Pour in the chicken broth and season with salt and pepper.
4. Return the chicken to the pan, skin-side up. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the chicken is tender.
5. Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes. Garnish with fresh parsley before serving.

Coconut Curry Rice with Chickpeas

Coconut Curry Rice with Chickpeas is a delightful dish that brings a taste of the tropics right to your dinner table. Creamy coconut milk blends beautifully with aromatic spices, creating a dish that is both comforting and refreshing. The chickpeas add a hearty texture and boost the protein content, making this a wholesome meal that can be whipped up in no time.

This recipe is not only simple to make but also versatile. You can easily swap in your favorite vegetables or adjust the spices to suit your taste. Perfect for a busy weeknight or a relaxed weekend dinner, this dish is sure to please everyone at the table.

Ingredients

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
• 1 cup vegetable broth
• 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• 1 teaspoon turmeric
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. In a pot, heat olive oil over medium heat and sauté the chopped onion until translucent, about 5 minutes.
2. Add the minced garlic, curry powder, and turmeric, cooking for another minute until fragrant.
3. Stir in the rice, ensuring it is coated with the spices, then add the coconut milk and vegetable broth.
4. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Once cooked, mix in the chickpeas and season with salt and pepper. Let it sit covered for an additional 5 minutes.
6. Serve warm, garnished with fresh cilantro.

Lemon Herb Quinoa and Rice Salad

This Lemon Herb Quinoa and Rice Salad is a light and vibrant dish that bursts with fresh flavors. It’s perfect for a quick dinner or a hearty side, combining fluffy quinoa and rice with zesty lemon and fresh herbs.

The salad is not only refreshing but also super simple to prepare, making it a go-to recipe for busy weeknights. The combination of citrus and herbs creates a wholesome dish that complements any main course.

Ingredients

• 1 cup quinoa
• 1 cup cooked rice (white or brown)
• 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• 1 red bell pepper, diced
• 1/4 cup red onion, finely chopped
• 1/4 cup olive oil
• 2 tablespoons lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon lemon zest
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Quinoa: Rinse quinoa under cold water. In a pot, combine quinoa with 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until water is absorbed.
2. Mix Ingredients: In a large bowl, combine the cooked quinoa and rice with chopped herbs, diced bell pepper, and red onion.
3. Make the Dressing: In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, lemon zest, salt, and pepper.
4. Combine: Pour the dressing over the quinoa and rice mixture. Toss gently to combine all ingredients well.
5. Serve: Enjoy chilled or at room temperature, garnished with additional lemon slices if desired.

Savory Beef and Broccoli Rice Bowl

This Savory Beef and Broccoli Rice Bowl is a delightful mix of tender beef, crisp broccoli, and fluffy rice, all coated in a delicious sauce. It’s a comforting dish packed with flavor, making it perfect for busy weeknights.

With simple ingredients and quick preparation, this recipe is easy to whip up, ensuring a satisfying meal that the whole family will love. Ready in under 30 minutes, it brings wholesome flavors to your dinner table without the fuss!

Ingredients

• 1 pound beef sirloin, thinly sliced
• 2 cups broccoli florets
• 2 cups cooked rice
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
• 2 tablespoons sesame oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon ginger, minced
• 2 green onions, sliced
• 1 tablespoon sesame seeds (optional)

Instructions

1. Marinate the Beef: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, oyster sauce, garlic, and ginger. Add the beef and let it marinate for about 15 minutes.
2. Cook the Beef: Heat sesame oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated beef and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove and set aside.
3. Stir-Fry the Broccoli: In the same skillet, add broccoli and a splash of water. Cover and steam for 3-4 minutes until tender.
4. Combine: Return the beef to the skillet with the broccoli. Stir everything together and cook for another 2 minutes.
5. Serve: Place the cooked rice in bowls, top with the beef and broccoli mixture, and garnish with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.

Vegetable Stir-Fry with Jasmine Rice

Vegetable stir-fry with jasmine rice is a delightful dish that brings together a colorful array of fresh vegetables and fluffy rice. It’s not only nutritious but also offers a wonderful balance of flavors and textures. The fragrance of the jasmine rice pairs beautifully with the crisp veggies, making each bite satisfying and delicious.

This recipe is super simple to make, perfect for busy weeknights. With just a few ingredients and minimal prep time, you can whip up a wholesome meal that everyone will enjoy. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 cup jasmine rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 1 bell pepper (any color), sliced
• 1 cup broccoli florets
• 1 medium carrot, sliced
• 1 cup snap peas
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon sesame oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice: Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes or until the rice is tender and water is absorbed. Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
2. Prepare the Vegetables: While the rice is cooking, heat vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the Veggies: Toss in the bell pepper, broccoli, carrot, and snap peas. Stir-fry for about 5-7 minutes until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
4. Season: Pour in the soy sauce and sesame oil, stirring well to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve: Fluff the jasmine rice with a fork and serve on plates. Top with the vegetable stir-fry and enjoy your wholesome meal!

Stuffed Bell Peppers with Spanish Rice

Stuffed bell peppers with Spanish rice are a delightful dish that brings a burst of flavor and color to your dinner table. The combination of savory rice seasoned with spices, mixed with ground meat and fresh vegetables, creates a hearty and satisfying meal. Plus, they’re simple to prepare, making them a fantastic option for busy weeknights.

The sweetness of the bell peppers pairs perfectly with the seasoned rice, offering a wholesome taste that everyone will love. This recipe not only looks great but also provides a balanced dinner in one neat package. Perfect for family meals or meal prepping!

Ingredients

• 4 large bell peppers (red, yellow, or green)
• 1 cup Spanish rice
• 1 pound ground beef or turkey
• 1 small onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper to taste
• 1 cup shredded cheese (optional)
• Fresh cilantro for garnish

Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove the seeds. Place them upright in a baking dish.
3. In a skillet, sauté onions and garlic until soft. Add the ground meat and cook until browned. Drain excess fat.
4. Stir in the Spanish rice, diced tomatoes, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Mix well and let it simmer for about 10 minutes.
5. Stuff each bell pepper with the rice mixture, pressing down gently to pack it in. If desired, sprinkle cheese on top.
6. Cover the dish with foil and bake for 30 minutes. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10 minutes until the peppers are tender.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Spicy Shrimp Tacos with Cilantro Lime Rice

These Spicy Shrimp Tacos are a burst of flavor in every bite! The shrimp is seasoned with a kick of spices, making it perfect for those who love a little heat. Paired with cilantro lime rice, this dish is not only delicious but also incredibly easy to whip up in no time at all.

The balance of zesty lime and fresh cilantro in the rice complements the spicy shrimp beautifully. Together, they create a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress your family or guests, yet is simple enough for a weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

• 1 lb shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1/2 teaspoon cumin
• Salt and pepper, to taste
• 8 small flour tortillas
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped
• Juice of 1 lime
• Green onions, for garnish
• Lime wedges, for serving

Instructions

1. Prepare the Shrimp: In a bowl, mix olive oil, paprika, chili powder, cumin, salt, and pepper. Add the shrimp and toss to coat evenly.
2. Cook the Shrimp: Heat a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the seasoned shrimp and cook for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they are pink and cooked through.
3. Make the Cilantro Lime Rice: In a bowl, combine cooked rice, cilantro, and lime juice. Stir until well mixed.
4. Assemble the Tacos: Warm the tortillas in a dry skillet. Fill each tortilla with a portion of the cilantro lime rice and top with spicy shrimp.
5. Garnish and Serve: Finish with chopped green onions and serve with lime wedges on the side.

Creamy Mushroom Risotto

Creamy Mushroom Risotto is a delightful dish that brings together the earthy flavors of mushrooms and the rich creaminess of Arborio rice. With a velvety texture and a hint of garlic, this risotto makes for a comforting meal that feels special yet is easy to prepare.

This recipe is perfect for a cozy dinner at home or as a side dish for entertaining. The simple ingredients combine to create a warm and satisfying flavor profile that everyone will love. Let’s get started on making this delicious risotto!

Ingredients

• 1 cup Arborio rice
• 4 cups chicken or vegetable broth
• 1 cup fresh mushrooms, sliced
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1/2 cup dry white wine (optional)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

1. Prepare the Broth: In a saucepan, heat the broth over low heat and keep it warm.
2. Sauté the Veggies: In a large skillet, heat olive oil and 1 tablespoon of butter. Add the chopped onion and garlic, cooking until soft and fragrant. Then, add the sliced mushrooms and cook until tender.
3. Toast the Rice: Stir in the Arborio rice, cooking for about 2 minutes until it’s well-coated and slightly translucent.
4. Add Wine: If using, pour in the white wine and cook, stirring constantly, until it’s mostly absorbed by the rice.
5. Add Broth Gradually: Begin adding the warm broth one ladle at a time, stirring continuously. Wait until the liquid is mostly absorbed before adding more. Continue this process for about 18-20 minutes until the rice is creamy and al dente.
6. Finish the Risotto: Once the rice is cooked, remove it from the heat. Stir in the remaining butter and Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and enjoy your creamy mushroom risotto!

Teriyaki Chicken Rice Skillet

Teriyaki Chicken Rice Skillet is a delicious, one-pan meal that packs in great flavors without much fuss. The sweet and savory teriyaki sauce complements tender chicken and colorful veggies, making it a delightful option for a quick dinner. This recipe is not only easy to prepare but also perfect for busy weeknights when you want something wholesome and satisfying.

With juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a medley of vibrant vegetables, this dish hits all the right notes. You can have dinner on the table in about 30 minutes, making it a fantastic choice for family meals. Plus, it’s customizable; feel free to add your favorite veggies or adjust the sauce to suit your taste!

Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice

This Garlic Butter Shrimp and Rice dish is a delightful blend of savory and buttery flavors. The shrimp are perfectly cooked and infused with garlic, creating a mouthwatering combination that pairs wonderfully with fluffy rice. It’s simple to whip up, making it an ideal choice for a quick weeknight dinner or a cozy weekend meal.

With just a few ingredients, you can have a wholesome and satisfying meal on the table in no time. The balance of garlic and butter not only enhances the shrimp but also adds richness to the rice, making every bite delicious. Let’s dive into the recipe!

Ingredients

• 1 pound shrimp, peeled and deveined
• 4 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup rice (white or brown)
• 2 cups water or broth
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
• Lemon wedges (for serving)

Instructions

1. Cook the Rice: In a pot, bring 2 cups of water or broth to a boil. Add the rice, cover, and reduce heat to low. Cook according to package instructions until tender.
2. Prepare the Shrimp: In a large skillet, melt butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the Shrimp: Toss in the shrimp and season with paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until shrimp is pink and opaque.
4. Combine: When the rice is done, fluff it with a fork and divide it onto plates. Top with the garlic butter shrimp.
5. Serve: Garnish with fresh parsley and lemon wedges. Enjoy your delicious meal!

Mushroom Fried Rice with Peas

Mushroom fried rice with peas is a delightful and quick meal that combines the earthiness of mushrooms with the sweetness of green peas. This dish is not only packed with flavor but is also a fantastic way to use leftover rice, making it both practical and delicious.

With its simple ingredients and easy-to-follow steps, this recipe is perfect for busy weeknights when you want something comforting yet wholesome. It can be prepared in about 30 minutes, and the addition of a fried egg on top adds an extra layer of richness that elevates the entire dish.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked jasmine or basmati rice
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 cup green peas (fresh or frozen)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 egg (optional)
• Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
2. Add the sliced mushrooms and cook until they are tender and browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Stir in the green peas and cook for another 3 minutes, allowing them to heat through.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, breaking up any clumps. Pour the soy sauce over the rice and mix well. Cook for an additional 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.
5. In a separate pan, fry the egg to your liking, sunny-side up or scrambled, if desired.
6. Season the fried rice with salt and pepper. Serve warm, topped with the fried egg and chopped green onions.