Indulge in the wholesome goodness of brown rice, which not only fills you up but also provides a boost of fiber and satisfaction. The best part? These healthy recipes showcase the versatility of this grain, with its nutty flavor and numerous pairing options. From main courses to side dishes, discover how brown rice can elevate your meals with its creamy, cheesy, meaty, or veggie-packed possibilities.
Chicken and Brown Rice Recipes
When it comes to pairing ingredients, few combinations are as iconic and satisfying as the union of brown rice and chicken. The two work together in perfect harmony, creating a culinary experience that’s both comforting and flavorful. In this section, we’ll explore some of the best brown rice recipes that feature this unbeatable duo, highlighting the ways in which they come together to create a truly delightful meal.
Oven Baked Chicken and Brown Rice Casserole
Imagine a flavorful medley of brown rice, chicken, peas, mushrooms, and onions – a combination that exudes wholesomeness. This oven-baked casserole is a family-friendly delight that yields six generous servings, ensuring everyone gets their fill. The best part? Preparation only takes 10 minutes, after which you’ll need to wait patiently for an hour before indulging in the tender, moist, and richly flavored treat. For an added burst of flavor, sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top.
Crockpot Fiesta Chicken Rice Bowls
Imagine a flavorful fiesta in every bite – a vibrant medley of rice, chicken, enchilada sauce, green chilies, and tangy pico de gallo. This mouthwatering recipe is the epitome of convenience, cooked effortlessly in the crockpot to bring out the best in its nutritious ingredients.
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice
Combining chicken breast and thighs with brown rice and carrots yields a satisfying, protein-packed meal that’s also rich in fiber. The aromatic flavors of thyme, oregano, bay leaves, and cumin infuse the dish, making every bite a delight. What’s more, this recipe is remarkably straightforward, requiring just under an hour to prepare. And with its creamy texture, it’s no wonder why this dish is utterly irresistible.
Healthy Chicken Fried Rice
Indulge in the authentic flavors of Asian takeout at home with this healthy fried rice recipe, packed with a medley of vegetables, protein-rich chicken, and savory eggs. Aromatic notes from garlic, toasted sesame oil, and coconut aminos transport your taste buds to the Far East. To complete the Chinese restaurant experience, garnish with toasted sesame seeds and crispy green onions for added crunch.
Creamy Mushroom Chicken and Brown Rice Casserole
If you’re a fan of the creamy goodness found in traditional mushroom soup, you’ll be thrilled to discover that this recipe offers a dairy-free alternative that’s just as comforting and satisfying. By substituting the usual dairy-based cream with coconut cream, we’ve created a rich and velvety dish that’s perfect for a cozy night in.
At its core, this recipe is all about simplicity. With just onions, mushrooms, chicken, baby spinach, rice, and coconut cream, you won’t need to worry about hunting down exotic ingredients or mastering complex cooking techniques. Just follow the straightforward method outlined below, and you’ll be enjoying a warm, comforting casserole in no time.
As the aroma of this dish wafts from your oven, you might just find yourself salivating in anticipation – it’s that good! So go ahead, indulge in this creamy delight, and let the stress of the day melt away with each satisfying bite.
Chicken Brown Rice Meal Prep
For those who swear by the convenience of meal prep, this recipe is a game-changer. Imagine having a nutritious, filling lunch or dinner that’s packed with essential nutrients, all thanks to the simplicity of pan-fried chicken, roasted vegetables, and flavorful rice. The star of the show is, without a doubt, the garlic – an impressive ten whole cloves are added to give this dish a depth of flavor that’s hard to resist. As you open your lunch box at the office, the tantalizing aroma will have you eager to dig in.
Brown Rice Chicken Congee
Rice porridge, commonly known as Congee, is a versatile culinary delight that offers a rich and flavorful experience. Its creamy texture allows it to effortlessly accommodate an array of ingredients, making it an ideal canvas for experimentation in the kitchen. In this particular recipe, the rice is cooked in a harmonious blend of chicken broth, water, and soy sauce, which serves as the foundation for a medley of aromatic flavors. The addition of chicken, ginger, and garlic provides depth and warmth, while the subtle nuances of lime juice and sesame oil add a touch of brightness and sophistication. To elevate this dish to the next level, consider sprinkling a pinch of chili flakes or paprika for an added layer of complexity and visual appeal.
Chicken Biryani
Innovative twists on traditional dishes can lead to healthier options that still pack plenty of flavor. One such example is a chicken biryani recipe that replaces white rice with fiber-rich brown rice, infusing it with an array of herbs and aromatic seasonings for added depth. The dish’s vibrant orange hue is not only visually appealing but also harmonizes beautifully with the marinated chicken. The saffron-infused rice boasts a distinct flavor profile that’s perfectly balanced by the yogurt-marinated poultry, creating a delightful culinary experience.
Chicken and Vegetable Brown Rice
This recipe has gained a reputation for being a creative way to use up leftover rice. But surprisingly, making it from scratch is just as rewarding. The dish comes together by combining brown rice with an assortment of vegetables including peppers, broccoli, bok choy, and cherry tomatoes. A blend of Italian flavors takes center stage, accompanied by the bold additions of two red chilies and seven garlic cloves. As a result, this recipe delivers a trifecta of spicy, aromatic, and anything-but-boring flavors.
Instant Pot Chicken and Rice Soup
This soul-warming soup is a delight to prepare and serves as the perfect remedy for chilly days, but I must confess that its comforting essence also makes it an excellent choice for a summer’s day. The recipe features a harmonious blend of traditional chicken soup ingredients, including tender chicken, sautéed onions, carrots, and rich broth. To add depth and warmth, a medley of aromatic spices – ginger, garlic, thyme, and bay leaves – are expertly combined. For added sustenance, brown rice is generously incorporated throughout the dish. Serve with a burst of citrusy freshness courtesy of a squeeze of lemon and a sprinkle of chopped parsley for an added pop of color.
Healthy Shrimp and Brown Rice Recipes
While my passion for seafood paella is undeniable, the harmonious union of rice and shrimp is another culinary gem that’s hard to resist. To prove its appeal, here are some delectable and nutritious recipe ideas that showcase this unbeatable combination.
Shrimp Fried Rice
Whipping up a quick and nutritious dinner after a long day at work is just what the doctor ordered. This 22-minute wonder dish, featuring frozen shrimp, peas, and corn, is an absolute game-changer. Not only does it deliver on convenience, but its rich flavors of ginger and garlic will transport your taste buds to the Far East – minus the hefty price tag of takeout. It’s a win-win situation that’s simply too good to pass up.
Shrimp Pesto Rice Bowls
There’s something special about layered dishes that bring together a variety of flavors and textures. This particular bowl is a masterclass in combining shrimp, onions, edamame, and peppers over a bed of nutty brown rice. What truly sets it apart, however, is the star of the show: pesto-marinated shrimp. And what’s impressive is that this recipe doesn’t just stop at using store-bought pesto – it also provides a simple guide for making your own from scratch. The result is a dish that’s not only visually appealing but also rich in flavor and aroma, with each element perfectly balanced to create a truly mouthwatering experience.
Rainbow Asian Rice Salad
Brown rice’s adaptability to Asian cuisine is reminiscent of its white counterpart – it effortlessly absorbs the bold flavors of soy sauce and other staples, resulting in a culinary delight. Similarly, this vibrant Asian salad, comprising a medley of ingredients including rice, carrots, cabbage, mushrooms, radishes, cucumbers, and succulent shrimp, bursts with crunch, color, and flavor. The harmonious union is brought together by the savory dressing, while the subtle nuances of basil, cilantro, and mint provide a refreshing contrast to the rich Asian flavors.
Shrimp Biryani
Imagine the aroma of tender shrimp, fluffy basmati rice infused with caramelized onions and warm Indian spices wafting from your kitchen. This delectable dish can be effortlessly prepared in just 40 minutes using your Instant Pot. The recipe’s simplicity and speed make it a staple for regular rotation. Feel free to experiment by substituting basmati with brown rice, and discover the subtle variations that will elevate this meal to new heights.
Shrimp Stir Fry
Indulge in a mouth-watering brown rice stir-fry that’s bursting with flavor and ready in just 20 minutes. Shrimp and vegetables, smothered in a rich teriyaki sauce, make for a satisfying meal that will leave you wanting more. While bell peppers and snow peas are the recommended choices, feel free to get creative by using whatever seasonal ingredients are available. For an added nutritional boost, toss in some frozen veggies and enjoy the benefits of this easy and effortless dish. This recipe serves four, but be prepared for seconds (and maybe even thirds!) as it’s sure to become a family favorite. And if you’re looking for more delicious shrimp recipes, there are plenty more where that came from! Try one out for dinner tonight!
Cajun Shrimp and Rice
In order to achieve exceptional outcomes, it’s crucial to utilize a cast-iron skillet when preparing this mouthwatering shrimp dish. Begin by coating the shrimp with the Cajun seasoning and cooking them in the skillet for approximately four minutes.Once the shrimp are cooked, combine them with sautéed onions, garlic, peppers, and tomatoes to create a flavorful base. Next, add cooked rice to the mixture and slowly pour in the stock, allowing it to absorb the rich flavors.The end result is a tender, juicy, and fluffy dish that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. This recipe is an ideal choice for a fun family dinner on the weekend, offering a delightful combination of flavors and textures.
Creole Shrimp Jambalaya
This mouthwatering recipe boasts tender shrimp alongside succulent chicken, an impressive medley of vegetables, including onions, celery, peppers, and tomatoes, which collectively infuse the dish with a unique flavor profile. The aromatic trio of thyme, paprika, and oregano are expertly balanced by a generous amount of Cajun seasoning, ensuring this New Orleans-inspired culinary masterpiece is sure to tantalize your taste buds.
Shrimp and Kimchi Stir Fry
If you’re an aficionado of bold flavors, this stir-fry with kimchi, shrimp, and rice is a must-try. The dish boasts a trifecta of tantalizing tastes: the savory umami of marinated shrimp smothered in a soy-gochujang glaze, the pungent kick from garlicky goodness, and the spicy-sour punch from the fermented kimchi. To add some wholesome heft, the mixture is served atop a bed of fluffy brown rice, creating a harmonious balance of textures and nutrients. This Korean-inspired fusion is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a nutritious choice, rich in fiber and packed with vitamins.
Easy Brown Rice Recipes
For individuals seeking straightforward and speedy culinary solutions, these wholesome brown rice creations, brimming with nutritious whole grains, offer the perfect remedy for chaotic weeknight schedules. By leveraging the simplicity of this recipe, you can effortlessly add a boost of fiber and vitamins to your daily meals.
Healthy Brown Rice Salad
Imagine a symphony of flavors and textures that will tantalize your taste buds. A harmonious blend of fluffy brown rice, corn, red peppers, dried apricots, pecans, and sultanas creates a delightful medley. The freshness of coriander adds a welcome note to the dish, while a drizzle of honey, Dijon, and orange dressing brings everything together. But it’s the warm, comforting presence of cinnamon that truly elevates this creation, its gentle heat infusing every bite with a sense of cozy familiarity.
Brown Rice and Sweet Potato Pilaf
This Pakistani-inspired pilaf boasts an incredible combination of flavors, reminiscent of Tehri’s sweet delight. The dish skillfully blends sweet potatoes, curry powder, garlic, scallions, and a hint of ginger, resulting in a culinary experience that is both aromatic and warm. When cooked to perfection, the pilaf is fluffy, soft, and practically melts in your mouth. This treat is not complete without a sprinkle of toasted cashews, which add a satisfying crunch and elevate the texture.
Brown and Wild Rice Stuffed Peppers
Stuffed peppers are a staple in my household, regardless of whether they’re accompanied by meat or not. Their filling and nutritious nature makes them an excellent choice when hosting guests. The convenience factor is also a significant plus, as it allows me to focus on other aspects of the gathering while still serving a satisfying meal.
This vegan recipe stands out for its unique combination of brown and wild rice, which provides a delightful textural contrast. The addition of apples and oranges infuses the dish with a fruity flavor profile that’s both refreshing and invigorating. Cinnamon adds warmth and depth, while chopped walnuts contribute a satisfying crunch.
Overall, this recipe is a true delight, offering a harmonious balance of flavors and textures that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Miso Mushroom Brown Rice
When it comes to family-friendly meals that impress at gatherings, this brown rice and mushroom recipe is a real showstopper. The combination of flavors is truly spectacular, with the earthy tones of the mushrooms, sweetness of the onions, and savory notes of garlic all working together in harmony. And the best part? It’s incredibly easy to prepare, requiring only a few simple steps and minimal effort.To create this flavorful casserole, start by combining cooked brown rice with sautéed mushrooms, onions, and garlic. Then, add a powerful punch of flavor from red miso and soy sauce. For an added depth of flavor, consider mixing in some parmesan cheese to provide a nice balance of sharpness and richness.
Rice and Beans
This delectable Spanish rice recipe is incredibly versatile, making it perfect for serving at lunch, dinner, or as a side dish. What’s more, its quick preparation time of just 30 minutes means you can easily fit it into your busy schedule. The combination of beans, onions, garlic, and tomatoes creates a flavor profile that’s both rich and savory, resulting in the most mouthwatering Spanish rice you’ll ever have the pleasure of savoring.
Mediterranean Rice Salad
Rice salads are incredibly versatile, making them a great option for both whole meals and sides. Their adaptability allows them to complement a wide range of dishes, making them an excellent choice when bringing a dish to a potluck or large gathering. This particular salad is best served chilled, with its harmonious blend of cannellini beans, crumbly feta cheese, and abundance of fresh herbs. The addition of zesty lemon and pungent garlic flavors elevates the dish’s aromatic profile, further solidifying its appeal as a refreshing and satisfying meal or side option.
Collard Greens Rice
Savory brown rice is elevated by a medley of flavors, featuring caramelized onions and hearty collard greens. A blend of aromatic spices – cumin, ginger, turmeric, and coriander – adds depth to the dish. A squeeze of lemon juice brings brightness, while one tablespoon of hot sauce provides a spicy kick. For those who prefer milder fare, omitting this step is an option. This quick-cooking recipe serves four and can be prepared in just 15 minutes from start to finish.
Greek Brown Rice Bowls
Indulge your nostalgia for a Greek getaway by recreating the flavors of Greece in this satisfying grain bowl recipe featuring perfect brown rice.
For fans of Gyros and Greek salad, this dish bridges the gap – minus the need to stop by a restaurant, since it’s all about wholesome comfort food. The addition of brown rice ensures you’ll remain full and content for hours.
To bring everything together, ground lamb, red onions, cucumber, Kalamata olives, fresh herbs, and crumbly feta cheese are all combined to create a culinary masterpiece that’s bursting with texture and flavor in just 35 minutes.
Brown Rice Mushroom Pilaf
Simplicity is key when it comes to meal prep. That’s why this one-pot wonder only requires a handful of ingredients – brown rice, onions, garlic, mushrooms, and broth. Feel free to enhance the flavor with a pinch of salt, a pat of butter, or a sprinkle of parmesan cheese. What’s more, this recipe offers two convenient methods: stovetop and Instant Pot. While the latter may be faster, I recommend trying both approaches to appreciate the nuances in texture and taste.
Vegetarian Mexican Casserole
This delectable Mexican casserole may initially give the impression that it’s a creative way to repurpose leftovers, but its appeal extends far beyond just using up scraps. In fact, this mouthwatering dish is sure to become a go-to meal option, regardless of whether you have leftover rice on hand or not.
Packed with an array of vibrant ingredients, including red onions, tomatoes, corn, black beans, jalapeños, and a colorful medley of peppers, this casserole is also generously loaded with melted cheeses. A squeeze of fresh lime juice brings all the flavors together in perfect harmony.
The best part? This easy-to-prepare meal can be oven-baked to perfection in just 40 minutes, making it an ideal solution for a busy Monday night dinner that’s both meatless and utterly satisfying.
Cilantro Lime Brown Rice
Combining lime and cilantro creates a refreshing flavor profile that elevates even the most mundane dishes to new heights. The citrusy aroma and zesty undertones add a delightful depth to any rice or vegetable-based meal, making it hard to imagine a more uninspiring option.The addition of garlic-infused brown rice takes this recipe to the next level, ensuring that every bite is packed with flavor. And the best part? You can whip it up in no time if you’re using leftover rice, making it an ideal solution for busy days or when you need a quick meal fix.
Edamame Cranberry Brown Rice Salad
When edamame and cranberries are combined, the result is a harmonious fusion of textures and flavors that can bring immense delight. The subtle sweetness of the edamame pairs perfectly with the tartness of the cranberries, creating a culinary experience that’s both exciting and satisfying. Meanwhile, the rice provides a delightful contrast in texture, offering a pleasing combination of chewiness, fluffiness, and crunchiness that complements the overall dish beautifully.
Mexican Pinto Beans and Rice
This Tex-Mex rice and bean dish is a flavorful fusion of all your favorite Mexican seasonings, including chili powder, cumin, paprika, and oregano. The combination results in a rich, bold taste that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters.But what really sets this recipe apart is its addition of sautéed peppers, tomatoes, and jalapenos, which add a depth of flavor and texture that takes it to the next level. And let’s not forget the vegetable broth, which gives the dish a silky smoothness that’s hard to resist.This recipe is perfect for Tex-Mex enthusiasts and those looking for a satisfying side dish or main course. With its bold flavors and creamy consistency, it’s no wonder this recipe is a crowd-pleaser. Plus, if you happen to have leftover beans on hand, be sure to check out our canned pinto bean recipes for more delicious ideas!
Brown Rice Salad
Savoring a symphony of textures, this vibrant salad harmonizes brown rice, beans, corn, creamy avocado, and cherry tomatoes. The medley of softness, crunch, and tanginess is nothing short of delightful. With its impressive fiber content and rapid preparation time of just 20 minutes, this recipe is an ideal choice for a quick and nutritious lunchbox addition.
What truly sets this dish apart is its versatility, with Indian, Mediterranean, and Mexican variations that showcase the adaptability and charm of this salad.
Brown Rice and Sweet Potato Hash
This comforting dish has nothing to do with hash-browns, but promises to be just as satisfying. The combination of sweet potatoes, corn, edamame, and chicken within a flavorful brown rice pot is truly exciting. What sets it apart, however, are the added crunch of pecans and the sweetness of cranberries. This harmonious blend not only provides great texture but also a delicious taste. Plus, it’s a meal that’s perfect for leftovers. And the best part? It can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it an easy and convenient option.
One Pot Mexican Rice Skillet Dinner
Savoring the simplicity of a one-pot meal is a culinary haven for me, especially after a long and exhausting day. The promise of minimal dishes to clean up afterwards is a tantalizing prospect that never fails to put a smile on my face. If you’re in search of a hassle-free option that still packs plenty of flavor, this skillet dinner recipe is sure to hit the spot. With its medley of rice, corn, onions, cheddar, and a generous helping of taco seasoning, this Tex-Mex delight comes together with remarkable ease and efficiency. Feel free to elevate the heat by adding hot sauce or some chopped jalapenos for an added kick.
Veggie Stir Fry
For the meat enthusiasts out there, it’s no secret that vegan dishes often spark skepticism. However, this particular recipe is poised to challenge those preconceptions. Rich in protein, fiber, and an array of bold flavors, this nutritional powerhouse might just have you wondering if you’re indulging in a chicken-based meal. The key lies in the harmonious blend of creamy rice, tender broccoli, crunchy peppers, caramelized onions, and silky tofu – all brought together under the warm glow of a pan and infused with an abundance of savory garlic.
One Pot Vegan Pilaf
For those who may not be vegan enthusiasts, this pilaf is sure to win them over with its abundance of vegetables and diverse flavors. The combination of mushrooms, peppers, zucchini, onions, lentils, and carrots provides a rich tapestry of textures and tastes that’s impossible to resist. Adding a boost of ginger and garlic, along with a medley of warm Indian spices, elevates this dish to new heights. What’s more, it’s a one-pot wonder that makes for an effortless dinner solution. And, as an added bonus, the leftovers only get better with time. To take it to the next level, simply sprinkle some parmesan cheese on top and reheat – the perfect way to enjoy this satisfying meal.
Creamy Brown Rice Risotto
Indulge in the comforting creaminess of risotto, a dish that effortlessly satisfies our cravings for something rich and filling. This plant-based recipe defies the notion that creamy dishes require vegan creams, instead relying on the velvety texture of a silky bean puree to coat the rice. While non-vegans are welcome to add their favorite parmesan topping, I highly recommend trying this recipe in its pure form – it’s truly satisfying and will leave you feeling full.
Sprouted Brown Rice Tuna Stuffed Pepper Salad
This refreshing recipe features bell peppers filled with a delectable tuna salad mixed with rice, cucumber, tomato, olive, and hummus. What sets it apart is that it’s served raw, eliminating the need for oven use.
The combination of ingredients yields a creamy and savory filling that perfectly complements the crunch of the green bell peppers. If you enjoy this unique twist on stuffed peppers, be sure to explore more flavorful recipes in our collection.
Tuna Sushi Bowl
Transforming leftover rice into a delectable sushi bowl is an innovative idea that brings together the harmony of tuna, cucumber, avocado, and nori sheets. The dish takes on a new dimension with the addition of a spicy kick from sriracha and mayo sauce drizzled generously on top. This recipe offers versatility in its presentation, allowing you to create either a large bowl or individual portions. Moreover, its customizability is one of its greatest strengths. Feel free to add smoked salmon to give it an extra layer of flavor and complexity.
Miso Fried Rice
This dish is a masterclass in umami flavors, with an earthy and buttery richness that will leave you craving more. At its core, it’s a harmonious blend of kale, mushrooms, rice, and butter, elevated by the addition of white miso and soy sauce. The key to its depth of flavor lies in the baking process, which allows the kale and mushrooms to develop a satisfying complexity that would be lost with pan-frying.
Shakshuka with Rice and Greens
Transforming your breakfast routine just got a whole lot more exciting! Imagine adding some fiber-rich rice to your shakshuka, elevating this morning staple into a filling and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed at any time of day. This recipe combines the best of Mediterranean flavors with the creaminess of eggs and feta cheese, all nestled among a bed of flavorful peppers, tomatoes, spinach, and onions. With its incredibly soft texture and mere 30-minute preparation time, this dish is sure to become a new favorite.
