Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen every night, trying to whip up a healthy and delicious meal? Look no further! With the rise of mini rice cookers on the market, cooking meals has never been easier. In this article, we will share 20 quick and easy recipes that can be cooked using your mini rice cooker, perfect for busy weeknights when you need a meal in a flash.
From classic comfort foods to international flavors, these recipes are sure to spice up your meal routine and leave you feeling satisfied and energized. Whether you’re a busy professional or a stay-at-home parent, these dishes can be adjusted to suit your taste buds and dietary needs.
In the following pages, we will explore 20 mouthwatering mini rice cooker recipes that are sure to become staples in your kitchen. From hearty bowls to flavorful casseroles, each recipe is carefully crafted to highlight the versatility of this convenient cooking tool.
Garlic Butter Rice with Parmesan
This classic Italian-inspired rice dish is a staple for any meal, elevating the flavor of your favorite main courses. With just a few simple ingredients and steps, you’ll be enjoying a creamy, savory, and aromatic side that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. Cook the rice according to package instructions or using a medium saucepan with 2 cups water, covered, until tender and fluffy.
3. In a small saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
4. Add cooked rice to the butter mixture and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Transfer the rice mixture to a baking dish and top with Parmesan cheese.
6. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Coconut Lime Jasmine Rice
This flavorful side dish combines the warmth of jasmine rice with the brightness of lime and the richness of coconut, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Southeast Asian-inspired dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat. Add the coconut and cook, stirring frequently, until lightly toasted, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the coconut mixture. Cook for 1 minute.
4. Add the water and lime juice to the saucepan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste. Garnish with cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowl
A flavorful and savory dish that combines juicy chicken with a sweet and tangy teriyaki sauce, served over a bed of fluffy rice. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup cooked Japanese-style short-grain rice (such as Koshihikari)
– Sesame seeds and green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, honey, and rice vinegar.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the chicken breasts and cook until browned on both sides, about 5-6 minutes.
3. Pour the teriyaki sauce into the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the chicken is coated.
4. Serve the chicken over cooked Japanese-style rice and garnish with sesame seeds and green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice
Transform leftover rice into a flavorful and spicy dish with this simple recipe. With the bold flavors of kimchi and a kick of gochugaru (Korean chili flakes), you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
– 1/4 teaspoon gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– Salt to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the ginger and gochugaru; stir-fry for 30 seconds.
4. Add the kimchi; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Add the cooked rice; stir-fry for about 5 minutes, breaking up any clumps and mixing well with the kimchi mixture.
6. Season with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped scallions (if desired).
8. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemon Herb Quinoa Pilaf
A bright and citrusy quinoa pilaf infused with the warmth of herbs, perfect as a side dish or light lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add quinoa, water or broth, lemon juice, and thyme. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender and fluffy.
5. Fluff with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice
This flavorful side dish is a perfect accompaniment to any Mexican-inspired meal, with the bright zing of lime and the freshness of cilantro.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup freshly chopped cilantro
– 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 1-2 minutes or until lightly toasted.
3. Add the water to the saucepan and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Mushroom and Wild Rice
A hearty, earthy dish that combines the nutty flavor of wild rice with the rich, umami taste of mushrooms. Perfect for a comforting weeknight meal or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup wild rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and oyster), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a medium saucepan, bring wild rice and water or broth to a boil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until grains are tender.
3. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
4. Add sliced mushrooms, garlic, and thyme to the skillet. Cook, stirring occasionally, until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown (about 10-12 minutes).
5. Combine cooked wild rice and mushroom mixture in a serving dish. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Salmon with Rice
This Asian-inspired dish is a perfect balance of sweet and savory flavors, featuring honey-soy glazed salmon served atop fluffy white rice. It’s an easy and impressive recipe for a weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Green onions and sesame seeds for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small saucepan, combine honey, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Bring to a boil over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
3. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Place salmon fillets on the sheet. Brush the honey-soy glaze all over the fish.
4. Drizzle vegetable oil on top of the fish and season with salt and pepper.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Serve glazed salmon atop cooked white rice. Garnish with green onions and sesame seeds, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea and Rice
This hearty and flavorful dish combines the comfort of warm rice with the savory goodness of chickpeas, all infused with the bright flavors of the Mediterranean. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add garlic, oregano, salt, and pepper; cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in chickpeas and cook for 1-2 minutes or until heated through.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and combine with the chickpea mixture.
6. Top with crumbled feta cheese (if using) and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines tender broccoli, flavorful rice, and a rich cheese sauce for a satisfying side dish or main course. Perfect for family gatherings, potlucks, or a cozy night in.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté broccoli and butter until tender.
3. Combine cooked rice, broccoli mixture, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, milk, salt, and pepper in a 9×13-inch baking dish.
4. Mix well and transfer to the oven.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the top is golden brown and the casserole is hot and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Thai Pineapple Fried Rice
This Thai-inspired fried rice recipe adds a sweet and tangy twist with the addition of pineapple, perfect for a quick and easy meal or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked jasmine rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until tender, about 2-3 minutes.
3. Add the pineapple and cook for an additional minute.
4. Push the vegetable mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs (if using) and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs into the vegetable mixture.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Stir-fry the rice with the vegetable mixture for about 2-3 minutes, until heated through and slightly browned.
8. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Curry Lentil and Basmati Rice
This recipe combines the comforting warmth of lentils with the aromatic flavors of Indian spices, served over fluffy basmati rice. Perfect for a cozy dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 cup basmati rice
Instructions:
1. Cook the lentils according to package instructions using 2 cups of water. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the cumin, curry powder, and turmeric. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the cooked lentils to the skillet and stir to combine. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Cook the basmati rice according to package instructions.
7. Serve the curry lentil mixture over the fluffy basmati rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 45 minutes
Garlic Shrimp and Rice Skillet
This flavorful one-pot dish combines succulent shrimp with aromatic garlic and savory rice, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. With minimal prep and cooking time, you’ll be enjoying a satisfying meal in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
3. Add the shrimp and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Add the rice and chicken broth to the skillet, stirring to combine.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Vegetable Biryani with Cashews
This flavorful and aromatic Vegetable Biryani with Cashews is a perfect blend of spices, vegetables, and nuts that will tantalize your taste buds. With its rich aroma and vibrant colors, this dish is sure to impress!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon ghee or oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, cauliflower, etc.)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder
– 1/2 teaspoon red chili powder
– Salt, to taste
– 1/4 cup cashews, chopped
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat ghee or oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add cumin seeds and let them sizzle for a few seconds.
3. Add the chopped onion, garlic, mixed vegetables, coriander powder, turmeric powder, red chili powder, and salt. Cook until the vegetables are tender.
4. Add 2 cups of water to the saucepan and bring to a boil.
5. Drain the soaked rice and add it to the saucepan. Stir gently to combine.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
7. Fluff the biryani with a fork and garnish with chopped cashews and fresh cilantro.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Sweet and Sour Pork Rice Bowl
Enjoy a flavorful and balanced meal with this sweet and sour pork rice bowl recipe. Crispy pork, tangy sauce, and fluffy rice come together to create a delightful dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 lb pork tenderloin, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow), sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions.
2. In a separate pan, heat oil over medium-high heat. Add pork and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers to the pan. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 5 minutes.
4. Stir in sweet and sour sauce and season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve pork mixture over cooked rice. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spinach and Feta Stuffed Peppers with Rice
A flavorful and nutritious twist on traditional stuffed peppers, this recipe combines the creamy richness of feta cheese with the earthy sweetness of spinach, all wrapped up in a crunchy bell pepper package.
Ingredients:
– 4 large bell peppers, any color
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup fresh spinach leaves, chopped
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the peppers and remove seeds and membranes. Place them in a baking dish.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped spinach, crumbled feta cheese, and olive oil. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Stuff each pepper with the rice mixture, filling to the top.
5. Cover the baking dish with aluminum foil and bake for 30 minutes.
6. Remove foil and continue baking for an additional 15-20 minutes, or until peppers are tender.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork and Rice
Get ready for a comforting meal that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the tender, fall-apart texture of pulled pork with the simplicity of flavorful rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds boneless pork shoulder
– 1 cup ketchup
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– 1 onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together ketchup, brown sugar, vinegar, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Rub the mixture all over the pork shoulder, making sure to coat evenly.
4. Heat olive oil in a large Dutch oven or heavy pot over medium-high heat. Sear the pork until browned on all sides, about 5 minutes per side.
5. Transfer the pot to the preheated oven and braise for 2-1/2 hours, or until tender and easily shredded.
6. Remove from oven and shred with two forks. Serve with cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 3 hours (including cooking time)
Cajun Sausage and Rice Jambalaya
This classic Southern dish combines spicy Cajun sausage with fluffy rice, savory vegetables, and a rich tomato-based broth. A one-pot wonder that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb Cajun sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup diced bell peppers (any color)
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 2 cups chicken broth
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add sausage; cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add onion, garlic, and bell peppers; cook until vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
4. Add rice to the pot; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
5. Add chicken broth, diced tomatoes, cooked sausage, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
6. Bring mixture to a boil; reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, until rice is tender and liquid has been absorbed, about 20-25 minutes.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Greek Lemon Rice with Olives
This vibrant side dish combines the brightness of lemon, the creaminess of Greek yogurt, and the savory flavor of Kalamata olives to create a deliciously well-rounded accompaniment for your favorite Mediterranean-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup Greek yogurt
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup pitted and sliced Kalamata olives
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in Greek yogurt, lemon juice, oregano, salt, and pepper.
5. Combine cooked rice with the skillet mixture and stir until well combined.
6. Fold in sliced olives and serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal (Rice Cooker Hack)
Start your day with a deliciously creamy and nutritious breakfast that’s easy to prepare using your rice cooker. This recipe combines the natural sweetness of banana with the richness of peanut butter, all wrapped up in warm and comforting oatmeal.
Ingredients:
– 1/2 cup rolled oats
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 tablespoons creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 cup water
Instructions:
1. Add the oats, sliced banana, peanut butter, and salt to your rice cooker.
2. Pour in the water, making sure all ingredients are covered.
3. Cook on “White Rice” setting for 20-25 minutes or until the oatmeal has absorbed most of the liquid and has a creamy consistency.
4. Fluff with a fork, then serve warm.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover quick and easy recipes for busy weeknights with your mini rice cooker! From flavorful sides like Garlic Butter Rice with Parmesan to savory main dishes like Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowl, these 20 recipes are sure to please. Try Coconut Lime Jasmine Rice, Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice, or Mediterranean Chickpea and Rice for a taste of international cuisine. For something sweet, whip up Peanut Butter Banana Oatmeal (yes, you can make oatmeal in your rice cooker!) or Greek Lemon Rice with Olives. These recipes are perfect for meal prep or a quick weeknight dinner.
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