When it comes to cooking, time is often of the essence. Busy cooks are always on the lookout for ways to make meal prep easier and faster without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. That’s where the rice cooker comes in – a kitchen staple that can be used to create a wide variety of dishes with minimal effort. In this article, we’ll explore 20 easy and delicious rice cooker recipes that are perfect for busy cooks. From classic side dishes like perfectly fluffy white rice to more adventurous options like savory mushroom risotto, these recipes are sure to become staples in your kitchen.
Perfectly Fluffy White Rice
A staple in many cuisines, perfectly cooked white rice is a simple yet essential side dish that pairs well with a variety of meals. This recipe yields fluffy and tender grains that will elevate your dishes to the next level.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water.
3. Add the olive oil and salt.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
6. Simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
7. Turn off the heat and let it rest for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Garlic Butter Jasmine Rice
Elevate your meals with this aromatic and flavorful rice dish, perfect for accompanying grilled meats, seafood, or as a side to your favorite stir-fry. This recipe combines the creamy richness of garlic butter with the delicate fragrance of jasmine rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 3 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. While the rice cooks, melt the butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook, stirring occasionally, until fragrant (about 1 minute).
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the garlic butter mixture and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Milk Rice Pudding
A creamy and comforting dessert that combines the flavors of coconut milk and rice. This simple recipe is perfect for a warm weather treat or as a unique side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 3 cups coconut milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice, coconut milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is creamy.
4. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract.
5. Serve warm or chilled, garnished with toasted coconut flakes or chopped nuts if desired.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
One-Pot Chicken and Rice
Simplify your meal prep with this hearty one-pot dish, packed with juicy chicken, flavorful rice, and aromatic spices. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a comforting weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 4 cups chicken broth
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried thyme
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 tbsp olive oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large Dutch oven or saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pot.
3. Add the onion and garlic; cook until the onion is translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add the rice, chicken broth, thyme, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the pot and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Vegetable Fried Rice
A simple and flavorful recipe that’s perfect for using up leftover vegetables and rice. This dish is a great way to add some excitement to a weeknight dinner or as a quick lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g., carrots, peas, corn)
– 2 teaspoons soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon oyster sauce (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (for garnish)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and minced garlic; cook until the onion is translucent.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cooked rice; stir-fry for 2-3 minutes.
4. Add the soy sauce, oyster sauce (if using), salt, and pepper; stir-fry for another minute.
5. Taste and adjust the seasoning as needed.
6. Transfer to a serving platter and garnish with chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Spanish Rice with Tomatoes
This classic Spanish-inspired rice dish is a staple in many Latin American cuisines. It’s easy to make and packed with flavor, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite dishes.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the rice and stir to coat with the oil and mix with the onion mixture.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is lightly toasted.
6. Add the water, diced tomatoes, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Savory Mushroom Risotto
This classic Italian dish is a perfect blend of earthy mushrooms and creamy risotto. With its rich flavors and comforting texture, it’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (such as cremini, shiitake, and button), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 5 minutes.
4. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add wine (if using); cook until absorbed, stirring constantly.
6. Add broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
7. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until rice is creamy and cooked through.
8. Remove from heat; stir in Parmesan cheese.
9. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
10. Garnish with chopped parsley (if desired).
Sweet Sticky Mango Rice
A classic Southeast Asian dessert, Sweet Sticky Mango Rice is a flavorful and refreshing treat perfect for warm weather. This easy-to-make recipe combines the natural sweetness of mango with the creamy richness of coconut milk and the chewy texture of sticky rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup glutinous (sticky) rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the sticky rice and soak it in water for at least 4 hours or overnight.
2. Drain and cook the rice according to package instructions or using a rice cooker.
3. In a separate saucepan, combine sugar and coconut milk. Heat over medium heat until the sugar dissolves.
4. Add the diced mango and melted butter to the saucepan. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the mixture thickens slightly.
5. Combine the cooked sticky rice with the mango-coconut mixture. Mix well to coat the rice evenly.
6. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Sweet Sticky Mango Rice!
Lemon Herb Quinoa
A refreshing twist on traditional quinoa, this Lemon Herb Quinoa recipe is perfect for a light and flavorful side dish or main course. The combination of tangy lemon zest, fragrant herbs, and nutty quinoa makes for a delightful culinary experience.
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 grated lemon zest
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add quinoa and stir to coat with oil and mix with onion mixture.
4. Add water or broth, lemon juice, and zest. 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 stir in chopped parsley. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mexican Cilantro Lime Rice
Add a burst of flavor to your Mexican-inspired dishes with this simple and aromatic rice recipe. Fresh cilantro, lime juice, and toasted spices come together to create a delicious side dish that pairs perfectly with grilled meats, vegetables, or as a base for tacos.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup fresh cilantro leaves, chopped
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lime juice
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add garlic, cumin, and chopped cilantro; cook for 1 minute.
4. Add rice and stir to combine with the mixture.
5. Add water and lime juice. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
6. Fluff with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This comforting casserole combines the flavors of steaming broccoli, creamy cheese, and fluffy rice, making it a perfect meal for any occasion. With its easy preparation and delightful taste, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup butter
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large skillet, sauté the onion and garlic until softened.
3. Add broccoli to the skillet and cook until tender.
4. In a separate mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, cheddar cheese, mozzarella cheese, and butter.
5. In a 9×13 inch baking dish, layer the cooked broccoli mixture, then the rice mixture.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice
This Spicy Kimchi Fried Rice recipe combines the bold flavors of kimchi with the comfort of a classic fried rice dish, adding a spicy kick from gochugaru (Korean chili flakes). Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying lunch.
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 gochugaru (Korean chili flakes)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 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 kimchi; stir-fry for 2 minutes.
4. Add the cooked rice, gochugaru, salt, and pepper; stir-fry for 5-7 minutes, breaking up any clumps.
5. Push the rice mixture to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
6. Mix the eggs into the rice mixture.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowl
Elevate your meal with this flavorful Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowl recipe, featuring succulent salmon fillets glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, served atop a bed of fluffy Japanese rice.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 2 cups cooked Japanese rice
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– 1 green onion, thinly sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Place the salmon fillets on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Brush the teriyaki sauce evenly over both sides of the salmon.
5. Bake for 12-15 minutes, or until cooked through.
6. Cook Japanese rice according to package instructions.
7. Heat sesame oil in a pan and sauté sliced green onions until tender.
8. Assemble the Teriyaki Salmon Rice Bowl by placing a portion of rice on a plate, topping with baked salmon, and garnishing with sautéed green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pineapple Fried Rice
A sweet and savory twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines the flavors of pineapple, soy sauce, and scrambled eggs for a delicious and easy meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (e.g. peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the garlic and cook for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they’re tender-crisp, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Push the vegetables to one side of the pan. Crack in the eggs and scramble them until cooked through.
5. Mix the eggs with the vegetables.
6. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula.
7. Stir-fry the rice for about 2-3 minutes, until heated through and slightly toasted.
8. Add the diced pineapple, soy sauce, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry everything together for another minute.
9. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes.
Curry Coconut Rice
Elevate your rice game with this flavorful and aromatic curry coconut rice recipe! This dish is perfect as a side or main course, packed with the warmth of Indian spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon curry powder
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon turmeric
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in curry powder, cumin, and turmeric; cook for 1-2 minutes.
5. Add rice and water to the saucepan; bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
7. Stir in coconut milk and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mediterranean Rice Pilaf
Mediterranean Rice Pilaf: A flavorful and aromatic side dish that combines the warmth of saffron with the brightness of Mediterranean herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini)
– 1 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 2 tablespoons hot water
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh oregano
– Salt to taste
– Crumbly feta cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften, about 5 minutes.
5. Add the rice, soaked saffron, parsley, oregano, and salt. Stir well.
6. Add the water and bring to a boil.
7. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
8. Fluff with a fork and top with crumbly feta cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Brown Rice with Roasted Vegetables
A flavorful and nutritious side dish perfect for any meal. This recipe combines the nutty taste of brown rice with the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables, making it a delicious accompaniment to your favorite main courses.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown rice
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and cubed
– 1 large red bell pepper, seeded and sliced
– 1 large zucchini, sliced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: garlic powder, paprika, or other herbs for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, bring water or broth to a boil. Add brown rice, cover, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 40-45 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
3. Toss sweet potato, bell pepper, and zucchini with olive oil, salt, and pepper on a baking sheet. Roast in the oven for 25-30 minutes or until vegetables are tender.
4. Serve brown rice alongside roasted vegetables.
Cooking Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
Steamed Rice with Black Beans
A simple and nutritious recipe that combines the comforting warmth of steamed rice with the protein-packed goodness of black beans.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed (15 ounces)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Drain and set aside.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
4. While the rice cooks, heat the olive oil in a separate pan over medium heat. Add the black beans and cook for 2-3 minutes or until they’re slightly browned and fragrant.
5. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork to separate the grains. Stir in the black beans and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Honey Glazed Carrot Rice
This flavorful side dish combines the natural sweetness of carrots with the richness of honey, perfect for accompanying your favorite main courses. With a hint of spice and a pop of color from the carrots, this recipe is sure to become a new family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1 large carrot, peeled and grated
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the grated carrot and cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Stir in the honey, cumin, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the honey is caramelized.
4. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and add it to the skillet with the carrot-honey mixture. Stir until well combined.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Ginger Rice
This aromatic rice dish is a perfect accompaniment to any meal, with the warmth of turmeric and ginger adding depth and complexity. It’s also packed with nutrients from these two powerful spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 teaspoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/2 teaspoon ground turmeric
– Salt, to taste
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add the ginger and cook, stirring occasionally, for 1 minute.
4. Add the turmeric and cook for another minute, stirring constantly.
5. Add the rice and water 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.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of cooking rice from scratch? Look no further! This article features 20 easy and delicious rice cooker recipes that will make your mealtime prep a breeze. From classic white rice to flavorful fried rice dishes, and even desserts like coconut milk pudding, there’s something for everyone. Perfect for busy cooks, these recipes require minimal effort but yield impressive results. Whether you’re in the mood for comfort food or international cuisine, this collection has got you covered. So go ahead, fire up your rice cooker, and get ready to enjoy a world of flavors!