When it comes to cooking, there’s nothing more convenient than a rice cooker. This versatile appliance can help you prepare a wide range of dishes with minimal effort and maximum flavor. From hearty stews to flavorful curries, rice cookers are incredibly versatile. And the best part? They’re perfect for busy weeknights when you need a quick and easy meal that’s also delicious.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 easy rice cooker recipes that are sure to become new favorites in your household. From classic comfort foods like mac and cheese to international flavors like Japanese curry, there’s something for everyone on this list. Whether you’re a busy professional or a busy parent, these recipes will help you create delicious meals with ease.
Garlic Butter Rice Cooker Chicken
This recipe combines the convenience of a rice cooker with the richness of garlic butter and chicken, making it a perfect meal for a busy day.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cloves of garlic, minced
– 2 tbsp unsalted butter
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the chicken and pat dry with paper towels.
2. Add the chicken to the rice cooker and sprinkle with minced garlic.
3. In a separate bowl, mix together melted butter and salt and pepper to taste.
4. Pour the butter mixture over the chicken and garlic in the rice cooker.
5. Add uncooked rice and water to the rice cooker.
6. Cook on the “white rice” setting for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
One-Pot Rice Cooker Jambalaya
A flavorful and hearty one-pot dish that combines the classic Cajun and Creole spices with the convenience of a rice cooker. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 large onion, diced
– 3 stalks celery, sliced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 teaspoon paprika
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/2 teaspoon cayenne pepper
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 cups chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Add the olive oil, onion, and celery to the rice cooker.
2. Cook on high for 5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
3. Add the chicken, diced tomatoes, paprika, garlic powder, cayenne pepper, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Add the uncooked rice and chicken broth. Stir again to combine.
5. Cook on low for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid has been absorbed.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Rice with Mango
Elevate your rice game with this creamy and sweet coconut-infused dish, perfectly paired with the juicy flavor of mango. This side dish is perfect for Caribbean-inspired meals or as a unique addition to your next BBQ.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1 tablespoon coconut oil
– 1 ripe mango, diced
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until liquid is absorbed.
3. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and stir in the unsweetened shredded coconut, coconut oil, and salt.
4. In a separate pan, sauté the diced mango over medium heat until caramelized, about 5 minutes.
5. Combine the cooked rice mixture with the caramelized mango. Serve warm or at room temperature.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Rice Cooker Mac and Cheese
This comforting dish is a twist on the classic macaroni and cheese recipe, cooked to perfection in your trusty rice cooker. With minimal effort and maximum flavor, you’ll be enjoying a warm, cheesy bowl of goodness in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup macaroni
– 2 cups milk
– 2 tablespoons butter
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
– 1 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. Cook the macaroni according to package instructions in the rice cooker.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together the milk, butter, cheddar and Parmesan cheese until smooth.
3. Add the salt and pepper to the cheese mixture and stir well.
4. Pour the cheese mixture over the cooked macaroni in the rice cooker.
5. Cook on high for 20-25 minutes or low for 40-45 minutes, stirring occasionally.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-45 minutes
Japanese Rice Cooker Curry
Experience the convenience of a one-pot meal with this simple Japanese-style curry recipe cooked directly in your rice cooker. This comforting dish is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Japanese short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon curry powder
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: protein of your choice (chicken, beef, or tofu)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and add it to the rice cooker with water.
2. Add diced onion, sliced red bell pepper, curry powder, cumin, salt, and pepper on top of the rice.
3. Pour in coconut milk and mix gently.
4. Cook according to your rice cooker’s instructions (usually 30-40 minutes).
5. Once cooked, fluff the mixture with a fork and add protein of your choice (if using).
Cooking Time: approximately 35-45 minutes
Rice Cooker Mushroom Risotto
Transform your rice cooker into a risotto machine! This recipe yields a rich and creamy dish packed with earthy mushroom flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in the rice cooker and sauté onion and garlic until softened.
2. Add mushrooms and cook until they release their moisture and start browning.
3. Add Arborio rice and stir to combine with mushroom mixture.
4. Pour in warmed broth, 1 cup at a time, stirring after each addition and allowing liquid to be absorbed before adding more.
5. If using wine, add it during the last 2 cups of broth.
6. Cook for 20-25 minutes or until rice is creamy and tender.
7. Stir in butter and season with salt and pepper.
8. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rice Cooker Spanish Rice
Elevate your meal with this flavorful Spanish rice recipe, cooked to perfection in a simple and convenient way using your trusty rice cooker!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small onion, diced
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon saffron threads, soaked in 1 tablespoon hot water
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Optional: 1 cup cooked chicken, shrimp, or vegetables for added protein
Instructions:
1. Rinse rice and drain well.
2. In the rice cooker pot, heat olive oil over medium-high. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened (3-4 minutes).
3. Add paprika and saffron mixture. Stir to combine.
4. Add rice and water to the pot. Season with salt and pepper.
5. Cook according to rice cooker instructions or high-pressure setting for 20-25 minutes.
6. Fluff cooked rice with a fork. If desired, add cooked protein and stir to combine.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rice Cooker Honey Soy Salmon
A sweet and savory take on salmon cooking, this recipe yields tender and flavorful fish with a sticky honey soy glaze. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1/2 cup honey
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp rice vinegar
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat the rice cooker to “white rice” mode.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, rice vinegar, brown sugar, and ginger until well combined.
3. Place salmon fillets in the rice cooker, leaving space between each piece.
4. Pour the honey-soy glaze over the salmon, making sure they’re fully coated.
5. Add water to the rice cooker and cook for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Rice Cooker Lentil Stew
A hearty, comforting lentil stew cooked to perfection with the help of your trusty rice cooker.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup brown or green lentils, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water
– 1 onion, chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 carrot, peeled and chopped
– 1 celery stalk, chopped
– 1 can diced tomatoes (14.5 oz)
– 1 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Optional: your favorite herbs or spices for added flavor
Instructions:
1. Add lentils, water, onion, garlic, carrot, and celery to the rice cooker.
2. Stir in diced tomatoes, thyme, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on the “Grain” setting according to manufacturer’s instructions (approximately 30-40 minutes).
4. Once cooked, stir well and add any desired herbs or spices for extra flavor.
Cooking Time: Approximately 30-40 minutes
Rice Cooker Pineapple Fried Rice
A sweet and savory twist on traditional fried rice, this recipe combines cooked rice with juicy pineapple chunks and savory spices for a delicious and easy meal. Perfect for a quick lunch or dinner!
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed veggies (e.g., peas, carrots, corn)
– 1/2 cup diced fresh pineapple
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add mixed veggies, pineapple, onion, and garlic to the rice cooker.
2. Mix in cooked rice, vegetable oil, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
3. Cook on “Fried Rice” mode or brown rice setting for 10-12 minutes, stirring occasionally.
4. Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped scallions (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rice Cooker Teriyaki Chicken Bowl
This sweet and savory recipe is a twist on traditional teriyaki chicken, cooked to perfection in your rice cooker! With minimal effort, you’ll be enjoying a flavorful and nutritious meal in no time.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon sesame oil
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice (preferably day-old rice)
– Sliced green onions, sesame seeds, and diced bell peppers for garnish
Instructions:
1. Add chicken to the rice cooker. In a separate bowl, whisk together teriyaki sauce, water, honey, soy sauce, garlic powder, and sesame oil.
2. Pour the marinade over the chicken in the rice cooker.
3. Cook on high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally before opening the cooker.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and portion into bowls.
6. Serve the teriyaki chicken on top of the rice, garnished with green onions, sesame seeds, and diced bell peppers.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rice Cooker Quinoa Pilaf
Elevate your quinoa game with this simple and flavorful rice cooker pilaf recipe! This dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthy side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, cilantro, etc.) for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. Add quinoa, water or broth, olive oil, onion, garlic, cumin, salt, and pepper to your rice cooker.
3. Cook on the “white rice” setting for 20-25 minutes or until the quinoa is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
4. Fluff with a fork and garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rice Cooker Beef and Broccoli
This hearty one-pot dish is a perfect meal solution for busy days. With minimal prep work, your rice cooker does the rest to cook tender beef, crisp broccoli, and flavorful rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb beef strips (sirloin or ribeye)
– 2 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Add the beef, broccoli, rice, water, soy sauce, and olive oil to your rice cooker.
2. Cook on high pressure for 15 minutes.
3. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before opening.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 25 minutes
Enjoy a quick, delicious meal with this easy recipe!
Rice Cooker Pumpkin Rice
Elevate your rice game with this comforting and flavorful fall-inspired dish, perfect for a cozy evening or casual gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/2 cup canned pumpkin puree
– 2 tablespoons butter
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh herbs (parsley, sage, or thyme)
Instructions:
1. Add rice and water to the rice cooker.
2. Mix in pumpkin puree and melted butter.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Cook on “White Rice” setting until done (approximately 20-25 minutes).
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and garnish with chopped fresh herbs, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rice Cooker Egg Fried Rice
This simple recipe yields a delicious and satisfying meal using your rice cooker. Perfect for a busy day or a late-night snack, this egg fried rice is a great way to use up leftover rice.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the rice cooker with 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Pour in the beaten eggs and scramble until cooked through.
5. Stir in the cooked rice, soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
6. Mix well to combine.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Rice Cooker Black Bean Chili
Make a deliciously simple and satisfying meal with this Rice Cooker Black Bean Chili recipe! This hearty dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked black beans, rinsed and drained
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/2 cup cooked rice
– 1 tablespoon chili powder
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: jalapeños, sour cream, shredded cheese for topping
Instructions:
1. Add rinsed black beans, diced tomatoes, cooked rice, chili powder, cumin, and paprika to the rice cooker.
2. Cook on the “chili” setting (or high pressure) for 30-40 minutes.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with jalapeños, sour cream, and shredded cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Rice Cooker Lemon Herb Shrimp
This recipe combines the convenience of a rice cooker with the bright flavors of lemon, herbs, and succulent shrimp. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– 2 tablespoons freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon chopped fresh parsley
– 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice cooker insert and add the shrimp, lemon juice, olive oil, garlic, parsley, and thyme.
2. Cook on high for 10-12 minutes or until the shrimp are pink and cooked through.
3. Add the salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot over cooked rice.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Rice Cooker Sweet Potato Rice
This recipe combines the natural sweetness of sweet potatoes with fluffy rice, all cooked to perfection in a single appliance – your rice cooker! This easy-to-make dish is perfect for accompanying your favorite meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 large sweet potato, peeled and diced
– 2 cups uncooked white or brown rice
– 3 cups water
– Salt to taste (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the diced sweet potato to the rice cooker.
2. Place the rice on top of the sweet potatoes.
3. Add the water to the rice cooker, making sure that the water level is at least an inch above the rice and sweet potatoes.
4. Add salt to taste, if desired.
5. Cook on the “white rice” setting or “porridge” setting (if available) for 20-25 minutes.
6. Turn off the cooker and let it stand for 5 minutes before serving.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Rice Cooker Thai Basil Chicken
Experience the bold flavors of Thailand with this easy and delicious Rice Cooker Thai Basil Chicken recipe. This dish is a perfect combination of savory, spicy, and aromatic flavors that will tantalize your taste buds.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 cups uncooked white rice
– 4 cups water
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1/4 cup Thai basil leaves, chopped
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce (optional)
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground white pepper
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil or cooking spray for the rice cooker
Instructions:
1. Place chicken, garlic, ginger, Thai basil, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), sugar, and white pepper in the rice cooker.
2. Add water and mix well. Cook on the “white rice” setting according to manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Remove cooked chicken from the rice cooker. Strain juices into a bowl, leaving chicken intact. Discard excess liquid.
4. Serve hot, garnished with additional Thai basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Rice Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal
Start your day with a warm and comforting bowl of Rice Cooker Apple Cinnamon Oatmeal. This recipe is perfect for busy mornings when you need a quick and easy breakfast that’s also delicious!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon honey (optional)
– 1/2 apple, diced (any variety)
– Pinch of nutmeg (optional)
Instructions:
1. Add the oats, water or milk, cinnamon, and salt to your rice cooker.
2. Cook on “white rice” mode for 15-20 minutes, or until the oats have absorbed most of the liquid and the mixture has a creamy consistency.
3. Stir in the honey (if using) and diced apple.
4. Taste and adjust the sweetness or spice level as needed.
5. Serve warm, topped with an extra sprinkle of cinnamon and a pinch of nutmeg (if desired).
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Are you tired of spending hours in the kitchen on busy weeknights? Look no further! This article presents 20 easy and delicious rice cooker recipes to simplify your mealtime routine. From classic comfort food like mac and cheese, to international flavors like Japanese curry and Thai basil chicken, these recipes are quick, easy, and perfect for a family dinner or solo meal. With ingredients readily available in most pantries, you’ll be whipping up mouthwatering dishes in no time. Get ready to elevate your cooking game with these effortless rice cooker recipes!
