35 Scrumptious Brown Rice Recipes We Devour for a Quick and Easy Dinner

Carmen Eldridge

October 26, 2025

Understandably, you might be thinking that brown rice recipes are nothing out of the ordinary. However, these dishes offer more than just a familiar taste. They can add a twist to your usual meal routine and provide a wealth of inspiration for innovative rice dinner ideas. From comforting sides to elaborate main courses, the possibilities with brown rice are endless.

Brown rice is often misunderstood as being no different in terms of calorie count compared to white rice, but it has one significant advantage – more fiber. This added nutritional benefit makes it an excellent choice for those looking to upgrade their meal game without sacrificing flavor or convenience.

Whether you’re a seasoned home cook or a novice in the kitchen, these brown rice recipes are sure to become a staple in your repertoire and may even inspire you to discover new favorite dishes (and possibly ten more besides)!

How To Cook Brown Rice and More!

How To Cook Brown Rice and More!

Brown Rice with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese

Brown Rice with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese

Cooking with brown rice is always a pleasure, but sometimes, it can get quite repetitive. Its nutty, earthy flavor profile is undeniably delightful, yet, there are times when we crave something more exciting. This recipe presents an innovative take on traditional brown rice by infusing it with the richness of spinach and the pungency of Parmesan cheese, elevating this simple dish to a whole new level.

The addition of fresh green spinach adds a vibrant pop of color, while the use of nutritional yeast provides a vegan alternative for those who prefer plant-based options.

Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice

Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice

Certainly, this brown rice recipe stands out from the rest due to its exceptional flavor profile and perfect balance of spices. The ingredients are simple yet effective, consisting of rice, garlic, onions, butter, soy sauce, parsley, and a unique blend of Texas spices that elevates it to new heights. It’s an ideal accompaniment to Texas Roadhouse chili, making each bite a harmonious combination of flavors.

For added depth, I recommend sprinkling Parmesan cheese on top – although this is entirely optional. What’s truly remarkable about this recipe is its ease and rapid preparation time, requiring only a few minutes to bring everything together. And the best part? The finished product boasts an authenticity that rivals the original! Go to Recipe

Lemon Parmesan Brown Rice

Lemon Parmesan Brown Rice

Known for its simplicity and burst of citrusy flavors, this recipe is an excellent way to elevate your plain rice dish. The combination of lemon juice, Parmesan cheese, onions, and bay leaves creates a harmonious balance of sweet, tangy, and savory notes that will surely tantalize the taste buds. Whether you’re hosting dinner parties or just looking for a weeknight meal, this dish is quick, easy to prepare, and guaranteed to impress your loved ones. So why not give it a try tonight?

Toasted Brown Rice with Mushrooms & Thyme Recipe

Toasted Brown Rice with Mushrooms & Thyme Recipe

Flavorful dishes often require a delicate balance of ingredients, but in this case, the combination of toasted rice, garlic, and herbs creates a harmonious union that elevates the entire dish. At first glance, it may seem like an overly complicated recipe, but don’t be deterred – the beauty lies in its simplicity. The crucial step of toasting the rice with garlic in a hot pan before adding the mushrooms and thyme is what sets this dish apart from others.

By incorporating this technique, you’ll not only add a nutty flavor to the rice, but also prevent it from becoming mushy and unappetizing. If you’re looking for a dinner party recipe that’s sure to impress your guests without requiring an excessive amount of time or effort, then look no further – this one is a must-try.

Buttery Seasoned Rice

Buttery Seasoned Rice

Mexican Rice

Mexican Rice

Yellow corn and the rich flavors of Mexico come together in this beloved dish that’s been a staple in my culinary journey. Years ago, I stumbled upon Mexican rice for the first time, and it quickly became one of my go-to recipes. You see, using fresh ingredients is crucial to making great Mexican rice – think freshly diced tomatoes instead of relying on canned or paste versions. Additionally, adding bell peppers not only provides a delightful crunch but also elevates the overall flavor profile.

Slow Cooker Jambalaya

Slow Cooker Jambalaya

Needless to say, crockpot sides have become a staple in my household, consistently impressing family and friends alike. Not only is this recipe a game-changer for busy days, but it also allows you to enjoy a delicious and hearty meal without sacrificing precious time in the kitchen. The beauty of slow cooking lies in its simplicity, requiring only a few basic ingredients to be prepped before letting the crockpot do the rest.

As dinner time approaches, you’ll be greeted with a richly flavored and satisfying dish that’s sure to become a new favorite.

Korean Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Korean Ground Turkey Lettuce Wraps

Taking inspiration from traditional Korean cuisine, this mouth-watering ground turkey recipe is a game-changer for anyone looking for a healthy and flavorful meal option. The combination of lean ground turkey, aromatic Korean spices, and crunchy fresh veggies creates a delightful balance of textures and tastes that will satisfy even the most discerning palates.

What’s more, these wraps are incredibly quick to prepare, ready in just 30 minutes from start to finish – perfect for busy days or weeknight meals!

Mediterranean Brown Rice Salad

Mediterranean Brown Rice Salad

Knowing that Mediterranean cuisine is renowned for its health benefits, this vibrant salad is a perfect reflection of the region’s culinary style. It’s packed with a medley of nutritious ingredients such as juicy tomatoes, crumbly feta cheese, and peppery arugula, all working together in harmony to create a feast for the eyes as much as the taste buds.

The emphasis on wholesome elements in Mediterranean cuisine makes this salad an excellent choice for serving guests, allowing you to indulge them with a dish that’s not only delicious but also healthy. The combination of flavors and textures is so engaging that it’s unlikely to leave anyone unaffected. Go to Recipe

Smoky Instant Pot Lentils and Rice

Smoky Instant Pot Lentils and Rice

Looking for a quick and nutritious meal solution for your busy weeknights? This one-pot dish is packed with protein, flavor, and essential nutrients, making it an ideal choice for those in a hurry. With just a few simple ingredients, you can create a mouthwatering meal that will leave you feeling warm and satisfied on the inside.

Simply add all the necessary components to your Instant Pot and let its advanced technology do the work for you, resulting in a dish that’s both easy to prepare and packed with fiber.

Black Beans and Brown Rice

Black Beans and Brown Rice

Packed with nutrients and perfect for vegetarians or those looking to incorporate more plant-based foods into their diet, this dish is a nutritious and delicious option. Preparation time is minimal, taking less than an hour from start to finish, making it ideal for busy households. Additionally, the recipe is incredibly healthy, boasting high levels of protein and fiber, and can be easily adapted for non-vegan diets by substituting vegetable broth with chicken broth.

With its numerous benefits and simplicity, this dish is sure to become a staple in many kitchens.

Vegetarian Meatloaf

Vegetarian Meatloaf

Offering a solution for those seeking to reduce their reliance on meat but still yearn for the hearty taste of a traditional meatloaf, this recipe presents an ideal compromise. By incorporating an abundance of vegetables, brown rice, and carefully selected spices, it provides a satisfying alternative that even the most devoted meat enthusiasts are sure to enjoy.

Poke Bowl

Poke Bowl

With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe is perfect for those who want to whip up something delicious without much fuss. One of its biggest advantages is its incredible versatility, allowing you to tailor it to your taste preferences with ease. You can incorporate any protein source you like and add or subtract vegetables and fruits as per your preference.

To give it an extra kick, simply add some hot sauce or salsa – I’m a fan of the heat, but if mild is more your style, that’s perfectly fine too.

Vegan Stuffed Squash with Brown Rice and Mushrooms

Vegan Stuffed Squash with Brown Rice and Mushrooms

Elevating the flavors of fall, this recipe showcases the beauty of a beloved season’s favorite vegetable. The squash is carefully prepared by stuffing it with a rich mixture of rice, mushrooms, and aromatic spices, then baked to perfection in the oven. This delightful dish offers a perfect balance of being both filling and healthy, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a satisfying yet guilt-free meal.

Brown Rice Sushi Bowl

Brown Rice Sushi Bowl

Craving sushi but concerned about the cost? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! This recipe is not only budget-friendly but also incredibly versatile. You can easily customize it by adding your favorite toppings, making every bite feel like a bespoke culinary experience. The base of this dish features brown rice that’s been expertly simmered in a zesty dressing, before being topped with fresh avocado, nori seaweed sheets, and crispy tofu.

To take it to the next level, serve with a side of soy sauce and wasabi for a flavor combination that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Tokyo. This recipe is perfect for anyone looking for a delicious, healthy meal without breaking the bank.

Veggie Burger

Veggie Burger

Delicious veggie burgers are always a crowd-pleaser, and making them at home is easier than you think. To make a mouth-watering veggie burger, start by mixing together all the patty ingredients along with some aromatic spices that will enhance the flavors. After blending everything together, shape the mixture into patties and cook until they’re nicely browned on both sides. Finally, place them on a toasted bun with your preferred toppings, and indulge in this tasty treat!

Korean Ground Beef and Rice Bowls

Korean Ground Beef and Rice Bowls

Cooking up a storm has never been easier than with this straightforward recipe that even novice cooks can master. Perfect for satisfying the cravings of even the most discerning diners, this dish is sure to become a family favorite. The secret lies in the Korean-style sauce, which skillfully combines sweet, spicy, and savory flavors in perfect harmony. To add an extra touch of flavor, I like to garnish with a sprinkle of green onions and sesame seeds.

But for those who want to take their meal to the next level, I recommend pairing it with pickled vegetables and a refreshing cucumber salad.

Dirty Brown Rice with Shrimp

Dirty Brown Rice with Shrimp

Drenched in rich and savory flavors, this meal is the perfect antidote to a gloomy day when you’re feeling down. Don’t be fooled by its unassuming appearance – it’s exactly that lack of pretension that makes it so endearing! The bold flavors will lift your spirits and leave you feeling comforted and satisfied, especially after a night out on the town or a long, tiring week.

Turkey (or Chicken) and Brown Rice Soup

Turkey (or Chicken) and Brown Rice Soup

Laden with wholesome goodness, this soup is packed with lean protein, brown rice, and an assortment of colorful vegetables. The inclusion of brown rice adds a satisfying chewiness that truly elevates the overall experience. I find it convenient to prepare a large quantity on weekends, allowing me to enjoy a warm, comforting bowl for lunch or dinner throughout the week. Additionally, this soup freezes remarkably well, making it easy to stock up and have a steady supply.

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe with Ground Beef and Brown Rice

Easy Stuffed Bell Peppers Recipe with Ground Beef and Brown Rice

Keeping with the trend of easy and delicious meals for a crowd, stuffed bell peppers are a timeless classic that can be easily customized to suit individual tastes. This particular recipe offers a variation on the traditional dish by substituting ground beef and brown rice for the standard white rice.

Brown Rice Burrito Bowl

Brown Rice Burrito Bowl

Versatility is a key characteristic of this dish, thanks to the diverse array of ingredients used, including brown rice, black beans, corn, salsa, and avocado, which collectively contribute to its rich flavor profile. Additionally, some people enjoy adding cotija cheese on top for an extra burst of flavor. For those who like to mix things up, alternatives such as spicy grilled chicken or shrimp can be a great way to put a unique twist on the dish.

You can find the full recipe by following the link provided below.

Brown Rice with Quinoa

Brown Rice with Quinoa

Foodies and health enthusiasts alike will love this recipe for adding a spark to their dinner routine, as it not only tantalizes the taste buds but also provides numerous benefits. The combination of brown rice and quinoa is a powerhouse duo that offers sustained energy, thanks to its high complex carbohydrate and protein content. Additionally, this dish is rich in essential vitamins and minerals, making it an excellent choice for those looking to maintain their overall well-being. So why wait?

Get cooking and indulge in the flavor and nutritional goodness of this exciting recipe!

Cheesy Brussels Sprouts and Wild Rice Casserole

Cheesy Brussels Sprouts and Wild Rice Casserole

Elevating your holiday meals just got easier with the perfect blend of flavors and nutrients. The savory cheese sauce and crispy topping combine in a match made in heaven, making this dish irresistibly delicious. Additionally, the inclusion of Brussels sprouts and brown rice adds an impressive dose of nutrition to each bite. Furthermore, this recipe’s simplicity makes it stress-free to prepare, allowing you to enjoy your holiday meal without the added pressure of complicated cooking techniques.

Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls

Kimchi Brown Rice Bliss Bowls

Highlighting the essence of Korean cuisine, this dish is overloaded with flavor and presents a colorful arrangement that can instantly brighten up any table setting. Achieving the perfect balance of ingredients is crucial for its success, as it allows each component to complement and enhance the others.

To achieve this harmony, the kimchi must be heated just enough to release its pungent flavors without overpowering the dish, while the rice should be cooked al dente to effectively absorb the kimchi’s savory deliciousness.

Vegan Chimichangas

Vegan Chimichangas

Beyond the usual perception of vegan food being bland and unappetizing, this recipe defies expectations by delivering a mouth-watering experience that rivals its non-vegan counterparts. Filled with an abundance of beans, rice, and vegetables, these burritos are expertly wrapped in a crunchy tortilla, accompanied by a rich and creamy avocado dipping sauce that elevates the dish to new heights. Its flavor profile is so satisfying that you’ll be hard pressed to even think about missing the meat.

Southwest Lentil and Brown Rice Casserole

Southwest Lentil and Brown Rice Casserole

Generally, this casserole is a nutrient-packed powerhouse thanks to its generous serving of protein-rich lentils and whole-grain brown rice. But what truly sets it apart is the vibrant Southwest-inspired blend of spices that infuses every bite with a burst of flavor. Preparing this dish couldn’t be simpler – just toss all the ingredients into a pot or slow cooker, and let the magic happen.

And when you finally sit down to enjoy your meal, trust me when I say that the anticipation will have been well worth it.

Teriyaki Turkey Rice Bowl

Teriyaki Turkey Rice Bowl

Taking center stage in this delectable brown rice recipe is not just the dish itself, but also the sauce that brings all the flavors together. A truly exceptional Teriyaki sauce should strike a perfect balance between sweet and savory notes, with a hint of acidity to round out the overall flavor profile.

The combination of the aromatic teriyaki sauce, cooked into the rice, and the added texture from shredded turkey, fresh vegetables, and toasted sesame seeds creates a harmonious union of flavors that’s simply irresistible. And the best part? If you opt for pre-made Teriyaki sauce, this recipe becomes an effortless and convenient dinner solution.

Healthy Chicken & Shrimp Paella

Healthy Chicken & Shrimp Paella

Presenting a healthier twist on the beloved Spanish dish, this version still packs the same rich flavors as its traditional counterpart but with significantly fewer calories.

Instant Pot Red Beans and Rice (Vegan)

Instant Pot Red Beans and Rice (Vegan)

Uninspired by cooking but lacking energy? Don’t worry, we’ve got a solution for you – a quick and easy red beans and rice dinner that’s not only delicious but also packed with protein and fiber. Simply add all the ingredients to your pot and let it do its magic. Within an hour, you’ll have a satisfying meal ready to be devoured. Plus, this recipe is a total game-changer for vegan foodies as it’s completely plant-based!

30 Healthy Brown Rice Recipe Collection

Just a few simple ingredients can transform plain brown rice into a mouth-watering main course, making it an excellent choice for those looking to mix things up in the kitchen. With these delicious and easy-to-make healthy brown rice recipes, you’ll be spoiled for choice when it comes to creating new and exciting rice dinner ideas that are sure to become staples in your household.

Instructions

Instructions

Most people can appreciate a quick and easy meal, especially when it’s packed with flavor. To get started, pick out a recipe that catches your eye – perhaps one you’ve been wanting to try for a while now. Once you have your chosen dish in mind, make sure to gather all the necessary ingredients so they’re within arm’s reach. Finally, follow the instructions and prep a scrumptious brown rice recipe that can be ready in 30 minutes or less.

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