26 Delicious & Easy Instant Rice Recipes to Try Now for a Quick Weeknight Meal

Carmen Eldridge

October 21, 2025

You’re probably looking for a quick and delicious meal option that’s easy to prepare. Instant rice is just what you need. It’s incredibly versatile and can be made in no time. With its ease of use, there are countless ways to cook it, making it perfect for busy households. Whether you’re cooking breakfast or dinner, the possibilities are endless. From loaded bowls with vegetables to hearty casseroles, instant rice is a lifesaver in the kitchen.

So, why spend hours slaving away in the kitchen when you can whip up one of these tasty instant rice recipes?

Chicken and Broccoli Rice

Chicken and Broccoli Rice

Often sought after as a satisfying meal option, this chicken and broccoli rice dish delivers on its promise of comfort and flavor. Made with instant brown rice, which cooks quickly, it’s an ideal choice for those looking for a speedy yet filling solution. The combination of tender chicken and crunchy broccoli creates a delightful texture contrast that adds to the overall appeal of this recipe.

With its ease of preparation and minimal cooking time, you can enjoy a delicious homemade meal in no time. Go to Recipe

Quick Mexican Rice

Quick Mexican Rice

Looking for a way to elevate your taco Tuesdays? This simple Mexican rice recipe is the perfect solution. Often considered comfort food at its best, Mexican rice is an excellent side dish that complements a wide range of meals, from grilled dishes and tacos to carne asada. The beauty of this recipe lies in its use of instant white rice infused with aromatic spices, tomato sauce, and fresh cilantro.

As a result, the dish is bursting with vibrant, zesty flavors that are sure to make it taste like a restaurant-quality delight!

One-Pot Mexican Ground Beef and Rice

One-Pot Mexican Ground Beef and Rice

You’ll love this Mexican ground beef and rice recipe, which is perfect for feeding a large group. This mouth-watering dish is packed with flavor and incredibly easy to prepare. The combination of fluffy rice, tender beef, melted cheese, and crunchy corn is a match made in heaven. The sauce adds an extra layer of depth to the dish, balancing out the flavors with its savory taste and subtle spicy kick.

What’s more, this recipe is a one-pot wonder that can be prepared in just 30 minutes, making it a convenient option for busy home cooks.

Dirty Rice

Dirty Rice

Understanding the importance of side dishes in elevating a meal is crucial, as they have the power to turn an ordinary dining experience into an extraordinary one. Without a well-paired side dish, even the most flavorful main courses can fall flat and leave a lasting impression that’s more ‘meh’ than memorable. This is where dirty rice comes in – the ultimate complement to any meal seeking a boost of flavor and spice.

By combining ground beef, sausage, chicken livers, an assortment of vegetables, and a generous helping of Cajun seasoning with fluffy cooked rice, this recipe delivers a taste sensation that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates. And, for those in a hurry, the versatility of using any type of pre-cooked rice, including minute rice, means you can enjoy this flavorful side dish without sacrificing precious time.

Easy Stuffed Peppers

Easy Stuffed Peppers

Opting for something new can be just what your taste buds need, especially when it comes to dinner. Introducing stuffed peppers, a recipe that combines the best of worlds in one dish. Not only does it feature an assortment of vegetables, but also savory beef and fluffy rice all wrapped up in bell peppers. Each bite offers a delicate crunch that gives way to tender meat and a rich, cheesy sauce infused with saucy goodness.

Lemon Chickpea and Rice Casserole (Vegan, Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)

Lemon Chickpea and Rice Casserole (Vegan, Gluten-Free, Allergy-Free)

Sometimes cooking can be a chore, especially when you’re craving something healthy but don’t have the time or energy to spend hours in the kitchen. This is where quick and easy recipes come to the rescue! The lemon chickpea and rice casserole recipe is a perfect solution for those hungry moments when you need a nutritious meal fast. It’s a simple yet satisfying dish that combines fluffy instant white rice with chickpeas baked in a zesty, creamy broth made possible by coconut milk and lemons.

Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

Chicken and Sausage Gumbo

Creating comfort food at its finest is a warm bowl of gumbo on a chilly day. It’s an iconic and soothing treat that not only fills your stomach but also warms your soul with every spoonful. This rich and satisfying gumbo is packed with tender chicken chunks, smoky sausage, an assortment of colorful veggies, and fluffy rice to add texture and depth.

The result is a dish that packs a robust punch of flavor, with a perfect balance of peppery spices and a slow-building heat that leaves you craving more. As soon as the aroma of this mouthwatering dish wafts through the air, your taste buds will be tantalized, leaving you eager to dig in.

10-Minute Simple Egg Fried Rice

10-Minute Simple Egg Fried Rice

Elevate your busy day with a quick and delicious solution – our 10-minute egg fried rice recipe! This mouth-watering dish is not only easy to prepare but also packed with flavor from just a few simple ingredients. With its all-in-one formula, combining the protein-rich eggs, minute rice, and an assortment of veggies, you’ll be amazed at how satisfying this meal can be.

The perfect harmony of textures is achieved by the subtle crunch of the vegetables complementing the fluffy rice in every bite, making it an ideal option to keep you full and energized throughout your day.

Lemon Rice

Lemon Rice

Making mealtime more exciting is easier than you think. A simple yet flavorful side dish like lemon rice can elevate the flavor of any plain old meal. The citrusy goodness of the lemon infuses into the rice as it simmers, releasing a wonderful aroma that’s sure to tantalize your taste buds. In case you’re short on time, feel free to use instant white rice in this recipe – the result is still a fantastic side dish that’s guaranteed to bring a ray of sunshine to even the most mundane days.

Jambalaya Foil Packet

Jambalaya Foil Packet

Zest up your mealtime with this convenient and delicious jambalaya foil packet recipe! Imagine sinking your teeth into a smoky, spicy, and savory dish packed with juicy chicken, flavorful sausage, and succulent shrimp – that’s what jambalaya is all about. If you haven’t had the pleasure of experiencing it yet, you’re in for a real treat.

This recipe is designed to be served directly from the grill in a handy foil packet, making it perfect for camping trips or when you just need a quick and easy dinner solution without sacrificing flavor or quality.

Hamburger and Zucchini Skillet

Hamburger and Zucchini Skillet

Packed with mouth-watering flavors, a good skillet meal is always a delight. Who wouldn’t want to enjoy their favorite foods in one delicious dish? This hamburger and zucchini rice skillet perfectly fits the bill. With the meaty goodness of a classic hamburger and the light, firm bite of zucchini, it’s a match made in heaven.

The combination is then mixed with fluffy instant rice topped with cheese and spices, creating the ultimate instant rice recipe that’s brimming with familiar flavors you love! Go to Recipe

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Stuffed Cabbage Rolls

Wrapped in a delicate cabbage leaf, stuffed cabbage rolls are the epitome of comfort food. They offer a sensory experience that is both warm and hearty, with each bite transporting you to a world of pure delight. The fusion of flavors within these little packages of goodness is nothing short of magic – tender beef, instant rice, egg, and carefully selected seasonings all come together in perfect harmony.

Coated in a rich tomato sauce and baked to perfection, the result is a mouthwatering meal that has the power to bring even the most dispersed family members together. Whether you’re looking for a satisfying meal or a way to spend quality time with loved ones, stuffed cabbage rolls are sure to hit the spot.

Easy Stuffed Cabbage Casserole

Easy Stuffed Cabbage Casserole

With its rich combination of ground turkey, rice, and chopped cabbage, this stuffed cabbage casserole has become a family favorite that’s sure to please even the pickiest eaters. Brimming with flavors and nutrition, it’s a hearty and filling comfort food that’s perfect for any occasion. The sauce is carefully balanced, providing a burst of flavor without being too spicy for little mouths or overwhelming in intensity.

This easy recipe can be whipped up even on the busiest weeknights, making it an ideal solution for families who value convenience without sacrificing taste.

30-Minute Stuffed Pepper Soup

30-Minute Stuffed Pepper Soup

Starting your day or ending it with a delicious, fresh bowl of goodness is now just 30 minutes away. This innovative stuffed pepper soup recipe brings the comforting flavors of stuffed peppers right to your table, without any of the hassle. Simply combine the perfect blend of tender peppers, savory beef, and fluffy rice in a rich tomato broth, and let the magic happen. The result is a soup that’s so satisfyingly rich and deep, it’ll leave you feeling cozy and content.

One-Pot Cheesy Ham & Rice Skillet

One-Pot Cheesy Ham & Rice Skillet

Nothing says comfort food like a classic combination of flavors and textures all in one delicious package – the harmonious union of ham and cheese is elevated to new heights when they’re cooked together in a savory rice skillet. This satisfying one-pot dish is perfect for those days when you need a warm, fuzzy feeling, and its rich flavors will transport you to a cozy corner of culinary bliss.

The smoky sweetness of the ham pairs exquisitely with the creamy, melted cheese, creating a match made in heaven that’s sure to become a staple in your household – and thanks to Minute brown rice, it’s a convenient option for busy weeknights when you don’t have time to fuss over separate ingredients.

Ham and Pineapple Rice

Ham and Pineapple Rice

Navigating through the realm of pizza flavors can be quite subjective, but my go-to choice will always be Hawaiian. This seemingly unconventional combination has earned a special place in my heart, primarily due to its unique flavor profile that strikes the perfect balance between savory and sweet notes.

Easy Salsa Rice

Easy Salsa Rice

Yearn for something new in your culinary journey? Look no further! This vibrant and mouth-watering salsa rice is an effortless addition to any meal. With just two simple ingredients – instant rice and salsa – you can create a delightful side dish that will leave everyone wanting more. The beauty of this recipe lies in its simplicity; it’s simmered for only a couple of minutes, allowing the flavors to meld together in perfect harmony.

As the rice absorbs all the savory goodness from the salsa, you’ll be treated to an explosion of flavors that will surely surprise and delight your taste buds. So what are you waiting for? Gather your ingredients – a bag of rice and a jar of salsa – and get ready to indulge in a tasty and stress-free meal.

Mom’s One-Skillet Sausage and Rice

Mom’s One-Skillet Sausage and Rice

Zeroing in on convenience without sacrificing taste is always a challenge, but this one-skillet sausage and rice recipe delivers. The combination of smoked turkey sausage and instant rice makes it an ideal choice for busy weekdays when you need a satisfying meal quickly. With the added bonus of caramelized onions, bell peppers, and garlic, every bite tastes like a celebration. Whether you’re in a hurry or just want to cook something delicious, this recipe is sure to become your go-to.

Brown Rice with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese

Brown Rice with Spinach and Parmesan Cheese

Making meals more enjoyable is what this side dish is all about! It’s the ultimate way to incorporate greens into your diet while keeping things refreshingly simple. The addition of spinach provides a subtle, herbaceous note, which pairs beautifully with the rich and creamy cheese. This combination is then mixed in with instant brown rice, creating an easy-to-make treat that’s perfect for any time of day.

Cheesy Bean and Rice Burritos

Cheesy Bean and Rice Burritos

Here’s an option for a delicious meatless meal: this cheesy bean and rice burrito! It combines refried beans, salsa-infused rice, and shredded cheddar cheese wrapped in soft tortillas. Don’t let its humble appearance deceive you – this dish is actually a flavor explosion. The sweetness of the earthy beans pairs perfectly with the vibrant flavors of the salsa and the sharpness of the cheddar cheese. Every bite of this burrito is a treat that will leave you wanting more!

Black Bean Burrito Bowls

Black Bean Burrito Bowls

Elevate your dinner game with this mouth-watering black bean burrito bowl recipe. Essentially, it’s a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will leave you feeling satisfied. The combination of perfectly seasoned black beans, fresh spinach, roasted corn, and pickled onions creates a delicious base for the dish. Adding some crunch to the mix are tortilla strips and pumpkin seeds.

But what really takes this bowl to the next level is the bed of fluffy white rice topped with creamy, tangy chipotle sauce. So why wait? Skip the line at Chipotle or Barbaritos and make your own version instead!

Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Unstuffed Cabbage Roll Casserole

Unlocking the simplicity of a beloved comfort food, unstuffed cabbage roll casserole is an absolute game-changer for busy days when you crave something delicious and easy. Rather than devoting hours to manually stuffing cabbages, this recipe cleverly sidesteps that step entirely, saving you time and effort in the process. While still capturing all the rich flavors of the traditional dish, it achieves this with minimal fuss and without compromising on taste.

The combination of sliced cabbage, rice, ground beef, and a vibrant tomato sauce makes for a mouth-watering casserole that’s sure to become a staple in your household.

Quick Fry Marinated Pork with Rice

Quick Fry Marinated Pork with Rice

Few things satisfy our taste buds as much as the classic pairing of pork and fluffy rice. For those seeking a mouth-watering meal, this quick fry marinated pork is sure to impress without fail! The secret to its irresistible flavor lies in the marinade, which is a masterful blend of savory sauce and aromatic spices. The pork is then fried to an ideal crispiness, locking in moisture and adding a delightful juiciness, all while being sprinkled with sesame seeds for an added crunch factor.

To make this recipe even quicker to prepare, consider using Minute rice instead of regular long-grain rice for a speedier cooking time.

Fiesta Chicken

Fiesta Chicken

Elevate your weeknight meals with this quick and mouth-watering fiesta chicken recipe. In just under 30 minutes, you can create a colorful and flavorful dish featuring marinated chicken, bell peppers, black beans, and instant brown rice all cooked together in one convenient skillet. The blend of spices adds depth to the dish, creating a truly unforgettable taste experience.

To complete the meal, a generous helping of melty cheese is added on top, infusing every bite with an extra layer of creamy goodness.

Quick Queso Rice

Quick Queso Rice

Delighting in a flavorful and quick meal is easier than you think, especially with this mouthwatering queso rice recipe that’s sure to satisfy your cravings for cheesy goodness. The combination of vibrant salsa and rich, velvety cheese creates an irresistible sauce that coats the instant rice with its fantastic flavors, making it an ideal addition to any Mexican-inspired dish. What’s more, this amazing side is ready in a mere 5 minutes, thanks to the convenience of instant rice!

25 Best Ways to Cook With Instant Rice

Not only are instant rice recipes incredibly convenient, but they’re also ridiculously versatile and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion dish, the possibilities with instant rice are endless – from mouth-watering chicken dishes to hearty ground beef casseroles, there’s an instant rice recipe out there that’s sure to satisfy your cravings.

Instructions

Instructions

Generally, a quick and easy meal can start with selecting a simple yet delicious recipe. Gathering all the essential ingredients is also crucial to avoid any last-minute runs to the grocery store. Get started by prepping an instant rice dish that’s ready in 30 minutes or less!

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