17 Delicious Easy White Rice Recipes Amazing

Ready to transform humble white rice into something extraordinary? Whether you’re whipping up a quick weeknight dinner or craving some comfort food magic, these 17 easy and delicious recipes are your ticket to a world of flavor. From creamy risottos to spicy stir-fries, there’s a dish for every taste and occasion. Keep reading to discover how simple ingredients can lead to amazing meals!

Garlic Butter White Rice

Just when you thought white rice couldn’t get any better, this Garlic Butter White Rice changes the game. Simple, flavorful, and ready in minutes, it’s the perfect side.

Ingredients

• White rice – 1 cup
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced
• Water – 2 cups
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Rinse 1 cup of white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium pot, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
3. Add 2 cloves of minced garlic to the pot. Sauté for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Add the rinsed rice to the pot. Stir to coat the rice in the garlic butter.
5. Pour in 2 cups of water and add ½ tsp of salt. Stir once to combine.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid.
7. Cook for 18 minutes. Do not lift the lid during cooking.
8. After 18 minutes, remove the pot from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
9. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

This Garlic Butter White Rice is fluffy with a rich, buttery flavor and a hint of garlic. Try serving it under a saucy stir-fry or alongside grilled meats for a simple yet satisfying meal.

Lemon Herb White Rice

Here’s a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with any protein. Lemon Herb White Rice brings a zesty twist to your meal.

Ingredients

• White rice – 1 cup
• Water – 2 cups
• Lemon zest – 1 tbsp
• Fresh parsley – 2 tbsp, chopped
• Butter – 1 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, and salt. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes. Do not lift the lid during cooking.
4. After 18 minutes, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to steam.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the butter, lemon zest, and chopped parsley until evenly distributed.

Ready to serve, this rice is fluffy with a bright, herby flavor. Try topping it with grilled shrimp for a complete meal.

Spicy Tomato White Rice

Unlock the flavors of simplicity with this Spicy Tomato White Rice. Perfect for a quick meal, it’s a vibrant dish that packs a punch.

Ingredients

• White rice – 1 cup
• Tomato paste – 2 tbsp
• Water – 2 cups
• Garlic powder – 1 tsp
• Red pepper flakes – ½ tsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Vegetable oil – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a medium pot over medium heat.
3. Add the tomato paste, garlic powder, red pepper flakes, and salt to the pot. Stir for 1 minute until fragrant.
4. Tip: Toasting the spices enhances their flavor.
5. Add the rinsed rice to the pot. Stir to coat the rice with the tomato mixture.
6. Pour in the water and bring to a boil.
7. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low. Cover the pot and simmer for 18 minutes.
8. Tip: Resist the urge to lift the lid; steam is crucial for cooking the rice evenly.
9. After 18 minutes, remove the pot from heat. Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
10. Tip: Resting the rice allows it to absorb any remaining moisture and firm up.
11. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Aromatic and slightly spicy, this rice has a fluffy texture with a bold tomato flavor. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or stir in some black beans for a vegetarian twist.

Cheesy Broccoli White Rice

This cheesy broccoli white rice is a quick, comforting dish perfect for busy weeknights. Toss together in under 30 minutes for a satisfying meal.

Ingredients

• White rice – 1 cup
• Broccoli florets – 2 cups
• Cheddar cheese – 1 cup, shredded
• Milk – ½ cup
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Cook white rice according to package instructions. Tip: Rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch.
2. Steam broccoli florets for 5 minutes until bright green and tender. Tip: Don’t overcook to maintain crunch.
3. In a large pan, melt butter over medium heat.
4. Add cooked rice, steamed broccoli, milk, and salt to the pan. Stir to combine.
5. Cook for 3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until heated through.
6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the mixture. Cover the pan and let sit for 2 minutes until cheese melts. Tip: Use freshly shredded cheese for smoother melting.
7. Remove from heat and stir to evenly distribute the melted cheese.

Lusciously creamy with a slight crunch from the broccoli, this dish is a crowd-pleaser. Serve with a sprinkle of red pepper flakes for a spicy kick or alongside grilled chicken for added protein.

Mushroom and Peas White Rice

Craving a simple yet satisfying dish? This Mushroom and Peas White Rice is your answer.

Ingredients

• White rice – 1 cup
• Mushrooms – 1 cup, sliced
• Peas – ½ cup
• Butter – 2 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Water – 2 cups

Instructions

1. Rinse 1 cup of white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a pot, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat.
3. Add 1 cup of sliced mushrooms to the pot. Cook for 5 minutes until they start to brown.
4. Stir in the rinsed rice and ½ tsp of salt. Cook for 1 minute to lightly toast the rice.
5. Pour in 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 18 minutes. Tip: Do not lift the lid to ensure even cooking.
7. After 18 minutes, add ½ cup of peas on top of the rice. Cover and let sit for 5 minutes off the heat. Tip: The residual heat will cook the peas perfectly.
8. Fluff the rice with a fork, mixing in the peas. Tip: For extra flavor, stir in another tbsp of butter before serving.

Unbelievably fluffy and buttery, this rice dish pairs well with grilled chicken or stands alone as a vegetarian main. The mushrooms add a meaty texture, while the peas bring a sweet pop.

Cilantro Lime White Rice

Fancy a side that’s both zesty and comforting? Cilantro lime white rice is your go-to. It’s simple, flavorful, and pairs with almost anything.

Ingredients

– White rice – 1 cup
– Water – 2 cups
– Salt – ½ tsp
– Lime juice – 2 tbsp
– Cilantro – ¼ cup, chopped
– Butter – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Rinse 1 cup of white rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice, 2 cups of water, and ½ tsp of salt. Tip: Use a tight-fitting lid to prevent steam from escaping.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to low and simmer for 18 minutes. Tip: Do not lift the lid during cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
4. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam further.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in 2 tbsp of lime juice, ¼ cup of chopped cilantro, and 1 tbsp of butter until well combined. Tip: Add the butter while the rice is hot for easier mixing.
Savor the bright flavors and fluffy texture of this rice. It’s perfect alongside grilled meats or stuffed into burritos for an extra kick.

Curry Flavored White Rice

Zesty and straightforward, this curry flavored white rice transforms a simple side into a standout dish. Perfect for pairing with your favorite proteins or enjoying solo.

Ingredients

• White rice – 1 cup
• Water – 2 cups
• Curry powder – 1 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Butter – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, curry powder, and salt. Stir once to mix.
3. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the saucepan with a tight-fitting lid.
4. Simmer the rice for 18 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.
5. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam and become fluffy.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the butter until melted and evenly distributed.

Enjoy the rice’s fluffy texture and rich curry aroma. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or stir in some peas for a pop of color and sweetness.

Green Onion and Ginger White Rice

Gather around for a simple yet flavorful dish that elevates plain rice with the aromatic duo of green onion and ginger. Perfect for a quick side or a base for your favorite protein.

Ingredients

– White rice – 1 cup
– Water – 2 cups
– Green onions – 2, finely chopped
– Fresh ginger – 1 tbsp, minced
– Salt – ½ tsp
– Vegetable oil – 1 tbsp

Instructions

1. Rinse 1 cup of white rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium pot, heat 1 tbsp of vegetable oil over medium heat. Add 1 tbsp of minced ginger and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the pot and stir to coat the grains with the ginger and oil.
4. Pour in 2 cups of water and add ½ tsp of salt. Bring to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 18 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time to ensure even cooking.
6. After 18 minutes, remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes to allow the rice to steam.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork and gently fold in the chopped green onions.
8. Serve immediately. For an extra touch, top with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a drizzle of soy sauce.
Light and fluffy, this rice boasts a subtle kick from the ginger and a fresh crunch from the green onions. Try it alongside grilled fish or stir-fried vegetables for a complete meal.

Sweet Corn and Basil White Rice

Mouthwatering and simple, this Sweet Corn and Basil White Rice transforms basic ingredients into a vibrant side. Perfect for summer dinners, it’s ready in minutes.

Ingredients

– White rice – 1 cup
– Sweet corn kernels – 1 cup
– Fresh basil leaves – ¼ cup, chopped
– Butter – 2 tbsp
– Salt – ½ tsp
– Water – 2 cups

Instructions

1. Rinse 1 cup of white rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
2. In a medium saucepan, melt 2 tbsp of butter over medium heat. Tip: Use unsalted butter to control the saltiness.
3. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir for 1 minute to lightly toast.
4. Pour in 2 cups of water and add ½ tsp of salt. Bring to a boil.
5. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes. Tip: Do not lift the lid to ensure even cooking.
6. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Tip: This step allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently fold in 1 cup of sweet corn kernels and ¼ cup of chopped fresh basil.
The rice is subtly sweet with bursts of corn and aromatic basil. Serve alongside grilled chicken or stir in some cherry tomatoes for extra color.

Pineapple Fried White Rice

Vibrant and versatile, this Pineapple Fried White Rice brings a tropical twist to your table. Perfect for using up leftover rice, it’s a quick, flavorful dish that satisfies.

Ingredients

• White rice – 3 cups, cooked and cooled
• Pineapple – 1 cup, diced
• Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp
• Eggs – 2, beaten
• Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
• Green onions – ¼ cup, sliced

Instructions

1. Heat 1 tbsp vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350°F).
2. Add beaten eggs to the skillet. Scramble for 2 minutes until fully cooked. Remove and set aside.
3. Heat remaining 1 tbsp oil in the same skillet. Add cooked white rice. Stir-fry for 3 minutes.
4. Add diced pineapple to the rice. Stir-fry for another 2 minutes.
5. Return scrambled eggs to the skillet. Add soy sauce. Mix well and cook for 1 minute.
6. Garnish with sliced green onions before serving.

Make sure your rice is cooled to prevent mushiness. High heat ensures a nice sear on the rice. Fresh pineapple adds a juicy sweetness that canned can’t match.

Mouthwatering with a perfect balance of sweet and savory, this dish boasts a delightful texture contrast. Serve in a hollowed-out pineapple half for an impressive presentation.

Sesame Soy White Rice

Versatile and straightforward, this Sesame Soy White Rice transforms a simple staple into a flavorful side. Perfect for pairing with proteins or enjoying solo.

Ingredients

• White rice – 1 cup
• Water – 2 cups
• Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
• Sesame oil – 1 tbsp
• Green onions – 2, sliced

Instructions

1. Rinse 1 cup white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Combine rinsed rice and 2 cups water in a pot. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 18 minutes. Tip: Do not lift the lid during cooking to ensure even steam.
4. Remove from heat. Let stand, covered, for 5 minutes.
5. Fluff rice with a fork. Drizzle 2 tbsp soy sauce and 1 tbsp sesame oil over the rice.
6. Gently fold in the soy sauce and sesame oil until evenly distributed. Tip: Use a cutting motion with the fork to avoid mashing the grains.
7. Sprinkle sliced green onions on top before serving. Tip: For extra flavor, toast the green onions lightly in a dry pan for 30 seconds.

Mildly nutty from the sesame oil and savory from the soy, this rice has a fluffy yet sticky texture. Serve it alongside grilled chicken or mix in some steamed veggies for a quick fried rice.

Avocado and Lime White Rice

Want a simple yet flavorful side dish? Avocado and Lime White Rice combines creamy textures with a zesty kick.

Ingredients

• White rice – 1 cup
• Water – 2 cups
• Avocado – 1, diced
• Lime – 1, juiced
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes. Tip: Do not lift the lid during cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
4. Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork, then gently fold in the diced avocado and lime juice. Tip: Add the avocado last to maintain its texture and color.
6. Sprinkle with salt and mix lightly. Tip: For extra flavor, add the lime zest along with the juice.

Here’s a dish that’s creamy, tangy, and perfectly fluffy. Serve it alongside grilled fish or as a base for a vibrant bowl.

Black Bean and Corn White Rice

Kickstart your meal with this simple yet flavorful Black Bean and Corn White Rice. Perfect for a quick lunch or a side dish that packs a punch.

Ingredients

• White rice – 1 cup
• Black beans – 1 can (15 oz), drained
• Corn – 1 cup
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Rinse 1 cup of white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium pot, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rinsed rice and ½ tsp salt. Tip: Use a tight-fitting lid to trap steam for fluffier rice.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes. Do not lift the lid.
4. While the rice cooks, heat 1 tbsp olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
5. Add 1 cup of corn and sauté for 3 minutes until slightly charred. Tip: Charring the corn enhances its sweetness.
6. Stir in the drained black beans and cook for another 2 minutes until heated through.
7. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and gently fold in the corn and black bean mixture. Tip: Folding gently prevents the rice from becoming mushy.

This dish offers a delightful contrast of textures, from the fluffy rice to the hearty beans and crisp corn. Try serving it with a squeeze of lime for an extra zing.

Spinach and Feta White Rice

Humble yet flavorful, this Spinach and Feta White Rice transforms simple ingredients into a comforting dish. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a hearty side.

Ingredients

– White rice – 1 cup
– Water – 2 cups
– Spinach – 2 cups, chopped
– Feta cheese – ½ cup, crumbled
– Olive oil – 1 tbsp
– Salt – ½ tsp

Instructions

1. Rinse 1 cup of white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. In a medium pot, combine the rinsed rice and 2 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes. Tip: Do not lift the lid during cooking to ensure even heat distribution.
4. Remove the pot from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. This allows the rice to steam and become fluffy.
5. In a large pan, heat 1 tbsp of olive oil over medium heat. Add 2 cups of chopped spinach and sauté for 2 minutes until wilted. Tip: Spinach cooks down significantly, so don’t be shy with the amount.
6. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork and add it to the pan with the spinach. Stir to combine.
7. Add ½ cup of crumbled feta cheese and ½ tsp of salt to the rice mixture. Gently fold until the cheese begins to melt. Tip: For a creamier texture, add the feta while the rice is still hot.
8. Serve immediately. Keep it simple with a squeeze of lemon or pair with grilled chicken for a complete meal.

Roasted Red Pepper White Rice

Delightfully simple yet bursting with flavor, this dish combines the smokiness of roasted red peppers with the comfort of white rice.

Ingredients

• White rice – 1 cup
• Roasted red peppers – ½ cup, chopped
• Olive oil – 1 tbsp
• Garlic – 1 clove, minced
• Salt – ½ tsp
• Water – 2 cups

Instructions

1. Rinse the white rice under cold water until the water runs clear.
2. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic and sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in the chopped roasted red peppers and cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and stir to coat with the oil and pepper mixture.
6. Pour in 2 cups of water and add salt.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18 minutes.
8. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
9. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Creamy and aromatic, this rice pairs perfectly with grilled chicken or as a standalone vegetarian dish. For an extra kick, top with a sprinkle of crushed red pepper flakes.

Chicken and Veggie White Rice Stir Fry

Uncomplicated and satisfying, this stir fry combines tender chicken, crisp veggies, and fluffy white rice in one pan. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner, it’s ready in under 30 minutes.

Ingredients

• Chicken breast – 1 lb, cubed
• White rice – 2 cups, cooked
• Vegetable oil – 2 tbsp
• Broccoli – 1 cup, chopped
• Carrots – 1 cup, sliced
• Soy sauce – 2 tbsp
• Garlic – 2 cloves, minced

Instructions

1. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat (350°F).
2. Add cubed chicken breast, cook for 5-7 minutes until no longer pink. Tip: Don’t overcrowd the pan to ensure even cooking.
3. Add minced garlic, sauté for 30 seconds until fragrant.
4. Stir in chopped broccoli and sliced carrots, cook for 3-4 minutes until veggies are tender-crisp.
5. Mix in cooked white rice and soy sauce, stir well to combine. Tip: Use day-old rice for better texture.
6. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until everything is heated through. Tip: For extra flavor, drizzle with a bit more soy sauce before serving.

The stir fry boasts a delightful mix of textures, from the juicy chicken to the crunchy veggies. Serve it with a sprinkle of sesame seeds or a side of kimchi for an extra kick.

Conclusion

Concluding our culinary journey, these 17 easy white rice recipes offer a treasure trove of delicious, simple meals perfect for any home cook. Whether you’re craving comfort food or something exotic, there’s a dish here to satisfy. We’d love to hear which recipes you try and adore—drop a comment below! Don’t forget to share your favorites on Pinterest so others can enjoy these tasty ideas too. Happy cooking!

Bella Bacinos