A pot of rice is the start of so many easy dinners. Add some vegetables, an egg or two, a can of black beans or leftover chicken, and you have a meal for very little money.
Below are my healthy rice recipes, including my healthy fried rice (one of the most popular recipes on this site), Spanish rice, Costa Rican gallo pinto and a handful of rice bowls. The last two recipes on the list show you how to cook white and brown rice perfectly, so start there if you need a refresher.
Is Rice Healthy?
Rice can absolutely be part of a healthy dinner. It’s naturally gluten-free and easy to digest, and it pairs perfectly with the things that make a meal balanced: protein, vegetables and a little healthy fat.
Brown rice has more fiber and minerals because the bran is left on, while white rice is lighter and cooks faster. Both are great. For an even lighter option, try the cauliflower fried rice.
The Secret to Great Fried Rice
Use cold, leftover rice. Freshly cooked rice is too soft and turns mushy in the pan, while day-old rice from the fridge fries up with that perfect, slightly crispy texture. Whenever you make rice, cook a little extra and save it for fried rice later in the week.
14 Healthy Rice Recipes
Healthy Fried Rice Recipe (Quick & Easy)
This healthy fried rice is a reader favorite. It’s best made with cooked and cooled rice, so it’s perfect for leftovers, and it takes about 15 minutes if your rice is already cooked.
Easy Veggie Fried Rice
This Easy Vegetable Fried Rice is a delicious and versatile dish that can be enjoyed for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Cauliflower “Fried Rice” (Restaurant-Style!)
This cauliflower fried rice recipe tastes just like restaurant-style fried rice, but it’s made with way healthier ingredients. Be sure to also check out my Healthy Fried Rice Recipe made with brown rice on the blog.
Spanish Rice Recipe (aka Sofrito Rice)
This savory Spanish Rice starts with a fragrant sofrito, cooked down just enough to deepen in flavor before it mingles with toasted rice and tomato paste. Baked in the oven until tender and fluffy, it’s an easy, crowd-pleasing side, or base for any weeknight meal.
Gallo Pinto (aka Quick Rice & Beans)
Learn how to make a quick and easy version of Gallo Pinto, a traditional Costa Rican dish made with rice and beans. This vegan, gluten-free recipe is perfect for using up leftovers and is packed with flavor. It’s great served alone, and awesome with scrambled eggs for an awesome healthy breakfast.
Perfect Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
This quick and easy Cilantro Lime Rice is full of fresh, flavorful ingredients. It makes the perfect side for your favorite Mexican-inspired or Asian-inspired main dish. I find it’s best with Basmati rice, but see substitutions in the notes.
Herb Lemon Rice
Herb Lemon Rice is bright, fresh, and incredibly simple. This side dish pairs beautifully with grilled fish, roasted vegetables, or any Mediterranean-style meal. Lemon zest and fresh herbs bring ordinary rice to life in the best way.
Black Beans and Eggs Rice Bowl (Easy & Healthy)
Simmered black beans with warm spices create a rich, flavorful base for soft, jammy eggs cooked right in the pan. Served over warm rice and finished with fresh toppings, this bowl is high in protein and fiber to keep you full and satisfied. It’s delicious for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Peanut Chicken Rice Bowls with Roasted Sweet Potatoes
These Peanut Chicken Rice Bowls have tender roasted sweet potatoes and savory chicken that are layered over brown rice and finished with a creamy lime-peanut sauce. A balanced, flavor-packed bowl that’s perfect for weeknights or meal prep.
Chicken Burrito Bowls for Meal Prep
These easy Chicken Burrito Bowls are perfect for meal prep, lunch, or dinner. They’re delicious, flexible, budget-friendly, and packed with protein and flavor. Prep time will depend on what type of chicken you use.
Nourishing Brown Rice Salad Bowl (aka Self-Care Salad)
This delicious brown rice salad bowl (aka Self-Care Salad) is the perfect way to get some much-needed vitamins and minerals while still enjoying a tasty meal. Plus, it’s super easy to make!
Instant Pot Ham and Wild Rice Soup (Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free)
This Ham and Wild Rice Soup is a cozy, nourishing meal made easy in the Instant Pot. Naturally gluten-free and dairy-free, it gets its velvety texture from blended potatoes and coconut milk, no flour or cream needed. A perfect way to use leftover ham, this hearty soup is deeply comforting, flavorful, and ideal for meal prep.
How to Cook White Rice Perfectly (Rice Cooker or Stovetop)
This simple white rice recipe is one of those kitchen basics that makes everything else easier. Don’t skip rinsing; it’s the key to the best texture and flavor, and it gives you a reliable base for fast, affordable, and satisfying meals. Note that 1 cup of dry rice makes about 4 cooked servings.
How to Cook Brown Rice Perfectly (Rice Cooker or Stovetop)
This simple brown rice recipe is one of those kitchen basics that makes healthy eating easier. Rinsing the rice every time gives you better texture and flavor, and once you’ve mastered it, you’ll always have a hearty base ready for fast, nourishing meals. Note that 1 cup of dried rice makes about 4 servings cooked.
FAQs About Healthy Rice Recipes
What is the healthiest way to eat rice?
Pair it with plenty of vegetables and a good protein, and watch the portion (about 3/4 to 1 cup cooked per person is plenty for most meals). Rice bowls and fried rice loaded with vegetables are easy ways to do that.
Can you meal prep rice?
Yes. Cooked rice keeps in the fridge for 3 to 4 days. Cool it quickly after cooking, store it in a sealed container, and reheat it until it’s steaming hot.
Can you freeze cooked rice?
Yes. Freeze cooled rice in flat freezer bags for up to 3 months. It reheats beautifully in the microwave with a splash of water.
Start with the Healthy Fried Rice. It’s quick, it uses up whatever vegetables are in your fridge, and it’s better than takeout.
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