10 Easy Rice Cooker Recipes to Make Tonight
We may earn a commission through all links on this website. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.The humble rice cooker – often relegated to the back of the pantry, only brought out for the occasional pot of plain white rice. But fear not, dear foodies, for we’re about to unleash the full potential of this versatile kitchen appliance and transform it into a culinary powerhouse. With its ability to cook a variety of grains, proteins, and even desserts, the rice cooker is the ultimate kitchen hack for busy home cooks and food fans alike.
From creamy risottos to hearty stews, and from savory curries to decadent desserts, we’re about to dive into the vast world of rice cooker recipes and discover the endless possibilities that await us in the kitchen.
One-Pot Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf
One-Pot Lemon Herb Rice Pilaf is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines fluffy rice with zesty lemon and aromatic herbs. It’s the perfect side that complements any meal, providing a fresh and light taste. This easy recipe is made in a rice cooker, ensuring perfectly cooked rice every time with minimal effort.
1. Rinse 1 cup of long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then drain. 2. In your rice cooker, combine the rinsed rice with 2 cups of vegetable or chicken broth, the zest and juice of 1 lemon, 1 tablespoon of olive oil, 1 teaspoon of dried thyme, 1 teaspoon of dried parsley, and salt to taste. 3. Close the rice cooker lid and set it to the ‘white rice’ or ‘cook’ setting. 4. Once the rice cooker indicates that it’s done, let it sit for an additional 5 minutes. 5. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving, adjusting seasoning if needed.
Simple Coconut Rice with Garlic
Simple Coconut Rice with Garlic is a delightful and aromatic dish that elevates plain rice to a new level. This easy recipe combines the richness of coconut milk with the savory flavor of garlic, making it a perfect side for any meal. With a few simple ingredients and a rice cooker, you can enjoy a deliciously unique dish in no time.
1. Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain the rice well. 2. In the rice cooker, combine the rinsed rice, 1 cup of coconut milk, 1/2 cup of water, 2 minced garlic cloves, and a pinch of salt. 3. Stir the mixture gently and close the rice cooker lid. 4. Set the rice cooker to the white rice setting and let it cook until the cycle is complete. 5. Once cooked, let the rice sit for 10 minutes before fluffing it with a fork. 6. Garnish with chopped cilantro or toasted coconut flakes if desired, and serve warm.
Vegetable Fried Rice with Soy Sauce
Vegetable Fried Rice with Soy Sauce is a delicious and easy dish perfect for using up leftover rice. Packed with colorful vegetables and seasoned with savory soy sauce, it makes a wholesome meal or a side dish. This recipe is not only quick to prepare but also customizable to suit your taste preferences.
1. Begin by cooking 2 cups of jasmine or long-grain rice in your rice cooker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. 2. Once the rice is cooked, let it cool slightly before fluffing it with a fork. 3. In a skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium heat, then add 1 cup of mixed vegetables (like peas, carrots, bell peppers, and corn) and sauté until tender. 4. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet, and add the cooked rice to the other side. 5. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of soy sauce over the rice and mix everything together, allowing the rice to fry slightly. 6. Stir in 2 beaten eggs (if desired) and cook until the eggs are scrambled and incorporated. 7. Finish with a sprinkle of green onions and serve hot.
Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice
Creamy Cajun Chicken and Rice is a flavorful and comforting dish that combines tender chicken with zesty spices and creamy sauce. This one-pot meal is perfect for busy weeknights, as it is both simple to prepare and deliciously satisfying. With the rice cooker handling the cooking process, you’ll have a delightful dinner ready in no time.
1. Start by seasoning the chicken pieces with Cajun seasoning. 2. In the rice cooker, heat a tablespoon of oil and sauté the seasoned chicken until browned. 3. Remove the chicken and set aside. 4. In the same rice cooker, add chopped onions, bell peppers, and garlic, cooking them until soft. 5. Stir in rice, chicken broth, and an additional splash of Cajun seasoning. 6. Place the chicken back in the cooker, close the lid, and set to cook until the rice is done. 7. Once cooked, stir in cream and let it sit for a few minutes before serving. 8. Serve hot, garnished with parsley.
Savory Rice Cooker Quinoa Medley
The Savory Rice Cooker Quinoa Medley is a wholesome and delicious dish that combines the nutty flavor of quinoa with an assortment of colorful vegetables. This easy recipe leverages the convenience of a rice cooker, allowing you to prepare a nutritious meal with minimal effort. Perfect as a side dish or a light main course, it’s a versatile addition to your meal planning.
1. Rinse 1 cup of quinoa under cold water until the water runs clear. 2. In the rice cooker, combine the rinsed quinoa with 2 cups of vegetable broth, 1 teaspoon of olive oil, and your choice of chopped vegetables (such as bell peppers, carrots, and spinach). 3. Season with salt, pepper, and a pinch of garlic powder. 4. Close the lid of the rice cooker and set it to the cooking mode. 5. Once the quinoa is cooked and the water is absorbed, fluff it with a fork and allow it to sit for 5 minutes before serving. 6. Garnish with fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro for added flavor.
Sweet Pineapple Coconut Rice Pudding
Sweet Pineapple Coconut Rice Pudding is a tropical-inspired dessert that combines creamy coconut milk with tender rice and sweet pineapple chunks. This delightful treat is both satisfying and refreshing, making it perfect for warm weather. It’s easy to prepare in a rice cooker, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully with minimal effort.
1. Rinse 1 cup of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. 2. In the rice cooker, add the rinsed rice, 1 can (13.5 oz) of coconut milk, 1 cup of water, and a pinch of salt. 3. Close the lid and set the rice cooker to the ‘cook’ setting. 4. Once the rice is cooked, stir in 1 cup of chopped fresh pineapple, 1/4 cup of sugar (or to taste), and a teaspoon of vanilla extract. 5. Let the mixture sit for an additional 10 minutes on the ‘warm’ setting, then fluff with a fork and serve warm or chilled, garnished with toasted coconut or additional pineapple if desired.
Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Rice Bowl
The Spicy Shrimp and Veggie Rice Bowl is a vibrant and flavorful dish perfect for a quick weeknight meal. Packed with tender shrimp, colorful vegetables, and seasoned rice, this bowl is both healthy and satisfying. With just the right amount of spice, it will awaken your taste buds and leave you craving more.
1. Rinse 2 cups of jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear, then add it to the rice cooker with 4 cups of water and a pinch of salt. 2. In a bowl, combine 1 pound of peeled and deveined shrimp with 2 tablespoons of soy sauce, 1 tablespoon of sriracha, and 1 teaspoon of garlic powder. 3. Once the rice is cooked, set the rice cooker to warm, and in a skillet over medium heat, stir-fry your favorite veggies (like bell peppers, broccoli, and carrots) in olive oil until tender. 4. Add the marinated shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque. 5. Serve the cooked shrimp and veggies over the rice, garnished with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole is a delightful and creamy dish that combines tender broccoli and fluffy rice, smothered in a rich cheese sauce. This comforting casserole is perfect for family dinners or as a side dish for gatherings. It’s a simple and satisfying meal that everyone will enjoy.
1. Prepare 2 cups of rice according to your rice cooker’s instructions. 2. While the rice is cooking, steam 2 cups of chopped broccoli until tender, about 5-7 minutes. 3. In a separate saucepan, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. 4. Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour and cook for 1 minute. 5. Gradually whisk in 2 cups of milk, allowing the mixture to thicken. 6. Once thickened, remove from heat and stir in 2 cups of shredded cheddar cheese until melted. 7. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and cheese sauce. 8. Pour the mixture into a greased casserole dish. 9. Bake in a preheated oven at 350°F (175°C) for 20-25 minutes or until bubbly. 10. Serve warm and enjoy!
Moroccan Spiced Chickpea Rice
Moroccan Spiced Chickpea Rice is a vibrant and flavorful dish that combines fluffy rice with hearty chickpeas and aromatic spices. This recipe is perfect for those seeking a healthy and filling meal, packed with the exotic flavors of Morocco. Serve it warm as a comforting side or a satisfying main dish that will please vegetarians and meat-lovers alike.
1. Rinse 1 cup of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In a rice cooker, add the rinsed rice, 1 3/4 cups of vegetable broth, 1 can of drained and rinsed chickpeas, 1 teaspoon of cumin, 1 teaspoon of coriander, 1/2 teaspoon of cinnamon, and salt to taste. 2. Set the rice cooker to the ‘white rice’ setting and start cooking. Once the rice is done, let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing it with a fork. 3. Stir in chopped fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lemon juice before serving for an added burst of flavor.
Rice Cooker Spaghetti Aglio Olio
Rice Cooker Spaghetti Aglio Olio is a simple yet flavorful dish perfect for those who love garlic and olive oil. This quick and easy recipe transforms a classic Italian favorite into a one-pot meal with minimal cleanup. Ideal for busy weeknights, it combines the rich taste of sautéed garlic with perfectly cooked pasta in just one appliance.
1. Add 2 cups of spaghetti, 4 cups of water, and a pinch of salt to the rice cooker. 2. Close the lid and set the rice cooker to the ‘cook’ setting. 3. While the pasta is cooking, heat 1/4 cup of olive oil in a pan over medium heat and add 5 minced garlic cloves, sautéing until golden. 4. Once the pasta is cooked, drain excess water and return it to the rice cooker. 5. Stir in the sautéed garlic and oil mixture, along with red pepper flakes and chopped parsley to taste. 6. Toss well and serve hot, garnished with grated Parmesan if desired.
