Rice doesn’t have to be boring, and these 9 recipes prove it. Whether you’re looking for something hearty, savory, or even a little sweet, these rice dishes bring big flavor to the table. They offer a fresh spin on a classic ingredient that’s easy to find and simple to cook. Once you try these recipes, plain rice will be a thing of the past.
Springtime Lemon Brodetto with Rice
This rice dish is a light, citrusy bowl of goodness with lemony broth, peas, and fresh sorrel. It’s packed with bright flavors, thanks to the citrus zest, and comes together in around 30 minutes. The rice soaks up the broth, making it perfect for anyone wanting something refreshing and different. You’ll forget boring plain rice exists once you try this lively, herb-filled creation.
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Rice with Grapes
A unique rice dish that blends the sweetness of grapes with the warmth of exotic spices. It’s a refreshing change that takes just under an hour to prepare, offering a new twist on traditional rice recipes. The flavors are fruity, slightly spicy, and will leave your taste buds pleasantly surprised. Plain rice will feel like a distant memory with this flavorful combo.
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Butternut Squash Wild Rice Pilaf
A cozy, nutty wild rice dish paired with sweet, roasted butternut squash that’s ready in just under an hour. The mix of textures and flavors makes this pilaf stand out from the usual plain rice dishes. Each bite brings together the earthy depth of the squash and the nuttiness of the wild rice. It’s a comforting dish that will make plain rice seem too simple.
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Middle Eastern Tofu Rice Bowl
Warm spices and protein-packed tofu come together in this rice bowl that’s ready in 30 minutes. The flavors are rich, with cumin and coriander, making it perfect for work-from-home lunches or quick dinners. It’s a satisfying meal that even kids will love, without the plainness of traditional rice. You'll wonder how you ever settled for plain rice before.
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Mujadara
Lentils, caramelized onions, and rice come together in this comforting, protein-packed dish in under an hour. The onions give a deep, sweet flavor that balances perfectly with the earthiness of lentils and rice. It’s an easy, filling dinner option that feels both familiar and exotic. Plain rice will be the last thing on your mind with this one.
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The Perfect Rice Pilaf
This rice pilaf is loaded with vegetables and spices, giving it layers of flavor in under an hour. The rice is aromatic, and each bite is a mix of fresh veggies and savory seasoning. It’s perfect for weeknight dinners or gatherings when you want something better than plain rice. Trust me, this is the rice dish you didn’t know you were missing.
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Chicken and Rice
This one-pot wonder combines rice, chicken, carrots, onions, and spices into a hearty, savory meal. In just an hour, you get a comforting dish that’s both earthy and a little sweet, perfect for family gatherings. Barberries add a slightly tangy touch, enhancing the richness of the rice and chicken. This is not your average plain rice—this is dinner at its best.
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Cilantro Lime Chicken & Rice
Juicy chicken, fluffy rice, and a spicy cream sauce all come together in this easy, one-pot meal. It’s ready in 45 minutes and filled with fresh cilantro and lime flavors that make the rice pop. The rice isn’t just a side; it’s a star in this zesty, satisfying dish. Plain rice? You won’t even remember it.
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Chicken Biryani
This chicken biryani features fragrant basmati rice infused with a bold blend of spices, surrounding tender chicken pieces. It’s a full meal in about an hour, offering a depth of flavor that plain rice can’t even compete with. The rich, layered spices make every bite exciting. After this, plain rice won’t stand a chance on your dinner table.
Get the Recipe: Chicken Biryani
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