15+ Brown Rice Recipes You’ll Love for Healthy Meals

Brown rice is a versatile and nutritious grain that can easily boost your meals. Brown rice recipes are a great choice to explore if you want delicious and healthy dishes. These recipes can fit various cuisines and tastes, making it easy to incorporate this wholesome ingredient into your cooking routine.

From simple side dishes to hearty main courses, there is a wide range of options. You can create meals that not only satisfy your hunger but also contribute to a balanced diet. Brown rice is a great base for many flavors and ingredients, allowing for endless creativity in the kitchen.

1) Perfect Brown Rice with Olive Oil

Cooking perfect brown rice is simple and tasty. With just a few ingredients, you can enjoy fluffy rice every time.

You will need brown rice, water, and a splash of olive oil. Start by rinsing the rice under cold water to remove any dust.

In a medium pot, combine one part brown rice with six parts water and add a tablespoon of olive oil. Then, bring the mixture to a boil over high heat.

Once boiling, cover the pot, reduce the heat to low, and simmer for about 45 minutes. After cooking, let the rice sit for 10 minutes before fluffing it with a fork.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 6 cups water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the brown rice under cold water.
2. Combine rice, water, and olive oil in a pot.
3. Bring to a boil over high heat.
4. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 45 minutes.
5. Let it sit for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork.

2) Brown Fried Rice with Hidden Veggies

Brown fried rice is a tasty and healthy dish. It’s a great way to use leftover rice and add some nutrition to your meal. The hidden veggies make it colorful and provide extra vitamins.

You can customize this dish to your liking. Add your favorite proteins, like chicken or tofu, for a filling meal. This recipe keeps it simple while packing in flavor.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 1 cup mixed vegetables (peas, carrots, bell peppers)
• 2 tablespoons soy sauce
• 2 eggs (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2 green onions, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
2. Add mixed vegetables and cook until tender.
3. Push veggies to the side and scramble eggs if using.
4. Combine rice and soy sauce. Stir well.
5. Add green onions, salt, and pepper. Cook until heated through. Enjoy!

3) Easy Chicken Biryani with Brown Rice

Easy Chicken Biryani is a delicious dish that combines tender chicken and flavorful brown rice. It’s perfect for a cozy dinner.

Start by marinating the chicken with spices to infuse flavor. Rinse and soak the brown rice for about 30 minutes before cooking. This helps the grains cook evenly.

Next, sauté onions, ginger, and garlic in your pot. Once they’re golden, add the marinated chicken and cook until it’s tender. Then, add the soaked rice and water.

Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. Cook for about 25 minutes or until the rice is done. Fluff it up before serving, and enjoy a comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 1 large chicken breast
• 200 ml brown basmati rice
• 2 large red onions
• 2 tablespoons oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 inch ginger, grated
• Spices (cumin, coriander, turmeric)
• Salt, to taste
• Fresh coriander for garnish

Cooking Instructions

1. Soak the brown rice for 30 minutes.
2. Marinate chicken with spices and salt.
3. Heat oil in a thick pot and sauté onions, garlic, and ginger.
4. Add marinated chicken and cook until tender.
5. Add the soaked rice and water (600 ml).
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
7. Cook for 25 minutes.
8. Fluff and garnish with fresh coriander before serving.

4) Brown Rice and Peas with Stewed Chicken

Brown rice and peas with stewed chicken is a flavorful dish that is perfect for any meal. The combination of tender chicken and hearty brown rice creates a satisfying plate that everyone will enjoy.

To make this dish, you will first prepare the stewed chicken. Season the chicken with spices and simmer it until it is fully cooked and tender. This creates a rich sauce that soaks into the brown rice.

For the rice, cook brown rice with kidney beans or pigeon peas. The beans add protein and a nice texture. Serve the stewed chicken over the brown rice and peas for a complete meal.

Ingredients

• 2 cups brown rice
• 1 can kidney beans (or 1 cup cooked)
• 4 chicken thighs, skinless
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water)
• Spices: thyme, salt, pepper

Cooking Instructions

1. Season chicken with thyme, salt, and pepper.
2. In a pot, brown the chicken on medium heat.
3. Remove chicken and sauté onion, bell pepper, and garlic.
4. Return chicken to pot, add broth, and simmer for 30 minutes.
5. Cook brown rice according to package instructions, adding beans when done.
6. Serve stewed chicken over rice and beans.

5) Toasted Brown Rice with Mushrooms & Thyme

Toasted brown rice with mushrooms and thyme makes a tasty side dish. This recipe is simple and full of flavor.

You will need to heat some olive oil in a saucepan. Then, add the brown rice and cook it for a minute, stirring often.

Next, pour in vegetable broth and bring it to a simmer. Stir in fresh mushrooms and thyme for an aromatic touch.

Let everything cook until the rice is tender and has absorbed the liquid. This dish pairs well with many entrees and is great for any meal.

Ingredients

• ½ teaspoon olive oil
• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme, chopped

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat (350°F / 175°C).
2. Add brown rice and cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
3. Pour in the vegetable broth and bring to a simmer.
4. Stir in sliced mushrooms and thyme.
5. Cover and cook until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed, about 25-30 minutes.

6) Weeknight Chicken Chop Suey

Weeknight Chicken Chop Suey is a quick and tasty dish perfect for busy evenings. It combines chicken with fresh vegetables and a savory sauce. You can have it ready in about 30 minutes.

For this recipe, you will need boneless chicken breast, onion, celery, carrots, snow peas, and mushrooms. The sauce adds a great flavor that will have everyone coming back for more.

Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into 1-inch cubes
• 4 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 2 cups chopped vegetables (celery, carrots, snow peas, mushrooms)
• ½ cup soy sauce
• 1 teaspoon cornstarch
• 1 cup cooked brown rice

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat (350°F / 175°C).
2. Add chicken cubes and cook until browned.
3. Stir in onions and vegetables; cook for 5 minutes.
4. Mix soy sauce and cornstarch, then add to the pan.
5. Cook for an additional 3-5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
6. Serve over cooked brown rice.

7) Slow-Cooker Jambalaya with Brown Rice

Slow-cooker jambalaya with brown rice is a tasty and simple dish. It combines chicken, sausage, shrimp, and veggies all in one pot. Using brown rice adds a healthy twist.

To make this dish, you only need to add your ingredients to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 8-10 hours or on high for 3-4 hours for a warm and hearty meal.

This jambalaya is packed with flavor and makes for a great family dinner. Enjoy the mix of spices and the tender texture of brown rice in every bite.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 pound chicken, diced
• 1 pound sausage, sliced
• 1 cup shrimp, peeled
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1 onion, chopped
• 3 cups chicken broth
• 1 can diced tomatoes
• 2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning

Cooking Instructions

1. In your slow cooker, combine all ingredients except shrimp and rice.
2. Stir well to mix everything together.
3. Add the brown rice and chicken broth.
4. Cover and cook on low for 8-10 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
5. Add shrimp during the last 30 minutes of cooking.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!

8) Lemon Parmesan Brown Rice

Lemon Parmesan Brown Rice is a tasty and simple side dish. It combines the flavors of lemon and parmesan for a refreshing touch to your meal.

To make this dish, start with brown rice, as it’s nutritious and filling. The addition of fresh lemon juice and zest helps brighten the flavor. Parmesan cheese adds a rich and creamy element that complements the rice.

You can serve this rice alongside grilled meats or veggies for a well-rounded meal. It’s easy to prepare in just a few steps.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth or water
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Juice and zest of 1 lemon
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. In a saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat.
2. Add the brown rice and toast for 2-3 minutes.
3. Pour in the chicken broth or water and bring to a boil.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 45 minutes or until rice is tender.
5. Stir in lemon juice, lemon zest, and Parmesan cheese.
6. Season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve warm, garnished with fresh parsley if desired.

9) Brown Rice Pilaf with Garlic

Brown rice pilaf with garlic is a simple and tasty side dish. This recipe is perfect for adding flavor to your meals. You’ll enjoy the nutty taste of brown rice combined with aromatic garlic.

For this dish, you will sauté chopped onions and minced garlic. This brings out their flavors. Then, you’ll add the brown rice and simmer it in vegetable broth for a rich taste.

The result is a fluffy and savory pilaf that pairs well with many main dishes. It’s easy to make, and you can even add your favorite herbs or nuts for extra texture.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long grain brown rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 small yellow onion, chopped
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 2 ½ cups vegetable or chicken broth
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat the olive oil in a pan over medium heat (about 350°F or 175°C).
2. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 2-3 minutes.
3. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for another minute.
4. Add the brown rice and stir well.
5. Pour in the broth, and add salt and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
7. Cover and simmer for 40-45 minutes until rice is tender.
8. Fluff with a fork before serving.

10) One Pot Brown Rice and Veggies

Making a one pot brown rice and veggies dish is simple and convenient. You only need a few ingredients to create a tasty and healthy meal.

Start with cooked brown rice, which adds a nutty flavor. Then, mix in your favorite vegetables. Choices like broccoli, bell peppers, and zucchini work well.

Add some olive oil and season with garlic and spices for extra taste. Cook everything together until the veggies are tender. You’ll have a delicious meal ready in no time!

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup broccoli, chopped
• ½ red bell pepper, chopped
• ½ zucchini, chopped
• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a pot over medium heat.
2. Add garlic and sauté until fragrant.
3. Add the brown rice and stir for a minute.
4. Pour in the vegetable broth.
5. Add the chopped vegetables.
6. Bring to a boil, then cover and simmer for 30-35 minutes.
7. Fluff with a fork and serve.

11) Brown Rice with French Onion Soup

This simple dish combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with the rich taste of French onion soup. It makes for a tasty side or even a main dish.

You will love how easy it is to prepare. Just mix the rice with the soup and let it cook. The flavors blend beautifully, giving you a comforting meal.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 can French onion soup
• 1 can beef consommé (optional)
• 2 cups water
• 2 tablespoons butter

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a baking dish, combine the brown rice, French onion soup, and beef consommé.
3. Add water and butter, mixing gently.
4. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 1 hour.
5. Remove from the oven and fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

12) Healthy Brown Rice Quinoa Blend

A healthy brown rice and quinoa blend is a nutritious side dish. This mix combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with the fluffy texture of quinoa. Both grains provide essential nutrients, making this dish a great choice.

You can easily prepare this blend in a rice cooker or on the stove. Start with equal parts brown rice and quinoa for the best results. This dish pairs well with vegetables or can be enjoyed on its own.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 cup quinoa
• 4 cups water or broth
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the brown rice and quinoa under cold water.
2. In a pot, combine the rice and quinoa with water or broth.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.
4. Cover and simmer for about 30-35 minutes.
5. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork. Enjoy your blend!

13) Brown Rice with Coconut Milk

Brown rice with coconut milk is a tasty dish that’s easy to make. The creamy coconut milk adds a rich flavor that pairs well with the nutty taste of brown rice.

To start, you can cook the rice using the coconut milk instead of water. This enhances the dish and makes it perfect for any meal.

You can also add herbs and spices for extra flavor. Items like cilantro or ginger complement the coconut well and add freshness.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 cup coconut milk
• 1 cup water
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• Optional: fresh herbs (like cilantro), ginger

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the brown rice under cold water.
2. In a pot, mix rice, coconut milk, water, and salt.
3. Bring to a boil over medium heat.
4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 40-45 minutes.
5. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve warm.

14) Spicy Brown Rice Taco Filling

This spicy brown rice taco filling is a tasty way to enjoy your tacos. It combines flavorful ingredients for a satisfying meal. You’ll love how easy it is to make.

Start by heating some olive oil in a skillet over medium heat. Then, add cooked brown rice, diced tomatoes, and taco seasoning. Mix everything together until heated through.

You can customize the spice level by adding jalapeños or hot sauce. Serve this filling in soft or crunchy taco shells and top with your favorite toppings like avocado, cheese, or lettuce.

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 1 tablespoon taco seasoning
• Optional: jalapeños or hot sauce

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add cooked brown rice and diced tomatoes.
3. Stir in taco seasoning.
4. Cook until heated through, about 5 minutes.

15) Baked Brown Rice and Beans

Baked brown rice and beans is a delicious and simple dish. You can make it in one pan, making clean-up easy. This meal is filling and packed with nutrients.

To start, preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). In a baking dish, combine brown rice, black beans, and spices like chili powder and cumin. You can also add diced tomatoes or salsa for extra flavor.

Pour in water or vegetable broth to help the rice cook. Cover the dish with aluminum foil and bake for about 45 minutes. Stir halfway through to ensure even cooking.

Once done, let it sit for a few minutes before serving. This dish goes great with a side of veggies or avocado.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
• 2 cups vegetable broth or water
• 1 cup diced tomatoes or salsa
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon cumin

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. In a baking dish, mix brown rice, black beans, and spices.
3. Add diced tomatoes or salsa.
4. Pour in broth or water.
5. Cover with aluminum foil and bake for 45 minutes.
6. You should stir halfway through cooking.
7. Let sit before serving.