15+ Healthy Brown Rice Recipes to Boost Your Meals

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be boring or difficult. Brown rice is a tasty and nutritious ingredient that can be used in many different dishes. This article will show you how to create healthy brown rice recipes that are simple and delicious. Whether you’re looking for a side dish or a main course, you’ll find plenty of options to enjoy.

Brown rice is packed with fiber and nutrients, making it a great choice for anyone wanting a balanced diet. You can easily add it to salads, stir-fries, and even casseroles. This article will help you discover new ways to incorporate brown rice into your meals while keeping your cooking easy and fun.

1) Brown Rice and Veggie Stir-Fry

A brown rice and veggie stir-fry is a quick and healthy meal. You can customize it with your favorite vegetables. It’s colorful, tasty, and packed with nutrients.

Start by cooking brown rice according to the package instructions. While the rice cooks, chop your choice of vegetables like bell peppers, carrots, and broccoli.

In a large pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add the vegetables and stir-fry for about five minutes. You want them to be tender but still crisp. Then, mix in the cooked brown rice.

Season with soy sauce or your favorite stir-fry sauce. Stir well and let cook for another couple of minutes. Your dish is now ready to serve!

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, broccoli)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 2-3 tablespoons soy sauce

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook brown rice as directed on the package.
2. Chop vegetables into bite-sized pieces.
3. Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat.
4. Add vegetables and stir-fry for 5 minutes.
5. Mix in cooked brown rice and soy sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 2 minutes before serving.

2) Lemon-Parmesan Brown Rice

Lemon-Parmesan Brown Rice is a tasty side dish. It’s easy to make and adds a fresh flavor to your meal. The bright lemon and rich Parmesan cheese work well together.

Start by cooking your brown rice according to package directions. For extra flavor, you can use vegetable or chicken broth instead of water. Once the rice is ready, mix in some lemon juice and zest.

Stir in grated Parmesan cheese for creaminess. You can also add a bit of olive oil for richness. Don’t forget to season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve warm and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups vegetable or chicken broth
• 1 lemon (juiced and zested)
• 1/2 cup grated Parmesan cheese
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook brown rice in broth according to package directions.
2. Once cooked, remove from heat.
3. Stir in lemon juice and zest.
4. Add Parmesan cheese and olive oil.
5. Season with salt and pepper.
6. Serve warm.

3) Mushroom and Thyme Toasted Rice

Mushroom and thyme toasted rice is a delicious and healthy dish. The nutty flavor of brown rice pairs well with mushrooms and fresh thyme. It’s simple to make and packed with flavor.

Start by toasting the brown rice in a skillet. This steps enhances its taste. Add sliced mushrooms and thyme for a aromatic touch.

Let everything cook together until the mushrooms are soft. This dish is great as a side or a main course. Enjoy your meal and savor the flavors!

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• 1 cup mushrooms, sliced
• 1 teaspoon fresh thyme
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the brown rice and toast for 2-3 minutes.
3. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
4. Add sliced mushrooms and thyme.
5. Cover, reduce heat, and simmer for 35-40 minutes (175-190°F or 79-88°C).
6. Season with salt and pepper, then serve.

4) Cilantro Lime Brown Rice

Cilantro lime brown rice is a delicious and healthy side dish. It pairs nicely with many Mexican meals and is simple to make. The bright flavors of lime and fresh cilantro really enhance the rice.

To prepare this dish, start with brown rice. Cooking it with a bay leaf adds a nice hint of flavor. After cooking, mix in fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro for that zesty taste.

This recipe is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. Enjoy it with grilled vegetables or your favorite protein for a balanced meal.

Ingredients

• 1 ½ cups brown rice
• 4 cups water
• 1 lime (juiced)
• ¼ cup fresh cilantro (chopped)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 teaspoon sea salt

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the brown rice under cold water.
2. In a pot, combine rice, water, and bay leaf.
3. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
4. Cook for about 45 minutes or until rice is tender.
5. Remove from heat and let it sit for 5 minutes.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and stir in lime juice, cilantro, olive oil, and salt.

5) Brown Rice Jambalaya

Brown rice jambalaya is a tasty and healthy twist on the classic dish. It’s packed with flavors and is a great way to enjoy vegetables and protein. You can customize it to your liking with different meats and veggies.

Start by cooking brown rice according to package instructions. You’ll need cooked rice for this recipe. In a large pan, heat some olive oil over medium heat. Add diced onions, bell peppers, and celery, cooking until they soften.

Next, add your choice of protein, like chicken or shrimp. Stir in diced tomatoes, vegetable broth, and seasonings like paprika, cayenne, and thyme. Cover and let it simmer until the rice is tender and the flavors blend.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
• 1 onion, diced
• 1 bell pepper, diced
• 1 celery stalk, diced
• 1 cup diced tomatoes
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• Your choice of protein (chicken or shrimp)
• Spices (paprika, cayenne, thyme)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook brown rice as per package instructions.
2. In a large pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. Add onion, bell pepper, and celery. Cook until soft.
4. Stir in your choice of protein.
5. Add diced tomatoes and vegetable broth.
6. Season with spices and cover.
7. Simmer until rice is tender and fully blended.

6) One-Pot Brown Rice and Lentils

One-Pot Brown Rice and Lentils is a nutritious and tasty meal. This dish combines brown rice and lentils for a filling dinner. It’s easy to make and requires minimal cleanup.

Start by rinsing the brown rice and lentils to remove any dust or debris. In a large pot, heat some olive oil and sauté onions, garlic, and carrots. Then add the rice and lentils, stirring them well.

Add vegetable broth, salt, and pepper to the pot. Bring it to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover it. Let it simmer until the rice and lentils are tender.

This dish is perfect for busy nights. You can enjoy it as is or add your favorite veggies.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 cup lentils
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 carrot, chopped
• 4 cups vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the brown rice and lentils.
2. Heat olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Sauté onions, garlic, and carrots until soft.
4. Stir in brown rice and lentils.
5. Add vegetable broth, salt, and pepper.
6. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and cover.
7. Simmer for 30-40 minutes, until rice and lentils are tender.

7) Spicy Brown Rice Pilaf

Spicy Brown Rice Pilaf is a flavorful dish that’s easy to make. It combines brown rice with spices and vegetables for a delicious side or main meal.

Start by heating oil in a skillet. Add the brown rice and sauté for a couple of minutes. This will help to enhance its nutty flavor.

Next, mix in chopped onions, garlic, and your choice of spices. You could use chili powder or cayenne pepper for some heat.

Pour in vegetable broth and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat and let it simmer until the rice is tender. This will take about 35-45 minutes.

You can add some peas or chopped bell peppers for extra color and nutrition.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 onion, chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 teaspoon chili powder (adjust to taste)
• 2 cups vegetable broth
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat (about 350°F/175°C).
2. Sauté the rice for 2 minutes.
3. Add chopped onion and garlic; cook until softened.
4. Stir in chili powder, salt, and pepper.
5. Pour in vegetable broth and bring to a boil.
6. Reduce heat and let simmer for 35-45 minutes until rice is tender.

8) Brown Rice Sushi Bowl

A brown rice sushi bowl is a fun and healthy meal. It’s easy to make and allows you to customize it with your favorite toppings. Start with a base of fluffy brown rice and add fresh veggies, protein, and a delicious sauce.

You can use ingredients like cucumbers, carrots, avocado, and edamame. For protein, try some grilled chicken or tofu. Drizzle on soy sauce or spicy mayo for flavor.

This bowl is not only tasty but also packed with nutrients. It makes a perfect lunch or dinner option when you want something fresh and satisfying.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• ½ cucumber, sliced
• 1 carrot, shredded
• ½ avocado, sliced
• ½ cup cooked edamame
• 1 cup grilled chicken or tofu
• Soy sauce or spicy mayo (to taste)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. Slice the cucumber and avocado, and shred the carrot.
3. If using, grill chicken or prepare tofu.
4. In a bowl, layer the rice, veggies, and protein.
5. Drizzle with soy sauce or spicy mayo before serving.

9) Sweet and Savory Brown Rice Salad

This Sweet and Savory Brown Rice Salad is a tasty way to enjoy healthy eating. It combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with fresh fruits and vegetables for a delightful dish. Perfect for lunch or a light dinner, it’s easy to make and full of color.

Start with cooked brown rice. Then, add diced apples, sweet peas, and chopped bell peppers. A handful of raisins or cranberries adds a sweet touch. You can also sprinkle some nuts for a nice crunch.

Dress the salad with a mix of olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper. Toss everything together until it’s well combined.

Serve it chilled or at room temperature for the best flavor.

Ingredients

• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 apple, diced
• 1 cup sweet peas
• 1 bell pepper, chopped
• 1/2 cup raisins or cranberries
• 1/4 cup nuts (optional)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon lemon juice
• 1 teaspoon honey
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the brown rice and let it cool.
2. In a large bowl, combine the rice, apple, peas, bell pepper, raisins, and nuts.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil, lemon juice, honey, salt, and pepper.
4. Pour the dressing over the salad and mix well.
5. Chill before serving or serve at room temperature.

10) Coconut Curry Brown Rice

Coconut Curry Brown Rice is a tasty and healthy dish. It combines brown rice with rich coconut milk and flavorful spices. This meal is perfect for a cozy dinner or a quick lunch.

Start by cooking the brown rice until it’s tender. Then, in a separate pan, heat some coconut oil. Add garlic, ginger, and curry powder to create a wonderful aroma.

Pour in coconut milk and stir it together. Let it simmer for a few minutes. Then, mix in the cooked brown rice and stir until everything is well combined.

You can also add vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition.

Enjoy your Coconut Curry Brown Rice as a side or as a main dish!

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 can coconut milk (13.5 oz or 400 ml)
• 1 tablespoon coconut oil
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon curry powder
• Salt to taste
• Optional vegetables (like peas and bell peppers)

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a pan, heat coconut oil over medium heat.
3. Add minced garlic, ginger, and curry powder; cook for 1-2 minutes.
4. Pour in coconut milk and let simmer for 5 minutes.
5. Mix in cooked brown rice and any optional vegetables.
6. Stir well and cook for another 2-3 minutes.
7. Serve warm and enjoy!

11) Broccoli and Cheddar Brown Rice Casserole

This broccoli and cheddar brown rice casserole is a tasty way to enjoy healthy ingredients. The creamy cheese and crisp broccoli mix perfectly with brown rice for a satisfying dish. It’s easy to make and perfect for family dinners.

Start by cooking your brown rice according to the package instructions. In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and shredded cheddar cheese. You can also add some garlic powder and salt for extra flavor.

Transfer the mixture to a baking dish and bake at 350°F (175°C) for about 25 minutes, or until the cheese is bubbly and golden. Serve hot and enjoy!

Ingredients

• 2 cups cooked brown rice
• 2 cups steamed broccoli florets
• 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
• 1 teaspoon garlic powder
• Salt to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Cook the brown rice as directed.
3. In a bowl, mix rice, broccoli, and cheddar cheese.
4. Add garlic powder and salt.
5. Transfer to a baking dish.
6. Bake for 25 minutes until cheese is golden.

12) Garlic Herb Brown Rice

Garlic Herb Brown Rice is a simple and tasty dish. It’s great as a side or a base for meals. The flavor from garlic and fresh herbs makes it special.

To make it, you will need brown rice, garlic, olive oil, and your choice of herbs. Fresh parsley and thyme work well, but you can use what you like.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 2 cups water or vegetable broth
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh thyme, chopped
• Salt and pepper to taste

Cooking Instructions

1. Rinse the brown rice under water.
2. In a pot, combine the rice and water or broth. Bring to a boil.
3. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for about 40-45 minutes or until tender.
4. In another pan, heat olive oil over medium heat.
5. Add minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes.
6. Stir in cooked rice, parsley, and thyme.
7. Season with salt and pepper. Serve warm.

13) Brown Rice and Turkey Burrito Bowl

A Brown Rice and Turkey Burrito Bowl is a tasty way to enjoy a healthy meal. This dish combines lean ground turkey, brown rice, and fresh veggies. It’s filling and packed with nutrients.

To start, you need some simple ingredients. Brown rice serves as a great base, while ground turkey adds protein. You can use beans, corn, and avocados to boost the flavor and nutrition.

Ingredients

• 1 cup brown rice
• 1 pound ground turkey
• 1 can black beans, drained
• 1 cup corn
• 1 avocado, sliced
• 1 cup pico de gallo
• Salt and pepper to taste
• Lime wedges for serving

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook the brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a skillet, cook the ground turkey over medium heat until browned.
3. Add black beans and corn to the skillet, heating through.
4. Assemble your bowl with brown rice, turkey mixture, pico de gallo, and avocado on top.
5. Serve with lime wedges for added flavor.

14) Ginger Soy Brown Rice

Ginger Soy Brown Rice is a delicious and healthy dish. It combines the nutty flavor of brown rice with the zesty taste of ginger and soy sauce. This recipe is easy to make and great as a side or a main dish.

To start, cook your brown rice according to the package instructions. You’ll need two cups of cooked rice for this recipe.

While the rice is cooking, prepare the ginger soy sauce.

In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, freshly grated ginger, and a little bit of sesame oil. This sauce will add flavor to the rice.

Once the rice is ready, stir in the ginger soy mixture and toss to coat.

Serve warm, and enjoy it with your favorite vegetables or protein!

Ingredients

• 2 cups brown rice
• 3 tablespoons soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon fresh ginger, grated
• 1 tablespoon sesame oil

Cooking Instructions

1. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.
2. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, ginger, and sesame oil.
3. Once rice is cooked, stir in the ginger soy mixture.
4. Serve warm with vegetables or protein.

15) Stuffed Bell Peppers with Brown Rice

Stuffed bell peppers are a tasty and healthy meal. You can fill them with brown rice, which adds fiber and whole grains. This dish is colorful and fun to make.

To start, choose bell peppers in your favorite colors. Slice the tops off and remove the seeds. Cook brown rice according to package instructions.

In a bowl, mix cooked rice with vegetables, spices, and some cheese if you like. Stuff this mixture into the bell peppers.

Place the filled peppers in a baking dish. Bake at 375°F (190°C) for about 30 minutes. Enjoy these delicious stuffed peppers!

Ingredients

• 4 bell peppers (any color)
• 1 cup cooked brown rice
• 1 cup chopped vegetables (like onions, tomatoes, or corn)
• 1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
• ½ cup shredded cheese (optional)

Cooking Instructions

1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Cut the tops off the bell peppers and remove seeds.
3. Cook brown rice as directed on the package.
4. Mix rice, chopped vegetables, and seasoning in a bowl.
5. Fill each bell pepper with the rice mixture.
6. Place the filled peppers in a baking dish.
7. Bake for 30 minutes.