Are you tired of sacrificing flavor and nutrients for convenience? Look no further! With a mini rice cooker, you can whip up a delicious meal in no time. In this article, we’ll explore 20 quick and easy recipes that are perfect for busy weeknights. From savory dishes like Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowl to sweet treats like Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Rice, there’s something for everyone.
These mini rice cooker recipes require minimal effort but deliver maximum flavor. Whether you’re a busy professional or a parent on-the-go, these meals are sure to please even the pickiest of eaters. So go ahead, give your taste buds a break from takeout and cooking up a storm in your mini rice cooker!
Garlic Butter Rice with Shrimp
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish loaded with succulent shrimp, perfect for a weeknight dinner or special occasion. This recipe combines the richness of garlic butter with the sweetness of shrimp, all in one delicious bowl.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 4 tablespoons unsalted butter, softened
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 pound large shrimp, peeled and deveined
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add garlic and cook for 1 minute, until fragrant.
3. Add shrimp to the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, until pink and cooked through.
4. Stir in remaining 2 tablespoons of butter until melted.
5. Combine cooked rice with the garlic butter mixture and season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Coconut Milk Jasmine Rice
A fragrant and creamy twist on traditional jasmine rice, this recipe adds the richness of coconut milk to create a delicious side dish perfect for pairing with your favorite Asian-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked jasmine rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (14 oz) full-fat coconut milk
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the jasmine rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice and water. Bring to a boil over high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
4. Stir in the coconut milk, vegetable oil, and salt. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the coconut milk has been fully incorporated into the rice.
5. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowl
This classic Japanese-inspired dish is a crowd-pleaser, with tender chicken glazed in a sweet and savory teriyaki sauce, served over fluffy Japanese-style rice. This recipe is quick, easy, and perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 cup Japanese-style short-grain rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Sesame seeds and chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a separate pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Add the chicken and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Brush the teriyaki sauce onto the chicken during the last minute of cooking.
4. Serve the chicken over the cooked rice.
5. Garnish with sesame seeds and chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
One-Pot Spanish Rice with Chorizo
Elevate your rice game with this flavorful and easy-to-make one-pot dish, featuring spicy chorizo sausage and aromatic spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups chicken broth
– 1 lb Spanish-style chorizo sausage, sliced
– 1 medium onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add chorizo slices and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add diced onion and minced garlic; cook until onion is translucent.
4. Stir in rice, chicken broth, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.
6. Fluff with fork and garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Lemon Herb Quinoa Pilaf
Brighten up your meal with this refreshing quinoa pilaf infused with the zest of lemon and the subtlety of herbs.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup quinoa, rinsed and drained
– 2 cups water or vegetable broth
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 tablespoons chopped fresh parsley
– 1 tablespoon chopped fresh dill
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse quinoa in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3 minutes.
3. Add quinoa, water or broth, lemon juice, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until quinoa is tender and fluffy.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Kimchi Fried Rice with Egg
Kimchi Fried Rice with Egg: A Spicy Twist on a Classic Favorite!
This Korean-inspired dish combines the savory flavors of kimchi and scrambled eggs with the comfort of fried rice. Perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup kimchi, chopped (homemade or store-bought)
– 2 eggs
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: green onions and toasted sesame seeds for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Push the onion mixture aside, then pour in the beaten eggs. Scramble the eggs until cooked through, breaking them up with a spatula as they set.
4. Mix the eggs with the onion mixture.
5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the egg and onion mixture.
6. Stir in the chopped kimchi, then season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until the flavors have melded together and the rice is heated through.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Garnish with green onions and toasted sesame seeds if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Casserole
This hearty casserole combines the flavors of cheesy broccoli and fluffy rice, making it a perfect solution for a cozy night in or a crowd-pleasing main dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 3 cups broccoli florets
– 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, cheddar cheese, and milk.
3. Stir until well combined and the cheese is fully melted.
4. Butter a 9×13-inch baking dish and pour in the casserole mixture.
5. Sprinkle Parmesan cheese on top (if using).
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until golden brown and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Vegetable Biryani with Cashews
A flavorful and aromatic rice dish packed with a medley of colorful vegetables and crunchy cashews, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup basmati rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, cauliflower)
– 1 teaspoon cumin seeds
– 1 teaspoon coriander powder
– Salt to taste
– 1/4 cup cashews, toasted and chopped
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for 30 minutes. Drain and set aside.
2. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium heat. Add onion, garlic, cumin seeds, and coriander powder. Cook until fragrant (1 minute).
3. Add mixed vegetables and cook until they start to soften (2-3 minutes).
4. Add soaked rice, water, salt, and toasted cashews. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and fluffy.
5. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves. Serve hot.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Rice
Add a tropical twist to your meal with this Sweet and Spicy Pineapple Rice recipe. This flavorful dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with the spiciness of chili flakes, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup pineapple chunks (fresh or canned)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/4 teaspoon chili flakes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium skillet over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the pineapple chunks, cumin, chili flakes, salt, and pepper.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the flavors are well combined.
6. Combine the cooked rice with the pineapple mixture and stir-fry for about 1-2 minutes, until heated through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mediterranean Chickpea and Rice
This flavorful and nutritious recipe combines the richness of chickpeas with the simplicity of cooked rice, all infused with the bright notes of Mediterranean herbs. A perfect side dish or light lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 oz) chickpeas, drained and rinsed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring frequently.
4. Stir in chickpeas, oregano, cumin, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1-2 minutes to allow flavors to meld.
5. Serve warm over cooked rice, garnished with fresh parsley or cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Thai Green Curry Rice
This recipe combines the creamy and spicy flavors of Thai green curry with fluffy white rice, making it a perfect one-pot meal for any occasion. With minimal prep time and easy-to-follow instructions, you’ll be enjoying this delicious dish in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 1 can (14 oz) coconut milk
– 2 tablespoons Thai green curry paste
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves, for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large saucepan over medium-high heat.
2. Add onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until onion is translucent.
3. Add rice and stir to combine with the aromatics.
4. Add water, coconut milk, curry paste, salt, and pepper. Stir well.
5. Bring mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until rice is cooked.
6. Garnish with cilantro leaves and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mexican Rice with Black Beans
This flavorful side dish combines the comforting warmth of Mexican rice with the protein-packed goodness of black beans, making it a perfect accompaniment to your favorite Mexican-inspired meals.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 can (15 ounces) black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the uncooked rice to the saucepan and stir to combine with the onion mixture.
5. Cook for 1-2 minutes, or until the rice is lightly toasted.
6. Add the water, cumin, and salt to the saucepan. Stir to combine.
7. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the liquid has been absorbed and the rice is tender.
8. Fluff with a fork and stir in the black beans. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Savory Mushroom Risotto
This hearty risotto recipe combines the earthy flavors of mushrooms with a rich and creamy Arborio rice, perfect for a cozy dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup Arborio rice
– 4 cups vegetable broth, warmed
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 8 oz mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/2 cup white wine (optional)
– 1 tablespoon butter
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add onion and cook until translucent.
2. Add mushrooms and garlic; cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown.
3. Add Arborio rice; cook for 1-2 minutes, stirring constantly.
4. If using wine, add it and cook until absorbed.
5. Add warmed broth, 1/2 cup at a time, stirring continuously and allowing each portion to absorb before adding the next.
6. After 20-25 minutes of cooking, stir in butter and season with salt and pepper.
7. Serve hot, garnished with parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Honey Soy Glazed Salmon Rice
This recipe combines the flavors of honey, soy sauce, and sesame oil to create a glazed salmon dish that pairs perfectly with flavorful rice. It’s a quick and easy meal that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 salmon fillets (6 oz each)
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 2 tbsp honey
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp sesame oil
– 1 tsp grated ginger
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together honey, soy sauce, sesame oil, and ginger.
3. Place salmon fillets on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Brush the glaze evenly over each fillet.
4. Cook for 12-15 minutes or until salmon is cooked through.
5. Serve with cooked rice and garnish with green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15 minutes
Spinach and Feta Rice Bake
This Spinach and Feta Rice Bake is a flavorful and satisfying side dish perfect for any occasion. With its creamy feta cheese and nutty spinach, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and cook until softened.
3. Stir in the cooked rice, spinach leaves, and crumbled feta cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Transfer the mixture to a 9×13 inch baking dish and cover with aluminum foil.
5. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the rice is heated through and the flavors have melded together.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Tofu and Peanut Rice Stir-Fry
A flavorful and nutritious stir-fry that combines the creaminess of peanut sauce with the savory taste of tofu and nutty flavor of brown rice. This recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or as a healthy lunch option.
Ingredients:
– 1 block firm tofu, drained and cubed
– 2 cups cooked brown rice
– 2 tablespoons peanut oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated fresh ginger
– 2 tablespoons creamy natural peanut butter
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the peanut oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the tofu, onion, garlic, and ginger; cook until the tofu is golden brown and the vegetables are tender.
3. In a small bowl, whisk together the peanut butter, soy sauce, and honey. Pour the sauce into the skillet and stir to combine.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until heated through.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped green onions, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Tomato Basil Rice with Mozzarella
A flavorful and colorful side dish that’s perfect for any occasion. This recipe combines the sweetness of tomatoes, the freshness of basil, and the creaminess of mozzarella cheese.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
Instructions:
1. Cook rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add chopped onion and cook until translucent.
3. Add minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in diced tomatoes, salt, and pepper. Bring to a simmer and let cook for 5 minutes.
5. Fluff cooked rice with a fork and stir into the tomato mixture.
6. Remove from heat and stir in chopped basil leaves.
7. Transfer rice mixture to a serving dish. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese.
8. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet
Get ready for a flavorful one-pot meal that’s perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend brunch! This Cajun Sausage and Rice Skillet recipe combines spicy sausage, fluffy rice, and savory vegetables in a rich and aromatic tomato-based sauce.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb smoked sausage (such as Andouille), sliced
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 large onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1 tsp Cajun seasoning
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add sliced sausage and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
4. Add garlic, bell pepper, Cajun seasoning, salt, and pepper. Cook for an additional 2 minutes.
5. Stir in cooked rice, diced tomatoes, chicken broth, and browned sausage.
6. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for 10-12 minutes or until liquid has been absorbed and rice is tender.
7. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
8. Serve hot, garnished with chopped parsley if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Ginger Turmeric Rice with Peas
This flavorful side dish is perfect for pairing with your favorite proteins or as a standalone meal. The combination of aromatic spices, creamy peas, and fluffy rice will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1-inch piece of fresh ginger, grated
– 1 teaspoon ground turmeric
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 cup frozen peas
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and drain well.
2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rice and water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until the water is absorbed.
3. In a small skillet, heat the oil over medium heat. Add the grated ginger and cook for 1 minute.
4. Stir in the turmeric and salt. Cook for an additional 30 seconds.
5. Fluff the cooked rice with a fork. Stir in the ginger-turmeric mixture and peas. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the peas are tender.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
BBQ Pulled Pork Rice Bowl
Get ready for a flavorful and filling meal with this BBQ Pulled Pork Rice Bowl recipe. Slow-cooked pork shoulder, tangy BBQ sauce, and fluffy rice come together in perfect harmony.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs pork shoulder
– 1 cup BBQ sauce
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon sesame oil
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 275°F.
2. In a large Dutch oven or oven-safe pot, combine pork shoulder and BBQ sauce. Cover with lid or foil.
3. Bake for 6-8 hours or until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Cook rice according to package instructions.
5. To assemble bowls, place cooked rice at the bottom, followed by pulled pork, drizzled with soy sauce and sesame oil (if using). Garnish with green onions (if desired).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (oven) + 20 minutes (rice cooking)
Enjoy your delicious BBQ Pulled Pork Rice Bowl!
Summary
Get ready to revolutionize your weeknight meals with these 20 quick and delicious mini rice cooker recipes! From savory dishes like Teriyaki Chicken and Rice Bowl and Savory Mushroom Risotto, to flavorful bowls like Thai Green Curry Rice and Mediterranean Chickpea and Rice, there’s something for everyone. Try making Garlic Butter Rice with Shrimp, Coconut Milk Jasmine Rice, or Kimchi Fried Rice with Egg in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re a busy professional or a hectic parent, these easy recipes are sure to become your new go-to solution for quick, satisfying meals.
