Are you tired of serving the same old plain rice with every meal? Look no further! In this article, we’ll be sharing 20 mouthwatering rice recipes that are sure to delight even the pickiest of eaters – your kids! From cheesy broccoli rice balls to mini chicken fried rice cups and beyond, these creative dishes will add a fun twist to your family’s mealtimes. Whether you’re looking for a healthy snack or a comforting side dish, we’ve got you covered with our collection of kid-friendly rice recipes.
Get ready to mix things up in the kitchen and bring some excitement to mealtime!
Cheesy Broccoli Rice Balls
These crispy rice balls filled with creamy cheese and tender broccoli are a delicious snack or side dish that’s easy to make and perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen broccoli florets, thawed and drained
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooking spray or oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, broccoli, and cheese.
3. In another bowl, beat the egg and mix with breadcrumbs. Add salt and pepper to taste.
4. Shape rice mixture into small balls, about 1 inch (2.5 cm) in diameter. Flatten each ball slightly.
5. Place a spoonful of the breadcrumb mixture onto each ball, pressing gently.
6. Spray or brush tops with cooking spray or oil.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Chicken Fried Rice Cups
Elevate your snack game with these bite-sized chicken fried rice cups, perfect for a quick pick-me-up or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 4-6 mini muffin tin liners
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large skillet or wok, heat oil over medium-high heat.
3. Add chopped onion and minced garlic; cook until translucent.
4. Add cooked chicken and stir-fry for about 2 minutes.
5. Add cooked rice to the skillet and stir-fry until well combined with the chicken mixture.
6. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper.
7. Grease mini muffin tin liners with a little oil.
8. Divide the rice mixture evenly among the liners.
9. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until lightly browned on top.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Yield: 4-6 Mini Chicken Fried Rice Cups
Rainbow Veggie Rice Bowl
Discover a vibrant and nutritious bowl filled with colorful vegetables, fluffy rice, and a hint of sweetness. This recipe is perfect for a quick lunch or dinner that’s both healthy and flavorful.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1 cup mixed colored bell peppers (red, orange, yellow, green)
– 1/2 cup sliced carrots
– 1/2 cup sliced zucchini
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the bell peppers, carrots, and zucchini. Cook for 5-7 minutes or until tender.
3. Stir in the honey and season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Divide the cooked rice between two bowls. Top with the roasted vegetables and garnish with chopped scallions.
5. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Hidden Veggie Rice Pudding
A creamy and comforting dessert that sneaks in some extra veggies! This recipe is perfect for families with picky eaters or anyone looking to increase their daily veggie intake.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups mixed vegetables (such as peas, carrots, corn)
– 2 cups whole milk
– 1/4 cup sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (180°C).
2. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, mixed vegetables, and milk. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes or until the pudding thickens slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in sugar, salt, and vanilla extract.
5. Pour the pudding into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
6. Dot the top with butter and bake for 25-30 minutes, or until the pudding is lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Peanut Butter Banana Rice Porridge
Warm up with a comforting bowl of this sweet and savory porridge, perfect for a cozy breakfast or snack.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 tbsp creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup coconut milk or regular milk
– Pinch of salt
– Optional: honey, chopped nuts, or shredded coconut for topping
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, sliced banana, and peanut butter. Cook over low heat, stirring occasionally, until the mixture is smooth and heated through (about 5 minutes).
2. Gradually add in coconut milk or regular milk, whisking continuously to avoid lumps.
3. Season with salt to taste.
4. Serve hot, topped with your preferred toppings (if using).
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your comforting and creamy Peanut Butter Banana Rice Porridge!
Pizza Rice Cakes
Transform plain rice cakes into flavorful pizza-inspired snacks with just a few simple ingredients and steps. Perfect for a quick pick-me-up or party appetizer.
Ingredients:
– 6-8 rice cakes
– 1/4 cup pizza sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni slices (or your favorite topping)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C).
2. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
3. Arrange rice cakes on the prepared baking sheet.
4. Drizzle olive oil over the rice cakes and sprinkle with salt.
5. Spoon pizza sauce over each rice cake, leaving a small border around the edges.
6. Top with shredded mozzarella cheese and chopped pepperoni slices.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes or until cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Enjoy your delicious Pizza Rice Cakes!
Sweet Corn and Cheese Rice Muffins
Sweet Corn and Cheese Rice Muffins: A delightful twist on traditional rice muffins, these savory treats combine the sweetness of corn with the creaminess of cheese.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup frozen sweet corn kernels, thawed
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup milk
– 1 large egg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a 12-cup muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together rice, corn, cheese, milk, egg, and salt.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among the muffin cups.
4. Drizzle each cup with vegetable oil.
5. Bake for 20-22 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Servings: 12 muffins
Strawberry Coconut Rice Pudding
A creamy and refreshing dessert that combines the sweetness of strawberries with the warmth of coconut.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (preferably day-old rice)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup unsweetened shredded coconut
– 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the pudding has thickened and the rice is creamy.
3. Stir in unsweetened shredded coconut and honey until well combined.
4. Fold in sliced strawberries.
5. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to allow flavors to meld together.
6. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Taco Rice Skillet
This hearty one-pot meal combines the flavors of tacos with a savory rice dish, perfect for a quick and satisfying dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, diced tomatoes, sour cream, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Cook the rice according to package instructions using 2 cups of water.
2. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef (or alternative protein) and taco seasoning to the skillet, cooking until browned, breaking up with a spoon as needed.
4. Stir in the black beans, peas and carrots, and cooked rice.
5. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the flavors have melded together and the mixture is heated through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Serve hot, topped with your choice of optional toppings.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Rice Bites
These sweet and savory bites are perfect as a snack or side dish. Fluffy rice is infused with the warmth of cinnamon and the crunch of chopped apples, creating a delightful combination.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup diced apple (Granny Smith or Gala)
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 egg, beaten (for egg wash)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, diced apple, brown sugar, melted butter, cinnamon, and salt. Mix until well combined.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired bite size. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into a disk shape.
4. Brush tops with beaten egg for a golden glaze.
5. Place rice bites on prepared baking sheet, leaving about 1 inch of space between each.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until lightly browned.
Rainbow Sushi Rolls (No Raw Fish)
Bring a pop of color and excitement to your sushi game with these vibrant, veggie-packed Rainbow Sushi Rolls! Made without raw fish, these rolls are perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked rice
– 1/2 cup water
– 1 tablespoon rice vinegar
– 1 sheet of nori seaweed
– 1/2 avocado, sliced
– 1/2 cucumber, sliced
– 1/4 red bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 yellow bell pepper, sliced
– 1/4 orange bell pepper, sliced
– Sesame seeds and chopped scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Prepare the rice according to package instructions.
2. Cut the nori sheet into desired size for rolling.
3. Lay a nori sheet flat on a sushi mat or cutting board.
4. Spread a thin layer of cooked rice onto the nori, leaving a 1-inch border at the top.
5. Arrange the sliced vegetables horizontally across the middle of the rice.
6. Roll the sushi using the mat or your hands, applying gentle pressure.
7. Slice into individual pieces and garnish with sesame seeds and chopped scallions.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Tomato Basil Rice Soup
This comforting soup combines the flavors of fresh tomatoes, basil, and creamy rice to create a deliciously easy meal. Perfect for a cozy evening or a quick lunch, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 garlic cloves, minced
– 2 cups diced fresh tomatoes (or 1 can of crushed tomatoes)
– 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh basil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Stir in the diced tomatoes, broth, cooked rice, salt, and pepper.
5. Bring to a simmer and cook for 15-20 minutes or until the soup has thickened slightly.
6. Stir in the chopped basil and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, topped with grated Parmesan cheese if desired.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Carrot Cake Rice Pudding
Satisfy your sweet tooth with this unique twist on traditional rice pudding, infused with the warmth of carrot cake spices and flavors. This comforting dessert is perfect for a chilly evening or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon ground nutmeg
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1/2 cup grated carrot
– 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, nutmeg, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until pudding thickens.
4. Stir in melted butter, egg, grated carrot, and vanilla extract.
5. Remove from heat and let cool slightly before serving.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Mini Rice and Cheese Quesadillas
A flavorful and easy-to-make snack that’s perfect for any occasion. These bite-sized quesadillas are filled with creamy cheese, savory rice, and a hint of spice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt to taste
– 4-6 mini tortillas (corn or flour)
– Optional toppings: diced tomatoes, sour cream, salsa
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, chopped onion, cumin, and salt.
3. Place a tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle one-quarter of the rice mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Top with shredded cheese and fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling.
5. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the tortilla is crispy and the cheese is melted.
6. Flip and cook for an additional 1-2 minutes or until the other side is also crispy.
7. Repeat with remaining ingredients.
Cooking Time: Approximately 10-12 minutes
Chocolate Peanut Butter Rice Bars
A delicious treat that combines the classic flavors of chocolate and peanut butter with the comfort of rice, these bars are perfect for a sweet indulgence. With a crunchy peanut butter crust and a gooey chocolate center, you’ll be hooked from the first bite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 cup semi-sweet chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup chopped peanuts
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 350°F (175°C). Line an 8-inch square baking dish with parchment paper.
2. In a large bowl, mix together cooked rice, peanut butter, and melted butter until well combined.
3. Press the mixture into the prepared baking dish.
4. Melt chocolate chips in a microwave-safe bowl in 30-second increments, stirring between each interval, until smooth.
5. Pour the melted chocolate over the rice mixture and sprinkle with granulated sugar and chopped peanuts.
6. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the edges are set and the center is slightly gooey.
7. Let cool completely before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Spinach and Yogurt Rice
This flavorful side dish is a perfect accompaniment to your favorite main courses. The creamy yogurt and spinach add a delicious twist to traditional plain rice.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white or brown rice
– 2 cups water
– 1/4 cup plain yogurt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh spinach
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt, to taste
Instructions:
1. Rinse the rice and soak it in water for at least 30 minutes.
2. Drain the water and heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat.
3. Add the rice and stir-fry until it’s lightly toasted (about 2-3 minutes).
4. Add the water, yogurt, spinach, and salt to the saucepan. Stir well.
5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15-20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is cooked.
6. Fluff the rice with a fork and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Rice Pancakes with Honey Drizzle
These bite-sized rice pancakes are a delightful treat to begin your day or as a snack any time of the day. With a hint of sweetness and a drizzle of honey, you’ll be hooked!
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1/2 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon baking powder
• 1/2 cup milk
• 1 large egg
• Honey (for drizzling)
Instructions:
1. In a bowl, combine cooked rice, flour, salt, and baking powder.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together milk and egg.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and mix until smooth.
4. Heat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
5. Drop tablespoon-sized portions of batter onto the skillet.
6. Cook for 2-3 minutes on each side, or until golden brown.
7. Serve warm with a drizzle of honey.
Cooking Time: Approximately 15-20 minutes
Easy Rice and Bean Burritos
Easy Rice and Bean Burritos
A simple and satisfying meal that’s perfect for a weeknight dinner or lunch on-the-go. This recipe combines fluffy rice, creamy beans, and savory seasonings with tender tortillas.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1 cup cooked black beans, warmed
– 1/2 cup diced onion
– 1/2 cup diced bell pepper
– 1 jalapeño pepper, seeded and finely chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Shredded cheese (optional)
– Salsa (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the onion, bell pepper, and jalapeño over medium-high heat until tender.
2. Add the garlic, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute.
3. Stir in the cooked rice and beans. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, until heated through.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble burritos by spooning the rice and bean mixture onto a tortilla, adding cheese and salsa if desired.
Cook Time: 15-20 minutes
Banana Bread Rice Pudding
A sweet and creamy dessert that combines the warmth of banana bread with the comfort of rice pudding.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 2 ripe bananas, mashed
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/2 cup milk
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1 large egg yolk
– 1 tablespoon unsalted butter, melted
– Pinch of ground cinnamon
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, sugar, and salt.
2. Add the mashed bananas, milk, heavy cream, and egg yolk. Whisk until smooth.
3. Cook over medium heat, whisking constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
4. Reduce heat to low and cook for 5 minutes or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
5. Remove from heat and stir in melted butter and cinnamon.
6. Pour into individual serving cups or a large baking dish.
7. Chill in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours before serving.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sunflower Seed and Honey Rice Balls
These chewy rice balls are infused with the nutty flavor of sunflower seeds and sweetened with honey, making them a perfect snack for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked Japanese short-grain rice
– 1/4 cup sunflower seeds
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon sesame oil
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice and sunflower seeds. Mix well.
2. Add the honey and sesame oil to the rice mixture. Mix until the ingredients are fully incorporated.
3. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter. You should end up with around 8-10 rice balls.
4. Place the rice balls on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
5. Serve chilled.
Cooking Time: 0 minutes (assembly only)
Summary
Get your kids to love their veggies and rice with these 20 delicious recipes! From Cheesy Broccoli Rice Balls to Strawberry Coconut Rice Pudding, and even Taco Rice Skillet, there’s something for every kid (and adult!) on this list. These creative and tasty dishes hide veggies like spinach and carrots in rice-based meals that are fun to eat. Plus, many of these recipes are easy to make and require minimal ingredients. Whether you’re looking for a quick snack or a family meal, these rice recipes are sure to please even the pickiest eaters.