Who’s ready for a new current carb obsession? Oh good, us too . In fact, we’re already here.
We are talking about light, fluffy, long-grain rice, perfectly aromatic and nutty, served with Indian food or as a simple side. We won’t judge .
Live your best super fluffy, super fresh, basmati rice life . Super simple and so delicious .
1. Easy Chicken Fried Rice
Please just skip the takeout menu when that craving for chicken fried rice hits. This recipe is here to save you time and money.
It’s so easy to follow, and the flavor is just as good as what you’d get from your local Asian spot.
The best part? You can get this on the table in under an hour. Ugh. That’s just a win.
2. One-Pot Greek Chicken and Basmati Rice
What if you want chicken but something a little milder? This recipe is probably right up your alley. It’s so delicious and simple to make, and it all happens in one pot.
We’re talking garlicky, herby goodness, with bright pops of lemon, feta, and basil. If you want a more exciting way to do chicken and rice, this is 100% it.
3. Basmati Rice Pilaf
Need something with a little more flavor? Okay, yes, CAN DO. You have to try this garlicky, onion-y rice pilaf. It is ridiculously good and has the most amazing texture.
You can top it with almonds and chives for extra color and crunch. I am obsessed with serving this with a lean piece of chicken, but honestly? It’s also a go-to snack all by itself in my house.
4. Instant Pot Chicken Tikka Masala Basmati Rice
Okay, so I have to tell you something. This is my all-time favorite Indian dish. Seriously. It just has everything: the rich tomato sauce, the curry, the spice.
And don’t forget the tender chicken and fluffy rice. GAHHHHH. If you’re a fan of Indian food or just want to give it a try, this recipe is everything.
5. Beef Stew in Half the Time With Rice
Do you ever crave beef stew when it gets cool? I knew it, me too. But making it usually means a slow cooker and simmering for hours. That’s fine if you want something hands-off.
But what if it’s already dinner o’clock and the craving just hit? You need another way. This recipe is the answer.
You can get this done in an hour, max. And it tastes just as good as the slow-cooked version! Just pile it over basmati rice. Dinner is ready.
6. Perfect Basmati Rice
First, let’s get back to the basics. Here’s a recipe for simple, perfect basmati rice.
It’s so easy, with just four ingredients, and it’s done in under 30 minutes. You just need rice, water, butter, and salt. Ummm hi, that’s all.
Those ingredients will give you the tenderest, fluffiest basmati rice. It’s low in calories and fat and makes a killer side dish. It’s also a great bed for veggies and protein.
Or just snack on it all by itself. So good.
7. Basmati Coconut Rice
Even with coconut milk, this is not a sweet rice. It’s savory, delightfully sticky, and fluffy. It’s packed with a rich, earthy flavor and big pops of oniony goodness.
And even though it’s not sweet, it’s a perfect match for sweet-n-sour recipes. Try serving it as a bed for sweet-n-sour chicken or pork. You will not regret it.
8. Middle Eastern Roasted Vegetable Rice
Are you a fan of Middle Eastern food? And lots of yummy veggies? This recipe brings both of those together in one golden, delicious dish. It does take a little time, but it’s so worth it.
It smells amazing, looks phenomenal, and tastes even better. Plus, it’s vegan, which means pretty much everyone can eat it!
9. Indian Basmati Rice
Basmati rice is from India, so we definitely need an Indian recipe for it. This one is jazzed up with curry, turmeric, cumin, and other fragrant seasonings.
It has a beautiful golden color and a flavor that is herby, spicy, and robust. It’s just impossible not to be obsessed with, especially when you serve it with your favorite curry.
10. Italian-Style Rice Salad
Oh, man. You might think pasta salad is a summer must, but just wait. Once you try this rice salad, you might never go back.
It’s cool and colorful, and just loaded with veggies, spices, herbs, and seasonings.
The Italian dressing has a big punch of flavor, and everything else is so yummy. It comes together in only 20 minutes and is amazing warm or cold.
Bring this to your next BBQ. I promise everyone will be asking for more.
11. Curry Vegetable Basmati Rice
Is there anything better than the bold flavor of curry with tons of fresh veggies? Not really! This colorful rice is so nutritious and delicious.
It’s packed with peas, beans, onions, peppers, cauliflower, and more.
And that’s before we even talk about all the spices and herbs. It’s a super simple, veg-friendly side.
You can also make it vegan with a few small changes. Add in some tofu or other protein for a totally complete, healthy meal.
12. Chicken and Rice Soup
Mmmm. Chicken and rice soup. I am so into this. It’s just one of those perfect ‘feel better’ meals, right up there with chicken noodle. And this recipe lets you make it yourself.
It’s a flavorful, thin-broth soup but still has lots of chunky goodness. It takes less than an hour and all in one pot. Plus, it’s under 200 calories a serving. You need to make this the next time you want soup.
13. Garlic Basmati Rice
If you’re like me, you can never have enough garlic. I’m pretty sure I could add it to everything and be happy. If you get that, then use this recipe to add garlic to your rice.
Just mix in rapeseed oil, salt, and spring onions, and you are good to go. And bonus: your kitchen is going to smell incredible while this is cooking.
14. Indian Butter Chicken With Basmati Rice
I’m pretty sure Indian butter chicken is the one recipe everyone I know loves. Some like chicken tikka masala. Some prefer tandoori chicken. But everyone, and I mean everyone, loves butter chicken.
It’s the one Indian meal we all agree on. The chicken is so tender and juicy, and that bright, tomato-based sauce is just out of this world. It’s spicy, but not too spicy, so the whole family can get in on this.
Just make sure you have basmati rice and naan to serve with it.
15. One-Pan Shrimp and Rice
I am a sucker for a good one-pan meal. Especially one that’s this flavorful, fragrant, and colorful. And it’s got low-fat shrimp and a ton of veggies! That is exactly what this dinner is all about.
It is Creole food at its best: well-seasoned and a little spicy. I’m telling you, make this one time and you’ll be obsessed for life.
