Are you looking for Easy Rice Recipes that double as Easy Dinner Recipes? You’ve come to the right place! I have handpick the best, most delicious rice-based dishes. Whether you need something comforting, spicy, or vegetarian-friendly, this compilation covers a variety of quick rice recipes you can whip up in no time.

Easy rice recipes and easy dinner recipes


Whether you’re a busy professional or a home cook seeking easy dinner recipes, these quick rice recipes will simplify your mealtimes. Each dish is customizable and can be adapted for dietary needs—vegetarian, vegan (where applicable), or protein-rich with meat or eggs.

30 Easy Rice Recipes

Here’s My List Of Easy Rice Recipes that are quick, nutritious, flavour packed and are perfect of the days when you are looking for easy dinner recipes.

1. Paneer Biryani

  • Aromatic basmati rice cooked with spiced paneer cubes.
  • Perfect balance of fragrant spices, making it a hearty one-pot meal.
  • Great for weekend family dinners or special occasions.

Why You’ll Love It: If you adore paneer and are looking for a simple rice dish that doesn’t require hours in the kitchen, Paneer Biryani is a must-try. Serve it with raita or plain yogurt for a cooling contrast.

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Paneer Biryani recipe in Pressure cooker
Paneer Biryani Recipe
Delicious paneer biryani recipe in Hyderabadi dum biryani style. Vegetarian biryani recipe which is also known as paneer pulao. 
Check out this recipe

2. Tawa Pulao

Highlights:

  • Mumbai street-style rice dish prepared on a flat griddle or “tawa.”
  • Spiced with pav bhaji masala for a unique, tangy flavor.
  • Loaded with veggies, making it a satisfying, veggie-forward meal.

Why You’ll Love ItTawa Pulao is a staple for those nights when you crave a quick yet flavor-packed meal. It’s also an excellent way to use up leftover rice.

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Cheese-tawa-pulao
Tawa Pulao Recipe
Tawa pulao recipe, Mumbai style tawa, easy rice recipe infused with pav bhaji flavours. Gluten-free vegetarian rice recipe ready in 30 Minutes.
Check out this recipe

3. Egg Biryani

Highlights:

  • Protein-rich biryani with boiled or lightly sautéed eggs.
  • Infused with spices and caramelized onions for a rich taste.
  • Works well as an easy dinner recipe or a lunchbox option.

Why You’ll Love It: This dish offers the irresistible flavors of biryani without a ton of prep work. A great option for egg lovers seeking a quick one-pot rice meal.

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egg biryani
Egg Biryani Recipe | Easy Hyderabadi Style Dum Biryani
Egg biryani recipe, Fragrant Basmati rice cooked with layers of masalas, spicy crispy fried eggs brown onions, aromatic herbs cooked in Hyderabadi dum style
Check out this recipe

4. Vegetable Pulao

Highlights:

  • Classic Indian rice dish loaded with colorful vegetables.
  • Mildly spiced, making it suitable for all ages.
  • Can be paired with curry, dal, or enjoyed as-is.

Why You’ll Love ItVegetable Pulao is a healthy rice recipe that’s both versatile and crowd-pleasing. It’s also an excellent way to sneak extra veggies into your diet.

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Vegetable Pulao (Veg Pulav)
Vegetable Pulao – Pressure cooker Recipe
Easy Vegetable pulao recipe to make fragrant, fluffy and perfect rice every single time! You can make this Indian Vegetable pulao in 20 Minutes. Recipe to make best veg rice pulao.
Check out this recipe
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Instant Pot Veg Pulao recipe
Instant Pot Veg Pulao
Vegetable Pulao is a spicy rice dish with lots of vegetables. This Mixed Veg Pulao recipe from the Indian cuisine is a perfect one pot vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dish for lunch or dinner.
Check out this recipe

5. Soya Chunks Biryani

Highlights:

  • High-protein biryani with tender soya chunks.
  • Bursting with flavors from aromatic whole spices and herbs.
  • Ideal for vegetarians or anyone wanting a plant-based protein source.

Why You’ll Love It: Soya Chunks Biryani is an easy rice recipe that satisfies your craving for something hearty without using meat. Serve with cucumber raita for a refreshing complement.

6. Curry Leaves Rice

Highlights:

  • Southern Indian twist with fragrant curry leaves.
  • Simple tempering of spices for a burst of flavor.
  • Quick to cook, perfect for busy weeknights.

Why You’ll Love It: This is a simple rice dish that highlights the unique aroma of curry leaves. If you need a hassle-free meal, this is sure to become a weeknight favorite.

7. Spinach Rice (Palak Rice)

Highlights:

  • Nutritious spinach purée mixed with basmati rice.
  • Subtle spices enhance the flavor without overpowering.
  • Vibrant green color and high nutrient content.

Why You’ll Love It: For a healthy and easy dinner recipe, Spinach Rice delivers both flavor and nutrition. Serve with yogurt or a simple tomato-onion raita.

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Spinach rice with Moringa powder
Spinach and Moringa Rice
Spinach Rice recipe that is healthy easy to make gluten free recipe. Of late I have been following a diet that is gut healthy and gluten free, vegetarian.
Check out this recipe

8. Tomato Rice

Highlights:

  • Tangy and slightly spicy rice dish popular in South India.
  • Made with fresh tomatoes and a blend of aromatic spices.
  • Perfect for lunchboxes or a quick side dish.

Why You’ll Love ItTomato Rice is a delicious way to add variety to your dinner lineup. Pair it with a cool yogurt dip or a crisp salad for a complete meal.

9. Masala Khichdi (Dal Khichdi)

Highlights:

  • Comforting blend of rice and lentils, mildly spiced.
  • Great for days when you want a light, soothing meal.
  • Can be made in under 30 minutes and is easily digestible.

Why You’ll Love It: Khichdi is the ultimate comfort food recipe, perfect for a cozy evening. It’s also budget-friendlyand a wonderful option when you need something quick yet nutritious.

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Vaghareli Khichdi
Vaghareli Khichdi Recipe
Gujarati Vaghareli Khichdi is a healthy, easy one pot meal, and a comfort food. This Khichdi recipe is easy to cook, tasty, healthy, light on stomach, quick to make meal for dinner or Lunch.
Check out this recipe

10. Sambar Rice

Highlights:

  • A one-pot fusion of rice and tangy lentil-based stew (sambar).
  • Enhanced with vegetables like drumsticks, carrots, and beans.
  • Popular South Indian meal, ideal for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love It: If you adore South Indian flavors, Sambar Rice is a weeknight rice meal that can come together swiftly. Enjoy it with a dollop of ghee on top.

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Sambhar rice sadam
Sambar Sadam Recipe – Lentil and Rice One Pot Meal
Discover how to make flavorful sambar rice with lentils and spices in this easy sambar sadam recipe. This one pot rice recipe is an easy dinner
Check out this recipe

11. Kuska Biryani

Highlights

  • Also known as “Plain Biryani,” typically made without any veggies or meat.
  • Relies on aromatic basmati rice, ghee, and a blend of spices like cinnamon, clove, and bay leaf.
  • Often served with kurma, raita, or spicy gravies on the side.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Perfect for those craving the biryani aroma but in a simpler, lighter version.
  • Ideal as a base biryani—add veggies or proteins as desired.
  • Quick to assemble since you skip the layering of meat or vegetables.
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Kuska Recipe
Kuska is plain biryani cooked in onion, tomatoes and aromatic spices that tastes great with cucumber raita or Mirchi salan.
Check out this recipe

12. Brown Rice Pulao in Microwave

Highlights

  • Healthy pulao option using brown rice for extra fiber and nutrients.
  • Cooked conveniently in the microwave, minimizing hands-on time.
  • Mixed veggies (carrots, peas, beans) and mild spices make it both nutritious and flavorful.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Great for those looking to incorporate whole grains without much fuss.
  • Saves stovetop space—handy when you’re cooking multiple dishes.
  • Perfect for meal prep and busy weeknights.
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Brown rice masoor dal pulao
Brown Rice Pulao with Brown Rice
Masoor dal brown rice pulao recipe with goodness of whole red lentils / Kali masoor dal, brown rice, veggies and fragrant spices. A delicious, heart-healthy, one-pot rice meal recipe in microwave
Check out this recipe

13. Tahri Recipe- Flavourful & Easy Rice recipes

Highlights

  • A North Indian one-pot dish similar to a pulao, featuring rice and vegetables (often potatoes, peas, cauliflower).
  • Seasoned with basic spices like turmeric, cumin, and a light masala.
  • Comforting and mildly spiced, often enjoyed with yogurt or pickle.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Budget-friendly and straightforward—excellent for weeknight dinners.
  • A classic, home-style dish that appeals to all ages.
  • Easy to adapt with different veggies based on what’s in your fridge.
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Tahari recipe rice recipes
Tahari – How to Make Tahri Recipe
Tahri recipe inspired from traditional Maharashtrian Masale bhaat. One pot Spicy, wholesome, fragrant and one best fluffy rice recipes. Veg Tahri recipe from Uttar Pradesh 
Check out this recipe

14. Masale Bhat

Highlights

  • A Maharashtrian specialty made with rice, goda masala (regional spice mix), and veggies like eggplant, peas, or potatoes.
  • Infused with a distinct aroma from goda masala, coconut, and other local spices.
  • Typically garnished with fresh coriander and served with a tangy raita.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Bursting with authentic Maharashtrian flavors.
  • One-pot comfort meal that’s both filling and unique.
  • Can be dressed up for festive occasions or made simply for everyday meals.
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Masale Bhat Recipe
Masale Bhat Recipe – One Pot Indian Vegetarian Rice Dish
Masale bhaat is an easy, delicious, one pot Indian vegetarian meal. Cooked with vegetables, like potatoes, cauliflower, peas and a mix of flavourful Indian spices. This traditional Maharashtrian rice preparation is an amazing mix of spicy flavours and texture.
Check out this recipe

15. Gatta Pulao

Highlights

  • Rajasthani-style pulao featuring gatte (besan/chickpea flour dumplings).
  • Rice is cooked with mild spices, yogurt, and onion-tomato masala.
  • The dumplings add a chewy, savory element to the dish.

Why You’ll Love It

  • A delightful way to enjoy chickpea flour in a main course.
  • Rich, tangy taste thanks to the yogurt-based gravy.
  • A specialty that introduces authentic Rajasthani cuisine to your table.
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Gatte ka Pulao recipe
Marwari gatta pulao Recipe
Gatte ka pulao is spicy rice dish from Marwari cuisine of Rajasthan. Rajasthani gatte ka pulao is traditional recipe which is made with besan gatta and rice cooked with lot of aromatic spices.
Check out this recipe

16. Kala Chana Pulao

Highlights

  • Protein-rich pulao with black chickpeas (kala chana) and fragrant basmati rice.
  • Spiced with onions, tomatoes, and a blend of warming masalas.
  • Offers a hearty, earthy taste, perfect for lunch or dinner.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Combines carbs and high protein in a single pot—balanced meal.
  • Ideal for anyone looking for a plant-based protein source.
  • Tastes great with a refreshing cucumber raita or a tangy pickle.
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kala chana pulao
Black Chickpeas Pilaf – Kala Chana Pulao
Check out this recipe

17. Chana Pulao

Highlights

  • Uses regular white chickpeas (kabuli chana) for a lighter flavor than kala chana.
  • Cooked with aromatic whole spices, onions, tomatoes, and sometimes mint leaves.
  • Fluffy rice studded with chickpeas for a satisfying bite.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Another excellent vegetarian protein-rich option.
  • Mild yet flavorful—kids and adults enjoy it alike.
  • Easily paired with any type of raita or salad for a wholesome meal.
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chana Pulao Amritsari
Chana Pulao Recipe – Chickpeas Pulao
Easy chana pulao recipe which makes delicious and wholesome one pot meal for weeknights.This is Punjabi chana pulao recipe with a flavorful Amritsari twist.
Check out this recipe

18. Pineapple Fried Rice

Highlights

  • Sweet and savory combination featuring chunks of pineapple, mixed veggies, and rice.
  • Commonly flavored with soy sauce, chili sauce, or light curry powder for a tropical twist.
  • Often served in a hollowed-out pineapple for an eye-catching presentation.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Perfect balance of sweet fruitiness and salty-spicy notes.
  • Quick stir-fry method—great for leftover rice.
  • A fun dish to impress guests or add variety to your dinner rotation.
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pineapple fried rice
Pineapple Fried Rice
Pineapple fried rice is a quick fried rice recipe Thai-inspired ingredients like rice, curry, pineapple and sauces. It is better than takeout Vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free dish in less than 20 minutes. 
Check out this recipe

19. Mushroom Biryani

Highlights

  • Fragrant biryani layered with mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, and a medley of spices.
  • Mushrooms soak up the biryani masala, adding a rich, earthy flavor.
  • Can be made in one pot with a dum-cooking technique or in layers.

Why You’ll Love It

  • A fantastic vegetarian alternative to chicken or mutton biryani.
  • Meaty texture without any actual meat—perfect for mushroom enthusiasts.
  • Serve with fresh raita or a simple gravy for a complete meal.

20. Vegetable and Lentil Rice

Highlights

  • Combines rice with a variety of lentils (often moong or masoor) plus mixed vegetables.
  • Similar to khichdi but with distinct, separate grains and lentils.
  • Balanced in protein, carbs, and fiber.

Why You’ll Love It

  • A wholesome, balanced meal in a single bowl.
  • Ideal for health-conscious folks or families with varied dietary needs.
  • Mild in flavor, easy to digest, and kid-approved.
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Veggie Rice
Vegetable and lentil Rice recipe is healthy, and tastes delicious as well. It is packed goodness of veggies and lentils, spices makes this gluten-free recipe even perfect for the diabetics. Only thing you have o refrain is going for the second helpings
Check out this recipe

21. High Protein Tempeh Pulao

Highlights

  • Uses tempeh (fermented soybean) chunks, known for their high protein content.
  • Spiced and sautéed with onions, tomatoes, and basmati rice.
  • Offers a nutty, slightly earthy flavor distinct from tofu or paneer.

Why You’ll Love It

  • An excellent plant-based protein option.
  • Hearty yet light, suitable for lunchboxes or quick dinners.
  • Pairs nicely with a cooling raita or chutney.
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tempeh pulao
Tempeh Pulao Recipe
Tempeh pulao recipe is one pot meal made with basmati rice, veggies and high protein tempeh. Nutritious and tasty this rice dish is high in proteins and rich in fibre and perfect weeknight dinner and lunch box recipe.
Check out this recipe

22. Mexican Rice (Arroz Rojo)

Highlights

  • Vibrant red rice cooked with tomatoes, onions, garlic, and sometimes jalapeños.
  • Seasoned with cumin, chili powder, and chicken or veggie stock.
  • A staple side dish in Mexican cuisine, often served with beans or grilled vegetables.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Adds a zesty, international twist to your rice repertoire.
  • Easy to customize spice levels—mild or fiery.
  • Complements tacos, burritos, or any Tex-Mex meal perfectly. A must include easy rice recipe for dinners.
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Mexican Rice
Mexican Rice Recipe
Mexican rice or Arroz Rojo as it is known in Mexico, holds a special place in my household and is a must-have at any Mexican feast. The vibrant and flavourful nature of Mexican cuisine truly shines through in this delectable dish.
Check out this recipe

23. Lebanese Mujadara Pilaf

Highlights

  • Classic Middle Eastern dish of rice, lentils, and caramelized onions.
  • Seasoned simply with salt, cumin, and sometimes allspice or cinnamon.
  • Rich texture from the onions, plus protein from lentils.

Why You’ll Love It

  • A wholesome, comforting dish that’s naturally vegan.
  • Minimal ingredients yet bursting with flavor.
  • Often served with a fresh salad or yogurt sauce.
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lentil and rice pilaf mujadara
MujaDara | Lentil Pilaf
Mujadara is a classic Middle Eastern dish, a lentil pilaf that’s a feast for the senses. It’s a simple yet satisfying concoction of lentils, rice, and caramelized onions, often spiced with cumin and cinnamon.
Check out this recipe

24. Thair Sadam (Curd Rice)

Highlights

  • South Indian comfort food made by mixing cooked rice with yogurt (curd).
  • Tempered with mustard seeds, curry leaves, ginger, and sometimes veggies like grated carrot.
  • Cooling, creamy, and perfect for hot days.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Soothing, light meal ideal for digestion.
  • Easy to prepare and great for lunchboxes.
  • Tastes wonderful with a side of pickle or crispy papad.
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Their Sadam – Curd Rice
Healthy and light Thair sadam recipe. Flavourful curd rice recipe, is a south indian dish cooked with mushy rice and soothing curd.  If you are craving something light and healthy that makes you feel detoxified then Thair sadam or commonly known as curd rice is the dish for you. It’s  a perfect light afternoon lunch when you’re looking for something refreshing.
Check out this recipe

25. Vangi Bhat

Highlights

  • A popular rice dish from Karnataka/Maharashtra using eggplant (vangi).
  • Flavored with a special spice blend known as “vangi bhath powder,” plus tamarind pulp for tang.
  • Earthy, tangy, and slightly spicy.

Why You’ll Love It

  • A must-try if you enjoy eggplant and South Indian spices.
  • Unique flavor profile different from typical pulao or biryani.
  • Perfect with yogurt, raita, or a drizzle of ghee.
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vangi bhat
Vangi bath Recipe
Vangi bath is a delicious recipe of spicy rice and brinjal cooked with spices and tamarind. A perfectly healthy, gluten-free, one-pot meal that is ready in minutes. The best thing is You can even make it with leftover rice. It’s a delicious dish to make for your gut-healthy diet.
Check out this recipe

26. Mushroom Rice

Highlights

  • Quick stir-fry style rice featuring sliced mushrooms, onions, garlic, and herbs.
  • Often seasoned with minimal spices or sauces to let the mushroom flavor shine.
  • Can be made in a single pan for easy cleanup.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Ideal for mushroom enthusiasts who prefer lighter seasoning than a biryani.
  • Great base for adding more veggies or proteins as desired.
  • Delicious as a standalone meal or a side to grilled meats/veggies.
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mushroom rice recipe
Mushroom Rice Recipe
One-pot super delicious mushroom rice. Spicy Rice casserole infused with earthy aroma and flavour of buttery mushrooms, this mushroom rice recipe is perfect to serve for any meal for Lunch or dinner by itself! This makes an excellent dish for a packed lunch box. All it takes is 20 minutes.
Check out this recipe

27. Egg Fried Rice

Highlights

  • Indo-Chinese classic where scrambled eggs are stir-fried with rice, veggies, and soy sauce.
  • Quick-cooking on high heat for that signature smoky “wok hei.”
  • Adaptable—add chicken, shrimp, or keep it strictly egg-veg.

Why You’ll Love It

  • Perfect for busy weekdays or a last-minute dinner.
  • Satisfies restaurant-style fried rice cravings at home.
  • Customizable spice levels—add chili flakes or Sriracha for extra heat.
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egg fried rice recipe
Egg Fried Rice
Easy Egg fried rice recipe. How to make egg fried rice. Best Fried rice with special tips to make restaurant style fried rice with veggies and delicious flavours.
Check out this recipe

Pro Tips for Making Perfect Rice Every Time

  1. Proper Rice Washing: Rinse your rice a few times to remove excess starch, which can prevent stickiness.
  2. Use the Right Ratio: Typically, a 1:2 rice-to-water ratio is a good rule of thumb for most biryanis and pulaos.
  3. Layering for Biryani: If making biryani, layer par-cooked rice over marinated ingredients and seal the pot to retain steam.
  4. Flavor Enhancers: Whole spices (cardamom, cinnamon, bay leaves) add depth to your Easy Rice Recipes. Don’t skip them if you crave authentic flavor.

Bringing It All Together

  • Try pairing:
    • Paneer or Soya Biryani with chilled raita
    • Tawa Pulao with a fresh cucumber salad
    • Tomato Rice with crispy papad and pickle
  • Storage & Meal Prep:
    • Make extra rice for weekday lunches.
    • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge.
    • Reheat with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

From fragrant biryanis to comforting khichdi, these Easy Rice Recipes offer variety, flavor, and convenience. Each recipe can be put together quickly, making them ideal for easy dinner recipes on busy nights. If you’re new to cooking rice or want to explore different regional Indian flavors, bookmark this compilation for fuss-free rice ideas that the whole family will love! Which of these Easy Rice Recipes will you try first.

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