Are you tired of serving the same old plain rice with every meal? Look no further! We’ve got 20 fun and delicious rice recipes that kids will love. From cheesy broccoli rice balls to mini chicken and rice muffins, we’ve got a recipe to suit every taste and preference.
In this article, we’ll take you on a culinary adventure through the world of rice dishes that are not only tasty but also easy to make. Whether you’re a busy parent looking for quick and healthy meal ideas or a kid who loves getting involved in the kitchen, these recipes are sure to become instant favorites. So let’s get started and discover the fun side of cooking with rice!
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Cheesy Broccoli Rice Balls
Get ready to delight your taste buds with these crispy and flavorful cheesy broccoli rice balls! Made with a mix of cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and melted cheddar cheese, these bite-sized treats are perfect for snacking or as a side dish.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup steamed broccoli florets
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, beaten
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or deep fryer with about 1-2 inches of vegetable oil.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked rice, steamed broccoli, and grated cheddar cheese.
3. Add breadcrumbs and beaten egg to the rice mixture. Season with salt and pepper.
4. Using wet hands, shape the mixture into small balls (about 1-inch in diameter).
5. Fry the rice balls in batches until golden brown (about 2-3 minutes per batch). Drain on paper towels.
6. Serve warm and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Rainbow Veggie Fried Rice
This vibrant and flavorful dish is a colorful twist on traditional fried rice, packed with a medley of vegetables to create a nutritious and satisfying meal. With its rainbow hue and savory taste, Rainbow Veggie Fried Rice is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a potluck gathering.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, carrots, green beans, corn)
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 teaspoon soy sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 3 minutes.
3. Add the mixed vegetables and cook for an additional 4-5 minutes, or until tender.
4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring to combine with the vegetables.
5. Season with soy sauce, salt, and pepper to taste.
6. Garnish with chopped scallions, if desired.
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Mini Chicken and Rice Muffins
A flavorful and convenient snack or meal solution, these mini muffins are packed with chicken, rice, and spices.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup diced cooked chicken breast
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon garlic powder
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter, melted
– 1 large egg
– 1 tablespoon milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a mini muffin tin with paper liners.
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together flour, paprika, garlic powder, and salt.
3. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, chicken, melted butter, egg, and milk. Stir until well combined.
4. Add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients and mix until just combined.
5. Divide batter evenly among muffin cups.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until golden brown.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Pizza Rice Cakes
Transform plain rice cakes into a flavorful snack with the bold flavors of pizza. This easy recipe combines the simplicity of rice cakes with the excitement of a mini pizza.
Ingredients:
– 4-6 rice cakes
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped pepperoni or other pizza topping of your choice
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: fresh basil leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. Place rice cakes on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
3. Spread a small amount of tomato sauce on each rice cake, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Sprinkle shredded mozzarella cheese over the sauce.
5. Add chopped pepperoni or other pizza topping on top of the cheese.
6. Drizzle with olive oil and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
8. Remove from oven and garnish with fresh basil leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Sweet Coconut Rice Pudding
Enjoy a creamy and aromatic dessert with this simple recipe for Sweet Coconut Rice Pudding. Perfect for warm weather, this pudding is a refreshing twist on traditional rice puddings.
Ingredients:
• 1 cup cooked white rice
• 1/2 cup coconut milk
• 1/4 cup granulated sugar
• 1/4 teaspoon salt
• 1 tablespoon unsweetened shredded coconut
• 1/4 teaspoon ground cardamom (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, coconut milk, sugar, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a boil.
3. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding has thickened slightly.
4. Remove from heat and stir in unsweetened shredded coconut and ground cardamom (if using).
5. Serve warm or chilled.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Hidden Veggie Rice Patties
These bite-sized rice patties are a game-changer for anyone looking to sneak more veggies into their meals. With the help of finely chopped spinach and carrots, these patties are packed with nutrients and flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white or brown rice
– 1/2 cup finely chopped spinach
– 1/4 cup grated carrot
– 1/4 cup panko breadcrumbs
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese (optional)
– 1 egg
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat a non-stick skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix together cooked rice, chopped spinach, grated carrot, panko breadcrumbs, and grated cheese (if using).
3. Add the egg and mix until just combined.
4. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on desired size.
5. Shape each portion into a patty and place in the skillet or griddle.
6. Cook for 3-4 minutes per side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Serve warm with your favorite dipping sauce.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Banana Rice Porridge
This creamy porridge is a perfect blend of warm comfort food and nourishing goodness, made with ripe bananas, fluffy rice, and a hint of sweetness.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (cooled)
– 1 ripe banana, sliced
– 2 cups water or milk (or a combination of both)
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– Optional: honey or sugar to taste
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine the cooled rice, sliced banana, and salt.
2. Add the water or milk mixture and stir well to combine.
3. Bring the mixture to a simmer over medium heat.
4. Reduce the heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the porridge has thickened slightly and the flavors have melded together.
5. Taste and adjust sweetness as needed (if using honey or sugar).
6. Serve warm, garnished with additional sliced banana if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Taco Rice Skillet
A flavorful one-pot meal that combines the best of Mexican cuisine with a comforting bowl of rice. This easy-to-make recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend brunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup uncooked white rice
– 2 cups water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, diced
– 1 red bell pepper, diced
– 1 can (14.5 oz) diced tomatoes with green chilies
– 1 packet of taco seasoning
– 1 pound ground beef (or ground turkey, chicken, or beans for a vegetarian option)
– 1 cup frozen peas and carrots
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: shredded cheese, sour cream, diced avocado, cilantro
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the onion and bell pepper; cook until tender, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the ground beef (or alternative protein); cook until browned, breaking up with a spoon as it cooks.
4. Stir in the taco seasoning, diced tomatoes, and rice. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the water and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked.
6. Stir in the peas and carrots. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Apple Cinnamon Rice Pudding
Warm up with a comforting bowl of Apple Cinnamon Rice Pudding!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (cooled)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1 large apple, diced (about 1 cup)
– 2 tablespoons unsalted butter, melted
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooked rice, milk, sugar, cinnamon, and salt.
2. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until the mixture comes to a simmer.
3. Reduce heat to low and cook for 18-20 minutes or until the pudding thickens.
4. Stir in diced apple and melted butter.
5. Serve warm, garnished with additional cinnamon if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Mini Rice and Cheese Quesadillas
These mini quesadillas are the perfect snack or appetizer, filled with a flavorful mix of cooked rice, melted cheese, and spices. They’re easy to make and can be customized to suit your taste.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions (optional)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 6-8 small flour tortillas
Instructions:
1. Preheat a large skillet or griddle over medium heat.
2. In a bowl, mix cooked rice with shredded cheese, chopped scallions (if using), salt, and pepper.
3. Place a small tortilla in the skillet and sprinkle about 1 tablespoon of the rice mixture onto half of the tortilla.
4. Fold the tortilla in half to enclose the filling. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until the cheese is melted and the tortilla is crispy.
5. Flip and cook the other side for an additional minute.
Cooking Time: About 6-8 minutes total, depending on the number of quesadillas you make.
Peanut Butter Banana Rice Bites
These bite-sized treats combine the creamy richness of peanut butter with the natural sweetness of banana and the comforting warmth of cooked rice. Perfect for a quick snack or on-the-go energy boost.
Ingredients:
– 2 ripe bananas
– 1/4 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/2 cup cooked white rice
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. Mash the bananas in a bowl until smooth.
2. Mix in the peanut butter and honey until well combined.
3. Add the cooked rice to the mixture and stir until a dough forms.
4. Use your hands to shape the dough into small balls, about 1 inch in diameter.
5. Place the rice bites on a plate or tray and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to set.
Cooking Time: None! These bite-sized treats are best served chilled.
Rainbow Rice Salad Cups
Vibrant colors and a medley of textures make these Rainbow Rice Salad Cups a perfect side dish or light lunch. This recipe is quick, easy, and customizable to your favorite flavors!
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/2 cup cooked brown rice
– 1/4 cup chopped red bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped yellow bell pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped cucumber
– 1/4 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/4 cup crumbled feta cheese (optional)
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 1 tablespoon lemon juice
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley or cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine cooked white rice, brown rice, red bell pepper, yellow bell pepper, cucumber, cherry tomatoes, and feta cheese (if using).
2. In a small bowl, whisk together olive oil and lemon juice.
3. Pour the dressing over the rice mixture and toss to combine.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Spoon the salad into individual cups or ramekins.
6. Garnish with fresh parsley or cilantro.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Cheesy Rice and Corn Fritters
These crispy and cheesy fritters are a delicious twist on traditional rice dishes. Perfect as an appetizer or side dish, they’re sure to be a hit with your family and friends.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup corn kernels (fresh or frozen)
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup all-purpose flour
– 1 egg, beaten
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, corn kernels, and grated cheese.
2. In a separate bowl, whisk together flour, beaten egg, and salt.
3. Add the wet ingredients to the dry ingredients and stir until just combined.
4. Using your hands, shape the mixture into small patties (about 1/4 cup each).
5. Heat about 1/2 inch of vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
6. Fry fritters for 3-4 minutes on each side, or until golden brown and crispy.
7. Drain on paper towels and serve hot.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Strawberry Rice Pudding
This classic dessert gets a fresh twist with the addition of sweet strawberries, creating a perfect blend of creamy texture and fruity flavor. Perfect for warm weather or anytime you need a treat.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice (cooled)
– 2 cups milk
– 1/4 cup granulated sugar
– 1/4 cup heavy cream
– 1/2 cup sliced strawberries
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a medium saucepan, combine cooled rice, milk, sugar, and salt. Cook over medium heat, stirring constantly, until mixture comes to a boil.
2. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 18-20 minutes or until pudding thickens.
3. Remove from heat and stir in heavy cream and honey until well combined.
4. Fold in sliced strawberries.
5. Pour into individual serving cups or a large serving dish. Refrigerate until chilled, at least 2 hours.
Cooking Time: 18-20 minutes
Mini Rice Pizza Bites
A fun twist on traditional pizza, these bite-sized treats are perfect for parties or snacks. Mini rice pizza bites are easy to make and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 1/4 cup grated mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup tomato sauce
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 clove garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a medium bowl, combine cooked rice, mozzarella cheese, tomato sauce, olive oil, chopped onion, and minced garlic. Mix well.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 equal portions and shape each portion into a ball.
4. Flatten each ball slightly to form a mini pizza “crust”.
5. Place on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
6. Bake for 12-15 minutes or until the edges are lightly toasted.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Carrot and Pea Rice Cakes
These flavorful rice cakes are perfect as a snack or side dish. Made with sautéed carrots, peas, and a hint of spice, they’re sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice
– 1 cup grated carrot
– 1/2 cup frozen peas
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 small onion, finely chopped
– 1 teaspoon cumin
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 tablespoons water
Instructions:
1. Preheat the oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, combine cooked rice, grated carrot, peas, olive oil, chopped onion, cumin, salt, and pepper.
3. Mix well until all ingredients are fully incorporated.
4. Gradually add water, mixing until a dough forms.
5. Divide the dough into 6-8 equal portions.
6. Shape each portion into a patty or disk shape.
7. Place patties on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper.
8. Bake for 20-25 minutes, or until golden brown and crispy.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats
Get ready to satisfy your sweet tooth with these decadent Chocolate Rice Krispie Treats! A twist on the classic recipe, these treats combine the familiar crunch of Rice Krispies with the deep richness of chocolate.
Ingredients:
– 3 cups Rice Krispies cereal
– 12 ounces milk chocolate chips
– 1/4 cup unsalted butter
– 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
– Pinch of salt
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or saucepan, melt the butter over low heat.
2. Add the chocolate chips and stir until smooth and melted.
3. Remove from heat and stir in the vanilla extract and salt.
4. Quickly add the Rice Krispies cereal to the chocolate mixture and stir until well combined.
5. Press the mixture into a greased 9×13-inch baking dish.
6. Let cool and set for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: 10-15 minutes
Mini Rice and Egg Muffins
A delicious breakfast or snack option that’s easy to make and packed with nutritious ingredients.
Ingredients:
– 1 cup cooked white rice
– 4 large eggs
– 1/2 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1 tablespoon butter, melted
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
– 12 mini muffin tin cups
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together eggs, rice, cheese, melted butter, salt, and pepper until well combined.
3. Divide the mixture evenly among the mini muffin tin cups.
4. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until the edges are lightly golden brown.
5. Allow the muffins to cool in the pan for 5 minutes before transferring them to a wire rack to cool completely.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Spinach and Cheese Rice Balls
These bite-sized treats are a perfect combination of flavors and textures, with crispy rice on the outside and creamy spinach and cheese filling inside.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked white rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup fresh spinach leaves
– 1/4 cup grated cheddar cheese
– 1/4 cup breadcrumbs
– 1 egg, lightly beaten
– Salt to taste
– Vegetable oil for frying
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine cooked rice, chopped spinach, and grated cheese.
2. Add breadcrumbs and beaten egg to the mixture; mix well until everything is fully incorporated.
3. Divide the mixture into 6-8 portions, depending on how large you want your rice balls to be.
4. Shape each portion into a ball and then flatten slightly into disk shapes.
5. Heat about 1 inch (2.5 cm) of vegetable oil in a non-stick skillet over medium heat.
6. Fry the rice balls for about 3-4 minutes on each side, until they are golden brown and crispy.
7. Remove from oil and place on paper towels to drain excess oil.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Fruity Rice Cereal Bars
These chewy bars are perfect for a quick energy boost or as a healthy addition to your lunchbox. Made with wholesome ingredients and a hint of fruit flavor, they’re a treat the whole family will love.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups rice cereal
– 1 cup rolled oats
– 1/2 cup creamy peanut butter
– 1/4 cup honey
– 1/4 cup mixed dried fruit (cranberries, raisins, cherries)
– 1/8 teaspoon salt
Instructions:
1. In a large mixing bowl, combine rice cereal and oats.
2. In a separate bowl, mix together peanut butter and honey until smooth.
3. Add the dried fruit to the peanut butter mixture and stir until well combined.
4. Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and stir until a dough forms.
5. Press the dough into a lined or greased 8×8 inch baking dish.
6. Refrigerate for at least 30 minutes before cutting into bars.
Cooking Time: None! These no-bake bars are ready in just a few minutes of prep time.
Summary
Get ready to spice up mealtime with these 20 fun and easy rice recipes perfect for kids! From cheesy broccoli rice balls to sweet coconut rice pudding, there’s something for everyone. Try making mini chicken and rice muffins or taco rice skillet for a quick weeknight dinner. For snacks, whip up some peanut butter banana rice bites or chocolate rice Krispie treats. And don’t forget the fun presentation of rainbow veggie fried rice or carrot and pea rice cakes. With these recipes, mealtime will be a breeze and a delight for kids!
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