Rice is a staple in Southern kitchens because it’s easy to cook, quick to make, and extremely versatile. There are so many varieties of rice, so your dinner can take any flavorful direction. Whether you want Asian-inspired shrimp fried rice, Southwest chicken and rice bowls, creole seafood jambalaya, or Southern chicken bog, rice can transport your meal to any region. These recipes include delicious rice bakes, casseroles, and jambalaya dishes that will satisfy everyone at your table. And did we mention that all of these rice dishes are one-pot meals, which are best way for weeknight dinners, especially if you’re the one cleaning up afterward. Quick rice recipes like these are the easiest way to get dinner on the table. Since you already have a box of rice sitting in your pantry, put it to use with these rice recipes for dinner. No need for takeout—the easiest dinner options are here.
Chicken-and-Collards Pilau
Recipe: Chicken-and-Collards Pilau
Video: Chicken-and-Collards Pilau
Cajun smoked sausage and collard greens make this comforting dish undeniably Southern, and chicken, rice, and veggies make it a hearty dinner.
Southwest Chicken Cutlet Rice Bowl
Recipe: Southwest Chicken Cutlet Rice Bowl
The easiest way to get Southwest flavor is with a one-dish recipe.
Skillet Rice with Shrimp and Chicken
Recipe: Skillet Rice with Shrimp and Chicken
We love any recipe that calls for a cast-iron skillet.
Chicken-and-Wild Rice Skillet Casserole
Recipe: Chicken-and-Wild Rice Skillet Casserole
Video: Chicken-and-Wild Rice Skillet Casserole
You might swap out this easy skillet casserole for the classic chicken-and-wild rice casserole recipe.
Creole Seafood Jambalaya
Recipe: Creole Seafood Jambalaya
New Orleans Chef John Besh has been cooking this classic creole dish for his family for years, and we’re lucky to have the recipe.
Simple Whole Chicken with Roasted Broccoli-Mushroom Rice
Recipe: Simple Whole Chicken with Roasted Broccoli-Mushroom Rice
This one-dish recipe provides, a protein, a starch, and a vegetable for a well-balanced meal.
Peanut-Broccoli Stir-fry
Recipe: Peanut-Broccoli Stir-fry
With this one-dish stir-fry, your family won’t miss takeout.
Skillet Sausage 'n' Rice
Recipe: Skillet Sausage 'n' Rice
This rice dish is on the table in 30 minutes for when you’re in a pinch.
Chicken Casserole D'Iberville
Recipe: Chicken Casserole D'Iberville
To be prepared for busier-than-expected nights, you can freeze this casserole unbaked for up to a month.
Chicken Fried Rice
Recipe: Chicken Fried Rice
This homemade fried rice is ready in less than 30 minutes, so save the money you would’ve spent eating out.
Chicken Bog
Recipe: Chicken Bog
If you haven’t heard of chicken bog, get ready for the best Southern dinner you can make in 30 minutes.
Shrimp Fried Rice
Recipe: Shrimp Fried Rice
Your kids will beg you to make this fried rice recipe all the time, and you won’t mind—it cooks in one pot in less than 30 minutes.
Chicken Sausage with Fennel and Apples
Recipe: Chicken Sausage with Fennel and Apples
This sheet-pan supper has tons of texture and flavor from chicken sausage, fennel, and apples that are tossed with apple cider vinegar.
Chicken-and-Rice Soup with Mushrooms
Recipe: Chicken-and-Rice Soup with Mushrooms
This hearty, comforting soup is what your family needs on a chilly night.
Chicken, Shrimp, and Ham Jambalaya
Recipe: Chicken, Shrimp, and Ham Jambalaya
With chicken, shrimp, ham, and multiple veggies, this jambalaya is hearty and filling.
Chicken with Curried Rice
Recipe: Chicken with Curried Rice
Apples are the surprise ingredient in this delicious curried dish.
Ham Fried Rice
Recipe: Ham Fried Rice
Chopped ham and bacon add Southern flair to this version of fried rice.
Wild Rice-and-Chicken Bowl
Recipe: Wild Rice-and-Chicken Bowl
Bowl recipes with rice and protein are an easy way to fill your family up on a weeknight.
Island Chicken and Rice
Recipe: Island Chicken and Rice
Fresh pineapple is a delicious garnish with this island-inspired dish.
Sweet-and-Sour Chicken and Rice
Recipe: Sweet-and-Sour Chicken and Rice
You won’t have any leftovers of this delicious sweet and sour recipe.
