Fluffy grains become something special with herbs, broths, spices, and colorful mix-ins. These rice sides have enough personality to stand alongside any main dish—or sometimes outshine it. They’re great for weeknights but impressive enough for company dinners. Every bowl delivers comfort with just a few pantry ingredients.

Filipino Fried Rice

Filipino Fried Rice. Photo credit: Southern Food and Fun.

Savory seasonings and bold aromatics bring rich Filipino-inspired flavor to every bite. A fluffy rice base soaks up all the delicious goodness. Perfect for pairing with grilled meats, eggs, or seafood. A comforting dish that turns simple ingredients into something special.
Get the Recipe: Filipino Fried Rice

Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Rice

A bowl of Longhorn steakhouse rice with copper forks on a table.
Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Rice. Photo credit: Easy Homemade Life.

Fluffy rice simmers with onions and bell peppers in savory chicken broth. A lightly sweet, aromatic flavor balances perfectly with the tender grains. A quick cooking time makes it perfect for weeknight meals. Restaurant-style taste comes together with simple pantry ingredients.
Get the Recipe: Copycat Longhorn Steakhouse Rice

Cilantro Lime Rice

Chipotle rice in a bowl with sliced lime and spoons.
Cilantro Lime Rice. Photo credit: Splash of Taste.

Fresh cilantro and bright lime juice bring vibrant flavor to every grain. A light, fluffy texture makes it perfect for bowls, tacos, and grilled dishes. A refreshing citrus finish keeps meals tasting fresh. A simple side that adds bold personality to any plate.
Get the Recipe: Cilantro Lime Rice

Pineapple Rice

Pineapple Rice . Photo credit: MOON and spoon and yum.

Sweet pineapple and savory spices create a bold tropical flavor. A fluffy rice base balances sweetness with a hint of heat. Naturally vegan and gluten-free for easy sharing. A colorful side that pairs well with grilled or roasted dishes.
Get the Recipe: Pineapple Rice

Festive Mexican Rice Salad

A bowl of festive Mexican rice salad with fresh veggies and cilantro.
Festive Mexican Rice Salad. Photo credit: Intentional Hospitality.

Rice, beans, and corn come together in a bright, zesty dressing. A colorful mix makes every bite lively and satisfying. Great as a side dish or a light main. Perfect for parties, potlucks, and summer gatherings.
Get the Recipe: Festive Mexican Rice Salad

Korean Purple Rice Recipe (Easy Rice Cooker Version)

A bowl of mixed white and purple rice with a wooden spoon on the side.
Korean Purple Rice Recipe (Easy Rice Cooker Version). Photo credit: Sassy Chopsticks.

Black rice blends with white rice to create a striking purple color. A nutty, slightly chewy texture adds depth to every bite. A rice cooker makes preparation easy and hands-off. A beautiful side that pairs well with Korean-inspired meals.
Get the Recipe: Korean Purple Rice Recipe (Easy Rice Cooker Version)

Instant Pot Mexican Rice

Plate of Mexican rice.
Instant Pot Mexican Rice. Photo credit: Ginger Casa.

Rice cooks quickly with tomato and spices in a pressure cooker. A fluffy, flavorful texture comes out perfectly every time. A fast method keeps weeknight cooking simple. A classic side for tacos, enchiladas, or grilled meats.
Get the Recipe: Instant Pot Mexican Rice

Cheesy Rice

A bowl of cheesy grits on a table, with a striped napkin beside it and chopped cheese in the background.
Cheesy Rice. Photo credit: xoxoBella.

Creamy melted cheese coats every grain for rich, comforting flavor. A soft, velvety texture makes it extra satisfying. Customizable seasonings allow endless flavor combinations. Perfect as a quick side or cozy main dish.
Get the Recipe: Cheesy Rice

Mediterranean Rice

Mediterranean Rice in a black bowl on concrete.
Mediterranean Rice. Photo credit: Cook What You Love.

Fresh herbs, lemon, onions, and peppers bring bright Mediterranean flavor. A one-pot method keeps prep and cleanup easy. Light, aromatic notes make it a perfect pairing for chicken, fish, or vegetables. A fresh twist on classic rice.
Get the Recipe: Mediterranean Rice

Orange Rice

Bowl of rice with chopped celery and orange slices on a wooden table.
Orange Rice. Photo credit: Real Life of Lulu.

Baked rice absorbs citrusy orange flavor for a bright, fragrant side. Vegetables add texture and color to every bite. A gently sweet, savory balance makes it versatile. Perfect for serving with poultry, seafood, or roasted vegetables.
Get the Recipe: Orange Rice

A woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, wearing a white T-shirt and dark jeans, stands in a kitchen with a brick backsplash and stainless steel appliances. She is smiling and resting her hands on the counter.

About the author

Hi, Iโ€™m Lucy! Iโ€™m a home cook, writer, food and wine fanatic, and recipe developer. Iโ€™ve created and tested hundreds of recipes so that I can bring you the best tried and true favorites.

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