20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches

🍚 5-Ingredient Chicken Fried Rice 🍗🥚

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 41
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 42

5-Ingredient Chicken Fried Rice

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked rice preferably day-old
  • 1 cup cooked chicken diced
  • 1/2 cup frozen peas
  • 2 large eggs
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce

Method
 

  1. Heat a large non-stick skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add a bit of oil if necessary.
  2. Add the diced chicken and frozen peas to the skillet. Cook for about 2-3 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the peas are warmed through and the chicken is slightly browned.
  3. Push the chicken and peas to one side of the skillet. Crack the eggs into the empty side of the skillet and scramble them until fully cooked.
  4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet. Pour the soy sauce over the top and stir everything together until well combined and heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. Taste and add more soy sauce if needed. Serve hot and enjoy!

Notes

Using day-old rice helps to keep the fried rice from getting too sticky. Feel free to add other veggies you have on hand like carrots, bell peppers, or corn. This dish is perfect for meal prep and makes great leftovers!
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🥦 Cheesy Rice and Broccoli Bake 🧀🍚

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 43
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 44

Cheesy Rice and Broccoli Bake

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 2 cups broccoli florets fresh or frozen
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish or line it with parchment paper.
  2. Cook the broccoli in boiling water for 2-3 minutes until just tender. Drain and set aside.
  3. In a large bowl, whisk together the eggs, milk, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.
  4. Add the cooked rice, broccoli, and 1 cup of shredded cheddar cheese to the bowl. Stir until everything is well combined.
  5. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  6. Sprinkle the remaining 1/2 cup of shredded cheddar cheese on top.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and bubbly.
  8. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.
  9. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious cheesy rice and broccoli bake!

Notes

You can use any type of cheese you like or have on hand. This bake is perfect as a side dish or a main course. Feel free to add cooked chicken or other veggies to make it even heartier!

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🌮 Taco Rice Bowls 🍚🧀

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 45
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 46

Taco Rice Bowls

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 packet taco seasoning
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 cup shredded lettuce
  • Optional: diced tomatoes sliced jalapeños, sour cream, avocado slices

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the taco seasoning and 1/4 cup of water to the skillet. Stir well and let it simmer for about 5 minutes until the sauce thickens.
  3. While the beef is cooking, prepare the cooked rice according to package instructions if not already done.
  4. To assemble the taco rice bowls, start by placing a generous scoop of cooked rice into each bowl.
  5. Top the rice with a portion of the seasoned ground beef.
  6. Sprinkle shredded cheddar cheese over the beef.
  7. Add a spoonful of salsa and a handful of shredded lettuce to each bowl.
  8. If desired, add optional toppings like diced tomatoes, sliced jalapeños, sour cream, and avocado slices.
  9. Serve immediately and enjoy your delicious taco rice bowls!

Notes

Feel free to substitute the ground beef with ground turkey or chicken for a lighter option. These bowls are highly customizable, so add your favorite taco fixings to make them your own. Perfect for meal prep! Store the components separately and assemble just before eating.

🌽 Veggie-Packed Rice Pilaf 🥕🍚

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 47
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 48

Veggie-Packed Rice Pilaf

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup rice
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup mixed frozen vegetables carrots, peas, corn, green beans
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: chopped fresh parsley

Method
 

  1. In a medium saucepan, bring 2 cups of water to a boil. Add the rice and reduce the heat to low.
  2. Cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and the water is absorbed.
  3. While the rice is cooking, microwave the mixed frozen vegetables according to package instructions, or cook them in a small saucepan until tender. Drain any excess water.
  4. Once the rice is cooked, fluff it with a fork and stir in the butter until melted.
  5. Add the cooked mixed vegetables to the rice. Stir in the garlic powder, salt, and black pepper until well combined.
  6. If using, sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and flavor.
  7. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious and nutritious veggie-packed rice pilaf!

Notes

Feel free to use fresh vegetables if you prefer. Just chop them finely and cook until tender before adding to the rice. You can substitute the butter with olive oil for a dairy-free version. This pilaf is versatile and pairs well with grilled chicken, fish, or tofu.

🍗 Easy BBQ Chicken & Rice Skillet 🍚🌽

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 49
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 50

Easy BBQ Chicken & Rice Skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 2 cups shredded cooked chicken
  • 1 cup BBQ sauce
  • 1 cup frozen or canned corn drained
  • 1/2 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Optional: chopped green onions extra BBQ sauce for drizzling

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the shredded cooked chicken to the skillet and pour in the BBQ sauce. Stir to combine and cook for about 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  3. Add the cooked rice and corn to the skillet. Stir to mix everything together and cook for another 3-4 minutes until the mixture is well heated.
  4. Sprinkle the shredded cheddar cheese evenly over the top of the skillet.
  5. Cover the skillet with a lid and cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until the cheese is melted and bubbly.
  6. If desired, sprinkle with chopped green onions and drizzle with extra BBQ sauce before serving.
  7. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious and easy BBQ chicken & rice skillet!

Notes

You can use any type of cooked chicken you have on hand, like rotisserie chicken or leftovers. Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or peas for extra color and nutrition. This dish is perfect for meal prep and makes great leftovers.

🌮 Crispy Rice and Bean Tacos 🍚🧀

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 51
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 52

Crispy Rice and Bean Tacos

Ingredients
  

  • 8 small flour or corn tortillas
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup shredded cheese cheddar, Monterey Jack, or your favorite
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • Salsa for dipping

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 400°F (200°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a medium bowl, mix together the cooked rice and black beans.
  3. Lay out the tortillas and evenly distribute the rice and bean mixture onto one half of each tortilla.
  4. Sprinkle shredded cheese over the rice and bean mixture.
  5. Fold the tortillas in half to create taco shapes and place them on the prepared baking sheet.
  6. Brush the tops of the tortillas lightly with olive oil.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 8-10 minutes, or until the tortillas are crispy and the cheese is melted.
  8. Serve hot with salsa for dipping and enjoy your delicious crispy rice and bean tacos!

Notes

Feel free to add other toppings like avocado, sour cream, or jalapeños. These tacos are great for meal prep and can be reheated in the oven for a quick meal. You can switch up the beans or rice for a different flavor profile.

🍚 15-Minute Teriyaki Rice Stir-Fry 🍗🥦

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 53
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 54

15-Minute Teriyaki Rice Stir-Fry

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked rice preferably day-old
  • 2 cups mixed veggies broccoli, bell peppers, carrots
  • 1 cup cooked protein chicken, tofu, or shrimp
  • 1/2 cup teriyaki sauce
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Optional: sesame seeds chopped green onions

Method
 

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the mixed veggies and stir-fry for 3-4 minutes, until they are tender-crisp.
  3. Push the veggies to one side of the skillet and add the remaining tablespoon of vegetable oil. Add the cooked protein and stir-fry for 2-3 minutes until heated through.
  4. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, stirring everything together. Pour the teriyaki sauce over the top and mix until everything is well-coated and heated through, about 3-4 minutes.
  5. If desired, sprinkle with sesame seeds and chopped green onions before serving.
  6. Serve hot and enjoy your quick and delicious teriyaki rice stir-fry!

Notes

Using day-old rice helps to keep the stir-fry from getting too mushy. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies and protein. This dish is perfect for meal prep and makes great leftovers.

🌶️ Cajun Sausage and Rice Bake 🌭🍚

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 55
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 56

Cajun Sausage and Rice Bake

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound sausage sliced
  • 1 cup rice
  • 2 cups chicken broth
  • 1 cup diced bell peppers
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
  • 1 tablespoon Cajun seasoning
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 cup shredded cheese optional

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Lightly grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet over medium heat, cook the sliced sausage until browned. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
  3. In the same skillet, add the diced bell peppers and cook for 2-3 minutes until slightly softened.
  4. In a large mixing bowl, combine the rice, chicken broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), Cajun seasoning, garlic powder, onion powder, and black pepper. Mix well.
  5. Add the cooked sausage and bell peppers to the mixing bowl and stir to combine.
  6. Pour the mixture into the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  7. Cover the baking dish with foil and bake in the preheated oven for 30 minutes.
  8. Remove the foil and bake for an additional 10-15 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  9. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top during the last 5 minutes of baking.
  10. Remove from the oven and let it cool for a few minutes before serving.

Notes

Feel free to use your favorite type of sausage, whether it’s andouille, smoked, or turkey sausage. You can add other veggies like corn or peas to make it even more colorful. This dish is perfect for meal prep and leftovers taste even better the next day.

🥦 Broccoli Cheddar Rice Balls 🧀🍚

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 57
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 58

Broccoli Cheddar Rice Balls

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 cup finely chopped broccoli florets
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1 cup breadcrumbs

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Line a baking sheet with parchment paper.
  2. In a large bowl, mix together the cooked rice, chopped broccoli, shredded cheddar cheese, grated Parmesan cheese, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper until well combined.
  3. Form the mixture into golf ball-sized balls and roll each ball in breadcrumbs to coat.
  4. Place the rice balls on the prepared baking sheet, spacing them evenly apart.
  5. Bake in the preheated oven for 20-25 minutes, or until the rice balls are golden brown and crispy on the outside.
  6. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
  7. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious Broccoli Cheddar Rice Balls!

Notes

These rice balls are perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Just reheat in the oven or microwave before serving. Feel free to add other veggies like carrots or peas to make them even more nutritious. Serve with a side of marinara sauce or ranch dressing for dipping.

🍍 Sweet and Sour Chicken Rice Bowls 🍗🍚

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 59
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 60

Sweet and Sour Chicken Rice Bowls

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 cup pineapple chunks fresh or canned
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 1/2 cup sweet and sour sauce
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • Optional: green onions sesame seeds

Method
 

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
  2. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet and cook until they are browned and fully cooked, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the diced bell pepper and pineapple chunks to the skillet. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes until the bell pepper is tender.
  4. Pour the sweet and sour sauce over the chicken and veggies. Stir to coat everything evenly and cook for another 2 minutes until the sauce is heated through.
  5. To assemble the rice bowls, place a generous scoop of cooked rice in each bowl.
  6. Top the rice with the sweet and sour chicken mixture.
  7. If desired, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds.
  8. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious sweet and sour chicken rice bowls!

Notes

Feel free to add other veggies like snap peas or carrots for extra crunch and nutrition. This dish is perfect for meal prep and makes great leftovers. You can adjust the amount of sweet and sour sauce to suit your taste.

🍲 Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup 🍗🍚🥕

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 61
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 62

Creamy Chicken and Rice Soup

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 4 cups chicken broth
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 cup heavy cream
  • 2 large carrots diced
  • 2 celery stalks diced
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • Salt and pepper to taste

Method
 

  1. In a large pot, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion, carrots, and celery.
  2. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5-7 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and diced chicken to the pot. Cook until the chicken is no longer pink, about 5 minutes.
  4. Pour in the chicken broth and water. Bring to a boil.
  5. Stir in the uncooked rice and dried thyme. Reduce the heat to a simmer and cook for about 15-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
  6. Stir in the heavy cream and season with salt and pepper to taste. Simmer for an additional 5 minutes.
  7. Serve warm and enjoy your comforting creamy chicken and rice soup!

Notes

Feel free to add other veggies like peas or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. This soup is perfect for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave. You can use rotisserie chicken or leftover cooked chicken to save time.

🍚 One-Pot Spanish Rice 🌶️🍅

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 63
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 64

One-Pot Spanish Rice

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups uncooked rice
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cups chicken or vegetable broth
  • 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: chopped cilantro lime wedges

Method
 

  1. Heat the olive oil in a large pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and bell pepper.
  2. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
  3. Add the minced garlic and cook for another 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
  4. Add the uncooked rice to the pot and stir well to coat it with the oil and vegetables.
  5. Pour in the diced tomatoes (with their juice) and chicken or vegetable broth. Stir to combine.
  6. Add the smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir well to mix all the spices.
  7. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  8. Remove from heat and let the pot sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  9. Fluff the rice with a fork and, if desired, garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges before serving.
  10. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious one-pot Spanish rice!

Notes

Feel free to add other veggies like corn or peas for extra nutrition. This dish pairs perfectly with grilled chicken, shrimp, or as a side for tacos. Store any leftovers in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave.

🧀 Baked Ham and Cheese Rice Casserole 🍚🥓

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 65
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 66

Baked Ham and Cheese Rice Casserole

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked rice
  • 2 cups diced ham
  • 2 cups shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 teaspoon garlic powder
  • 1 teaspoon onion powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • 1/2 cup breadcrumbs
  • 2 tablespoons butter melted

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, diced ham, shredded cheddar cheese, and frozen peas. Mix well.
  3. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk, eggs, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
  4. Pour the milk mixture over the rice mixture and stir until everything is well combined.
  5. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  6. In a small bowl, mix together the breadcrumbs and melted butter. Sprinkle the breadcrumb mixture evenly over the top of the casserole.
  7. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and crispy.
  8. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
  9. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious baked ham and cheese rice casserole!

Notes

Feel free to add other veggies like bell peppers or corn for extra flavor and nutrition. This casserole is perfect for meal prep and makes great leftovers. You can use any type of cheese you like or have on hand.

🍳 Egg and Veggie Fried Rice 🍚🥕

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 67
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 68

Egg and Veggie Fried Rice

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked rice preferably day-old
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 cups mixed vegetables carrots, peas, corn, bell peppers
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: green onions sesame seeds, sriracha

Method
 

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic.
  2. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the mixed vegetables to the skillet. Stir-fry for about 3-4 minutes until the veggies are tender-crisp.
  4. Push the vegetables to one side of the skillet. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the empty side and crack in the eggs.
  5. Scramble the eggs until fully cooked.
  6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, mixing everything together. Pour the soy sauce and sesame oil (if using) over the rice and stir to combine.
  7. Cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. If desired, garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha for some extra flavor.
  9. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious egg and veggie fried rice!

Notes

Using day-old rice helps to keep the fried rice from getting too mushy. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or add cooked chicken, shrimp, or tofu for extra protein. This dish is perfect for meal prep and makes great leftovers. Just reheat and enjoy!

🍤 30-Minute Shrimp Fried Rice 🍚🥕

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 69
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 70

30-Minute Shrimp Fried Rice

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound shrimp peeled and deveined
  • 3 cups cooked rice preferably day-old
  • 2 large eggs
  • 1 cup frozen peas
  • 1 cup diced carrots
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 3 tablespoons soy sauce
  • 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon sesame oil optional
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: green onions sesame seeds, sriracha

Method
 

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic.
  2. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 2-3 minutes.
  3. Add the diced carrots and cook for another 2-3 minutes until they start to soften.
  4. Add the shrimp to the skillet and cook until they turn pink and opaque, about 3-4 minutes. Push the shrimp and veggies to one side of the skillet.
  5. Add the remaining 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil to the empty side of the skillet. Crack in the eggs and scramble until fully cooked.
  6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet, mixing everything together. Pour the soy sauce and sesame oil (if using) over the rice and stir to combine.
  7. Add the frozen peas and cook for another 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently, until everything is heated through. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
  8. If desired, garnish with chopped green onions, sesame seeds, and a drizzle of sriracha for some extra flavor.
  9. Serve hot and enjoy your delicious shrimp fried rice!

Notes

Using day-old rice helps to keep the fried rice from getting too mushy. Feel free to customize with your favorite veggies or add more protein like chicken or tofu. This dish is perfect for meal prep and makes great leftovers. Just reheat and enjoy!

🧀 Spinach and Parmesan Rice Bake 🍚🌿

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 71
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 72

Spinach and Parmesan Rice Bake

Ingredients
  

  • 3 cups cooked rice
  • 2 cups fresh spinach chopped
  • 1 1/2 cups shredded Parmesan cheese
  • 1 cup milk
  • 2 large eggs
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • Optional: 1/4 teaspoon nutmeg extra Parmesan for topping

Method
 

  1. Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Grease a 9×13-inch baking dish.
  2. In a large skillet, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the diced onion and minced garlic.
  3. Sauté until the onion is translucent, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the chopped spinach to the skillet and cook until wilted, about 2-3 minutes.
  5. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, sautéed spinach mixture, shredded Parmesan cheese, salt, and black pepper. Mix well.
  6. In a separate bowl, whisk together the milk and eggs. Pour this mixture over the rice and spinach mixture and stir to combine.
  7. Transfer the mixture to the prepared baking dish and spread it out evenly.
  8. If desired, sprinkle extra Parmesan cheese and a dash of nutmeg over the top.
  9. Bake in the preheated oven for 25-30 minutes, or until the top is golden and set.
  10. Remove from the oven and let cool for a few minutes before serving.
  11. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious spinach and Parmesan rice bake!

Notes

Feel free to add other veggies like mushrooms or bell peppers for extra flavor and nutrition. This bake is perfect for meal prep and makes great leftovers. You can use any type of cheese you like or have on hand.

🌯 Mexican Rice and Bean Burritos 🍚🧀

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 73
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 74

Mexican Rice and Bean Burritos

Ingredients
  

  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 can black beans drained and rinsed
  • 1 cup salsa
  • 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
  • 1/2 cup chopped cilantro
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • 8 large flour tortillas
  • Optional: sour cream avocado slices, lime wedges

Method
 

  1. In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice, black beans, salsa, shredded cheddar cheese, chopped cilantro, cumin, and chili powder. Mix until well combined.
  2. Lay out the flour tortillas on a clean surface. Spoon an even amount of the rice and bean mixture onto the center of each tortilla.
  3. Fold in the sides of the tortilla and then roll it up tightly from the bottom to form a burrito.
  4. If you like your burritos warm and slightly crispy, heat a non-stick skillet over medium heat. Place the burritos seam-side down in the skillet and cook for 2-3 minutes on each side until golden brown and heated through.
  5. Serve the burritos hot with optional toppings like sour cream, avocado slices, and lime wedges.

Notes

Feel free to add other fillings like corn, bell peppers, or cooked chicken for extra flavor and nutrition. These burritos are perfect for meal prep! Wrap them individually in foil and store them in the fridge or freezer. Reheat as needed. You can use any type of beans or cheese you prefer for a customized taste.

🍖 Quick Beef and Rice Skillet 🍅🍚

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 75
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 76

Quick Beef and Rice Skillet

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound ground beef
  • 1 cup uncooked rice
  • 1 can diced tomatoes 14.5 oz
  • 1 cup beef broth
  • 1 small onion diced
  • 1 bell pepper diced
  • 2 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon paprika
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1/2 teaspoon chili powder
  • Salt and pepper to taste
  • Optional: shredded cheese chopped cilantro

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, cook the ground beef over medium heat until browned and fully cooked. Drain any excess fat.
  2. Add the diced onion, bell pepper, and minced garlic to the skillet. Sauté until the vegetables are tender, about 5 minutes.
  3. Stir in the uncooked rice, diced tomatoes (with their juice), and beef broth. Mix well.
  4. Add the paprika, cumin, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  6. If desired, sprinkle shredded cheese over the top and let it melt for a few minutes before serving.
  7. Garnish with chopped cilantro if you like, and serve warm.

Notes

Feel free to add other veggies like corn or peas for extra flavor and nutrition. This skillet meal is perfect for leftovers and makes a great lunch the next day. You can use ground turkey or chicken instead of beef for a lighter option.

🍯 Honey Garlic Chicken and Rice 🧄🍗🍚

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 77
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 78

Honey Garlic Chicken and Rice

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 3 cups cooked rice
  • 1/4 cup honey
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • Optional: chopped green onions sesame seeds

Method
 

  1. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and black pepper.
  2. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
  3. While the chicken is cooking, in a small bowl, whisk together the honey, soy sauce, and minced garlic.
  4. Once the chicken is cooked, pour the honey garlic sauce into the skillet. Stir well to coat all the pieces of chicken.
  5. Reduce the heat to medium and let it simmer for 3-4 minutes, or until the sauce thickens slightly.
  6. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine, ensuring the rice is well coated with the sauce.
  7. Remove from heat and let it sit for a few minutes to allow the flavors to meld.
  8. If desired, garnish with chopped green onions and sesame seeds before serving.
  9. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious honey garlic chicken and rice!

Notes

Feel free to add veggies like broccoli, bell peppers, or snap peas for extra nutrition and color. This dish is perfect for meal prep and makes great leftovers. Just reheat and enjoy. You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for an even juicier option.

🍋 Lemon Herb Rice and Chicken 🍗🍚

20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 79
20 Easy and Affordable Rice Recipes for Delicious School Lunches 80

Lemon Herb Rice and Chicken

Ingredients
  

  • 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, diced
  • 2 cups cooked rice
  • 1 lemon zested and juiced
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • 1 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley
  • Optional: lemon slices for garnish

Method
 

  1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the diced chicken and season with salt and black pepper.
  2. Cook until the chicken is browned and cooked through, about 7-8 minutes.
  3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside. In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil and the minced garlic.
  4. Sauté until fragrant, about 1-2 minutes.
  5. Add the cooked rice to the skillet and stir to combine with the garlic.
  6. Pour in the lemon juice and zest, dried oregano, and dried thyme. Stir well to mix all the flavors.
  7. Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and toss everything together until well combined and heated through.
  8. Remove from heat and sprinkle with chopped fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness.
  9. If desired, garnish with lemon slices before serving.
  10. Serve warm and enjoy your delicious lemon herb rice and chicken!

Notes

Feel free to add veggies like spinach, bell peppers, or peas for extra nutrition and color. This dish is perfect for meal prep and makes great leftovers. Just reheat and enjoy. You can use chicken thighs instead of breasts for an even juicier option.

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