Craving Rice? Try These 10 Easy One Pot Rice Recipes

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TL;DR

• One pot rice recipes offer comfort, flavour, and minimal cleanup.
• Vegetable Pulao combines basmati rice, mixed vegetables, and whole spices for a quick, nutritious meal.
• Chicken Biryani delivers rich, spiced flavour using a pressure cooker for faster cooking.
• Mushroom & Peas Masala Rice offers bold, vegetarian flavour with optional spinach for added nutrition.
• Lemon Rice is a tangy, South Indian favourite that’s quick and perfect for leftover rice.
• Dal Khichdi is a soothing, protein-rich dish made with rice, lentils, and minimal spices.
• Rajma Rice blends hearty brown rice with kidney beans for a filling, North Indian classic.
• Coconut Milk Rice provides a creamy, mildly sweet dish with tropical flavours and warm spices.
• These recipes are easy enough for beginners and ideal for weekly meal prep.

When you’re craving comfort and simplicity, one pot rice recipes are a lifesaver. They’re warm, filling, flavourful, and best of all, there’s only one pot to clean!

Whether you’re into vegetarian dishes, spicy Indian flavours, or crave a quick chicken rice meal, there’s a one pot rice dish here for you.

These are also some of the easy one pot rice recipes Indian kitchens swear by- perfect for beginners and busy cooks alike. So, let’s dig in!

Looking For An Easy One Pot Rice Dish? Start with These 10

It does not matter if you wish for a meal that is quick on a weeknight or something warm and comforting on a weekend. These 7 recipes let you get a whole meal ready in just one pot. They are easy and use the goodness of rice, veggies, and good spices for taste. Try them out, and enjoy every bite.

1. Vegetable Pulao

Vegetable Pulao is a classic Indian comfort dish and a great entry point for anyone looking to try one pot rice recipes vegetarian style. Made with fragrant basmati rice, fresh vegetables like carrots, beans, and peas, and tempered whole spices like cumin and bay leaves, this dish brings together color, flavour, and nutrition in every bite.

Everything cooks in one pot- first the spices and onions, then the vegetables, followed by rice and water. It’s easy, fuss-free, and ready in under 30 minutes.

It’s ideal for quick weeknight meals, lunchboxes, or even last-minute guests. Plus, you can switch up the vegetables based on what you have on hand.

2. Chicken Biryani

If you’re craving something rich and indulgent, one pot chicken rice in the form of biryani is the answer. This version of chicken biryani is quick, thanks to the pressure cooker, but doesn’t skimp on flavour. Marinate chicken in curd, turmeric, chili, and garam masala, then layer it with partially cooked basmati rice and cook everything together.

As it steams, the rice soaks in all the juicy, spiced chicken flavour – leaving you with tender meat and fluffy, golden rice bursting with aroma.

Leftover tip: Transform the leftovers into one pot chicken fried rice the next day. Just toss with veggies and a splash of soy sauce for a one pot rice Chinese twist.

3. Mushroom & Peas Masala Rice

This earthy, satisfying one pot mushroom rice is perfect for when you want bold flavour without meat. Mushrooms add a deep umami taste and meaty texture, while peas bring a touch of sweetness that balances the spice.

Start by sautéing mushrooms with garlic, onions, and your favourite spice blend over medium heat – think garam masala, turmeric, and cumin. Stir in rice and peas, and cook everything together until it’s fluffy and fragrant.

Bonus tip:
Toss in a handful of spinach for an easy one pot spinach rice version. It’s filling, wholesome, and vegetarian-approved.

Want something a little different but still bold and easy? Try Masala Mango Rice which is a unique twist with tangy, spiced raw mango that pairs beautifully with simple rice dishes

4. Lemon Rice

Zingy and comforting, Lemon Rice is a favourite in many South Indian households and one of the easiest one pot rice recipes vegetarian South Indian style. The cooked rice is seasoned with a tadka of mustard seeds, curry leaves, chillies, and turmeric before being mixed with fresh lemon juice.

It’s light, flavourful, and takes just 15–20 minutes from start to finish. Also, it’s perfect for using up leftover rice, and a go-to dish when you’re short on time but still want something homemade and flavourful.

5. Dal Khichdi

Dal Khichdi is pure comfort in a bowl. This easy one pot rice recipe Indian style blends rice, yellow lentils, turmeric, and vegetables into a soft, porridge-like dish that’s gentle on the stomach but big on flavour.

A simple tempering of ghee, cumin, ginger, and garlic takes it to the next level. The best part? Everything cooks together in a pressure cooker or Instant Pot, making cleanup and prep a breeze. It’s one of those simple one pot recipes that feels like a hug in a bowl, especially on tired evenings.

Want to switch things up? Try this Sabudana Khichdi for a light, flavourful alternative.

6. Rajma Rice

If you’re looking for a filling, protein-rich option, this one pot brown rice recipe featuring rajma (kidney beans) is just the thing. Rajma with rice a staple comfort food in North Indian kitchens, made heartier with the nutty flavour of brown rice.

Sauté onions, garlic, and spices like cumin and coriander in cooking oil, then add soaked rajma and brown rice. Simmer until everything is tender and the rice has soaked in all the masala goodness.

Want to make it extra? Top with lemon juice, sliced onions, or even a spoon of curd for balance.

7. Coconut Milk Rice

This fragrant simple one pot rice recipe is creamy, slightly sweet, and perfect for those who love a tropical flavour twist. Basmati rice is simmered in coconut milk with whole spices like cloves, cardamom, and bay leaves. Once cooked, it’s topped with golden toasted cashews and fresh coriander for a burst of flavour and texture.

Why it’s special? It feels luxurious but is incredibly easy to make. The coconut milk gives the rice a rich, velvety finish, while the spices make it warm and inviting.

Craving something cooler for summer? Try this refreshing cucumber rice recipe for a light, quick option with minimal effort.

8. Chinese Style One Pot Fried Rice

Craving something quick and satisfying? This one pot rice Chinese recipe brings restaurant-style flavour straight to your kitchen without needing a wok.

In a single pan, stir-fry garlic, ginger, and chopped veggies like carrots and capsicum in a bit of sesame oil. Add leftover rice, soy sauce, and a splash of vinegar. Toss until everything is well coated and heated through.

If you want to level it up, add egg or cooked chicken for a homemade one pot chicken fried rice that hits the spot every time.

You can even explore something a little more indulgent like this delicious Thai crab fried rice for a seafood twist.

9. Brown Rice Pulao

Looking for a healthy and filling option? This one pot brown rice recipe is packed with fibre and nutrients from brown rice and seasonal vegetables.

To prepare brown rice Pulao, start by tempering cumin and bay leaf in oil, then add onions, chopped carrots, beans, or peas. Stir in washed brown rice and water, and let it cook slowly until the grains are tender.

It is also one of those simple one pot rice recipes that work well for weekly meal prep.

10. Garlic Spinach Rice

This comforting one pot spinach rice is full of flavour and easy to prepare in just 25 to 30 minutes. It uses everyday ingredients like rice, spinach, garlic, and basic spices to make a dish that is both healthy and satisfying.

Sauté chopped garlic and green chilies in ghee or oil. Add spinach and cook until wilted. Mix in rinsed rice and water and let it simmer until done.

For a creamy version, you can also add a splash of coconut milk toward the end.

If you’re in the mood for something similar but with seafood, try this tasty shrimp and green peas rice for a flavourful one pot meal.

So, Which One Pot Rice Recipe Will You Try First?

To wrap it up, these one pot rice recipes are proof that cooking can be simple, flavourful, and stress-free. Whether it’s a flavourful one pot chicken rice, a creamy one pot mushroom rice, or a fresh and zesty one pot spinach rice, there’s something here for everyone.

These dishes are easy to make, packed with flavour, and ideal for busy days. From classic one pot rice recipes Indian style to light and healthy one pot rice recipes vegetarian, you can mix and match based on what you have at home.

So grab your ingredients, pick your favourite, and enjoy a delicious meal- all in one pot.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are some other easy, One-pan, Chicken and Rice Meal Ideas?

One-pan chicken recipes, especially one pan chicken with jasmine rice and parsley, are easy and good for any meal. You can make chicken breast with jasmine rice and parsley, or try a skillet chicken rice with a little heat from cayenne pepper. Add steamed broccoli or roasted zucchini to the dish. This gives the meal some extra flavour and makes it even better for you.

One (instant) pot brown rice meal suggestions? favorite 1 pot rice dish?

For a tasty and simple one-pot meal, try cooking brown rice with bell peppers, zucchini, and some spices. This will give the rice a lot of flavour. Another good idea is to make a spicy brown rice and black bean dish. Top it with avocado for a fresh touch. Both of these meals are good for you and be easy to make in an instant pot.

What are some easy one pot rice recipes for beginners?

Easy one-pot rice recipes that take only a few mins are great for beginners. Some good dishes to try are vegetable fried rice, chicken biryani, and lemon rice. You do not need many things to make these dishes. You also do not need to have a lot of cooking skills. These recipes are just right for people who want to make tasty meals fast without much trouble.

How do you ensure the rice is perfectly cooked in one pot meals?

To make sure you get good rice every time in one pot meals, use the right amount of water for the rice. It is important not to open the lid when it is cooking. After the rice is done, let it sit and steam for a few minutes before you fluff it. This way, your rice will have the best texture.

How do I prevent the rice from getting mushy in one pot dishes?

To keep rice from being mushy, you need to use the right amount of water for the rice and follow the cooking time. When the rice is done, leave the lid on. Let the rice sit for a bit before you fluff it with a fork. If you have any leftovers, put them in an airtight container. This will help keep the rice’s texture just right.

Are these recipes suitable for meal prep?

These one pot rice dishes are great when you want to prep meals ahead of time. You can put the cooled food in airtight containers and keep it in the fridge for up to four days. If you want to save them for longer, freeze them. When it’s time to eat, just reheat the rice in the microwave with a little water or broth. This will help it taste like it was just cooked.

What’s your favorite 1 pot rice dish?

It’s tough to pick just one, but if we had to choose a favourite one pot rice dish,  Dal Khichdi would top the list. It’s simple, soulful, and reminds most of us of home-cooked comfort food. Made with rice, dal, a few basic masalas, and a ghee tadka, it’s light on the stomach and heavy on flavour.

Can you incorporate proteins into one pot rice dishes?

Yes, you can add proteins in one-pot rice dishes without any trouble. You can put beans, lentils, chicken, or tofu into the mix. This will make the dish better for you. It also helps with taste and how it feels when you eat it. Try out different things together to see what flavours you like best!

How can you customize one pot rice recipes to be vegetarian or vegan?

Changing rice recipes to fit vegetarian or vegan needs is easy. You can use plant-based ingredients like chickpeas, cauliflower, zucchini, or peas. Add some spices and herbs, such as thyme and cilantro, to give more taste. You can also use coconut milk to bring out more flavour. This helps the dish stay free from dairy.