Rice is a staple ingredient that offers endless possibilities for creating delicious and budget-friendly meals. Whether you’re a beginner in the kitchen or an experienced cook, this guide will provide you with a variety of affordable rice recipes that are perfect for students. From quick and easy options to more elaborate dishes, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
By incorporating rice into your meals, you can save money without compromising on taste or nutrition. With a little creativity, you can transform simple ingredients into a flavorful and satisfying dish that will keep you fueled throughout your busy college life.
One Pot Chicken and Rice
If you’re looking for a simple yet delicious meal that requires minimal effort and cleanup, One Pot Chicken and Rice is the perfect option. This recipe combines tender and well-seasoned chicken with fluffy and flavorful rice, all cooked together in one pot. The result is a hearty and satisfying dish that will leave you wanting more.
Ingredients:
- 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions:
- In a large pot or skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on both sides. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the diced onion and minced garlic. Cook until the onion is translucent and fragrant, about 5 minutes.
- Add the rice, paprika, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper to the pot. Stir to combine and coat the rice with the spices.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 minutes or until the rice is cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Return the cooked chicken thighs to the pot and stir to combine with the rice. Cook for an additional 5 minutes to heat the chicken through.
- Remove from heat and let the dish rest for a few minutes before serving. Enjoy!
Cost: $5.82 | Serving cost: $1.46
Key Takeaways:
- One Pot Chicken and Rice is a hassle-free and delicious meal option for students.
- This recipe requires minimal cleanup as it is cooked in just one pot.
- The flavor combination of well-seasoned chicken and fluffy rice is both satisfying and budget-friendly.
- With an average rating of 4.68 from 80 votes, this recipe is a popular choice among students.
- It costs $5.82 to make, with a serving cost of $1.46.
One Pot Chicken and Rice
Looking for a delicious and hassle-free meal? Try making One Pot Chicken and Rice! This hearty dish combines tender, well-seasoned chicken with flavorful rice, all cooked together in just one pot. Not only does this recipe save you from washing multiple dishes, but it also delivers a satisfying and budget-friendly meal.
With a rating of 4.68 from 80 votes, this recipe is highly regarded by those who have tried it. The combination of juicy chicken and rich rice creates a delightful flavor that will satisfy your taste buds. Plus, it costs only $5.82 to make, with a serving cost of $1.46, making it an affordable option for any budget.
Whether you’re a busy student or simply looking for an easy and delicious dinner option, One Pot Chicken and Rice is the perfect choice. It’s a versatile recipe that can be customized with your favorite spices and seasonings, allowing you to create a dish that suits your taste preferences.
Ingredients:
- 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 onion, diced
- 2 cloves of garlic, minced
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
- 1/2 teaspoon dried oregano
- Salt and black pepper to taste
Instructions:
- Heat a tablespoon of oil in a large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chicken thighs to the pot and cook until browned on both sides. Remove from the pot and set aside.
- In the same pot, add the onion, garlic, and bell pepper. Cook until softened.
- Add the rice, paprika, thyme, oregano, salt, and black pepper. Stir to coat the rice with the spices.
- Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a simmer.
- Return the chicken thighs to the pot, nestling them into the rice mixture.
- Cover the pot and cook for 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let it rest for a few minutes before serving.
Enjoy the delicious and comforting flavors of One Pot Chicken and Rice. This easy and budget-friendly recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight meal or for meal prepping ahead of time. The combination of chicken and rice creates a filling dish that will satisfy your hunger and leave you wanting more.
Southwest Chicken Skillet
If you’re looking for a quick and easy dinner option, the Southwest Chicken Skillet is perfect. This mouthwatering dish combines the bold and vibrant flavors of the Southwest with tender chicken and fluffy rice, making it an ideal choice for those seeking quick budget-friendly rice meals with a touch of culinary adventure.
The Southwest Chicken Skillet recipe has a stellar rating of 4.83 out of 5 stars, based on 173 votes, which is a testament to its irresistible taste and popularity among home cooks. Not only is this recipe delicious, but it also won’t break the bank, costing only $6.76 to make, with a serving cost of $1.69. With accessible ingredients and straightforward instructions, anyone can whip up this flavorful skillet meal.
In this recipe, tender chicken is cooked to perfection alongside beans, rice, and a tangy salsa. The combination of these Southwest flavors creates a harmonious blend of spicy, smoky, and savory notes. The dish is further elevated with colorful vegetables and aromatic spices, enhancing both the taste and visual appeal of the meal.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 can black beans, drained and rinsed
- 1 cup cooked white rice
- 1 cup salsa
- 1 bell pepper, diced
- 1 small red onion, diced
- 1 teaspoon chili powder
- 1/2 teaspoon cumin
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
- In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the chicken pieces and cook until browned and cooked through, about 5-6 minutes per side. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
- In the same skillet, add the bell pepper and red onion. Sauté until they begin to soften, about 5 minutes.
- Add the black beans, cooked rice, salsa, chili powder, cumin, garlic powder, salt, and pepper to the skillet. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
- Return the cooked chicken to the skillet and stir to incorporate it with the other ingredients. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes, or until everything is heated through.
- Remove the skillet from heat and garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.
The Southwest Chicken Skillet is ready to serve! It’s a satisfying and well-rounded meal that offers a harmonious blend of flavors, textures, and colors. With each bite, you can enjoy the smoky heat of the chili powder, the earthiness of cumin, and the tangy goodness of salsa.
So, the next time you crave a quick and budget-friendly rice dish with a Southwestern twist, look no further than the Southwest Chicken Skillet. It’s a delicious and convenient option that will satisfy your taste buds and leave you craving more!
| Rating | Votes | Cost to Make | Serving Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 4.83 | 173 | $6.76 | $1.69 |
Vegetable Fried Rice
Vegetable Fried Rice is a classic and versatile rice dish that can be made with affordable ingredients. Whether you’re looking for economical rice dishes, quick budget-friendly rice meals, easy rice recipes, or vegetarian-friendly meals, this recipe ticks all the boxes. With a rating of 4.96 from 23 votes, it’s no wonder this dish is a popular choice among rice lovers. Not only is it delicious, but it also costs just $4.50 to make, with a serving cost of $1.13. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on flavor or nutrition.
To make Vegetable Fried Rice, start by sautéing your choice of vegetables in a hot pan with a bit of oil. Some popular options include carrots, peas, bell peppers, and onions. Next, add cooked rice to the pan and mix it well with the vegetables. For a burst of flavor, you can add soy sauce, garlic, ginger, and a sprinkle of sesame oil. Cook everything together for a few more minutes, allowing the flavors to meld. And that’s it! Your Vegetable Fried Rice is ready to be enjoyed.
Ingredients:
- 2 cups of cooked rice
- 1 cup of mixed vegetables (carrots, peas, bell peppers, onions)
- 2 tablespoons of oil
- 2 tablespoons of soy sauce
- 1 clove of garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon of grated ginger
- 1 teaspoon of sesame oil (optional)
Instructions:
- Heat oil in a pan over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and grated ginger to the pan and sauté for 1 minute.
- Add the mixed vegetables and cook until they are tender-crisp.
- Add the cooked rice to the pan and mix well with the vegetables.
- Pour in the soy sauce and stir until everything is evenly coated.
- Continue cooking for a few more minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove from heat and drizzle with sesame oil for extra flavor (optional).
- Serve hot and enjoy your delicious Vegetable Fried Rice!
Stuffed Peppers with Rice
Looking for an economical rice dish that is perfect for low-cost student meals and vegetarian-friendly options? Stuffed Peppers with Rice is the answer! This simple and flavorful meal is a budget-friendly choice, with a rating of 4.6 from 5 ratings. It costs $7.07 to make, with a serving cost of $1.18, making it ideal for budget-conscious students.
These stuffed peppers are not only delicious but also visually appealing. The vibrant colors of the peppers combined with the hearty rice filling create an enticing dish that is sure to impress your friends and family. Plus, it’s a great way to incorporate vegetables into your meals!
- Cut the tops off the peppers and remove the seeds.
- Cook the rice according to package instructions and set aside.
- In a skillet, heat some oil and sauté diced onions and minced garlic until fragrant.
- Add your choice of vegetables, such as corn, peas, and carrots, and cook until tender.
- Season with herbs and spices like paprika, cumin, and salt and pepper to taste.
- Mix the cooked rice with the vegetable mixture, then stuff the peppers with the rice filling.
- Place the stuffed peppers in a baking dish and bake at 375°F for about 25-30 minutes, or until the peppers are tender.
- Remove from the oven and serve hot.
Enjoy this delicious and satisfying meal that combines the goodness of rice and vegetables. Stuffed Peppers with Rice is not only a low-cost student meal but also a vegetarian-friendly option that is sure to please everyone!
Mushroom Risotto
Mushroom Risotto is a creamy and delicious rice dish that is perfect for a quick budget-friendly meal. This easy rice recipe is a favorite among many with a rating of 4.93 from 28 votes. It’s not only easy to make but also packed with flavor, making it a great option for vegetarian-friendly meals.
To make Mushroom Risotto, you’ll need the following ingredients:
- 1 cup Arborio rice
- 4 cups vegetable broth
- 1 cup sliced mushrooms
- 1/2 cup diced onion
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- Salt and pepper to taste
Here’s how to make Mushroom Risotto:
- In a large saucepan, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and sauté until they become translucent.
- Add the mushrooms to the saucepan and cook until they are browned and have released their juices.
- Stir in the Arborio rice and cook for about a minute, making sure each grain is coated with the oil and butter mixture.
- Gradually add the vegetable broth, one cup at a time, stirring constantly until the liquid is absorbed before adding more. Continue this process until the rice is cooked and has a creamy consistency.
- Remove the risotto from the heat and stir in the grated Parmesan cheese. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve the Mushroom Risotto hot and garnish with additional grated Parmesan cheese and fresh parsley, if desired.
Here’s a breakdown of the cost for this vegetarian-friendly meal:
| Ingredient | Cost |
|---|---|
| Arborio rice | $0.80 |
| Vegetable broth | $1.00 |
| Sliced mushrooms | $0.75 |
| Diced onion | $0.25 |
| Garlic | $0.10 |
| Grated Parmesan cheese | $0.50 |
| Butter | $0.25 |
| Olive oil | $0.28 |
| Salt and pepper | $0.00 |
| Total | $3.93 |
With a total cost of $3.93 and a serving size of 5, Mushroom Risotto comes out to just $0.79 per serving. It’s a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on flavor.
Mexican Beef ‘N’ Rice Skillet
The Mexican Beef ‘N’ Rice Skillet is a delicious and budget-friendly dish that combines flavorful Mexican flavors with rice and beef. With a rating of 4.6 from 5 ratings, this recipe has received rave reviews from those who have tried it.
Not only does this dish offer a burst of Mexican flavors, but it is also quick and easy to prepare, making it perfect for those who are looking for quick budget-friendly rice meals. With affordable ingredients, this recipe costs only $7.07 to make, with a serving cost of $1.18.
For students or anyone seeking affordable rice recipes with a touch of Mexican flair, the Mexican Beef ‘N’ Rice Skillet is an excellent choice. The combination of tender beef, fluffy rice, and rich spices creates a satisfying and flavorful meal that will leave you craving for more.