Rice and broccoli are a classic culinary duo that can be used to create a wide variety of simple, tasty meals. This dynamic pairing not only adds a satisfying texture and flavor to your meals but also makes it easy to boost your daily intake of grains and vegetables. Whether you’re whipping up a comforting casserole, a stir-fry or a creamy soup, rice and broccoli provide endless versatility for creating well-rounded dishes.
With Minute Rice on your side, preparing these delicious recipes is a breeze. Ready in just minutes, Minute Rice lets you spend less time in the kitchen and more time enjoying your meal.
Best Ways to Cook Broccoli for Rice Dishes
Broccoli can be prepared in a number of ways. The ideal preparation method may vary based on the recipe that you’re using, the amount of time you have or the kitchen tools at your disposal. In many of the recipes in this blog post, the broccoli is added in raw or frozen and cooked alongside other ingredients.
Some of the most common cooking methods for broccoli include:
- Blanching: This method helps remove the bitter taste of broccoli and results in a crisp texture and mellow flavor. To blanch broccoli, add the florets to boiling water until tender, then immediately plunge the broccoli into ice water.
- Steaming in the microwave: Add the broccoli to a microwave-safe dish with a few tablespoons of water. This is a great method when you’re short on time as it only takes 3 to 4 minutes.
- Steaming on the stovetop: This method uses a steamer basket over a pot of boiling water. It’s also a relatively quick method once the water boils, taking about 4 to 5 minutes to get the broccoli tender. TIP: Make sure the steamer basket isn’t touching the boiling water, so the broccoli is only being cooked by the steam and not touching the water itself.
- Sautéing: This method allows you to cook broccoli alongside other ingredients or in a sauce. Simply add the florets and a big pinch of salt to an oiled skillet on medium-high heat. Stir frequently, cooking until the broccoli is bright green and tender. TIP: Make sure the broccoli is as dry as possible before sautéing, as excess water can impact the cooking process.
- Roasting: This is the ideal method for crunchy broccoli. After tossing the broccoli with a few teaspoons of oil and salt, spread the broccoli on a foil-lined baking sheet in a single layer. Roast for 20 to 25 minutes at 425 degrees, until the broccoli is crunchy and you can see deep caramelized brown spots.
Best Pairings for Rice & Broccoli: Protein, Cheese & More
There are countless ways to enjoy rice and broccoli together, and plenty of ingredients that pair perfectly with these two to create a well-rounded meal. Broccoli and cheese are a beloved combination, and when combined with rice, they can create a rich and filling dish like this Cheesy Ham and Broccoli Rice. Proteins like chicken and beef are also mainstays to pair with rice and broccoli for a well-rounded dish, with plenty of delicious options for ingredients and flavors to enhance these dishes.
To get started enjoying broccoli and rice, check out the recipes below. Using Minute Rice, these recipes are simple and fast to prepare, making them ideal for weekday dinners and quick lunches when you want a hearty, tasty meal.
Simple & Satisfying Rice & Broccoli Recipes You’ll Love
Chicken, Broccoli & Rice
Chicken is an extremely versatile protein that’s at home with many different flavors and cuisines, so it’s no wonder that it’s a classic protein to include with broccoli and rice. There are plenty of ways to enjoy these three ingredients together, so get creative in the kitchen with how you combine these ingredients with other flavors. For a simple, one-pan meal, this Chicken and Rice with Broccoli Skillet is ideal for busy weeknights. Another single pot meal is this One Pot Broccoli & Chicken Rice from recipe creator Katherine Gall. The recipe combines broccoli, chicken, onions, cream and Parmesan cheese into a delicious and rich mixture which is then served over Minute Instant Jasmine Rice.
Stir-fry is another extremely popular way to combine chicken with broccoli and rice. One delicious version is this Chicken, Broccoli and Pineapple Stir-Fry that’s topped with a sweet and savory sauce made from pineapple juice, stir-fry sauce and soy sauce.
If you need a quick dinner, Minute Rice Cups are ideal to combine with chicken and broccoli for a well-rounded meal ready in just a few minutes. This Sweet Chili Chicken Rice uses Thai sweet chili sauce and a Minute Jasmine Rice Cup for a flavorful meal that’s a snap to make.
Rice & Broccoli Soups
Broccoli and rice make for delicious and comforting soups as well. This Broccoli Cheese and Rice Soup uses just a few pantry items like Minute Instant White Rice, cream of mushroom soup and milk—plus plenty of cheese—for a rich soup when you’re short on time. For an even quicker soup ideal for a workday lunch, try this Cheddar Broccoli Soup. It uses just four ingredients and can be ready in under 10 minutes thanks to the speed of Minute White Rice Cups.
Rice, Broccoli ‘n Cheese Cups
Great for meal prep, these bite-sized Rice, Broccoli ‘n Cheese Cups are perfect for grab-and-go breakfasts or to pack for lunch snacks. They’re also incredibly easy to make, with just five minutes of prep time. Simply prepare Minute Instant White Rice, then stir in frozen broccoli, buttermilk salad dressing, cheddar cheese and eggs and spoon the mixture into a muffin tin to bake. Prep them beforehand and reheat for an easy, delicious breakfast all week!
Broccoli & Rice Casseroles
Broccoli and rice make great comfort foods, and there’s no comfort food more classic than a casserole. The beauty of casseroles is that they generally take very little prep time to keep your meals hassle-free. This Broccoli Rice Casserole for a version of the classic comfort dish that’s ready in under an hour. Or, try this version from recipe creator Balancing Pieces that enhances broccoli and rice with sautéed onions and garlic, and tops with bread crumbs for added texture.
Beef, Rice & Broccoli
Beef and broccoli is a classic combination that’s seen on many Asian menus, and it’s easy enough to replicate these flavors at home. Try this Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry, made with flank steak, broccoli and classic Asian ingredients like soy sauce, ginger and water chestnuts all served on top of Minute Instant Brown Rice. Or, for a quick meal to get your beef and broccoli fix, this Teriyaki Beef Bowl takes just a few ingredients and is ready in minutes. Combine beef and broccoli with red peppers and teriyaki sauce, stirring everything together in a Minute Jasmine Rice Cup.
Rice & Broccoli: A Classic Combo for Fast, Tasty Meals
Rice and broccoli are a perfect pair, offering a flavorful foundation for a wide range of delicious meals. Whether you choose a fast stir-fry, comforting casserole or creamy soup, you can easily mix and match ingredients to create satisfying dishes your whole family will love. With Minute Rice, these wholesome meals come together in no time, making it easier than ever to enjoy the goodness of rice and broccoli any day of the week.
Ready to get cooking? Check out more recipes and easy Mix It Up rice bowls at MinuteRice.com, and share your rice and broccoli creations with us on social media using #MinuteRice!
