37 Deliciously Simple Asian Rice Dishes to Master for a Quick Weeknight Meal

Posted on September 3, 2025 by Maryann Desmond

Simple Asian Rice (Instant Pot)

Simple Asian Rice (Instant Pot)

Most people’s go-to comfort food, a simple Asian-style rice dish, can be prepared in under 15 minutes. Making it an excellent choice for those with limited time on their hands. It also makes for a fantastic quick and easy side dish that is both satisfying and delicious. The key to achieving the perfect texture lies in using brown rice, which helps prevent the dish from becoming a mushy mess.

Additionally, this recipe requires only a handful of ingredients and an instant pot, making it incredibly convenient. Furthermore, its versatility allows it to pair well with almost any meal.

Benihana Fried Rice

Benihana Fried Rice

Bring the excitement of Benihana into your own kitchen by whipping up this simple yet satisfying Benihana-style fried rice! This iconic dish may be typically associated with the lively atmosphere of a Teppanyaki chef cooking right in front of you at the table, but that doesn’t mean you can’t recreate it in the comfort of your own home. With just a few ingredients and some basic kitchen equipment, you can bring this Benihana experience to life without leaving your living room. The best part?

It’s just as delicious as when you’d order it from the restaurant!

Asian Rice Pilaf

Asian Rice Pilaf

Versatile and flavorful, this Asian-style pilaf is an ideal accompaniment to meat and fish dishes, elevating them to a new culinary level. Although it requires only a few extra minutes to prepare compared to plain rice, the added effort yields a richly satisfying result that’s well worth the investment of time. To infuse your pilaf with extra depth of flavor, cook the rice in chicken stock instead of water.

Then, add aromatics like garlic, and seasonings such as soy sauce and sesame oil to create a harmonious balance of flavors. Finally, garnish this savory dish with fresh, chopped cilantro, which adds a bright, herbaceous note that complements the other ingredients perfectly.

Chinese Sticky Rice

Chinese Sticky Rice

Needless to say, once you grasp the simplicity of this Chinese sticky rice recipe, you’ll be making it over and over again. The tender, soft texture is truly irresistible, and it’s a guarantee that you’ll find yourself devouring it without hesitation. One of the best things about this dish is its convenience – all you need is one pot to prepare it from start to finish. For those who are new to cooking with sticky rice, we’ve included some basic information on what it is in our recipe section.

Pair it with Chinese sausage and shiitake mushrooms for a well-rounded meal that’s sure to satisfy your taste buds.

Sesame Garlic Basmati Rice

Sesame Garlic Basmati Rice

Delight your taste buds by serving a side of this mouthwatering sesame garlic basmati rice with your next seafood stir fry or meaty curry. Stir-frying the uncooked rice in butter and garlic creates an aromatic base that’s then infused with depth from seasoned chicken broth. This technique packs an incredible amount of flavor into each grain, elevating even the simplest dishes to new heights.

Once the rice is cooked, don’t forget to fluff it gently with a fork to separate the grains, allowing the flavors to shine through. Finally, sprinkle it with chopped green onions and toasted sesame seeds for a pop of color and added texture, making this dish truly ready to impress.

Asian Rice Bowls

Asian Rice Bowls

Fresh from the kitchen, build-your-own rice bowls offer endless possibilities for creating a customized meal that suits your tastes. Whether it’s a mix of steaming hot rice, crunchy veggies, and savory protein, you can combine them in any way you like to create a truly personalized dish. And let’s not forget the crowning glory – a rich, mouth-watering sauce that takes your meal to the next level.

Not only are they an enjoyable culinary experience, but these bowls are also incredibly practical for using up leftovers and minimizing food waste. With their ease of preparation and adaptability, it’s no wonder build-your-own rice bowls have become a popular choice for home cooks looking for a quick, satisfying meal.

Ginger Rice

Ginger Rice

Gastronomes around the world have long been fans of incorporating fragrant flavors into their dishes, and one staple that never fails to impress is a flavorful side dish – ginger rice. This versatile condiment adds an unmistakable depth to Asian cuisine, making it a standout choice for adventurous foodies. Gone are the days of plain white rice; this aromatic twist takes center stage with its bold and inviting flavor profile.

Grab a serving of this heavenly ginger rice to accompany your next Korean BBQ or Chinese sticky ribs extravaganza – we guarantee you’ll be hooked from the first bite! Get the recipe by clicking on the link below.

Ban Fan

Ban Fan

Wrapped in simplicity, a traditional Chinese bàn fàn dish is a straightforward yet satisfying meal. Essentially, it’s a bowl of mixed rice akin to Korean bibimbap, but with its own unique twist. Instead of being loaded with an assortment of ingredients in one go, each component is presented separately on top of the plain white rice. The addition of oyster sauce, soy sauce, sugar, garlic, scallions, and cilantro adds depth and flavor to this humble dish.

To complete it, a fried egg is placed on top, allowing diners to mix everything together for a delightful bite.

Bubur Ayam

Bubur Ayam

Making comfort food a priority is always a good idea, especially when you’re craving something truly satisfying. This bubur ayam, a silky-smooth chicken and rice congee, hits the spot every time – it’s not only delicious but also incredibly comforting. Whether you’re feeling under the weather or just need a pick-me-up, this meal is sure to do the trick.

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To take it to the next level, top your bubur ayam with soy sauce, sesame oil, white pepper, chopped green onion, and thin slices of ginger – the perfect combination for a truly perfect bowl.

Kimchi Fried Rice

Kimchi Fried Rice

Let’s kick off the evening with a culinary delight that will leave everyone craving for more – the delectable kimchi fried rice! This mouth-watering dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also a feast for the eyes, thanks to its vibrant colors and tantalizing aroma. Loaded with the savory goodness of bacon, the crunch of enoki mushrooms, and the spicy kick from the kimchi, this fried rice is truly a symphony of flavors. And what’s more, it’s incredibly easy to make!

Simply top your kimchi fried rice with a perfectly cooked fried egg, and you’ll be in culinary heaven!

Beef Chao Fan

Beef Chao Fan

Savored by many Filipinos, Beef Chao fan is a delectable Chinese-inspired Filipino fried rice dish packed with an array of amazing flavors. The key ingredients include ground beef, chopped vegetables, onion, and garlic, all expertly combined in a harmonious blend. Seasoned with soy sauce and oyster sauce for added depth and umami taste, it’s no wonder this dish has become a staple in many households.

It’s also worth noting that Beef Chao fan is inspired by Chowking’s signature stir-fried rice recipe, which makes it an authentic representation of Filipino-Chinese fusion cuisine. This well-rounded dish boasts an impressive balance of veggies, protein, and carbs, providing everything you need for a satisfying meal.

Pork Chao Fan

Pork Chao Fan

Taking centre stage in this delightful pork chao fan is its bold and vibrant flavours that will leave you craving for more. The anticipation is palpable, as every single bite promises to be nothing short of exceptional. This dish is a true masterpiece that assaults the senses with its stunning presentation, enticing aroma, and heavenly taste. It’s an authentic representation of Filipino-Chinese cuisine at its finest.

Yellow Shawarma Rice

Yellow Shawarma Rice

Zestfully colorful and utterly delightful, this vibrant yellow shawarma rice is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Its striking appearance, thanks to its bright yellow hue, is enough to grab everyone’s attention, but what truly sets it apart is the explosion of flavors that awaits with each bite. When paired with chicken shawarma and a drizzle of creamy white sauce, this dish becomes an unforgettable experience for the senses.

Serve it at your next gathering or family meal, and get ready to hear the oohs and ahhs as people take their first bites, followed by a chorus of yum! and requests for seconds.

Best Shanghai Fried Rice

Best Shanghai Fried Rice

Virtually anyone can make a delicious Shanghai fried rice dish on their own, as long as they have the right ingredients and preparation time. This popular Chinese staple is often served alongside other dishes, but it’s also good enough to eat as a stand-alone meal due to its rich flavor profile. The secret to making great fried rice lies in preparing all your ingredients ahead of schedule, allowing you to quickly throw everything into the pan and cook it with ease.

Not only is this recipe quick to make – it cooks in just 10 minutes – but it’s also perfect for busy individuals who need a fast and satisfying meal.

Chicken Congee

Chicken Congee

Dishing out comfort food, especially during the colder months, is an art form. A steaming bowl of chicken congee, infused with the essence of Chinese-Vietnamese cuisine, perfectly embodies this notion. This hearty dish is more than just a meal; it’s an experience that warms both body and soul. As you take your first spoonful, the aromatic notes of coriander seeds and fennel seeds mingle together in perfect harmony, transporting you to a place of cozy tranquility.

It’s the ultimate winter warmer, guaranteed to chase away the chill and leave you feeling snug and content. And with its rich flavor profile, it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!

Hong Kong Fried Rice

Hong Kong Fried Rice

Playing the role of a clever cook can be quite liberating, especially when whipping up a dish that’s as versatile as Hong Kong-style fried rice. This recipe is perfect for cleaning out your refrigerator, as it allows you to incorporate eggs, an assortment of vegetables, and any leftover ingredients you like. The pungency of garlic, the spiciness of ginger, and the sweetness of onion come together beautifully to infuse this dish with a rich, smoky flavor that’s both comforting and satisfying.

Eating Hong Kong fried rice is akin to receiving a warm hug on a chilly day, offering a sense of solace and contentment. Fortunately, using leftovers has never been easier or more delicious – simply toss in whatever ingredients you have on hand, and your meal will be transformed into something truly delectable.

Sriracha Fried Rice

Sriracha Fried Rice

Often, people seek to add a bit of excitement to their meals without sacrificing convenience. One way to achieve this is by incorporating Sriracha fried rice into your repertoire. Not only does it bring a lively touch to your dishes, but it also makes for an excellent meal prep option. With its quick cooking time of just 30 minutes, you can have it ready in no time. This tasty recipe combines leftover rice with eggs, peas, shredded chicken, and a hint of pineapple for added flavor.

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California Roll Sushi Bowls

California Roll Sushi Bowls

Always on the lookout for new ways to enjoy your favorite sushi flavors? Look no further! These California-roll sushi bowls are essentially deconstructed versions of the classic dish, packed with an abundance of fresh ingredients that will tantalize your taste buds in every bite. By throwing all the flavors and textures into a bowl, you’ll save time and still get to experience the wonderful combination of fresh sushi goodness without having to roll each piece individually.

Don’t waste any more time, just grab a spoon and dig in!

Instant Pot Sushi Rice

Instant Pot Sushi Rice

Understanding what makes great sushi is crucial, as it often comes down to one essential component: the rice itself. And don’t worry, crafting exceptional sushi rice at home is surprisingly straightforward. This fail-proof instant pot sushi rice recipe embodies ease and simplicity. To make it, you’ll only need a few basic ingredients, which are then elevated by the right balance of seasonings.

Achieving this harmony is all about combining white wine vinegar, rice vinegar, oil, sugar, and salt in perfect proportions. The result is a truly sublime dish that’s sure to impress.

Thai Basil Fried Rice With Chicken

Thai Basil Fried Rice With Chicken

Just like any authentic Thai dish, this recipe combines the perfect balance of spicy and sweet flavors to tantalize your taste buds. The key ingredient that makes this dish truly Thai is the fresh basil, which pairs exquisitely with the savory umami flavor of the fish sauce seasonings. However, be warned: ‘Thai spice level’ can be extremely hot, so use caution when adding the Thai chilies – you don’t want to overwhelm your senses or scorch your taste buds!

Better-Than-Takeout Shrimp Fried Rice

Better-Than-Takeout Shrimp Fried Rice

Savor the taste and convenience of making your own shrimp fried rice at home, without breaking the bank. This mouth-watering dish is not only a fraction of the cost of takeout but also boasts a more authentic flavor profile that’s sure to satisfy your cravings. When you cook at home, you have complete control over the ingredients and portion sizes, ensuring that your meal is both healthier and more cost-effective.

Plus, homemade shrimp fried rice tends to be less greasy than its restaurant counterpart, making it a guilt-free indulgence. And let’s not forget the ultimate benefit: taking pride in whipping up a delicious meal from scratch!

Lebanese Rice With Vermicelli

Lebanese Rice With Vermicelli

Vibrant Lebanese flavors shine in this simple yet impressive side dish that pairs perfectly with a variety of delicious Lebanese main courses. To make this tasty rice accompaniment, you’ll only need four key ingredients: fragrant rice, versatile vermicelli pasta, rich olive oil, and crunchy toasted pine nuts.

The combination is nothing short of magical, especially when the toasted pine nut topping adds its own unique flavors – a delightful blend of nutty notes and satisfying crunch that elevates this dish to new heights.

Chicken Maqluba (Upside-Down Rice)

Chicken Maqluba (Upside-Down Rice)

Joining the ranks of dinner table stunners, chicken maqluba is a Middle Eastern upside-down rice dish that’s sure to turn heads. This recipe involves flipping your cooking pot onto a plate, creating a stunning tower of rice and meat. The key to success lies in holding your breath and hoping that the rice stays intact – when it works, it’s an exciting meal to share with friends and family.

Chicken Majboos

Chicken Majboos

Looking for a delicious and aromatic rice dish that’s packed with flavor? Look no further than Chicken Majboos, an Arabic spiced rice dish that’s steeped in tradition. Hailing from Kuwait, this national dish is a staple of the country’s cuisine, and its rich flavors are sure to tantalize your taste buds.

The combination of herb-infused chicken and fragrant spices makes for a truly mouth-watering experience, especially when served with a side of Daqoos – a tangy tomato garlic sauce that adds an extra layer of depth to this already impressive dish. While it may take a little more time to prepare, the end result is well worth the effort.

Chicken Biryani

Chicken Biryani

Often overlooked by home cooks, making chicken biryani can be a daunting task, but this recipe proves it’s actually quite straightforward and easy to execute. One of the best things about this recipe is its flexibility – you can choose to cook it in either a pot or pressure cooker, making it accessible for cooks with varying levels of experience. The use of basmati rice is also a game-changer, as it eliminates the risk of overcooking and resulting in mushy rice.

Instead, you’ll get perfectly cooked, fluffy rice that’s infused with the rich flavors of the chicken – it’s truly a delight!

Vietnamese Sticky Rice

Vietnamese Sticky Rice

Just imagine being able to impress your friends and family with a truly mouth-watering Vietnamese sticky rice dish. It’s a culinary masterpiece that’s packed full of flavour and texture. The combination of soft, sticky rice and crispy fried onions is nothing short of outstanding. But what really takes this dish to the next level are the endless topping options.

You can load it up with Chinese sausage, quail eggs, roasted peanuts, and pork floss – or get creative and add your own favourite ingredients. Either way, the more you pile on, the merrier!

Vietnamese Chicken Rice

Vietnamese Chicken Rice

Savoring the flavors of Vietnam, one delicious dish at a time, is Com ga hoi an, or chicken rice as it’s lovingly referred to in English. This mouthwatering Vietnamese staple is essentially a zesty shredded chicken salad served atop a bed of vibrant turmeric rice, boasting a symphony of textures that will leave you wanting more.

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Crab Fried Rice

Crab Fried Rice

Packed with the flavors of Thailand, this delectable dish is sure to delight seafood enthusiasts. The star of the show is undoubtedly the delicate lump crab, which pairs exquisitely with the fish sauce and seasonings used in this recipe. Chopped scallions and cilantro add a lovely burst of freshness to each bite. To take it to the next level, serve with a squeeze of lime juice and your preferred chili oil for an added kick of flavor.

Thai Mango Sticky Rice

Thai Mango Sticky Rice

Craving something sweet? Look no further than the incredible Thai mango sticky rice – it’s a must-try dessert! This beloved Thai street food has gained worldwide recognition for its unique blend of flavors and textures. The rice is carefully mixed with rich coconut cream and a hint of sugar, creating a sweet and savory combination that perfectly complements the ripe yellow sweetness of the accompanying mango. It’s a match made in heaven, and one that will leave you wanting more.

Simple yet indulgent, Thai mango sticky rice is sure to satisfy any dessert craving.

Bagara Rice

Bagara Rice

Although often enjoyed as a complement to rich and flavorful curries, bagara rice is indeed a star of its own right. Its simplicity in preparation belies the complexity of flavors it brings to the table. This Indian rice dish owes its distinct character to a blend of whole spices, fresh mint, and coriander leaves, creating a truly aromatic experience. The carefully selected spices – shahi jeera, cardamoms, cloves, bay leaves, and cinnamon – work in harmony to elevate this dish to new heights.

Indian Lemon Rice

Indian Lemon Rice

Taking center stage at your next Indian-themed dinner party will be this mouth-watering zesty lemon rice recipe, which is sure to impress your guests and leave them craving for more. The aromatic flavors of India come alive in this dish as the rice is infused with an array of exotic spices and a burst of tangy, citrusy lemon zest. The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make, thanks to its simple baking process that yields a crispy, golden-brown crust that’s simply irresistible!

When paired with grilled fish, rich Indian curries, or roasted vegetables, this zesty lemon rice becomes the perfect complement to any meal. And don’t forget to check out our full recipe at the link provided!

Dim Sum Sticky Rice Lotus Leaf Wraps

Dim Sum Sticky Rice Lotus Leaf Wraps

Looking beyond the typical dim sum offerings, this dish truly stands out as a culinary delight. The combination of steamed sticky rice and chicken, carefully wrapped in fragrant lotus leaves, creates an incredibly satisfying and aromatic experience. To elevate the flavors further, serve your dim sum sticky rice with a small drizzle of chili oil, allowing each bite to burst with flavor.

Sweet Coconut Sticky Rice

Sweet Coconut Sticky Rice

Yearning to make a lasting impression on your loved ones? You can’t go wrong with serving up a delicious and visually stunning dish like sweet coconut sticky rice! This iconic Vietnamese breakfast dish has been making jaws drop for years, not just because of its incredible taste but also its vibrant colors that range from green, purple, and even yellow. With each spoonful, your guests are sure to be wowed by the perfect balance of flavors and presentation.

Rice Cooker Savory Sticky Rice

Rice Cooker Savory Sticky Rice

Often referred to as a comfort food staple in many Vietnamese households, this savory rice dish is incredibly easy to make and customize with your favorite toppings. The combination of Chinese sausage, pork floss, dried shrimp, and mushrooms creates an explosion of flavors that will leave you craving for more.

What’s great about this recipe is its versatility – you can mix and match different ingredients to suit your taste preferences, making it perfect for when you’re in the mood for something truly satisfying and filling.

Chicken Kabsa

Chicken Kabsa

Elevate your family dinner tonight by cooking up this mouth-watering chicken kabsa! This one-pot dish combines the rich flavors of Arabian spiced grilled chicken with aromatic rice, making it a culinary match made in heaven. The combination of tender chicken and fluffy rice is simply irresistible, and the spices add an extra layer of depth to the dish. You might find yourself drooling just thinking about it, but trust us, it’s worth the wait!

Whether you’re looking for a quick and easy weeknight dinner or a special occasion meal, this recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Duck Fried Rice

Duck Fried Rice

Very often, a common problem in many households is finding ways to utilize leftover ingredients without letting them go to waste. If you happen to have some Chinese duck lingering in your fridge, don’t throw it away just yet! Instead, use it to whip up this mouthwatering duck-fried rice recipe, which is perfect for when time is of the essence and all you have are refrigerator leftovers.

This dish is incredibly easy to prepare – simply combine cooked rice, shredded or diced duck, some chopped veggies, and a blend of seasonings in a pan, and cook for just 5 minutes until golden brown and fragrant. The result is an amazing meal that’s ready in no time!

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