Rice is often the cornerstone of many meals, but even the most devoted fans can crave a change. The monotony of relying solely on this staple food can be overcome with a little creativity. For those seeking variety, we’ve curated a list of 37 mouth-watering dinner options that cleverly omit rice. These recipes are designed for busy weeknights when time is scarce, yet still manage to deliver satisfying and flavorful results.
37 Easy Dinners Without Rice
Baked Chicken Parmesan
The quintessential Italian culinary masterpiece is none other than the Chicken Parmesan, a mouthwatering combination of tender chicken breast, crunchy breadcrumbs, rich marinara sauce, and creamy mozzarella cheese. To elevate this dish to new heights, consider serving it alongside a medley of steamed vegetables or crusty garlic bread for a satisfying meal that’s sure to please even the most discerning palates.
Mushroom and Spinach Frittata
Savor the flavors of a satisfying egg dish, effortlessly elevated by the earthy tones of mushrooms, the vitality of spinach, and the richness of melted cheese. This versatile recipe is perfect for whenever hunger strikes, whether it’s at dawn, noon, or dusk.
Slow Cooker Beef Stew
Savoring the warmth and comfort of a classic stew, this hearty dish brings together tender beef, fluffy potatoes, sweet carrots, and crunchy celery to create a satisfying and cozy meal perfect for snuggling up on a chilly winter evening.
Quinoa and Black Bean Salad
Indulge in the delightful fusion of flavors and textures that this wholesome salad has to offer. A medley of nutrient-dense ingredients like quinoa, black beans, juicy tomatoes, fragrant cilantro, and a squeeze of tangy lime juice come together to create a truly satisfying and protein-rich treat that’s perfect for a quick lunch or dinner.
Grilled Chicken Caesar Salad
When it comes to crafting the perfect meal, few options are as timeless as a classic Caesar salad. By combining tender grilled chicken with crisp romaine lettuce, tangy Caesar dressing, and crunchy croutons, this dish is not only a treat for the taste buds but also an excellent choice for those looking for a lighter, healthier option. Whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or a satisfying meal to round out your day, this salad is sure to hit the spot.
Lemon Garlic Shrimp Pasta
Indulge in the simplicity and zest of a mouthwatering pasta creation that combines succulent shrimp with tender spaghetti, rich garlic, tangy lemon juice, and a drizzle of pure olive oil. This delightful dish is sure to tantalize your taste buds and leave you craving for more.
Grilled Pork Chops
Savoring the flavors of summer, grilled pork chops offer a timeless culinary delight. With their simplicity in preparation and versatility in terms of flavor profiles, these succulent morsels are an ideal choice for warm weather gatherings.
Dijon Baked Salmon
Indulge in the delectable world of Dijon baked salmon, a culinary gem that effortlessly blends simplicity with big flavor. The harmonious union of tangy mustard and fresh herbs elevates this dish to new heights, making it an ideal choice for a quick yet satisfying meal.
Vegetable Stir Fry
Indulge in the simplicity and wholesomeness of a customized stir-fry, crafted with an array of vibrant vegetables and elevated by a rich, savory sauce that harmonizes flavors and textures.
Mediterranean Chicken Skewers
Savory chicken skewers, infused with the rich flavors of olive oil, zesty lemon juice, and a medley of aromatic spices, are sure to tantalize your taste buds. Pair these succulent morsels with a creamy helping of hummus and a crusty wedge of pita bread for a satisfying snack or meal.
Spaghetti Carbonara
Spaghetti Carbonara is a timeless Italian culinary delight that combines the simplicity of its ingredients with the complexity of its flavors. This rich and creamy pasta dish is crafted from tender spaghetti, crispy bacon, farm-fresh eggs, and nutty Parmesan cheese, all harmoniously blended to create an unforgettable dining experience.
Blackened Tilapia
With its bold flavors and vibrant presentation, a blackened tilapia dish is sure to tantalize taste buds. This mouthwatering creation combines the delicate flaky texture of tilapia fillets with the rich, spicy kick of blackening seasoning, resulting in an unparalleled culinary experience.
Baked Greek Chicken
Indulge in the sweet harmony of flavors as tender and succulent chicken breasts are perfectly balanced by the tangy zip of cherry tomatoes, the creamy richness of feta cheese, and the brininess of Kalamata olives, all expertly combined through a mouthwatering baking process.
Creamy Tomato Soup with Grilled Cheese
This timeless favorite is a staple in many households, providing warmth and comfort to those who savor it. The addition of a crispy, gooey grilled cheese sandwich elevates the experience to new heights, making it a satisfying and indulgent meal that’s sure to please.
Teriyaki Chicken Stir Fry
Indulge in the harmonious fusion of flavors as juicy chicken, crunchy broccoli, and a rich homemade teriyaki sauce come together in a deliciously balanced stir-fry experience.
Sweet Potato and Black Bean Enchiladas
Enchilada enthusiasts, listen up! Ditch the meat and indulge in a flavorful, plant-based twist on the classic dish. Roasted sweet potatoes and black beans come together in perfect harmony to create a vegetarian alternative that’s just as satisfying as its traditional counterparts.
Cheesy Baked Ziti
Indulge in the warmth and comfort of a classic pasta dish, featuring tender ziti noodles smothered in rich tomato sauce and generously topped with an abundance of velvety melted cheese.
Meatball Subs
The quintessential Italian sandwich is a harmonious blend of flavors and textures, featuring juicy homemade meatballs smothered in rich marinara sauce, all wrapped up in the warmth of freshly baked rolls.
Lemon Herb Grilled Chicken
Indulge in a mouthwatering and nutritious culinary experience by combining succulent chicken breasts with the bright flavors of lemon juice, aromatic herbs, and pungent garlic, creating a harmonious balance that will leave you craving for more.
BBQ Pulled Pork Sandwiches
Indulge in tender, smoky, and richly flavored pulled pork, slow-cooked to perfection in either a conventional oven or a reliable slow cooker. Savor every bite as this mouthwatering delight is lovingly served on a soft, fluffy bun.
Shepherd’s Pie
Indulge in the warmth of a classic comfort food, where tender ground beef meets an medley of sautéed vegetables and creamy mashed potatoes, a match made in heaven to banish the chill on a frigid winter’s evening.
Spicy Thai Basil Chicken
Savor the bold flavors of Thailand in this mouthwatering stir-fry recipe, expertly crafted with ground chicken, pungent basil leaves, and fiery chili peppers. The aromatic dish is elevated by a rich and savory sauce, perfect for serving alongside steamed vegetables or wrapped in crisp lettuce leaves.
Roasted Vegetable and Chickpea Salad
Indulge in a vibrant and wholesome culinary creation that combines the natural sweetness of roasted vegetables, the protein-rich goodness of chickpeas, and the zesty tang of a freshly squeezed lemon vinaigrette dressing, all coming together to form a salad that’s as satisfying to the palate as it is nourishing for the body.
Balsamic Glazed Salmon
Indulge in the harmonious balance of flavors by drizzling a delectable sweet and tangy glaze over succulent salmon fillets, carefully cooked to perfection. Pair this culinary delight with a medley of steamed asparagus and roasted vegetables for a well-rounded and satisfying meal.
Caprese Stuffed Chicken Breast
Imagine succulent chicken breasts overflowing with the trifecta of flavors – creamy mozzarella cheese, fragrant fresh basil, and sweet juicy tomatoes. As a finishing touch, bake them to golden brown perfection, then drizzle with the tangy richness of balsamic reduction for an unforgettable culinary experience.
Tofu and Vegetable Stir-Fry
Savory and vibrant, this vegetarian stir-fry combines the creaminess of tofu with an array of rainbow-hued vegetables, harmoniously united by a zesty stir-fry sauce that elevates each ingredient to new heights.
Grilled Portobello Mushrooms
Savory, umami flavors of marinated portobello mushrooms are elevated by the gentle char from grilling, making them an exceptional addition to a crisp green salad or a hearty burger alternative.
Spinach and Artichoke Stuffed Chicken
Savoring the harmonious union of tender chicken breasts and a luscious spinach and artichoke filling, this delectable dish is sure to delight. The key to its success lies in the perfectly balanced flavors, where the subtle bitterness of the artichoke and the earthy taste of the spinach complement the rich, creamy texture of the filling. As you bake the chicken breasts until they’re cooked through, the aromas wafting from the oven will tantalize your senses, leaving you eager to take a bite.
Butternut Squash Soup
Indulge in the warmth and richness of this velvety soup, crafted with roasted butternut squash as its star ingredient, alongside sautéed onions that add a depth of flavor. A hint of nutmeg subtly rounds out the taste, making for a truly comforting and satisfying culinary experience.
Sausage and Peppers
Savor the rich flavors of Italy with this timeless dish, where plump sausage and vibrant bell peppers dance together in a savory tomato sauce. A staple on its own or paired perfectly with a crusty loaf, this recipe is sure to become a favorite.
Zucchini Noodles with Pesto
Transform humble zucchinis into a flavorful and nutritious delight by spiralizing them into ‘zoodles’ and combining them with a rich, homemade pesto sauce and sweet cherry tomatoes. The result is a dish that’s both refreshing and satisfying, perfect for warm weather or as a healthy twist on traditional pasta.
Lemon Butter Shrimp Scampi
Indulge in the simplicity and flavor of a delectable shrimp scampi dish, where succulent shrimp are smothered in a rich, buttery sauce infused with the brightness of lemon and pungency of garlic. This culinary delight is perfect for savoring over your preferred pasta or zoodles.
Moroccan Chickpea Stew
Indulge in the warm, aromatic flavors of Morocco with this comforting stew recipe, which combines tender chickpeas with an array of colorful vegetables and a complex blend of traditional spices. For a satisfying meal, pair the stew with fluffy couscous or crusty pita bread, perfect for sopping up the rich broth.
Teriyaki Salmon
Indulge in the rich flavors of pan-seared salmon fillets, infused with the subtle sweetness and tanginess of a well-crafted teriyaki sauce. Whether you prefer the caramelized crust from broiling or the smoky undertones achieved through grilling, this dish is sure to impress. Pair it with a nutritious side, such as steamed broccoli, or opt for a low-carb alternative like cauliflower rice, and you’ll have a well-rounded meal that’s both satisfying and healthy.
Eggplant Parmesan
Imagine tender eggplant slices coated in a crispy breading, stacked high with rich marinara sauce and melted mozzarella cheese. This innovative vegetarian take on an Italian favorite is sure to satisfy your cravings for something new and exciting. The combination of textures and flavors in this dish is truly remarkable, making it a standout option for anyone looking to mix things up in the kitchen.
Shrimp and Vegetable Skewers
Transform your mealtime by skewering succulent shrimp alongside an array of colorful vegetables. Whether you choose to grill or roast these bite-sized morsels, the result is a delectable and low-carb culinary experience that’s sure to please. Consider pairing with a tangy dipping sauce or a refreshing side salad for added zest.
Beef and Broccoli Stir-Fry
Savoring the flavors of a quick and easy stir-fry with tender beef, broccoli, and a rich ginger-soy sauce is a culinary delight that doesn’t require the presence of rice. In fact, there are many ways to mix things up in the kitchen without sacrificing flavor or nutrition. For instance, you can try one of these 37 easy and delicious dinner options, which cater to various tastes and dietary preferences. From refreshing salads to satisfying stews, this list offers a wealth of alternatives that don’t rely on rice for sustenance. So why not experiment with something new tonight and indulge in a mouth-watering meal without the usual accompaniment? The possibilities are endless!