Bone Broth Rice
If you’ve never tried to cook rice in bone broth, get ready to level up your side dish game! This bone broth rice is a cozy, protein forward rice recipe that pairs with almost any protein and veggie.This simple swap gives plain rice a rich, savory boost with extra protein and nutrients in every bite. It’s cozy, flavorful, and way more exciting than your usual pot of rice.
Bone broth brings more than flavor. It’s full of collagen for healthy joints and skin, protein for muscle support, and trace minerals that keep you energized. Plus, when you add quinoa (a staple I often use for extra texture and fiber), you’ve got a complete, nutrient dense base that goes with just about anything.
Before You Get Started
- Cooking rice in bone broth adds incredible depth and boosts the nutrition factor.
- sing half rice and half quinoa makes this dish light yet hearty.
- Letting the cooked rice rest before fluffing gives it that soft and tender texture.
- Finish it off with a drizzle of olive oil and a handful of cilantro for a fresh flavor twist.
What You’ll Need for Bone Broth Rice & Quinoa
- Basmati rice: the fluffy texture and mild flavor make it perfect for absorbing the broth.
- Quinoa: adds fiber, texture, and an extra punch of protein to keep you full and satisfied.
- Bone broth: the star of the show, choose chicken or beef. Chicken gives a lighter, delicate flavor; beef adds a deeper, heartier note.
- Onion: adds a gentle sweetness and flavor base for the dish.
- Salt: Enhances flavor, but adjust depending on how seasoned your broth is.
- Garlic powder: a quick way to add depth and warmth without overpowering the rice.
- Olive oil: Adds richness for sautéing and flavor for drizzling at the end.
- Fresh cilantro: optional, but a sprinkle of chopped cilantro at the end brings everything to life with a pop of freshness.
All ingredient measurements and full recipe details can be found in the recipe card at the bottom of the page.
How to Make Bone Broth Rice
1. Add the Rice and Quinoa
Pour the dry quinoa and rice into a large pot to build the base of your bone broth rice.
2. Add the Broth and Seasoning
Pour the bone broth over the rice and quinoa so all the grains are fully covered. Sprinkle in the salt, onion powder, and garlic powder to infuse the mixture with savory flavor as it cooks.
3. Stir, Simmer, and Fluff
Stir the rice, quinoa, broth, and seasonings together until everything is well combined, then let it simmer gently until the grains are tender. Once cooked, fluff with a spoon to reveal the light, fluffy texture of the bone broth rice and quinoa.
4. Ready to Serve
Once the rice and quinoa are tender, chop a handful of fresh cilantro and gently fold it into the pot before plating to add brightness and herbal flavor. Serve with topped with a little extra cilantro.
Bone Broth Protein Rice Variations
- Cilantro finish- Toss in freshly chopped cilantro after cooking for a bright, herby lift.
- Extra protein- Stir in shredded chicken for a quick one-bowl meal.
- Quinoa free version- Skip the quinoa and use 100% rice if you want a classic, ultra-soft texture.
- Broth swap- Use beef broth for a bolder, richer flavor or when pairing with red meat dishes.
How to Store Bone Broth Rice
Store any leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave with a splash of broth or water to bring back its soft, fluffy texture. You can also freeze portions for up to a month.
Commonly Asked Questions
What’s the benefit of bone broth over regular broth?
Bone broth is packed with collagen, protein, and minerals, making it a nourishing, nutrient dense option especially if you’re looking for a meal that supports gut and joint health.
Can I make this in a rice cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes! Both work well. Just use the same grain to liquid ratio and let it sit for 5 minutes after cooking before fluffing.
Can I use only rice without quinoa?
Absolutely! Just swap the quinoa for extra rice and adjust the cooking time by a couple of minutes if needed. The flavor will be just as rich.
Bone Broth Rice & Quinoa
Ingredients
Instructions
- Heat 1 tablespoon olive oil in a medium pot over medium heat. Add the diced onion and sauté 4–5 minutes, until soft and lightly golden.
- Stir in the rinsed rice and quinoa and toast for 1–2 minutes, stirring often, so the grains get a bit fragrant.
- Add the bone broth, salt, and garlic powder, and stir well.
- Bring to a gentle boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low, cover tightly, and simmer for about 18–20 minutes, until the liquid is absorbed and the grains are tender.
- Turn off the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5–10 minutes to steam.
- Fluff with a fork, taste and adjust salt, then drizzle with 1–2 tablespoons olive oil and add in the cilantro before serving.
