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5-Minute Instant Rice

D5 Minutes White Rice made and served in the glass Anyday dish, featuring perfectly cooked white rice that is fluffy and tender made with pre-cooked rice.
How to microwave white rice
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Prep Time

1 min

Cook Time

6-7 mins
2 reviews

Free Time

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5-Minute Instant Rice

2 reviews

This 5-minute instant rice recipe is as fast and effortless as it gets—whether you’re using Minute Rice® or another instant rice brand. With an Anyday dish, the microwave steams the rice to fluffy perfection in just minutes, making it the ultimate quick meal or side dish when you're short on time. Whether you're pairing it with a protein, tossing it into a stir-fry, or using it as a base for grain bowls, this easy microwave rice recipe is a foolproof way to get dinner on the table—fast. No guesswork, no waiting, just perfectly cooked rice in a fraction of the time!

All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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This 5-minute instant rice recipe is as fast and effortless as it gets—whether you’re using Minute Rice® or another instant rice brand. With an Anyday dish, the microwave steams the rice to fluffy perfection in just minutes, making it the ultimate quick meal or side dish when you're short on time. Whether you're pairing it with a protein, tossing it into a stir-fry, or using it as a base for grain bowls, this easy microwave rice recipe is a foolproof way to get dinner on the table—fast. No guesswork, no waiting, just perfectly cooked rice in a fraction of the time!

All of Anyday’s recipes are tested (and retested!) in many different microwave and home kitchens to make sure they work— and work well. Unless specified otherwise, all recipes should be cooked at full power.

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Pairs well with

Select your serving size and microwave wattage in the dropdown. The recipe will change accordingly.

1-2
  • 1-2
  • 2-4
  • 4-6
  • 6-8
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Select your microwave wattage in the dropdown. The cook times in this recipe will automatically change accordingly.

[[video-wattage]]

To find your microwave’s wattage, look at the front panel, the side of the door, in the back, in the user manual, or Google the model number. If both an input and output wattage are listed, use the output.

Wattage translates to how powerful the microwave is. The higher the wattage, the faster your food will cook. The lower the wattage, the longer the cook time.

When in doubt, start with less time — you can always add more.

700w
  • 700w
  • 800w
  • 900w
  • 1000w
  • 1100w
  • 1200w

Recommended 

Dish

The Medium Deep Dish

Ingredients

  • 1 cup (100g) pre-cooked rice, such as Minute rice®
  • 1 cup (240ml) water

Preparation

  1. Place the rice and water in an Anyday dish and stir to combine.
  2. Cook in the microwave uncovered at full power for 6-7 minutes,  or until most of the water is absorbed.
  3. Cover with the lid (knob lifted) and let it rest for 2-3 minutes to finish steaming.
  4. Fluff before serving.

Suggestions

  • Garlic butter: Stir in melted garlic butter and a sprinkle of parsley for a rich, savory side.
  • Herb and lemon: Add freshly chopped herbs like cilantro or parsley and a squeeze of lemon juice for a light, zesty flavor.
  • Vegetable mix: Toss the cooked rice with vegetables like peas, carrots, and broccoli for a simple, colorful side dish.
  • Soy and sesame: Drizzle with soy sauce and top with toasted sesame seeds and sliced green onions for an easy, umami-packed side.
  • Discover more rice recipes by exploring our collection here!

Recipe Notes

  • This recipe follows the package directions, but cook times may vary based on the selected microwave wattage.
  • Microwave ovens vary, even with the same wattages. Adjust cooking times as needed.

All You Need to Know About Making 5-Minute Rice in the Microwave

What is pre-cooked rice?

Pre-cooked rice, like Minute Rice®, is fully cooked and then dehydrated, allowing it to rehydrate quickly when heated with water. This makes it a convenient option for fast and easy meals.

Can I cook pre-cooked rice in the microwave?

Yes! Cooking Minute Rice® in the microwave is quick and easy with an Anyday dish. Since it’s already cooked, you only need to add water and microwave for a short time until it’s fully rehydrated and fluffy.

How long can I store cooked rice in the fridge?

Cooked Minute Rice® can be stored in an Anyday dish with the lid on for up to 4 days in the fridge. The lid helps lock in moisture and keep the rice fresh.

Can I freeze cooked rice?

Yes! Portion cooked Minute Rice® into Anytime Freezer Trays and freeze for up to 3 months. The tray’s lid helps prevent freezer burn, keeping the rice fresh. When you’re ready to use it, reheat straight from frozen in an Anyday dish—no thawing needed!

What’s the best way to reheat cooked rice?

To reheat cooked Minute Rice® from the fridge, place it in an Anyday dish, cover with the lid, and microwave for 1-2 minutes at full power, stirring halfway through. If reheating from frozen, microwave for 1-2 minutes per portion, stirring halfway, until heated through.

Does pre-cooked rice taste different from regular rice?

Pre-cooked rice, like Minute Rice®, has a slightly different texture than traditional rice since it’s already been cooked and dried. It tends to be softer but still absorbs flavors well, making it a great option for quick meals.

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