Skip to content

Best Packaged Seasoned Rice of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels

Last Updated:

Save
Share

* We independently evaluate all recommended products and services. If you click on links we provide, we may receive compensation.

Packaged seasoned rice is a convenient and delicious option for those who love rice dishes but don't have the time or skill to season it themselves. These rice packages come in a variety of flavors, such as Spanish, pilaf, and fried rice, and are ready to cook in just a few minutes. They are perfect for quick and easy meals, as well as for adding some variety to a rice-based diet. Whether you're a busy professional, a student on the go, or simply looking for a hassle-free meal option, packaged seasoned rice is a great choice.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

Top 10 Packaged Seasoned Rice

#TOP 1

BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Jasmine Rice

BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Jasmine Rice Cover

BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Jasmine Rice, Easy Dinner Side, 8.5 OZ Pouch (Pack of 6)

BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Jasmine Rice is a microwavable rice pouch that provides a quick and easy substitute for white rice, brown rice, or wild rice in just 90 seconds. The pack of six 8.5 oz pouches contains 100% authentic Thai rice that can be served as a cooked rice side dish or as part of a savory main course. This long grain rice pairs well with your favorite Southeast Asian cuisine entrees or can be served plain. You can microwave this rice for 90 seconds or thoroughly heat it in a skillet before serving.

9.9
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Microwave-ready convenience
  • Fluffy, separate grains
  • Consistent quality and taste
  • Long shelf life
  • Generous portion size

What We Don't Like

  • Mild flavor for some

What Customers Say

"This rice is a game-changer for weeknight dinners. The pouches are super convenient—just 90 seconds in the microwave and I have perfectly cooked, fragrant jasmine rice. It's the fastest way to add a delicious side dish to any meal, and the 6-pack keeps my pantry stocked for busy weeks."

"I'm constantly impressed by the fluffy, distinct grains and consistent quality of BEN’S ORIGINAL Jasmine Rice. It’s my go-to for quick lunches or dinners, and I love how it takes seasoning well for fried rice or stir-fry. No mushiness, no hassle—just great rice every time."

"The convenience and taste can't be beat. Even on my busiest days, I can rely on these pouches for a fast, satisfying meal. The portion size is perfect for meal prep or sharing, and I appreciate the long shelf life. I always keep a few on hand for those 'what's for dinner?' moments."

365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Thai Jasmine White Rice, 20 oz

365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Thai Jasmine White Rice, 20 oz Cover

365 by Whole Foods Market, Organic White Rice Thai Jasmine, 20 oz, (Frozen)

The 365 Whole Foods Organic Jasmine Rice offers you a delightful shopping experience with its broad selection of high-quality ingredients that make meal prep exciting and easy. This product meets strict quality standards, ensuring it contains no unwanted additives, so you can feel confident about what you’re eating. As part of the trusted 365 by Whole Foods Market brand, it delivers premium organic white rice that’s convenient and reliable. Plus, as an Amazon brand, it’s easy to find and order online, bringing quality ingredients right to your doorstep.

9.8
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Quick and easy preparation
  • Great texture and flavor
  • Convenient for busy families
  • Organic and affordable

What We Don't Like

  • Confusion with uncooked rice

What Customers Say

"I was hesitant about frozen rice because of the texture, but this one really surprised me. It comes out perfectly every time—never gummy or hard, with a wonderful aroma and visible grains. Now I always keep it on hand for a quick, delicious meal."

"This rice is a lifesaver during our kitchen renovation. Even with two picky kids, I can heat up more in minutes and it tastes just like stovetop rice—fluffy and flavorful. It's become a staple in our home for convenience and taste."

"I accidentally bought this thinking it was uncooked rice, but what a happy mistake! It tastes like authentic jasmine rice, not mushy or undercooked, and is ready in just two minutes. Now I always keep a bag in the freezer for quick meals."

#TOP 3

Zatarain's Red Beans & Rice

Zatarain's Red Beans & Rice Cover

Zatarain's Red Beans & Rice, 8 oz

Zatarain's Rice is a New Orleans tradition that features a delicious blend of long grain white rice and tender red beans seasoned with a unique blend of spices, including hickory smoke flavor. With its easy preparation, it can be on the table in less than 30 minutes, making it a perfect choice for busy days. You can serve it as a side dish or a complete meal by adding your favorite meat. It can be made on the stove top or in the microwave, giving you the flexibility to cook it in a way that suits your needs. Whether you're looking for a quick and easy meal or a tasty side dish, Zatarain's Rice is a perfect choice.

9.6
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy and quick preparation
  • Great taste and flavor
  • Versatile meal base
  • Affordable price
  • Kid-friendly option

What We Don't Like

  • Box size could be larger
  • Moderate saltiness for some

What Customers Say

"I never used to enjoy rice, but after trying Zatarain's Red Beans and Rice, I discovered how versatile and delicious rice can be! I added extra beans, tomatoes, and some turkey sausage, and it turned into a hearty, scrumptious meal with no leftovers. Even when I'm not feeling well, it's so easy to prepare that anyone could make it. The flavor is amazing, and the price can't be beat!"

"As a busy mom, I love how quick and simple this is—just add sausage and dinner is ready. My kids absolutely love it, and the texture comes out perfect every time."

"I've been enjoying this for years, and now that it's available in Australia, I'm thrilled! Tastes great with or without extra meat or veggies—just add a bit more water for a saucier texture. Sometimes I toss in sausage or tomatoes to balance the flavor. It's a convenient and reliable staple in my kitchen."

#TOP 4

Knorr Taco Rice Side Dish

  • Knorr
  • 041000026041
  • Green
Knorr Taco Rice Side Dish Cover

Knorr Rice Sides Taco Rice For a Tasty Rice Side Dish No Artificial Flavors or Preservatives, No Added MSG 5.4 oz

Knorr Taco Rice is a delicious blend of rice and pasta that adds flavor to your meals. With its tasty combination of tomatoes and real cheddar cheese, this side dish brings a delightful taco-inspired taste to your table. You’ll appreciate how quick and easy it is to prepare, cooking in just 7 minutes. Plus, it contains no artificial flavors, preservatives, or added MSG, making it a healthier choice for you and your family. Enjoy it as a part of a larger meal or on its own for a satisfying side.

9.6
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Quick and easy preparation
  • Great taste
  • Versatile side dish
  • Affordable price
  • Minimal ingredients needed

What Customers Say

"Making this rice for the first time as a side with roasted chicken turned out to be super delicious and incredibly simple—just add water and simmer for ten minutes, no butter or oil necessary. For the price, it's absolutely worth it, which is why I've added it to my subscribe list."

"Knorr Taco Rice is my go-to for quick, Tex-Mex inspired meals on busy nights. It pairs perfectly with cheese enchiladas and refried beans for a meal that feels like a getaway, even if I’m just home in Kansas."

"I practically live on this rice because it’s tasty and only requires water and a splash of oil. It doesn’t get much easier than that!"

Kaizen Low Carb Keto Rice

Kaizen Low Carb Keto Rice Cover

Kaizen Low Carb Keto Rice - Gluten-Free, High Protein (20g), Keto Friendly, Plant Based, Made with High Fiber Lupin Flour - 8 ounces (Pack of 3)

Introducing Kaizen Keto Rice, the perfect choice for your well-rounded and inclusive dietary needs. This low carb, high protein rice captures the true essence of rice, providing you with better nutritional values than chickpea or traditional rice. With just 6 net carbs and 20 grams of protein per serving, it's here to revolutionize your meals. Say goodbye to unsatisfying mushy cauliflower rice and unleash your creativity with Kaizen Keto Rice. Whether you're looking to make stir-fry, sushi, or pilaf, this rice is the hero of your diet. Embrace change for the better and enjoy the good stuff with Kaizen Keto Rice!

9.6
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Low carb alternative
  • Easy to cook
  • Very filling
  • Mild, versatile flavor
  • Good rice substitute

What We Don't Like

  • Higher price
  • Slight bean flavor

What Customers Say

"I was honestly blown away by how tasty and satisfying this rice alternative is! I love that it’s a great substitute for rice with a mild, almost pasta-like flavor. It worked perfectly in my casserole, and though it’s a bit pricey, I think it’s absolutely worth it."

"Finding a low-carb rice option that’s so easy to cook and super filling has been a game changer for me. I enjoy it with just a little butter and salt, and it’s amazing in my soups. I appreciate that the company really seems to understand the needs of people following low-carb diets."

"As someone on a strict diet, I’m thrilled to have discovered this product. It’s a delicious and satisfying rice substitute that works great in stir fries, casseroles, and as a side, even though it won’t work in a rice cooker. It’s now my go-to rice replacement."

#TOP 6

Lundberg Cilantro Lime Rice 5.5 Oz

Lundberg Cilantro Lime Rice 5.5 Oz Cover

Lundberg Cilantro Lime Rice 5.5 Oz

The Lundberg Cilantro Lime Rice is a great choice if you want organic and responsibly sourced jasmine rice. It’s certified organic, fair trade, and non-GMO, so you can feel good about what you’re eating. This rice comes fully cooked and only needs 90 seconds to heat, making it perfect for busy or relaxed days when you want something quick. You’ll also enjoy the fresh cilantro flavor, which means no artificial tastes or preservatives. Plus, it’s vegan, gluten-free, and offers 4 grams of protein per serving, making it a healthy and convenient option for a variety of diets.

9.4
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Easy and quick preparation
  • Surprisingly good flavor
  • Satisfying salt and cilantro taste
  • Convenient meal option
  • Sticky rice texture

What We Don't Like

  • Mild lime or cilantro flavor
  • Occasionally mushy or clumpy

What Customers Say

"I was honestly impressed by how tasty and convenient this microwavable rice turned out to be. The flavor is balanced—not too bland or salty—and the hint of cilantro adds a nice touch. If you want stronger flavors, a little fresh cilantro and lime goes a long way, but for a fast meal, this really works for me."

"This rice has turned into my favorite quick meal. It's super easy to prepare and the taste is great. I prefer a bit of a sticky texture, so this was perfect for me."

"I was disappointed with the mushy, sticky consistency and the strong lime flavor that overpowered everything else. I ended up eating just enough for my meal and threw the rest away."

#TOP 7

Nishiki Steamed White Rice

Nishiki Steamed White Rice Cover

Nishiki Steamed White Rice, 7.4-Ounce (Pack of 6)

Nishiki Steamed Rice is a pack of 6 microwavable steamed white rice, made from specially selected medium grain rice. It takes only 90 seconds to cook, making it a quick and convenient option for those who want to enjoy delicious rice without the hassle of cooking it from scratch. The microwavable feature allows you to have hot, fluffy rice in no time, which is perfect for busy weekdays or when you're in a rush. The medium grain rice also gives a perfect balance of texture and flavor, making it a great addition to any dish. With Nishiki Steamed Rice, you can enjoy restaurant-quality rice at home.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Microwave convenience
  • Great flavor and texture
  • Perfect single servings
  • Quick preparation
  • Pairs well with meals

What We Don't Like

  • Somewhat high price

What Customers Say

"This rice is a huge hit in our home—the flavor and consistency are always spot on, and the fact that it cooks in just about a minute in the microwave makes it incredibly convenient. We absolutely love it!"

"I find these rice bowls perfect for quick, solo meals. They heat up fast and always come out perfectly cooked. I often keep a few at work or at home for days when I just need something easy. They're a real time saver!"

"The sticky rice has excellent quality and comes in handy single portions. It’s always ready in under two minutes and pairs nicely with all kinds of main dishes. My only gripe is the price, but I keep coming back for the convenience."

#TOP 8

Zatarain's Jambalaya 8 oz

Zatarain's Jambalaya 8 oz Cover

Zatarain's Jambalaya, 8 oz

Zatarain's Jambalaya offers a tasty and authentic Creole experience right in your kitchen. This dish features long grain rice mixed with onions, bell peppers, garlic, and a blend of paprika and red peppers, giving you a rich flavor. You can enjoy it worry-free since it's gluten-free and contains no added MSG or artificial ingredients. Made with real vegetables, it’s a healthy option for your meals. For an effortless dinner, consider adding a pound of shrimp to create a satisfying and hearty meal.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Authentic New Orleans flavor
  • Quick and easy preparation
  • Customizable with meats or vegetables
  • No MSG added
  • Versatile meal option

What We Don't Like

  • Slightly spicy for some

What Customers Say

"For a genuine taste of New Orleans at home, this mix is my go-to. I love how quick and simple it is to prepare—just toss in your favorite sausage or shrimp, and it's ready in no time. The fact that there's no MSG added is a big plus for me. I’ve used this brand many times and it always turns out delicious!"

"This rice mix is my top choice for a fast, one-pot dinner. I usually add beef sausage and it comes out as a hearty, flavorful meal. It's so convenient when I need something easy and satisfying after a busy day."

"After trying jambalaya in New Orleans, I was excited to find this mix back home. I used chicken and chorizo, plus a splash of white wine and Tobasco for extra flavor. It was simple to make and almost as good as what I had in the city. I just wish it was easier to find in the UK—I’d stock up if I could!"

#TOP 9

365 by Whole Foods Market Spelt Lentils Rice

365 by Whole Foods Market Spelt Lentils Rice Cover

365 by Whole Foods Market, Spelt Green Lentils & Brown Rice, 8.8 Ounce

The 365 Whole Foods Lentils Rice is a convenient blend of spelt, green lentils, and brown rice, perfect for quick and nutritious meals. You can have it ready in just 90 seconds by microwaving the pouch, which saves you time and effort. This mix is made with extra virgin olive oil and sea salt, adding natural flavor and healthy fats to your dish. Plus, it’s high in fiber, which helps support digestion and keeps you feeling full longer. Whether you want a quick base for grain bowls or a wholesome addition to soups and salads, this product makes meal prep easy and tasty.

9.2
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Great taste
  • Quick and easy meals
  • Versatile meal base
  • Good texture
  • Filling and satisfying

What We Don't Like

  • Some sodium content
  • Potential order mix-up

What Customers Say

"I was truly impressed by the delicious taste and how quickly these cook—just a minute! I enjoyed them so much that I immediately went back to buy more."

"The texture is spot on and the flavor is excellent. These really serve as a perfect base for all kinds of add-ons. I’ve already placed another order because I love how customizable and convenient they are."

"These make fast, no-fuss meals that are easy to build on. I like to use them as a base for bowl meals—just add chicken, salmon, veggies, seasonings—or even turn them into a hearty soup. They’re filling, satisfying, and surprisingly not too salty for a shelf-stable product. I’ll definitely buy again."

CJ Instant Rice: Cooked White Hetbahn

  • CJ
CJ Instant Rice: Cooked White Hetbahn Cover

CJ Rice Cooked White Hetbahn, Gluten-Free & Vegan, Instant & Microwaveable, 7.4 Oz, 12 Count

CJ Instant Rice: Cooked White Hetbahn is a gluten-free, vegan, and preservative-free rice that is perfect for any meal. Each serving comes in a microwave safe container and is ready in just 90 seconds, making it perfect for those who want a quick and delicious meal. The rice is made from premium crops of rice and cooked under the perfect conditions for the best possible taste and texture. CJ, the No.1 Korean Food Company, has been developing and enhancing instant rice for over 20 years, so you can trust that you are getting quality rice that simply tastes better.

9.1
FTB Score

What We Like

  • Quick and easy preparation
  • Consistently good taste
  • Fluffy and sticky texture
  • Convenient single servings
  • Minimal cleanup required

What We Don't Like

  • Not rice cooker quality for everyone
  • Carton opening requires care

What Customers Say

"I love how fast and simple it is to make a bowl of rice—just pop it in the microwave, and in under two minutes, I have perfectly fluffy and tasty rice. The portion size is just right, and the texture works great for dishes like Kimbap. It’s become my go-to for quick meals at work or school."

"This product blew me away with its quality and convenience. In 90 seconds, I had a bowl of steaming, chewy rice that reminded me of my childhood in Japan. I’ve tried it with chili and curry, and I appreciate how you can adjust the stickiness by peeling the lid differently. I’ll definitely keep buying it!"

"My kids reach for these whenever they want rice in a hurry—my daughter makes fried rice, and my son adds it to soup. I still prefer rice from a cooker, but even I admit this is much better than stovetop rice and is a lifesaver for busy nights. Zero cleanup makes it even better!"

Packaged Seasoned Rice Comparison Table

#TOP 1 BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Jasmine Rice Cover

BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Jasmine Rice

#TOP 2 365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Thai Jasmine White Rice, 20 oz Cover

365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Thai Jasmine White Rice, 20 oz

#TOP 3 Zatarain's Red Beans & Rice Cover

Zatarain's Red Beans & Rice

#TOP 4 Knorr Taco Rice Side Dish Cover

Knorr Taco Rice Side Dish

#TOP 5 Kaizen Low Carb Keto Rice Cover

Kaizen Low Carb Keto Rice

#TOP 6 Lundberg Cilantro Lime Rice 5.5 Oz Cover

Lundberg Cilantro Lime Rice 5.5 Oz

#TOP 7 Nishiki Steamed White Rice Cover

Nishiki Steamed White Rice

#TOP 8 Zatarain's Jambalaya 8 oz Cover

Zatarain's Jambalaya 8 oz

#TOP 9 365 by Whole Foods Market Spelt Lentils Rice Cover

365 by Whole Foods Market Spelt Lentils Rice

#TOP 10 CJ Instant Rice: Cooked White Hetbahn Cover

CJ Instant Rice: Cooked White Hetbahn

Brand BEN'S ORIGINAL 365 by Whole Foods Market Zatarain's Knorr Kaizen Food Company Lundberg Nishiki Zatarain's 365 by Whole Foods Market CJ
Units 51.0 Ounce 20.0 Ounce - 5.4 Ounce 24.0 Ounce 5.5 Ounce 44.4 Ounce 8.0 Ounce 8.8 Ounce 88.8 Ounce
Item Weight 51 Ounces 1.25 Pounds - - 24 Ounces 8 Ounces 3.2 Pounds 0.56 Pounds 0.56 Pounds 5.6 Pounds
Unit Count 51.0 Ounce 20.0 Ounce - 5.4 Ounce 24.0 Ounce 5.5 Ounce 44.4 Ounce 8.0 Ounce - 88.8 Ounce
Flavor Jasmine - - Taco Original Organic - Jambalaya Spelt, Lentils & Brown Rice Instant White Rice (12-Pack)
Package Weight 1.63 Kilograms - - 0.16 Kilograms 0.82 Kilograms 0.24 Kilograms - 0.26 Kilograms - 3.16 Kilograms
Variety Rice - - rice Brown Rice Cilantro Lime - Jambalaya - Rice
Cuisine Asian - - North American Asian, Indian, Latin American North American - Creole - Korean
Specialty Low Sodium, No Artificial, Preservatives Free - - Cholesterol Free, No Artificial Flavor, Preservatives Free Gluten Free, High Protein, Kosher Fair Trade, Gluten Free, Non GMO, Organic - Gluten Free, No MSG - Vegan
FTB Score
9.9
9.8
9.6
9.6
9.6
9.4
9.2
9.2
9.2
9.1
Where to Buy

Tips for Choosing the Packaged Seasoned Rice

Introduction

Rice is a staple food for many people around the world, and there are countless ways to cook and season it. When it comes to choosing packaged seasoned rice, there are a few key things to consider in order to find the best option for your taste and dietary needs. In this article, we will explore some of the factors to consider when choosing packaged seasoned rice, as well as provide some tips and suggestions to help you make the right choice.

Consider the Type of Rice

One of the first things to consider when choosing packaged seasoned rice is the type of rice used. Different types of rice have different textures and flavors, and some types may be more suitable for certain dishes than others. For example, long grain rice is known for its fluffy and separate grains, while short grain rice is more sticky and tender. Jasmine rice has a fragrant aroma and a slightly sweet taste, while basmati rice is known for its long, slender grains and nutty flavor.

Read the Ingredient List

Another important factor to consider when choosing packaged seasoned rice is the ingredient list. Packaged seasoned rice often contains additional ingredients such as seasonings, herbs, and spices, as well as preservatives and other additives. It's important to read the ingredient list carefully to make sure the rice is free of any ingredients that you may be allergic to or that you may want to avoid for other reasons. For example, if you are following a gluten-free diet, you will want to make sure the rice does not contain any wheat or barley.

Check the Sodium Content

Sodium is a common ingredient in packaged seasoned rice, as it helps to preserve the rice and enhance its flavor. However, too much sodium can be bad for your health, especially if you are on a low-sodium diet. It's important to check the sodium content of the packaged seasoned rice and compare it to your daily sodium intake to make sure you are not exceeding your recommended limit.

Look for Whole Grain Options

Whole grains, including whole grain rice, are a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals. They can help to support a healthy digestive system and may even help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and diabetes. When choosing packaged seasoned rice, look for options that are made with whole grain rice, as they can provide additional health benefits over refined rice.

Choose Organic Rice When Possible

Organic rice is grown without the use of synthetic pesticides, herbicides, and fertilizers. It is also not genetically modified and is often grown using sustainable farming practices. Choosing organic rice can help to support organic farmers and the environment, and it can also provide some additional health benefits. For example, organic rice may be higher in nutrients and antioxidants than conventionally grown rice.

Conclusion

Choosing the right packaged seasoned rice can add flavor and convenience to your meals, but it's important to consider the type of rice, the ingredient list, the sodium content, and other factors to ensure you are choosing the best option for your taste and dietary needs. By following the tips and suggestions in this article, you can confidently choose the right packaged seasoned rice for your next meal.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is a good seasoning to add to rice?

Adding oregano, dried thyme, dried parsley, paprika, and bouillon cubes can enhance the flavor of white rice. These seasonings provide a combination of flavors, including sweetness, peppery notes, and savory taste.

2. How to spice up white rice?

To spice up white rice, you can use creole seasoning, which contains garlic, salt, black pepper, white pepper, oregano, and parsley. It adds a Southern-style flavor with a kick. Another option is to cook the rice in coconut milk for a delicious twist.

3. What to put in white rice for flavor?

To add flavor to white rice, you can use butter and salt, incorporate bay leaves, spice it up with various spices, substitute water with chicken broth, use coconut milk, add meat, cook it with orange juice, or make Spanish rice.

4. How do you make boxed rice taste better?

To make boxed rice taste better, you can replace the water with full-flavored broth, such as bone broth or stock. Another option is to mix miso with water for a savory umami base. Bouillon can also be used to enhance the flavor.

5. Is boxed rice good for you?

Boxed rice, like Rice A Roni, may lack nutritional value and contain harmful additives. It provides minimal nutritional benefits and often contains high sodium content.

6. Do you add seasoning to rice before or after cooking?

It is best to season rice before cooking to infuse the flavor. However, if you have leftover cooked rice, you can still season it and cook it again to make seasoned fried rice.

7. What can I add to plain white rice for flavor?

To add flavor to plain white rice, you can add lots of pepper, minced fresh herbs warmed in melted butter, cooked minced garlic, leek, scallion or shallot, or lemon juice to taste. These additions can enhance the taste and make the rice more enjoyable.

8. What can I add to plain white rice?

You can add alternative cooking liquid like flavored cooking water, broth, or juice to plain white rice. Other options include cheese, vegetables, avocado, herbs, seasonings, or nopalitos (cactus pads) for added flavor and variety.

Editor's Notes

During our packaged seasoned rice research, we found 24 packaged seasoned rice products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 243,910 customer reviews through our big data system to write the packaged seasoned rice list. We found that most customers choose packaged seasoned rice with an average price of $4.04.

The packaged seasoned rice are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of packaged seasoned rice, including BEN'S ORIGINAL, 365 by Whole Foods Market, Zatarain's, Knorr, Kaizen Food Company. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by

Ashley Abels Avatar

Ashley Abels

Ashley Abels is a former restaurant executive and has worked in the restaurant industry for 15 years. She is also a gourmet who loves tasting different cuisines and trying out all kinds of cooking methods. The food she writes about will make you want to try it!