Best Packaged Seasoned Rice of 2026

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 28, 2026

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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

BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Jasmine Rice Cover #TOP 1
BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Jasmine Rice
ftb score rating icon 9.9
365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Thai Jasmine White Rice, 20 oz Cover #TOP 2
365 by Whole Foods Market Organic Thai Jasmine White Rice, 20 oz
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Zatarain's Red Beans & Rice Cover #TOP 3
Zatarain's Red Beans & Rice
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Packaged Seasoned Rice

#TOP 1

BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Jasmine Rice

PP-GRCE36665
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.

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

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.

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
#TOP 3

Zatarain's Red Beans & Rice

Z09849
8 Ounce (Pack of 1)
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.

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
#TOP 4

Knorr Taco Rice Side Dish

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.

What We Like
Quick and easy preparation
Great taste
Versatile side dish
Affordable price
Minimal ingredients needed

Kaizen Low Carb Keto Rice

DROT321
8 Ounce (Pack of 3)
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!

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
#TOP 6

Lundberg Cilantro Lime Rice 5.5 Oz

0073416578807
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.

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
#TOP 7

Nishiki Steamed White Rice

14492
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.

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
#TOP 8

Zatarain's Jambalaya 8 oz

Z09523
8 Ounce (Pack of 1)
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.

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
#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.

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

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.

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
Buying Guide Image

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 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!

Packaged Seasoned Rice Comparison Table

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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
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.2
ftb score rating icon 9.1
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