Best Packaged Seasoned Rice of 2025

Ashley Abels Avatar
Ashley Abels
Last Updated: Jan 16, 2025

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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
Rice-A-Roni Heat & Eat Variety Pack Cover #TOP 2
Rice-A-Roni Heat & Eat Variety Pack
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
Quick and easy preparation
Great flavor and texture
Convenient single servings
Perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile for various dishes
What We Don't Like
Can be a bit bland
Requires added flavoring
#TOP 2

Rice-A-Roni Heat & Eat Variety Pack

Rice-A-Roni Heat & Eat Variety Pack Cover
Rice-A-Roni Heat & Eat Rice, Microwave Rice, Quick Cook Rice, 3 Flavor Variety Pack, (6 Pack)

Rice-A-Roni Heat & Eat Variety Pack is a convenient and delicious way to enjoy a variety of flavors in just 90 seconds. This pack includes 6 microwaveable pouches of Rice A Roni Heat & Eat Rice, with 2 pouches each of Herb & Butter, Spicy Spanish, and Garlic & Olive Oil flavors. Perfectly pairs with veggies, chicken, steak, and more, this pack is a great way to enjoy a tasty meal in no time.

What We Like
Great taste
Convenient portion size
Quick microwave preparation
Variety of flavors
What We Don't Like
Strong olive oil flavor
Pre-cooked, not boxed version
#TOP 3

Zatarain's Red Beans & Rice

071429098497
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
Great flavor and easy preparation
Affordable compared to stores
Generous serving size
Convenient for quick meals
Long shelf life
What We Don't Like
Bland flavor without extra seasoning
#TOP 4

BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Fried Flavored Rice, 8.5 OZ Pouch

BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Fried Flavored Rice, 8.5 OZ Pouch Cover
BEN'S ORIGINAL Ready Rice Fried Flavored Rice, Easy Dinner Side, 8.5 oz Pouch (Pack of 12)

BEN'S ORIGINAL Flavored Rice offers you a quick and tasty meal option. With twelve 8.5 oz pouches, you can enjoy savory stir fry long grain rice with veggies in just 90 seconds. This microwave rice is perfect as a side dish or part of a main course. You can easily customize it by adding eggs or extra vegetables for a personalized touch. Whether microwaved or heated on a skillet, this rice is convenient for busy days.

What We Like
Convenient microwave preparation
Aromatic and nutty flavor
Fluffy and light texture
Versatile for various dishes
Healthy and natural ingredients
What We Don't Like
Minimal vegetable inclusions
Pre-cooked consistency differs
#TOP 5

Knorr Chicken Fried Rice, 5.7 oz

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Chicken Fried Rice
Knorr Chicken Fried Rice, 5.7 oz Cover
Knorr Asian Side Dish, Chicken Fried Rice, 5.7 oz (Pack of 8)

Knorr Chicken Fried Rice is a quick and tasty side dish that combines pasta and rice with rich flavors. You will enjoy the delicious blend of sesame and soy in a savory chicken-flavored sauce. This dish is convenient, cooking in just 7 minutes on the stovetop or in the microwave, making it perfect for busy days. Plus, it contains no artificial flavors or preservatives, allowing you to feel good about what you’re eating. Whether you serve it as a side or incorporate it into a recipe, it’s sure to enhance your meal.

What We Like
Convenient and quick to prepare
Delicious flavor with various meats
Generous portion sizes
Tasty addition to main dishes
Great pantry staple
What We Don't Like
Possible allergic reactions
#TOP 6

Knorr Cilantro Lime Rice Sides

Knorr Cilantro Lime Rice Sides Cover
Knorr Rice Sides Cilantro Lime Rice for a Delicious + Quick Side Dish, with 100% U.S. Grown Rice + No Artificial Flavors or Preservatives, 5.5 oz

Knorr Cilantro Lime Rice is a flavorful side dish that combines rice and vermicelli pasta with a zesty cilantro lime sauce. This delicious blend features toasted onion and garlic, making it a perfect accompaniment to your meals or a tasty treat on its own. Made with 100% U.S. grown rice, you can enjoy it knowing there are no artificial flavors or preservatives included. Ready in just minutes, this convenient option allows you to easily enhance your family recipes or serve it as a standalone side. Explore creative meal ideas using the QR code on the packaging for even more inspiration.

What We Like
Easy to prepare
Good flavor
Low calorie
Filling texture
Versatile with additions
What We Don't Like
May become goopy if not fluffed
Spicy for some
#TOP 7

BEN'S ORIGINAL Fried Rice with Vegetables

9 Ounce (Pack of 6)
BEN'S ORIGINAL Fried Rice with Vegetables Cover
BEN'S ORIGINAL Street Food Fried Rice with Vegetables, Prepared Entrée, Microwave in 90 Seconds, 9 oz​ (Pack of 6)

BEN'S ORIGINAL Fried Rice is a tasty and convenient meal option for anyone on the go. With its delightful blend of long grain rice, savory soy sauce, and fresh vegetables, you can enjoy a flavorful rice bowl in just 90 seconds. This dish is loaded with nutritious ingredients like carrots, corn, peas, and red bell peppers, making it a healthy choice for lunch or dinner. Plus, it contains no artificial flavors or colors, so you can feel good about what you're eating. Whether at home or packing for the office, this gluten-free entrée is perfect for any occasion.

What We Like
Quick meal preparation
Great for emergencies
Convenient packaging
Decent flavor options
What We Don't Like
Some may find it bland
Texture can be inconsistent
#TOP 8

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
Great texture and flavor
Easy to prepare
Versatile with various ingredients
Convenient for quick meals
Delicious with Tex-Mex dishes
#TOP 9

Pasta Roni Rice-a-Roni Cups Variety Pack

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Pasta Roni Rice-a-Roni Cups Variety Pack Cover
Rice a Roni Cups Individual Cup, 3-Flavor Variety Pack, 2.25 Oz (Pack of 12

Pasta Roni Rice-a-Roni Cups Variety Pack is a pack of 12 single-serve cups that includes 4 cups each of Rice-A-Roni Chicken, Rice-A-Roni Cheddar Broccoli, and Pasta Roni Parmesan & Romano. These individual cups are perfect for those who want to enjoy a quick snack or side dish at home, work, or on the go. With just adding water, you can cook them in minutes in the microwave. The variety pack offers different flavors for different tastes. The cups are convenient and easy to prepare, making them a great option for busy people or those who want a quick meal.

What We Like
Quick and easy preparation
Variety of flavors available
Good portion size
Convenient for office lunches
Budget-friendly option
What We Don't Like
Inconsistent packaging quality
Flavor may not appeal to everyone
#TOP 10

Iberia Yellow Rice

211083
Yellow
Iberia Yellow Rice Cover
Iberia Spanish Style Yellow Rice, 3.4 lbs.

Iberia Yellow Rice is a Spanish classic made deliciously easy. It is simple to prepare, cooks to fluffy perfection every time, and is seasoned with a wonderful blending of onion, garlic, spices, rich chicken flavor, and coriander. It is a great accompaniment to a range of meats and vegetables, and comes in a sealed container with no MSG or artificial coloring.

What We Like
Easy to prepare
Flavorful taste
Vibrant color
Good texture
Great for pairing with dishes
What We Don't Like
Some may find it salty
Seasoning can clump
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 265,119 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 $8.41.

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, Rice-A-Roni, Zatarain's, Knorr, Iberia. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 385 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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#TOP9
#TOP10
Brand BEN'S ORIGINAL Rice-A-Roni Zatarain's BEN'S ORIGINAL Knorr Knorr BEN'S ORIGINAL Knorr Rice-A-Roni Iberia
Flavor Jasmine 3-Flavor Variety Pack, Heat & Serve - Fried Rice Chicken Fried Rice Cilantro Lime Fried Rice with Vegetables Taco 3-Flavor Cups Variety Pack Yellow Rice
Unit Count 51.0 Ounce 52.8 Ounce - 102.0 Ounce 45.6 Ounce 5.5 Ounce 54.0 Ounce 5.4 Ounce 25.0 Ounce 54.0 Ounce
Package Weight 1.63 Kilograms 1.69 Kilograms - 3.22 Kilograms 1.49 Kilograms 0.16 Kilograms 1.96 Kilograms 0.15 Kilograms 1.1 Kilograms 1.66 Kilograms
Item Weight 51 Ounces 14.56 g - 6.4 Pounds 5.7 ounces 0.36 Pounds 54 Ounces - 2.3 Pounds 1.1 Pounds
Variety Rice - - Rice Fried Rice,Pasta,Rice Cilantro Lime - rice Pasta Spanish
Specialty Preservatives Free, No Artificial, Low Sodium - - No Artificial Flavor, No Artificial Color Preservatives Free, No Artificial Flavor Preservatives Free, Gluten Free, No Artificial Flavor, Cholesterol Free No Artificial Flavor, Gluten, No Artificial Color Preservatives Free, No Artificial Flavor, Cholesterol Free - No MSG, Low Fat
Cuisine Asian Spanish - - - North American Asian North American - Latin American
Global Trade Identification Number 10054800423764 00015300200449 - - 10041000588348 - 10054800425829 - 00015300014237 -
Allergen Information - - - Soy, Wheat - Sulphites Free, Egg Free, Wheat Milk, Soy, Sesame Seeds Wheat, Egg Free Wheat, Milk, Soy -
FTB Score
ftb score rating icon 9.9
ftb score rating icon 9.8
ftb score rating icon 9.6
ftb score rating icon 9.5
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.4
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.3
ftb score rating icon 9.2
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