If you’re looking for a simple, nutritious, and vet-approved meal for your dog, this Easy Chicken & Rice Dog Food Recipe is one of the best places to start. I’ve used this recipe over the years for everything from helping a pup recover from an upset stomach to making homemade food part of a regular feeding routine.
It’s made with just a few wholesome ingredients: lean chicken, rice, and vegetables—things you probably already have in your kitchen. It’s also gentle on digestion, easy to prepare in bulk, and completely customizable for your dog’s size and dietary needs. Whether you’re feeding it as a temporary diet or part of a home-cooked meal plan, this dish is a reliable, healthy option for your furry friend.
Why Your Dog Will Love This Recipe
Dogs love this recipe because it’s full of comforting, savory flavors with a soft, easy-to-digest texture. Lean chicken is a great source of protein, and the rice offers a gentle carbohydrate to help fuel your dog’s energy without upsetting their tummy. Carrots and peas add vitamins, fiber, and a touch of natural sweetness that dogs find irresistible. Whether you’re making this for a picky eater or a dog recovering from illness, it’s a feel-good meal that delivers nutrition and satisfaction in every bite.
What You’ll Need
- 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts
- 1 cup white rice (uncooked)
- 2 medium carrots, peeled and diced
- 1/2 cup frozen peas
- 5 cups water
- Optional: 1 tablespoon olive oil (for added healthy fats)
Pro Tips
- Use white rice for sensitive stomachs—it’s gentler than brown rice and easier to digest.
- Poach the chicken instead of pan-frying—this keeps it soft and moist for easy chewing.
- Cut veggies small so they cook quickly and mix well with the rice.
- Make a big batch and portion into freezer-safe containers for future meals.
- Check the temperature before serving—let the food cool completely to room temperature to avoid burning your dog’s mouth.
Tools Required
- Large pot with lid
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Fork (for shredding chicken)
- Airtight storage containers
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein swaps: Use turkey, lean ground beef, or even salmon instead of chicken.
- Grain alternatives: Try quinoa or oatmeal for variety, especially if your dog has a rice sensitivity.
- Veggie changes: Green beans, zucchini, pumpkin, or spinach work well too—just make sure all veggies are dog-safe.
- Add healthy fats: Drizzle in a little flaxseed oil or fish oil for skin and coat health.
- Flavor boost: A sprinkle of dried parsley or turmeric adds nutrients and light seasoning without salt.
Make Ahead Tips
This recipe is perfect for meal prep. Make a full batch, let it cool, then divide it into portions using containers or silicone freezer molds. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days, or freeze individual portions for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before serving.
If you know your weekly portion needs, you can double or triple the recipe and prep an entire week’s worth of food in under an hour.
Instructions
Step 1: Prep Your Ingredients
Dice the carrots, measure out the peas and rice, and trim any visible fat from the chicken breasts.
Step 2: Cook the Chicken
In a large pot, add the chicken breasts and 5 cups of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and poach for about 15–18 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through and tender.
Step 3: Remove and Shred
Take the chicken out of the pot and shred it with a fork. Set aside. Reserve the broth for cooking the rice and vegetables.
Step 4: Cook the Rice and Veggies
In the same pot with the broth, add the rice, diced carrots, and peas. Bring to a boil again, reduce heat to low, and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the rice and carrots are fully cooked and the water is absorbed.
Step 5: Combine
Add the shredded chicken back into the pot. Stir everything together until evenly mixed. Let cool completely before serving or storing.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve warm or at room temperature for best palatability.
- Mix with a little warm water or low-sodium broth if it’s too thick after refrigeration.
- Portion by your dog’s weight and nutritional needs—generally 1/2 to 1 cup per 20–25 lbs of body weight.
- Serve as a full meal or mix with dry food as a topper.
- Use as a bland meal option during digestive upset (vet-recommended).
Allergy-Friendly Substitutions
- Grain-free: Swap rice for quinoa or steamed sweet potatoes.
- Chicken-free: Use turkey breast or lean beef instead.
- Low-fat: Trim all fat from meat and skip any added oils if your dog is on a low-fat diet.
- No peas: Replace with chopped green beans or zucchini if your dog has a legume sensitivity.
Leftovers and Storage
Once the food has cooled completely, store it in airtight containers:
- Refrigerator: Keeps for up to 4 days.
- Freezer: Keeps for up to 2 months. Use silicone molds or small containers for single servings.
- Reheating: Thaw in the fridge overnight or microwave briefly on low. Always serve at room temperature—never hot.
Label containers with the date and portion size for easy tracking. If food smells off or changes texture dramatically, discard it.
Nutrition & Benefits
This recipe provides lean, digestible protein from chicken and gentle, energy-boosting carbs from rice. Carrots and peas deliver essential vitamins like A, C, and K, as well as fiber to support digestion. If you include a drizzle of olive oil or flaxseed oil, your pup gets a boost of omega-3 fatty acids for a healthy coat and skin. Since the meal is homemade, you can control the ingredients completely—no fillers, preservatives, or mystery meat. Just clean, whole food you can feel good about feeding.
If you’re considering a full-time homemade diet, be sure to consult your vet or a canine nutritionist to ensure your dog gets all the essential nutrients in the right ratios.
Recipe FAQ
Q: Can I use brown rice instead of white?
A: Yes, but white rice is easier to digest and often recommended for sensitive stomachs.
Q: How long can I store this in the freezer?
A: Up to 2 months. Freeze in portions to make daily feeding easier.
Q: Can I use frozen vegetables?
A: Absolutely. Just toss them in while cooking the rice—they’ll thaw and cook quickly.
Q: Is this recipe balanced for long-term feeding?
A: This is a great short-term meal, but if you want to switch to homemade food full-time, consult your vet to add supplements.
Q: Can I feed this to a puppy?
A: Yes, it’s gentle and digestible—just adjust the portion size and confirm with your vet for your puppy’s nutritional needs.
Recipe Wrap-Up
This Easy Chicken & Rice Dog Food Recipe is a dependable favorite that’s nutritious, gentle on the tummy, and packed with ingredients you trust. Whether your dog is recovering from illness, dealing with a sensitive stomach, or you’re simply looking for a wholesome homemade meal, this recipe checks all the boxes. It’s simple to make, budget-friendly, and loved by even the pickiest eaters. Plus, you can store and freeze it easily, making your dog’s meals stress-free for days to come.