How to Reheat Rice Without Drying It Out

The best way to reheat rice without drying it out is to add moisture, cover it, and use gentle heat.

Reheated rice often turns dry or hard, but with the right method (and some patience!), you can restore it to plump perfection, regardless of whether you're using the microwave, stovetop, or oven. Below are simple techniques to keep your leftover rice moist and delicious.

Best Methods to Reheat Rice

Microwave Method (Fastest & Easiest)

1. Place rice in a microwave-safe bowl.
2. Add 1-2 tablespoons of water per cup of rice.
3. Cover with a damp paper towel or microwave-safe lid.
4. Heat on medium power for 1-2 minutes, then fluff.

Pro Tip 1: Let the rice rest covered for 1 minute after microwaving. The steam continues to soften it.

Pro Tip 2: The amount of water is important! Too much water and the rice turns soggy, too little and the rice dries out.

Stovetop Method (Great for Large Portions)

This is my personal go-to method for reheating rice, simply because I've always got my cast iron pans at hand. This is great for recipes like rice bowls.

1. Add rice to a saucepan or skillet.
2. Pour in 1-2 tablespoons of water or broth per cup.
3. Cover tightly with a lid.
4. Heat on low, stirring occasionally until warmed through.

Optional: I usually add a drizzle of sesame oil to the bottom of the pan. This adds a little flavor and helps ensure that the rice doesn't stick.

Pro Tip: If you can hover over the pan stirring constantly, you can skip the lid. You may, however, need to add a little water every couple of minutes.

Oven Method (For Baked Dishes or Meal Prep)

This method is more for recipes - such as paella - that incorporate rice, than as a method for reheating rice on its own.

1. Preheat oven to 300°F (150°C).
2. Place rice in an oven-safe dish.
3. Add a splash of water or broth.
4. Cover tightly with foil.
5. Bake for 15-20 minutes.

Bonus Tips for Best Results

Always store rice in an airtight container to prevent drying out in the fridge.
Don't overheat. Only reheat the rice until its 'warm enough' to be palatable. Overheating leads to tough, rubbery rice that's dry as sand. Not fun.
Try adding a drizzle of olive oil or a pat of butter for extra moisture and flavor.
Use broth instead of water for more depth in savory dishes.

And that's my answer for how to reheat rice! If you enjoyed this article, or have any questions or suggestions, be sure to let me know in the comments below.

Happy Cooking!

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