Easy Homemade Chicken and Rice Dog Food Recipe

Yes — chicken and rice is one of the safest, simplest homemade meals you can make for your dog.

It’s gentle on the stomach, easy to digest, and made with affordable ingredients you can find in any U.S. grocery store. This recipe is perfect for:

• Dogs with sensitive stomachs

• Dogs recovering from mild digestive upset

• Pet parents who want a simple homemade starting point

Let’s break it down step by step.

Why Chicken and Rice Is Good for Dogs

Chicken and rice is commonly recommended by veterinarians for short-term feeding because it is:

• Easy to digest

• Low in fat (when using lean chicken)

• Gentle on upset stomachs

• Simple and limited-ingredient

But remember: for long-term feeding, you may need added vitamins and minerals to keep it fully balanced.

Ingredients for Chicken and Rice Dog Food

Main Ingredients

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast

• ½ cup brown rice (or white rice for sensitive stomachs)

• ⅓ cup peas (fresh or frozen, thawed)

• 1 medium carrot, finely chopped

• 1 tablespoon olive oil

• 1 cup water

Ingredient Benefits

Chicken Breast – Lean protein for muscle maintenance
Brown Rice – Complex carbs for steady energy
Carrots – Beta-carotene for eye and immune health
Peas – Fiber and plant-based nutrients
Olive Oil – Healthy fats for coat support

How to Make Homemade Chicken and Rice for Dogs

Step 1: Cook the Rice

Rinse rice under cold water.
Add rice and 1 cup water to a pot.

Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer:

• Brown rice: 35–40 minutes

• White rice: 15–20 minutes

Set aside when fully cooked.

Step 2: Cook the Chicken

Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium heat.

Add diced chicken.
Cook 5–7 minutes until fully cooked (internal temp 165°F).
No seasoning.

Step 3: Add Vegetables

Add chopped carrots. Cook 3–4 minutes.

Stir in peas. Cook 2 more minutes until soft.

Step 4: Combine Everything

Add cooked rice to skillet.
Mix thoroughly.
Cook together for 2–3 minutes.

Step 5: Cool Before Serving

Let the mixture cool completely.
Never serve hot food to your dog.

Texture should be moist, soft, and easy to chew.

Optional Add-Ins (For Extra Nutrition)

• 1 tablespoon ground flaxseed (omega-3 support)

• 1 boiled egg (extra protein)

• 1 tablespoon plain pumpkin (digestive support)

Add after cooking and cooling slightly.

How Much Chicken and Rice Should You Feed?

Portion depends on size and activity.

Small Dogs (Under 20 lbs)

½ to ¾ cup per meal

Medium Dogs (20–50 lbs)

1 to 1½ cups per meal

Large Dogs (50+ lbs)

2 to 3 cups per meal

Feed 2 times daily.

Always monitor weight and adjust as needed.

Is Chicken and Rice Safe for Long-Term Feeding?

For short-term use (3–5 days), yes.

For long-term feeding:

• Add calcium source

• Add omega-3 fats

• Consult your veterinarian

Homemade food must be balanced to prevent deficiencies.

Storage and Freezing Instructions

Refrigerator

Store in airtight container up to 3 days.

Freezer

Freeze portioned servings up to 3 months.

Thaw overnight in refrigerator.

Serve at room temperature.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Adding salt or seasoning

• Using chicken skin (too much fat)

• Feeding only chicken long-term

• Skipping gradual transition

• Serving food too hot

How to Transition to Homemade Food

Switch slowly over 7–10 days:

Day 1–3: 25% homemade + 75% current food
Day 4–6: 50% homemade
Day 7–9: 75% homemade
Day 10: 100% homemade

Watch for loose stool or vomiting.

Final Thoughts

This easy homemade chicken and rice dog food recipe is a practical starting point for pet owners who want better ingredient control.

It’s simple. Affordable. Gentle.

Start with small batches. Monitor your dog’s response. And always consult your vet before making permanent diet changes.

Healthy feeding doesn’t need to be complicated.