Dog Food Recipe With Chicken and Rice

Zack Keithy, our author, is a certified veterinarian technician (UC Blue Ash) for over 6 years (contact him here). The articles written here are based on his expertise and experience, combined with a review by our expert vet reviewers including Dr M. Tarantino. Learn more about us here.

Who doesn’t want the absolute best for our dogs?

The problem? Navigating the endless aisles of commercial dog food.

It’s super overwhelming, often leaving us questioning ingredients and nutritional value.

But now, imagine transforming mealtime into a vibrant, healthy experience that you control, ensuring every bite nourishes your best friend from the inside out.

Yup, today, you’ll discover a simple, wholesome solution that will put those worries to rest and bring wagging tails back to your kitchen.

Recipe Overview

This homemade Chicken and Rice dog food recipe is a fantastic way to provide a balanced, nutritious meal for your beloved canine. It’s particularly great for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those needing a bland, easily digestible diet.

It takes approximately 15 minutes of prep time and 30 minutes of cook time, yielding about 10-12 cups of food, perfect for a week’s worth of meals for a medium-sized dog.

Ingredients List

Crafting this nourishing meal for your dog doesn’t have to break the bank. Here’s what you’ll need, along with estimated costs:

• 3 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs – approximately $9.00-$12.00 (Substitution: Ground turkey or lean beef for chicken)
• 2 cups uncooked brown rice – approximately $1.50-$2.00 (Substitution: White rice, though brown rice offers more fiber)
• 6 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth – approximately $0.50-$1.00 (Ensure broth contains no onion or garlic)
• 1 cup chopped carrots – approximately $0.75-$1.00 (Substitution: Sweet potatoes or pumpkin)
• 1 cup chopped green beans – approximately $1.50-$2.00 (Substitution: Peas or spinach)
• 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley (optional, for fresh breath) – approximately $1.00-$1.50
• 2 tablespoons olive oil or flaxseed oil – approximately $0.50-$0.75 (For healthy fats and omega-3s)
• 1 multivitamin/mineral supplement formulated for dogs (consult your vet for recommendations) – approximately $0.20-$0.50 per serving

Total Estimated Cost: $15.95 – $20.75

Step-by-Step Instructions

Get ready to create a meal that will make your dog’s tail wag with delight. This process is straightforward and incredibly rewarding.

1. Rinse the brown rice thoroughly under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
2. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine the rinsed brown rice and 6 cups of water (or low-sodium chicken broth). Bring it to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and simmer for 20 minutes. The rice should be partially cooked but not yet fully tender.
4. While the rice simmers, trim any excess fat from the chicken breasts or thighs. Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes.
5. Add the cubed chicken, chopped carrots, and chopped green beans to the pot with the simmering rice. Stir gently to combine all ingredients.
6. Cover the pot again and continue to simmer for another 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is thoroughly cooked through and the rice is tender. The vegetables should also be soft.
7. Remove the pot from the heat and let it cool completely. This cooling step is crucial for safety and for allowing the flavors to meld.
8. Once cooled, stir in the fresh parsley (if using) and the olive oil or flaxseed oil.
9. Before serving, incorporate the recommended dose of your veterinarian-approved multivitamin/mineral supplement. Mix well to ensure even distribution.

Feeding Guidelines

Every dog is unique, and their nutritional needs vary. These guidelines provide a starting point, but always consult your vet for precise recommendations.

As a general rule, highly active dogs may need slightly more, while senior or less active dogs might need less. Remember to monitor your dog’s weight and adjust accordingly.

Small Dogs (10-20 lbs):

Feed approximately 1/2 to 1 cup per day, divided into two meals. An example might be a Jack Russell Terrier or a French Bulldog.

Medium Dogs (20-50 lbs):

Offer 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day, split into two meals. This would be suitable for breeds like a Beagle or a Border Collie.

Large Dogs (50-90 lbs):

Provide 3 to 4 cups per day, across two meals. Consider this for a Golden Retriever or a German Shepherd.

Giant Breeds (90+ lbs):

Serve 4.5 cups or more per day, divided into two or three meals. Great Danes or Irish Wolfhounds fall into this category.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

This homemade recipe isn’t just tasty; it’s packed with goodness designed to support your dog’s overall health.

The chicken provides a lean source of high-quality protein, essential for muscle development, repair, and overall energy. Brown rice offers complex carbohydrates for sustained energy, plus dietary fiber that aids in healthy digestion.

Carrots are rich in Vitamin A, supporting good vision and immune function, while green beans provide vitamins K and C, and essential minerals. The added olive or flaxseed oil contributes vital omega-3 fatty acids, promoting healthy skin and a shiny coat, and reducing inflammation.

Storage and Serving Tips

Proper storage ensures the food remains fresh and safe for your furry friend.

Store cooked dog food in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. For longer storage, portion out the food into individual servings and freeze for up to 2-3 months.

When ready to serve, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight or gently reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave until warm (not hot) or room temperature. Always check the temperature before serving. You can serve this meal on its own, or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble for an added boost of flavor and nutrition.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

How often should I feed my dog homemade food?

This recipe is designed to be a complete meal, so it can be fed daily. However, always ensure you’re supplementing with a veterinary-approved multivitamin to cover all nutritional bases.

Can I use different vegetables?

Absolutely! Most dog-safe vegetables like sweet potatoes, peas, spinach, or pumpkin are great additions. Avoid onions, garlic, grapes, and avocados as they are toxic to dogs.

My dog has a chicken allergy; what can I substitute?

You can easily substitute the chicken with ground turkey or lean beef. Ensure the protein source is plain, cooked, and unseasoned.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies or senior dogs?

Yes, this recipe is gentle and digestible. For puppies, you might need to adjust portion sizes for their rapid growth, and for senior dogs, the soft texture is often easier to chew. Always discuss with your vet to ensure it meets their specific life-stage needs.

Do I really need a supplement?

Yes, homemade dog food often lacks the precise balance of vitamins and minerals found in commercial diets. A veterinary-approved supplement is crucial to ensure your dog receives all essential nutrients and avoids deficiencies.

Wrapping Up

There you have it: a wholesome, homemade meal designed to make your dog thrive, all prepared with love right in your kitchen. Say goodbye to guesswork and hello to happy, healthy mealtimes.

Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!