Do you know what DOG ESSENTIALS you are missing out? Find out now!
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.
How many times have you gone on a seemingly endless search for healthy dog treats that won’t cost you a fortune and won’t have a long list of unknown ingredients?
We all want to take care of our dogs in the best way possible, but the reality is that many commercial treats are packed with fillers, additives of a doubtful nature, and can even cause allergies.
Well, what if I told you that there was a super easy, extremely healthy option right there in your kitchen? This recipe is the one you need!
Medical Questions? Talk to a Veterinarian 24/7.
Connect one-on-one with a licensed vet who will answer your questions in minutes.
*Article may contain affiliate links to retailers like Amazon and Chewy. Learn more on our disclosure page.
Recipe Overview
- This homemade chicken and rice dog treat recipe takes just 15 minutes of prep and 20 minutes to cook.
- It’s made with only two ingredients: chicken and rice.
- These treats are perfect for dogs with sensitive stomachs or food allergies, offering high-quality protein and easy-to-digest carbohydrates.
- Yields approximately 30-40 small treat balls, depending on size.
[lasso ref=”fave” id=”19043″]
Ingredients List
- 1 lb (approximately 450g) Boneless, Skinless Chicken Breast: estimated cost $5.00 – $7.00
- 1 cup Cooked White or Brown Rice: estimated cost $0.50 – $1.00
Total Estimated Cost: $5.50 – $8.00
Suitable Substitutions: You can use boneless, skinless chicken thighs instead of breast. For the rice, white rice is often easier to digest for sensitive stomachs, but brown rice adds more fiber. Just make sure it’s plain cooked rice, no seasoning.
Step-by-Step Instructions
- Cook the chicken: Put the chicken breast in a pot and cover it with water. Bring the water to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 10-15 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked through.
- Shred the chicken: Take the cooked chicken out of the water. Let it cool a bit. Once it’s cool enough to handle, shred it finely using two forks or your hands. You can also pulse it a few times in a food processor for a very fine texture.
- Prepare the rice: If you don’t have cooked rice, cook 1/2 cup of uncooked rice according to package directions. This should give you about 1 cup of cooked rice. Make sure it’s plain.
- Combine ingredients: In a medium bowl, mix the shredded chicken and the cooked rice together. Make sure it’s well combined.
- Form the balls: Take small amounts of the mixture and roll them into bite-sized balls. The size depends on your dog. For small dogs, aim for about a 1/2 inch ball. For larger dogs, you can go up to an inch.
- Bake (optional for firmer treats): If you want firmer treats, place the balls on a baking sheet lined with parchment paper. Bake at 350°F (175°C) for 10-15 minutes. This helps dry them out a bit and makes them less messy.
Look, prepping and cooking for your dog is great, but sometimes you might be too tired or maybe a tad lazy, or maybe you just want to give yourself a well deserved break.
In such times, you want something reliable and nutritious for your dog, and that’s where Ollie comes in. It’s my favorite dog food subscription ever.
Fresh human grade dog food sent to your doorstep, and there’s no lock in.
Give it a shot, will ya?
Feeding Guidelines
- Small dogs (under 20 lbs): Offer 2-3 small treats per day.
- Medium dogs (20-50 lbs): Offer 4-6 medium treats per day.
- Large dogs (over 50 lbs): Offer 6-10 large treats per day.
- Puppies and highly active dogs might need a few more, while senior or less active dogs might need fewer.
- These are treats, not a meal replacement. They should make up no more than 10% of your dog’s daily caloric intake.
- Always consult your veterinarian for personalized feeding advice, especially if your dog has specific health conditions or dietary needs. They know your dog best.
[lasso ref=”the-forever-dog-life-120-recipes-longevity-tips-and-new-science-for-better-bowls-and-healthier-homes” id=”18607″]
Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe
- Chicken: This is a lean, high-quality protein source. It provides essential amino acids for muscle growth, repair, and overall body function. It’s also a good source of B vitamins (Niacin, B6) and phosphorus.
- Rice (White or Brown): This provides easily digestible carbohydrates for energy. White rice is particularly gentle on sensitive stomachs. Brown rice adds more fiber, which supports healthy digestion, and contains magnesium and selenium.
- Overall: These treats are low in fat and free from common allergens found in commercial treats. They offer a simple, clean energy boost without artificial flavors or preservatives.
- Note: While these treats are nutritious, they are not a complete and balanced meal. For a complete diet, consider adding a canine-specific multivitamin and mineral supplement to your dog’s regular food, especially if you feed homemade meals often.
Storage and Serving Tips
- Refrigeration: Store these treats in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days.
- Freezing: For longer storage, place the treats in a single layer on a baking sheet to freeze individually. Once frozen, transfer them to a freezer-safe bag or container. They can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
- Reheating: Thaw frozen treats in the refrigerator overnight or microwave for a few seconds until soft.
- Serving: Serve them at room temperature. You can also warm them slightly in the microwave for a few seconds to enhance the aroma, but make sure they are not hot before giving them to your dog. They can be given as a standalone treat or crumbled over their regular kibble for an extra enticing meal.
Common Questions & Troubleshooting
Can I use other meats?
Yes, you can. Cooked turkey or lean ground beef (drained of fat) are also good options. Always make sure the meat is plain and thoroughly cooked.
Is brown rice better than white rice for dogs?
Brown rice has more fiber, which is good for digestion. But white rice is often easier to digest for dogs with sensitive stomachs. Choose what works best for your dog.
My dog has allergies. Will these treats be safe?
These treats are very simple, making them a good choice for dogs with common allergies. If your dog is allergic to chicken or rice, you would need to substitute those ingredients with something else they can tolerate. Always introduce new foods slowly.
Do I need to add anything else for nutrients?
No, not for a treat. For a complete and balanced daily diet, these two ingredients alone are not enough. But as a treat, they are perfectly fine. If you were making meals with these, you’d need to add more vitamins and minerals.
📖 Don’t Miss This…
Need more ideas on what to cook for your dog? Then you must check out my library of homemade dog food recipes today!
Wrapping Up
Making your own dog treats with just chicken and rice is so easy and gives your dog something truly good. It’s a simple way to show them love and keep them healthy without all the extra stuff. So, why not give it a try?
Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!
