Homemade Dog Food Recipe Under $2 Per Serving With Chicken & 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.

Is your pet scratching nonstop or having tummy troubles? Maybe you’ve started to wonder what’s actually in that bag of kibble from the store. Honestly, a lot of commercial pet foods are loaded with fillers and artificial stuff that just isn’t great for them.

The upside? You can whip up a tasty and healthy homemade dog food for your furry friend and it doesn’t have to cost a fortune.

Homemade Dog Food Recipe Under $2 Per Serving With Chicken & Rice Overview

• Purpose: This recipe offers a balanced, nutrient-rich meal for adult dogs, focusing on digestive health and overall well-being. It is perfect for dogs with common food sensitivities or those needing a gentle, home-cooked option.
• Benefits: High in protein and fiber, easily digestible, and free from common allergens found in commercial foods.
• Prep time: 15 minutes
• Cook time: 30 minutes
• Serving size: Approximately 8 servings (for a 25-35 lb dog)

Ingredients List

• 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breast, diced (Approximate cost: $7.00)
• 2 cups brown rice (Approximate cost: $1.00)
• 6 cups water (Approximate cost: $0.00)
• 1 cup chopped carrots (Approximate cost: $0.50)
• 1 cup frozen peas (Approximate cost: $0.75)
• 1 cup chopped green beans (Approximate cost: $0.60)
• 2 tablespoons olive oil (Approximate cost: $0.20)
• 1/2 teaspoon turmeric powder (Approximate cost: $0.10)
• 1/4 teaspoon ground ginger (Approximate cost: $0.05)
• Optional: 1/2 teaspoon calcium carbonate powder (Approximate cost: $0.25) – crucial if this is a primary diet.
• Optional: A high-quality canine multivitamin supplement (Approximate cost: $0.50 per serving, if included for daily completeness).
• Total Estimated Cost: $11.00 (or $11.50 with calcium supplement)
• Substitutions: You can swap chicken for lean ground turkey or beef. Brown rice can be replaced with oatmeal or quinoa for variety. Feel free to use other dog-safe vegetables like sweet potatoes (boiled and mashed) or spinach.

Step-by-Step Instructions

• First, rinse the brown rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch.
• Next, in a large pot, combine the rinsed brown rice and 6 cups of water. Bring it to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 25-30 minutes, or until the water is absorbed and the rice is tender.
• While the rice cooks, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a separate large skillet over medium heat. Add the diced chicken breast and cook for 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until it’s no longer pink.
• Once the chicken is cooked through, stir in the chopped carrots, frozen peas, and green beans. Cook for another 5-7 minutes, until the vegetables are tender-crisp.
• Now, add the turmeric powder and ground ginger to the chicken and vegetable mixture. Stir well to combine the spices.
• Finally, once the rice is done, add the cooked rice to the chicken and vegetable mixture in the skillet. Stir everything together thoroughly.
• If using, stir in the calcium carbonate powder. Let the mixture cool completely before serving or storing.

Feeding Guidelines

• Portion recommendations vary significantly based on your dog’s size, age, and activity level.
• General guidance for adult dogs:
  • Small dogs (10-20 lbs): 1/2 to 1 cup per day.
  • Medium dogs (25-50 lbs): 1.5 to 2.5 cups per day.
  • Large dogs (60-90 lbs): 3 to 4.5 cups per day.
• For puppies, active dogs, or pregnant/nursing dogs, their caloric needs are higher. They may require 1.5 to 2 times the adult portion. Older, less active dogs might need slightly less to maintain a healthy weight.
• Always divide the daily portion into two meals.
• Consult your veterinarian for personalized advice on portion sizes, especially if your dog has specific health conditions, is overweight or underweight, or if this homemade food will be their primary diet. They can help ensure nutritional completeness.

Nutritional Benefits of the Recipe

• Chicken: This is a lean protein source, providing essential amino acids for muscle development, repair, and overall body function. It’s easily digestible for most dogs.
• Brown Rice: A complex carbohydrate that provides sustained energy. It’s a good source of fiber, which helps with healthy digestion and keeps your dog feeling full.
• Carrots: Rich in beta-carotene, an antioxidant that supports vision and immune health. They also provide dietary fiber.
• Peas: Packed with vitamins K, A, and B, as well as minerals like iron, zinc, and potassium. They are a good source of protein and fiber.
• Green Beans: Low in calories and high in fiber, vitamins C and K. They are excellent for promoting satiety and supporting digestive health.
• Olive Oil: A healthy fat that provides Omega-3 and Omega-6 fatty acids, beneficial for skin, coat health, and reducing inflammation.
• Turmeric and Ginger: These spices offer anti-inflammatory properties and can aid digestion. Turmeric is known for its antioxidant benefits.
• Calcium Carbonate (optional but recommended for primary diets): Provides crucial calcium, which is vital for strong bones and teeth, and helps balance the phosphorus in the meat.

Storage and Serving Tips

• After cooling, store the homemade dog food in airtight containers in the refrigerator. It stays fresh for 3-4 days.
• For longer storage, divide the cooled food into individual serving portions and freeze them. It can be safely stored in the freezer for up to 3 months.
• To reheat from frozen, transfer a portion to the refrigerator overnight or gently warm it in the microwave or on the stovetop with a little water until it’s lukewarm.
• Always ensure the food is at room temperature or slightly warm before serving; never serve it hot.
• You can serve this food on its own or mix it with your dog’s regular kibble to transition them or to add variety.

Common Questions & Troubleshooting

Can I add other vegetables to this recipe?

Yes, absolutely. Safe additions include spinach, pumpkin, sweet potatoes, and zucchini. Always research new vegetables to ensure they are dog-safe.

Is this recipe suitable for puppies?

While the ingredients are safe, puppies have higher and very specific nutritional needs for growth. This recipe might need fortification with additional vitamins and minerals, especially calcium and phosphorus, or a canine multivitamin specifically formulated for puppies. Consult your vet to ensure it meets all their developmental requirements.

My dog has allergies; what are some safe protein substitutes?

If your dog is allergic to chicken, lean ground turkey, lamb, or even novel proteins like rabbit can be good alternatives. Always introduce new proteins slowly and monitor your dog for any adverse reactions.

Do I really need to add a calcium supplement?

Yes, if this recipe is your dog’s primary diet, a calcium supplement is essential. Meat is high in phosphorus and low in calcium, and an imbalance can lead to serious bone and health issues over time. A vet-approved calcium source, like calcium carbonate, helps balance this ratio.

How can I ensure this diet is nutritionally complete long-term?

For a homemade diet to be truly complete long-term, it often requires more than just basic ingredients. Consider adding a high-quality canine multivitamin and mineral supplement recommended by your vet. They can also help formulate a custom plan to ensure all micronutrient needs are met.

Wrapping Up

Making your dog’s food at home is a simple way to boost their health and show them extra love. This chicken and rice recipe is not only affordable but also packed with good stuff that can help them thrive. Feeling inspired? Pin this recipe to your Homemade Dog Food board for easy access and follow us for more pet-friendly tips!