A Simple, Balanced Homemade Meal for Dogs. When it comes to feeding our dogs, many of us are looking for something more wholesome than store-bought kibble. Whether you’re supplementing your pup’s diet or transitioning to homemade meals full-time, this Chicken, Spinach & Brown Rice Medley is a wonderful recipe to have in your rotation.
It’s simple to prepare, gentle on the stomach, and full of the nutrients dogs need to thrive. Chicken is a lean protein that most dogs tolerate well.
It’s easy to digest and packed with amino acids that support muscle health. Spinach is rich in iron, fiber, and antioxidants, while brown rice adds heart-healthy carbs and just the right amount of fiber to help support digestion and steady energy levels. Combined, these ingredients create a balanced, satisfying dish that your dog will happily dig into.
One of the best parts? This meal is easy to make in bulk. You can prepare a large batch, portion it out, and freeze extras for busy days. It’s also easy to customize depending on what you have on hand or what your dog prefers.
This recipe is especially great for families who want to get the kids involved—measuring, stirring, and even portioning can all become part of a fun kitchen routine centered around the family pet.
What You’ll Need
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice
- 1 ½ cups chopped fresh spinach
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or flaxseed oil
- 3 ½ cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
Pro Tips
- Use boneless, skinless chicken for easier prep and digestion. Thighs offer more moisture, while breasts are leaner.
- Rinse rice before cooking to remove excess starch and improve texture.
- Add spinach last so it wilts gently and retains its nutrients.
- Cool completely before serving or storing to ensure proper digestion and safe handling.
- Freeze in portions to make future mealtimes quick and hassle-free.
Tools Required
- Large pot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Mixing spoon or spatula
- Storage containers or freezer-safe bags
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein: Swap chicken for ground turkey, lean beef, or cooked salmon.
- Grains: Use white rice, quinoa, or barley if brown rice isn’t available.
- Veggies: Add carrots, green beans, or zucchini for extra fiber and nutrients.
- Fats: Use salmon oil or coconut oil for added skin and coat benefits.
- Herbal Boost: A pinch of chopped fresh parsley can support digestion and freshen breath.
Make Ahead Tips
You can cook the chicken and rice in advance and store them in the refrigerator for up to 3 days before combining. Once prepared, this medley will last 4–5 days in the fridge or up to 3 months in the freezer. Freeze in single-serving portions to make daily feeding easy and efficient.
Instructions
1. Cook the rice
In a medium pot, bring 2 ½ cups of water or broth to a boil. Add the rinsed brown rice, reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30–35 minutes or until rice is tender. Set aside to cool.
2. Cook the chicken
In a separate pot, place chicken in 1 cup of water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes until fully cooked and tender. Remove and let cool before chopping into bite-sized pieces.
3. Prepare the spinach
While the chicken is cooling, chop the spinach. No need to cook separately—it will wilt when mixed into the hot ingredients.
4. Combine everything
In a large mixing bowl, combine the cooked brown rice, chopped chicken, olive oil, and spinach. Stir well until the spinach wilts and the mixture is evenly combined.
5. Cool and portion
Allow the medley to cool completely before serving or transferring to storage containers. Serve at room temperature or slightly warmed (never hot).
Leftovers and Storage
Refrigerate leftovers in an airtight container for up to 5 days. Freeze in single-meal portions for up to 3 months. Always thaw in the fridge overnight and serve at room temperature or gently warmed. Never serve food hot to your dog.
Conclusion
This Chicken, Spinach & Brown Rice Medley is a perfect go-to recipe when you want to feed your dog something clean, nourishing, and made with love. It’s a balanced, digestible meal that supports energy, digestion, and coat health—and it’s made entirely from real ingredients you can feel good about.
Preparing meals for your dog might seem like a big commitment at first, but once you see the tail wags, the clean bowl, and the improved energy or skin health, you’ll know it’s worth every step. Whether you’re feeding this a few times a week or every day, you can rest easy knowing you’re giving your dog the best start from your own kitchen.
If you try this recipe, I’d love to hear how it turned out! Let me know your dog’s reaction or any tweaks you made to suit their taste. Drop your experience in the comments—I’m here to help you cook confidently and compassionately for your best friend.
