A Wholesome, Homemade Classic for Happy, Healthy Dogs
If there’s one homemade dog food recipe that should be in every pet parent’s toolkit, it’s this one. This Chicken & Brown Rice Dog Food is simple, nourishing, and trusted by vets and dog lovers alike for its well-balanced, easy-to-digest ingredients.
Whether your pup is dealing with a sensitive stomach, recovering from illness, or you just want to offer something wholesome and homemade, this recipe hits all the right notes.
Chicken is a lean, complete protein that supports muscle growth and repair. Brown rice provides essential fiber and slow-burning carbohydrates to fuel your dog throughout the day. When you combine these two staples with a few nutrient-rich vegetables and a drizzle of healthy oil, you’ve got a complete and satisfying meal your dog will love.
The best part? It’s incredibly easy to make in one pot, scales beautifully for batch cooking, and stores well in the fridge or freezer. Whether you’re new to homemade meals or a seasoned DIY dog chef, this is a go-to recipe you’ll return to again and again.
What You’ll Need
- 1 ½ pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
- 1 cup uncooked brown rice
- 1 cup diced carrots
- 1 cup peas (frozen or fresh)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or flaxseed oil
- 4 cups water or low-sodium chicken broth
Pro Tips
- Use boneless, skinless chicken to simplify prep and avoid bone fragments. Thighs are juicier, while breasts are leaner.
- Rinse brown rice before cooking to remove excess starch and improve texture.
- Chop vegetables small so they cook quickly and are easier to digest.
- Cool completely before serving to prevent mouth burns and preserve nutrients.
- Make in bulk and freeze for easy future meals.
Tools Required
- Large stockpot or Dutch oven
- Cutting board and knife
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Storage containers or freezer-safe bags
Substitutions and Variations
- Protein: Replace chicken with ground turkey, beef, or shredded salmon.
- Grains: Substitute brown rice with quinoa, oatmeal, or barley.
- Veggies: Use green beans, spinach, or zucchini instead of peas and carrots.
- Fats: Swap olive oil for salmon oil or coconut oil for added skin and coat benefits.
- Add-ins: A spoonful of plain pumpkin puree or cooked sweet potato adds fiber and flavor.
Make Ahead Tips
This recipe is ideal for batch cooking. Simply double or triple the ingredients and portion into individual servings once cooled. It stores well in the fridge for 4–5 days and in the freezer for up to 3 months. Be sure to thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight before serving.
Instructions
1. Cook the chicken
Place the chicken in a large pot with 2 cups of water or broth. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15–20 minutes, or until the chicken is fully cooked. Remove and let cool before chopping or shredding into small, bite-sized pieces.
2. Cook the rice and vegetables
In the same pot, add brown rice, carrots, peas, and the remaining water or broth. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 30–35 minutes, or until the rice and vegetables are soft.
3. Combine and stir
Return the chopped chicken to the pot and stir in the olive oil. Mix well until everything is evenly combined and warmed through.
4. Cool and portion
Remove from heat and allow the mixture to cool completely. Portion into serving bowls or containers for storage based on your dog’s size and needs.
Leftovers and Storage
Once cooled, store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4–5 days. Freeze extra servings in freezer-safe bags or containers for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm slightly if desired—never serve food hot to your dog.
Conclusion
This Chicken & Brown Rice Dog Food Recipe is a trusted, comforting classic that works well for dogs of all sizes, ages, and dietary needs. It’s made with real, nourishing ingredients that you likely already have in your kitchen and comes together with just a little prep and one pot.
By choosing homemade food, you’re giving your dog a clean, preservative-free meal filled with protein, healthy carbs, and vegetables that support digestion, energy, and immune health. And best of all, you’re giving them something made with love—right from your own kitchen.
If you’ve made this recipe, I’d love to hear how your pup liked it! Share your experience in the comments below, ask questions, or let me know how you personalized the meal to suit your dog’s needs. I’m here to help you feel confident feeding your dog wholesome, homemade food.
