This lentils and rice in rice cooker is perfect for busy weeknights, and a delicious way to use pantry staples! With tender lentils and fluffy rice cooked together in one simple pot.

When time is short but you still want something homemade, there’s nothing better. And one of my favorite things to make on busy days is this easy lentils and rice.

This simple dish is warm, hearty, and bursting with comfort. The rice cooker does all the work while the flavors naturally blend together (my favorite part, honestly). It’s like a slow-cooked meal, but much easier to make! Serve it for a quick lunch or simple dinner, or meal prep it for the week ahead.

Ingredients in Lentils and Rice

This ingredient mix keeps everything simple, filling, and naturally flavorful.

How to Make Lentils and Rice in Rice Cooker

This recipe keeps everything easy since the rice cooker handles most of the work.

1. Rinse rice and lentils

Start by rinsing both rice and lentils under cold water until the water runs clearer. This helps remove extra starch and keeps the final texture light instead of sticky or heavy.

2. Prepare the base ingredients

Chop onion, garlic, and carrot into small even pieces. Smaller cuts help them soften fully while the rice and lentils cook, blending smoothly into the final dish.

3. Add everything to the rice cooker

Place rinsed rice and lentils into the rice cooker pot, then add onion, garlic, carrot, olive oil, salt, pepper, and optional spices. Pour in water or broth and gently stir once so everything spreads evenly.

4. Set the cooking cycle

Close the lid and start the regular rice cooking setting. The lentils will soften at the same time as the rice, slowly absorbing flavor as the steam builds inside the pot.

5. Let it cook undisturbed

Avoid opening the lid during cooking so the heat stays steady. The rice cooker will automatically adjust and switch off when everything is tender and fully cooked.

6. Rest after cooking

Once done, leave the lid closed for about ten minutes. This resting time helps the texture settle and makes the mixture fluffier and more cohesive.

7. Fluff and mix gently

Use a fork or spoon to gently fluff everything together. The rice and lentils should look soft, slightly creamy, and evenly mixed with the vegetables.

8. Finish and serve

Taste and adjust salt or pepper if needed, then serve warm. The final dish should feel hearty, soft, and full of comforting flavor in every bite.

How to Serve Lentils and Rice

This dish works beautifully as a complete meal on its own since it already combines grains, protein, and vegetables. A simple spoonful in a bowl is often enough for a filling lunch or light dinner.

For a more layered meal, it pairs well with yogurt on the side, a drizzle of olive oil, or a squeeze of lemon juice to brighten the flavor. That contrast brings a fresh lift to the warm base.

It also fits well into meal prep containers. Stored in the fridge, it reheats easily and stays soft, making it great for busy weekdays when cooking time is limited.

Recipe Tips

Rinse rice and lentils well so the final texture stays light and not sticky.
Use green or brown lentils since they hold shape better during cooking.
Keep vegetable pieces small so they blend into the dish smoothly.
Add broth instead of water for a deeper, richer flavor.
Avoid opening the rice cooker during cooking so steam stays trapped inside.
Let the dish rest after cooking so the texture firms up slightly.
Add a splash of lemon at serving time for a fresh taste boost.
If the mixture feels too thick, stir in a small amount of hot water before serving.