Hill's Chicken and Rice Dog Food Recipe

This homemade chicken and rice dog food is a gentle, easily digestible meal for dogs with sensitive stomachs or those needing a bland diet. It combines lean chicken, white rice, and a few dog-safe vegetables, simmered until tender and served at room temperature. This recipe is inspired by the classic Hill’s Prescription Diet i/d formula, but made fresh in your own kitchen.

Ingredients

1 lb (450 g) boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
1 cup (200 g) white rice (long-grain or jasmine)
4 cups (960 ml) water, plus more as needed
1 medium carrot, finely diced (about ½ cup / 60 g)
1 small zucchini, finely diced (about ½ cup / 75 g)
1 tablespoon (15 ml) olive oil (optional, for extra healthy fats)

Instructions

Rinse the chicken under cold water and pat dry with paper towels. Trim any visible fat. Cut the chicken into 1-inch cubes—this helps it cook evenly and shred easily later.
In a large pot, combine the chicken, rice, and 4 cups of water. Bring to a boil over high heat, then reduce to a simmer. Cover and cook for 20 minutes.
Add the diced carrot and zucchini to the pot. Stir well, cover again, and continue simmering for another 15–20 minutes, until the rice is fully tender and the chicken is cooked through. The chicken should reach a safe minimum internal temperature of 165°F (74°C) as measured with a food thermometer.
Remove the pot from heat. Using tongs or a slotted spoon, transfer the chicken pieces to a cutting board. Let them rest for 2–3 minutes, then shred or chop into small, bite-sized pieces appropriate for your dog’s size.
Return the shredded chicken to the pot with the rice and vegetables. Stir everything together. If the mixture looks too dry, add warm water a few tablespoons at a time until it reaches a porridge-like consistency.
Let the food cool completely to room temperature before serving. Warm food can burn your dog’s mouth.

Tips

Substitutions: You can use ground chicken or turkey instead of breast meat. If using ground meat, brown it first in a skillet, drain excess fat, and then add it to the pot with the rice and water. Adjust cooking time accordingly—ground meat cooks faster.
Storage: This recipe makes about 6 cups of food. Store in airtight containers in the refrigerator for up to 4 days, or freeze in portion-sized bags for up to 3 months. Thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight.
Common mistake: Do not add salt, onions, garlic, or any seasonings. Dogs have different dietary needs, and these ingredients can be toxic or harmful. Keep it plain.
Consistency: Some dogs prefer a thicker or thinner texture. You can adjust by adding more water during cooking or mashing the rice slightly. Always ensure the food is cool before serving.

Serving Suggestions

Serve this chicken and rice as a complete meal for your dog, portioned according to their size and activity level. A general guideline is about ½ cup per 10 pounds of body weight per day, but consult your veterinarian for exact amounts. For dogs on a bland diet, feed smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day. Always provide fresh water alongside the food.

Variations

Vegetable swap: Replace zucchini with green beans or pumpkin puree (plain, not pie filling). Pumpkin is especially good for digestive issues.
Protein swap: Use lean ground turkey or lean ground beef instead of chicken. If using beef, drain the fat after browning to keep it low-fat.
Grain-free option: For dogs with grain sensitivities, substitute the white rice with cooked quinoa or sweet potato. Adjust cooking times and water ratios accordingly.

Storage and Reheating

Refrigerate the cooked food in an airtight container within 2 hours of cooking. It will keep for 3–4 days in the refrigerator. For longer storage, freeze in individual portions (e.g., in ice cube trays or small zip-top bags) for up to 3 months. To serve, thaw frozen portions in the refrigerator overnight, then warm gently in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water. Always stir well and check the temperature—it should be lukewarm, not hot. Never refreeze thawed food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use brown rice instead of white? Yes, but brown rice takes longer to cook and has more fiber, which can be harder for some dogs to digest, especially during a stomach upset. If using brown rice, increase the cooking time to about 45 minutes and add an extra cup of water.

How much should I feed my dog? The amount depends on your dog’s weight, age, and activity level. As a starting point, feed about ½ cup per 10 pounds of body weight per day, divided into two meals. For example, a 20-pound dog would get 1 cup total per day. Adjust based on your dog’s appetite and body condition, and consult your vet for a precise plan.

Is this food nutritionally complete? This recipe is not a complete and balanced diet for long-term feeding—it lacks certain vitamins and minerals. It’s best used as a temporary bland diet for digestive issues or as a treat. For everyday feeding, consult your veterinarian about adding a canine multivitamin or using a commercial complete food.

Can I add supplements like fish oil or calcium? You can, but only under veterinary guidance. Adding too much calcium or other supplements can cause imbalances. If you want to boost omega-3s, a small amount of fish oil (e.g., 1 teaspoon for a 30-pound dog) is often safe, but always check with your vet first.

My dog is a picky eater. How can I make this more appealing? Try adding a tiny amount of low-sodium chicken broth (no onions or garlic) to the cooking water, or mix in a spoonful of plain canned pumpkin. Warming the food slightly (not hot) can also enhance the aroma. But avoid adding salt or seasonings.

Can I use chicken with bones? No, never give cooked bones to dogs—they can splinter and cause internal injuries. Always use boneless, skinless chicken. If you want to use bone-in chicken, remove the bones after cooking and discard them safely.

More recipes to cook

Safety notes: safe minimum internal temperatures from USDA FSIS; raw and undercooked fish guidance from the U.S. FDA. Food safety notes

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Hill’s Chicken and Rice Dog Food Recipe