Fragrant, fluffy, and infused with rich garlic and buttery goodness, Garlic Butter Rice is a simple yet flavorful dish that pairs perfectly with various meals. Whether enjoyed as a comforting side or a satisfying standalone dish, it never disappoints.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
It’s incredibly easy to make and ready in just 25 minutes.
The rich, garlicky butter flavor elevates ordinary rice into something extraordinary.
It’s versatile and pairs with everything from roasted chicken to grilled vegetables.
Perfect for meal prep, as it reheats beautifully.
Uses simple, pantry-friendly ingredients you likely already have on hand.
Ingredients
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
1 cup long-grain rice (e.g., jasmine or basmati)
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Directions
Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Set aside.
In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring well to coat the grains in the garlic butter. Toast the rice for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently.
Pour in the broth, add salt and pepper, and stir to combine. Bring the mixture to a boil.
Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork.
Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Servings and Timing
Servings: 4 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Total Time: 25 minutes
Variations
Herb Lover’s Twist: Add chopped thyme or rosemary along with parsley for an herby kick.
Cheesy Garlic Rice: Stir in freshly grated Parmesan or cheddar for a creamy, cheesy finish.
Spicy Option: Sprinkle in a pinch of red pepper flakes with the garlic for a hint of heat.
Lemon-Garlic Butter Rice: Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice before serving for a zesty, fresh flavor.
Vegetable Add-Ins: Stir in cooked peas, corn, or diced carrots for a more colorful dish.
Storage/Reheating
Storage: Store leftover garlic butter rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheating: Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water or broth to keep it moist. Stir halfway through to ensure even heating.
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FAQs
How can I prevent the garlic from burning?
I keep the heat at medium and stir the garlic continuously when sautéing. This prevents it from burning and turning bitter.
Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, but the cooking time and liquid ratio may need adjustment. Brown rice typically takes longer to cook, so refer to the package instructions for guidance.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, as long as the broth used is certified gluten-free, this dish is naturally gluten-free.
Can I make this vegan?
Absolutely! Substitute vegan butter and use vegetable broth to make it plant-based.
What can I serve with garlic butter rice?
I love pairing it with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or a simple green salad for a complete meal.
Conclusion
Garlic butter rice is a quick and delicious recipe that transforms basic ingredients into a showstopping dish. Its simplicity and bold flavor make it a favorite for weeknight dinners or special occasions. Whether you serve it as a side or savor it on its own, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your kitchen.
📖 Recipe:
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Garlic Butter Rice
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Diet: Gluten Free
Description
Garlic Butter Rice is a fragrant, buttery, and garlicky side dish that is both simple and delicious. Ready in just 25 minutes, this versatile recipe pairs perfectly with roasted chicken, grilled vegetables, or as a comforting standalone dish. A must-have for busy weeknight dinners or meal prep!
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain rice (e.g., jasmine or basmati)
2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
3 tablespoons unsalted butter
4 cloves garlic, minced
1/4 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
Instructions
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. Set aside.
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, stirring frequently to prevent burning.
- Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan, stirring to coat the grains in the garlic butter. Toast for 2-3 minutes.
- Pour in the broth, add salt and pepper, and stir to combine. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover the saucepan, and simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork.
- Garnish with fresh parsley, if desired, and serve warm.
Notes
Adjust the garlic to your preference for a more or less intense flavor.
Substitute vegan butter and vegetable broth for a plant-based version.
Add fresh lemon juice or Parmesan cheese for extra flavor variations.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stove-Top
- Cuisine: American, Global
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 4 servings
- Calories: 210 kcal
