Garlic Butter Rice

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

This Garlic Butter Rice recipe is the perfect blend of simplicity and flavor. The garlic brings an intense savory depth, while the butter adds richness that coats each grain of rice beautifully. With the added freshness of parsley, the dish becomes a perfect balance of indulgence and freshness. It’s a fantastic option for those who want a quick, yet flavorful side dish, and it pairs wonderfully with almost anything—from grilled meats to seafood or a vegetarian entrée.

Ingredients

• 4 tablespoons (2 oz. | 60g) butter, divided
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 1/2 cups uncooked white rice (long grain, Basmati, or Jasmine)
• 2 1/2 cups chicken broth, or vegetable stock
• 1 teaspoon dried parsley
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 teaspoon fresh cracked black pepper
• 2 tablespoons fresh chopped parsley, plus extra to garnish

(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

Directions

1. In a large saucepan or skillet, melt 2 tablespoons of butter over medium heat.
2. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, or until fragrant and golden. Be careful not to burn the garlic.
3. Stir in the uncooked rice, making sure to coat the grains with the butter and garlic mixture.
4. Pour in the chicken broth (or vegetable stock), and add the dried parsley, salt, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the saucepan with a lid. Reduce the heat to low and let the rice cook for about 18-20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
6. Once the rice is cooked, remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
7. Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the remaining 2 tablespoons of butter and the fresh chopped parsley.
8. Garnish with extra parsley before serving. Serve warm and enjoy!

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4-6
• Prep Time: 5 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

• Add Cheese: For a cheesy twist, stir in some grated Parmesan cheese or shredded cheddar at the end of cooking for a creamy, cheesy garlic butter rice.
• Lemon Garlic Butter Rice: Add a squeeze of lemon juice and some lemon zest for a fresh, zesty kick.
• Spicy Version: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes to the rice for a subtle heat and a new depth of flavor.
• Herb Variations: Use fresh herbs like thyme, rosemary, or basil instead of parsley for a different herbal note.

Storage/Reheating

• Storage: Store any leftover garlic butter rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Reheating: To reheat, add a little splash of chicken broth or water and microwave or heat in a skillet over low heat until warmed through. Stir in a little more butter for extra richness if desired.

FAQs

1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice instead of white rice, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and amount of liquid. Brown rice typically requires more water and a longer cooking time, about 40-45 minutes.

2. Can I use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?

Yes, vegetable broth works perfectly for this recipe and makes the dish vegetarian-friendly.

3. Can I make this rice ahead of time?

Yes, garlic butter rice can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Just reheat it before serving.

4. Can I add vegetables to this rice?

Absolutely! You can add vegetables like peas, carrots, or corn to the rice for added color and nutrition. Simply stir them in during the last few minutes of cooking.

5. What kind of rice is best for this recipe?

Long-grain white rice, such as Basmati or Jasmine, works best because it cooks evenly and has a light, fluffy texture. However, you can use other types of rice as long as you adjust the cooking time accordingly.

6. Can I use pre-minced garlic instead of fresh?

Yes, you can use pre-minced garlic in a jar. A general guideline is about 1/2 teaspoon of minced garlic per clove.

7. Can I make this recipe without butter?

If you want a lighter version, you can replace the butter with olive oil or coconut oil. However, the flavor will be different, as butter provides richness and a creamy taste.

8. Can I freeze garlic butter rice?

Yes, you can freeze garlic butter rice. Allow it to cool completely before transferring to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored for up to 2-3 months. Reheat by microwaving or on the stovetop with a little added liquid.

9. How can I make this rice more flavorful?

For an extra boost of flavor, try adding a dash of soy sauce, a squeeze of lemon juice, or even a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese when serving.

10. Can I cook this rice in a rice cooker?

Yes, you can make garlic butter rice in a rice cooker. Simply add the ingredients (rice, broth, butter, garlic, seasonings) to the cooker and follow your rice cooker’s instructions for white rice.

Conclusion

Garlic Butter Rice is an easy-to-make, flavorful side dish that’s sure to impress. The buttery, garlicky goodness pairs perfectly with almost any main dish, making it a versatile and delicious option for any meal. With just a few simple ingredients, this recipe transforms plain rice into a mouthwatering side that will become a staple in your kitchen!

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