Easy Garlic Butter Rice Recipe

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

Easy Garlic Butter Rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish made with pantry staples. Infused with rich butter and aromatic garlic, it pairs perfectly with grilled meats, roasted vegetables, or can be enjoyed on its own. This dish is quick to make and brings a comforting, savory touch to any meal.

ingredients

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

long-grain white rice
unsalted butter
garlic cloves
chicken broth or water
salt
black pepper
parsley (optional, for garnish)

directions

Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.

In a saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.

Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant, but not browned.

Stir in the rice and toast for 2-3 minutes to coat each grain in butter and enhance the flavor.

Pour in the chicken broth (or water) and add salt and pepper to taste.

Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a lid.

Simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.

Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.

Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with chopped parsley if desired.

Servings and timing

This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
Preparation time: 5 minutes
Cooking time: 20 minutes
Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian version.
Add a squeeze of lemon juice or zest for brightness.
Mix in cooked peas, corn, or diced carrots for added texture and color.
Top with grated Parmesan for a cheesy twist.

storage/reheating

Store leftover garlic butter rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat, microwave with a splash of water or broth to loosen it up, or reheat in a skillet over low heat.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white?

Yes, but cooking time and liquid amounts will need to be adjusted as brown rice takes longer to cook.

Can I make this in a rice cooker?

Yes, sauté the garlic and butter separately, then add all ingredients to the rice cooker and cook as usual.

What if I don’t have fresh garlic?

You can use 1/2 teaspoon of garlic powder as a substitute, though fresh garlic provides better flavor.

Can I freeze garlic butter rice?

Yes, portion and freeze in airtight containers for up to 1 month. Reheat thoroughly before serving.

What type of rice works best?

Long-grain white rice is ideal for this recipe because it remains fluffy and separate after cooking.

Conclusion

Easy Garlic Butter Rice is a versatile, delicious, and budget-friendly side dish that elevates any meal with minimal effort. With its buttery richness and aromatic garlic flavor, it’s sure to become a regular on your dinner table.

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