Easy Garlic Butter Rice Recipe

This Easy Garlic Butter Rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs perfectly with just about anything. Cooked in a rich mixture of garlic and butter, this fluffy rice is full of savory flavor and comes together in under 30 minutes. Whether you’re serving it alongside grilled meats, vegetables, or enjoying it on its own, this quick and comforting recipe is sure to become a household favorite.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy—ready in under 30 minutes
• Rich, buttery, and loaded with garlic flavor
• Perfect side dish for chicken, seafood, steak, or vegetables
• Made with simple pantry ingredients
• Kid-friendly and customizable

Ingredients

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

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (such as basmati or jasmine)
• 2 cups chicken broth (or water for a vegetarian version)
• 3 tablespoons unsalted butter
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
• ¼ teaspoon black pepper
• 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, finely chopped (optional, for garnish)
• 2 tablespoons grated Parmesan cheese (optional, for extra richness)

Directions

1. Rinse the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
2. Sauté the garlic: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes, stirring frequently until fragrant (don’t let it burn).
3. Cook the rice: Add the rice to the saucepan and stir to coat it with the garlic butter. Toast for 1-2 minutes until slightly golden.
4. Add liquid: Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Stir well and bring the mixture to a boil.
5. Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and all the liquid has been absorbed.
6. Fluff and serve: Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff with a fork, stir in fresh parsley and Parmesan (if using), and serve warm.

Servings and Timing

• Servings: 4
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 20 minutes
• Total time: 25 minutes

Variations

• Lemon Garlic Rice: Add 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice and zest for a bright, citrusy flavor.
• Cheesy Garlic Rice: Stir in ½ cup of shredded cheddar or mozzarella for a cheesy version.
• Herbed Rice: Add fresh herbs like thyme, basil, or dill for extra flavor.
• Spicy Garlic Rice: Add a pinch of red pepper flakes for a hint of heat.

Storage/Reheating

• Store: Keep leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
• Reheat: Warm in a microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent drying out.
• Freeze: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but adjust the cooking time and liquid amount according to the package instructions since brown rice takes longer to cook.

How do I keep the rice from sticking?

Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking and avoid stirring too much during cooking, which can break the grains.

Can I use garlic powder instead of fresh garlic?

Yes, use ½ teaspoon of garlic powder if you don’t have fresh garlic, but fresh will give the best flavor.

Is this recipe gluten-free?

Yes, as long as you use gluten-free broth, this recipe is naturally gluten-free.

What type of rice works best for garlic butter rice?

Long-grain white rice, such as jasmine or basmati, works best for fluffy, non-sticky rice.

Can I make this recipe vegan?

Yes, replace the butter with vegan butter or olive oil and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I make the rice creamier?

Stir in a bit of heavy cream or cream cheese after cooking for a richer texture.

Can I cook this recipe in a rice cooker?

Yes, sauté the garlic separately and add it to the rice cooker with the rice, broth, and seasonings. Cook according to your rice cooker’s instructions.

What protein pairs well with garlic butter rice?

Grilled chicken, shrimp, steak, or baked salmon all pair beautifully with this flavorful side dish.

How can I prevent the garlic from burning?

Cook the garlic on medium-low heat and stir frequently until fragrant—burnt garlic will taste bitter.

Conclusion

This Easy Garlic Butter Rice is a flavorful, quick, and versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with any meal. Whether served alongside grilled meats, vegetables, or enjoyed on its own, the rich buttery flavor and aromatic garlic will make this simple dish a family favorite. Ready in under 30 minutes, it’s the perfect go-to recipe for busy weeknights!

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