Buttery Seasoned Rice

Buttery Seasoned Rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish made with fluffy white rice, rich butter, and a blend of aromatic seasonings. It’s a comforting and versatile recipe that pairs beautifully with a wide range of main courses.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy to prepare with pantry staples
• Rich, buttery flavor with savory herbs and spices
• One-pot dish that minimizes cleanup
• Customizable with your favorite seasonings or add-ins
• Perfect side for meats, seafood, or vegetarian dishes

ingredients

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

• Long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati recommended)
• Unsalted butter
• Chicken broth or water
• Salt and pepper
• Garlic powder
• Onion powder
• Dried parsley or thyme (optional)
• Paprika (optional)

directions

this recipe

1. In a medium saucepan, combine rice, chicken broth (or water), butter, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, and pepper.
2. Bring to a boil over medium-high heat.
3. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for about 15 minutes, or until rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
4. Remove from heat and let sit, covered, for 5–10 minutes.
5. Fluff with a fork and sprinkle with dried herbs or additional butter if desired.
6. Serve warm as a side dish.

Servings and timing

• Serves: 4
• Prep time: 5 minutes
• Cook time: 15 minutes
• Total time: 20 minutes

Variations

• Add sautéed garlic or onions for a deeper flavor
• Use vegetable broth for a vegetarian version
• Mix in fresh herbs like parsley or cilantro before serving
• Stir in grated Parmesan for a cheesy twist
• Add lemon zest for a bright, fresh finish

storage/reheating

• Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days
• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of broth or water to maintain moisture
• Not ideal for freezing, as rice may become mushy upon thawing

FAQs

What kind of rice should I use?

Long-grain white rice, such as jasmine or basmati, is ideal for this recipe due to its fluffy texture.

Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you’ll need to adjust the cooking time and liquid amount since brown rice takes longer to cook.

Is this recipe vegetarian?

It can be made vegetarian by using vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.

How do I keep the rice from sticking?

Ensure you use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio and avoid over-stirring during cooking.

Can I add vegetables to this dish?

Yes, you can stir in cooked peas, carrots, or corn for added color and nutrition.

Does the rice need to be rinsed first?

Rinsing rice helps remove excess starch and can result in fluffier rice, but it’s optional.

Can I make this in a rice cooker?

Absolutely. Combine all ingredients in the rice cooker and follow the appliance’s instructions.

How do I make it extra buttery?

Simply add an extra tablespoon of butter when fluffing the rice before serving.

What proteins go well with this?

Grilled chicken, baked fish, roasted beef, or sautéed tofu all pair wonderfully.

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, just maintain the same rice-to-liquid ratio and use a larger pot to accommodate the volume.

Conclusion

Buttery Seasoned Rice is a wonderfully easy and flavorful side dish that elevates any meal. With its rich taste and fluffy texture, it’s perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions. Customize it with your favorite herbs and additions, and you’ll find yourself making it again and again.

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