Description
This Easy Garlic Butter Rice is fluffy, flavorful, and loaded with buttery, garlicky goodness. It’s the perfect side dish for almost any meal—whether you’re serving chicken, steak, or vegetables. Ready in just 20 minutes, this recipe is simple, comforting, and made with pantry staples!
Ingredients
Units
Scale
- 1 cup (200 g) long-grain white rice (jasmine or basmati works best)
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (plus more for serving)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 cups (480 ml) chicken broth or water (for more flavor, use broth)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust if using salted broth)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (optional, for garnish)
- 1/4 cup (25 g) grated Parmesan cheese (optional for extra richness)
Instructions
1. Rinse the rice (optional but recommended):
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch for fluffier rice.
2. Cook the garlic:
- In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat.
- Add the minced garlic and cook for 1-2 minutes until fragrant, being careful not to let it burn.
3. Toast the rice:
- Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast the grains and enhance their flavor.
4. Simmer the rice:
- Add the chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
5. Fluff and finish:
- Remove from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork, stir in extra butter (if desired), and garnish with fresh parsley or Parmesan cheese.
6. Serve:
- Serve warm as a side dish with grilled chicken, steak, fish, or vegetables.
Notes
- Add a squeeze of fresh lemon juice for a bright, zesty flavor.
- Use olive oil instead of butter for a dairy-free version.
- For extra richness, add a splash of cream or a tablespoon of cream cheese at the end.