Garlic Butter Rice
Garlic Butter Rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish combining fluffy long-grain white rice with aromatic garlic and rich butter, cooked in savory chicken or vegetable broth. Perfect for any meal, this quick and easy recipe delivers a comforting, mouthwatering flavor that pairs beautifully with a variety of proteins and vegetables.
- Author: Mary
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 25 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Gluten Free
Main Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 3 tablespoons butter
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth
Optional Garnishes
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- Grated Parmesan cheese (optional)
- Red pepper flakes (optional)
- Lemon juice (optional)
- Prepare Ingredients: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch for fluffier rice. Finely mince the garlic and chop the fresh parsley if using.
- Sauté the Garlic: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and cook gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned to avoid bitterness.
- Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan with the garlic butter, stirring frequently for 2-3 minutes. Toasting the rice slightly develops a nutty flavor and helps the grains cook evenly.
- Add Broth and Cook: Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth and add salt. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the saucepan. Simmer for 15-18 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Fluff and Finish: Remove the pan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then stir in fresh parsley for a burst of color and freshness before serving.
Notes
- Use quality butter for the best richness and flavor balance.
- Cook garlic just until fragrant to avoid a burnt taste.
- Rinse rice well to prevent clumping and maintain light, fluffy texture.
- Use broth instead of water for deeper flavor without extra effort.
- Allow the rice to rest after cooking to let moisture redistribute and improve texture.
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 cup
- Calories: 210 kcal
- Sugar: 0.2 g
- Sodium: 600 mg
- Fat: 8 g
- Saturated Fat: 5 g
- Unsaturated Fat: 2.5 g
- Trans Fat: 0 g
- Carbohydrates: 30 g
- Fiber: 1 g
- Protein: 4 g
- Cholesterol: 20 mg
Keywords: garlic butter rice, easy rice recipe, side dish, garlic rice, butter rice, quick rice, savory rice