How to Cook Easy Buttery Garlic Rice
Perfect Buttery Garlic Rice Recipe
Looking for the best garlic rice recipe that pairs perfectly with virtually any main course? This easy buttery garlic rice transforms plain white rice into an aromatic, flavorful side dish that will elevate your entire meal. With just a few simple ingredients and minimal prep time, you can create restaurant-quality garlic butter rice right in your own kitchen.
Why Homemade Garlic Rice Is Better Than Plain Rice
Plain rice can be boring, but as we’ve explored in our guide to elevating simple side dishes, a few key ingredients can transform basics into standouts. This aromatic garlic rice recipe uses butter, fresh garlic, and herbs to create a memorably delicious side that complements everything from grilled proteins to vegetable curries.
Ingredients
This recipe serves 4 people and takes about 25 minutes from start to finish.
1. Core Ingredients
- Rice: 1 cup (long-grain white rice, such as Basmati or Jasmine)
- Butter: 2 tablespoons (unsalted, for best flavor)
- Garlic: 4 cloves, minced
- Chicken or Vegetable Broth: 2 cups (for extra flavor)
- Olive Oil: 1 tablespoon (prevents sticking and enhances flavor)
- Salt: ½ teaspoon (adjust to taste)
- Black Pepper: ¼ teaspoon
2. Optional Add-Ins for Extra Flavor
- Parmesan Cheese: ¼ cup, grated (for a cheesy twist)
- Fresh Herbs: 2 tablespoons, chopped (parsley, thyme, or basil)
- Lemon Zest: ½ teaspoon (adds brightness)
- Red Pepper Flakes: ¼ teaspoon (for a slight kick)
For more information on selecting the perfect rice variety for different dishes, visit our comprehensive rice guide.
Preparation Steps for garlic butter rice
Step 1: Rinse and Prepare the Rice
First, rinse 2 cups of rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents your garlic butter rice from becoming sticky or gummy. Drain well and set aside.
2. Sauté the Garlic
In a medium saucepan or rice cooker with a stovetop function, melt 4 tablespoons of butter over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. Garlic burns quickly, so watch it carefully for that perfect aromatic garlic flavor.
3. Add Rice and Toast
Add the drained rice to the garlic butter and stir to coat each grain. Toast the rice for about 2 minutes, stirring frequently. This step adds depth to your homemade garlic rice and helps maintain distinct, separate grains after cooking.
4. Add Liquid and Seasonings
Pour in the chicken or vegetable broth, salt, and pepper. If using, add the lemon juice now. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low and cover with a tight-fitting lid.
5. Cook to Perfection
Allow the rice to simmer for 15-18 minutes without removing the lid. The exact timing may vary based on your stove and the type of rice used—check out our rice cooking troubleshooting guide for help with common issues.
6. Rest and Fluff
Remove the pan from heat and let the buttery garlic rice rest, still covered, for 5-10 minutes. This resting period allows the moisture to distribute evenly throughout the rice. Then, fluff with a fork and fold in most of the chopped parsley, reserving some for garnish.
7. Serve and Garnish
Transfer your flavorful garlic rice to a serving dish and sprinkle with the remaining fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness.
Variations to Try with Your Garlic Rice
The beauty of this easy garlic rice recipe is its versatility. Here are some delicious variations to try:
- Herb Garlic Rice: Add 1 tablespoon each of fresh thyme and rosemary when sautéing the garlic
- Cheesy Garlic Rice: Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan cheese after cooking
- Vegetable Garlic Rice: Add ½ cup of frozen peas and diced carrots during the last 5 minutes of cooking
- Spicy Garlic Rice: Include ¼ teaspoon of red pepper flakes when sautéing the garlic
For more creative side dish ideas, check out our collection of rice transformations.
Perfect Pairings for Buttery Garlic Rice
This aromatic garlic rice pairs beautifully with:
Tips for the Best Buttery Garlic Rice
✔ Use Long-Grain Rice – Basmati or Jasmine rice works best for a fluffy texture.
✔ Toast the Rice First – This brings out a deeper, nuttier flavor.
✔ Don’t Skip the Broth – Cooking with broth instead of water adds extra depth of flavor.
✔ Make It Creamier – Stir in Parmesan cheese or a splash of heavy cream at the end.
✔ Customize with Herbs & Spices – Add thyme, rosemary, or smoked paprika for variation.
Nutritional Benefits of Homemade Garlic Rice
Beyond its incredible flavor, this garlic butter rice recipe offers several nutritional benefits:
- Garlic contains allicin, which has been linked to improved immune function and heart health
- Using broth instead of water adds vitamins and minerals
- Fresh herbs like parsley provide vitamin K and antioxidants
Learn more about the health benefits of cooking with garlic in our nutrition section.
Nutrition Facts
- Amount Per ServingCalories220
- % Daily Value *
- Total Fat
8g
11%
- Saturated Fat 4g 20%
- Trans Fat 2g
- Sodium 350mg 16%
- Total Carbohydrate
36g
14%
- Dietary Fiber 1g 4%
- Total Sugars 1g
- Protein 4g 8%
- Vitamin A 6mcg 1%
- Calcium 4mg 1%
* The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
This dish is comforting yet simple, providing a great balance of carbs and healthy fats.
This buttery garlic rice is a simple, tasty, and adaptable side dish that goes wonderfully with chicken, steak, seafood, or roasted veggies. It’s sure to impress, whether you’re whipping up a weeknight meal or hosting guests. Give this recipe a try and savor the delightful mix of butter, garlic, and perfectly fluffy rice!
You can check Rice Cooking Enthusiasts
- America’s Test Kitchen: Perfect Rice Cooking Techniques
- Serious Eats: The Science of Cooking Rice
- Food & Wine: Global Rice Dishes to Try
FAQs
1. Can I Use Brown Rice Instead?
Yes! But increase the broth to 2 ½ cups and cook for 40-45 minutes instead of 15 minutes.
2. How Do I Store Leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of broth to keep it moist.
3. What Can I Serve with Buttery Garlic Rice?
It pairs well with grilled chicken, shrimp, roasted vegetables, or a creamy curry dish.
4. Can I Make This Dish Vegan?
Absolutely! Use vegan butter and vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
5. What Herbs or Spices Can I Add?
Try adding rosemary, thyme, smoked paprika, or turmeric for extra depth.
Also try: Chicken 65 Biryani
Similar recipe: Garlic rice