Garlic Butter Rice

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Golden, buttery, and infused with fragrant garlic, this Garlic Butter Rice is the kind of side dish that disappears fast from the table. Each fluffy grain of rice soaks up that rich garlicky butter flavor, making it a perfect pairing for everything from grilled meats to saucy stir-fries. Best part? It’s simple enough for weeknight dinners, yet tasty enough to show up at a Sunday gathering.

No one turns down a bowl of rice that’s perfectly seasoned, and this version takes a humble pantry staple and turns it into a dish that’s warm, savory, and downright comforting. If you love recipes that make rice shine as more than just a sidekick, Garlic Butter Rice is your new go-to.

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What Kind of Rice Works Best for Garlic Butter Rice?

Long-grain white rice is ideal here because it cooks up fluffy and doesn’t clump together. Jasmine rice adds an extra hint of aroma, while basmati keeps things light. Avoid short-grain rice for this one, as it tends to get too sticky for the buttery texture we’re after.

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Ingredients for the Garlic Butter Rice

White Rice (Long-Grain)
The base of the dish. Its fluffiness makes it perfect for absorbing all that butter and garlic flavor.

Butter
Unsalted butter brings the rich, creamy flavor that defines this recipe. Feel free to use salted if you prefer a little extra savoriness.

Garlic
Fresh minced garlic is key—it infuses the butter and permeates the rice with a deep, savory aroma.

Chicken Broth
Replaces water for cooking rice to add a savory, umami depth to every bite.

Salt & Pepper
Just a pinch to season. Adjust to your taste preference.

Parsley (optional)
A little chopped parsley adds a fresh pop of color and light herbal note right before serving.

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How To Make the Garlic Butter Rice

Step 1: Saute the Garlic in Butter

Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once it’s bubbly, add minced garlic and stir for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.

Step 2: Toast the Rice

Stir in the uncooked rice. Toast for a couple of minutes, stirring constantly, so each grain gets a buttery coating and a slight nutty aroma.

Step 3: Add Broth and Simmer

Pour in the chicken broth and bring to a boil. Lower the heat, cover, and let it simmer gently for 15-18 minutes until the liquid is absorbed and rice is tender.

Step 4: Fluff and Finish

Turn off the heat and let the rice sit covered for 5 minutes. Then fluff with a fork, sprinkle in chopped parsley (if using), and serve warm.

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How to Serve and Store Garlic Butter Rice

Garlic Butter Rice is best served fresh and hot right out of the pot, but it reheats beautifully too. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or water to revive its texture. You can also freeze it for up to a month, just thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

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What to Serve With Garlic Butter Rice?

Grilled Chicken Thighs

The smoky char and juicy bite pair beautifully with the richness of the rice.

Cajun Shrimp

Turn it into a complete meal with this spicy seafood pick. Try it with our Cajun Shrimp with Garlic Butter Sauce.

Creamy Mushroom Gravy

Ladle it over the rice for an easy comfort meal—perfect for vegetarians.

Oven-Roasted Sausages

Let their juices run into the rice for next-level flavor.

Parmesan Baked Potatoes

For a double-carb hit that’s indulgent and delicious. Pair with Parmesan Baked Potatoes.

Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken

Let that velvety sauce mingle with the buttery grains. Check out our Slow Cooker Creamy Chicken Gravy.

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Want More Side Dish Ideas?

If Garlic Butter Rice won your heart, you might enjoy these savory side kicks:

• Dad’s Creamy Cheesy Au Gratin Potatoes for a rich, cheesy classic.
• Roasted Rosemary Sweet Potatoes if you’re in the mood for sweet and savory.
• Garlic Ritz Snacks for a buttery, crispy crunch.
• Easy Cheesy Scalloped Potatoes for something irresistibly creamy.
• California Spaghetti Salad to cool things down with a zesty twist.

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Save This Pin For Later

Save this easy side dish to your favorite Pinterest board so it’s right there when you need it!

Tried something extra? Maybe added Parmesan or swapped the broth for veggie stock? I’d love to hear how you made it your own—drop your twist in the comments.

Need more inspiration? Follow along on Pinterest at mydelicioushomerecipes for daily ideas straight from my kitchen.

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