Print

Herby Garlic Rice Recipe Easy Flavorful Weeknight Side Dish

herby garlic rice - featured image

A quick and flavorful herby garlic rice side dish that is perfect for busy weeknights. Toasted garlic in butter combined with fresh herbs transforms plain rice into a vibrant and comforting accompaniment.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (190 g)
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter (28 g)
  • 3 large garlic cloves, minced
  • 2 cups chicken or vegetable broth (480 ml)
  • 1/4 cup fresh parsley, chopped (15 g)
  • 1 tablespoon fresh thyme leaves (2 g)
  • Salt, to taste
  • Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water in a fine mesh strainer until the water runs clear. Drain well. (Approx. 2 minutes)
  2. Mince the garlic and chop the parsley and thyme. Set aside. (Approx. 5 minutes)
  3. In a medium saucepan over medium heat, melt the butter. Add the minced garlic and cook gently for 1-2 minutes until fragrant and just starting to turn golden. Avoid burning. (Approx. 3 minutes)
  4. Stir in the rinsed rice with the garlic butter. Cook for 2 minutes, stirring frequently to coat and lightly toast the rice. (Approx. 2 minutes)
  5. Pour in the broth and add a pinch of salt. Stir once and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover with a tight-fitting lid, and simmer gently for 15 minutes without lifting the lid. (Approx. 15 minutes)
  6. Remove from heat and keep covered. Let the rice rest and steam for 5-7 minutes. (Approx. 7 minutes)
  7. Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the fresh parsley, thyme, freshly ground black pepper, and adjust salt if needed. (Approx. 2 minutes)
  8. Serve immediately while warm.

Notes

Rinse rice to remove excess starch and prevent clumping. Toast garlic gently to avoid bitterness. Use fresh herbs at the end to keep brightness. Do not lift lid during simmering to ensure even cooking. Rest rice after cooking for fluffiness. For dairy-free, substitute butter with olive oil. For vegan, use vegetable broth and olive oil or vegan butter.

Nutrition

Keywords: herby garlic rice, garlic rice recipe, easy side dish, weeknight dinner, flavorful rice, quick rice recipe, herbed rice, garlic butter rice