This garlic Parmesan rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, from grilled chicken to seafood.
This garlic Parmesan rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that brings a touch of comfort to any meal. It’s the perfect way to elevate your weeknight dinners without adding any fuss.
This easy recipe comes together quickly and packs a big flavor punch. It goes well with grilled chicken, roasted veggies, or your favorite main course. Plus, with just a handful of ingredients, it’s a go-to for any night of the week.
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
Ingredient Overview
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below
- Rice. Long-grain white rice is perfect for this recipe because it cooks up fluffy and separates nicely. You can also use jasmine or basmati rice for a different flavor, or brown rice if you prefer a whole grain option (just note that brown rice may require a longer cooking time). Avoid short-grain varieties, which tend to be stickier and less fluffy.
- Chicken Broth (or Water). Chicken broth gives the rice more flavor. For a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth. If you want to keep things even simpler, water works too. Just be sure to season the rice well.
- Butter. Butter adds flavor and a touch of creaminess to the dish. You can use olive oil instead if you prefer, though the flavor will be slightly lighter. For a dairy-free option, plant-based butter works well too.
- Garlic. Freshly minced garlic is best here. If you’re in a pinch, you can substitute ½ teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Parmesan Cheese. Parmesan adds a delicious, savory element that makes the rice truly special. Grated Parmesan works well, but feel free to use shredded if that’s what you have on hand. Pecorino Romano can be substituted for a slightly sharper taste without altering the integrity of the dish.
- Salt and Black Pepper. A pinch of salt helps enhance all the flavors in the dish, while black pepper adds a subtle kick. Adjust these to taste.
- Fresh Parsley (optional): A sprinkle of fresh parsley adds a pop of color and a mild, herby taste. If you don’t have parsley, feel free to skip it or substitute it with a small amount of fresh basil or chives.
How to Make it
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below
Step 1: For fluffy, non-sticky rice, rinse the rice in cold water multiple times, draining between rinses, until the water runs clear.
Step 2: For the saucepan method, simmer rinsed rice with broth or water and salt for 15-18 minutes until tender. For the rice cooker method, combine rinsed rice, broth or water, and salt, then cook per the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 3: While the rice cooks, sauté minced garlic in butter over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
Step 4: Fluff the cooked rice, mix in the garlic-butter and Parmesan, and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Step 5: Garnish with parsley and serve with your favorite main dish.
Tips for Success
- Rinse the Rice. Rinsing removes excess starch, which helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
- Use Fresh Garlic. Freshly minced garlic has a much bolder, more aromatic flavor than pre-minced or powdered garlic, making a noticeable difference in flavor.
- Cook with Broth. Using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water infuses the rice with extra flavor. If you’re using water, remember to season the rice a bit more generously.
- Fluff the Rice. Once it’s done cooking, fluff the rice gently with a fork to keep it light and avoid clumping.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste. Parmesan has its own saltiness, so taste the rice before adding additional salt to avoid over-seasoning.
Storage and Reheating
Refrigerator. Transfer cooled rice to an airtight container and store in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
Freezer. For longer storage, place the rice in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
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Easy Side Dish Recipes
- 1 cup long-grain white rice or your preferred type [Note 1]
- 2 cups chicken broth or water [Note 2]
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 4 garlic cloves minced [Note 3]
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese [Note 4]
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley optional, for garnish
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To remove excess starch, rinse the rice in a bowl of cold water a few times, draining between each rinsing, until the water runs clear. This helps ensure the rice cooks up fluffy and prevents it from becoming too sticky. [Note 5]
1 cup long-grain white rice
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If using a saucepan: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth or water to a boil. Stir in the rinsed rice and a pinch of salt, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-18 minutes (or according to your rice package instructions) until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. [Note 5]If using a rice cooker: (Optional) Add the rinsed rice, 2 cups of chicken broth (or water), and a pinch of salt to the rice cooker. Stir to combine, close the lid, and start the rice cooker according to the manufacturer’s instructions. [Note 6]
2 cups chicken broth or water
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While the rice is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons butter in a small skillet over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned. [Note 7]
2 tablespoons butter, 4 garlic cloves
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Once the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork. Stir in the garlic-butter mixture and grated Parmesan cheese. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and black pepper as needed. [Note 8]
¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese, Salt and black pepper
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Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve alongside your favorite main dish.
Fresh parsley
- Long-grain rice tends to stay fluffy and separate, but you can use jasmine, basmati, or brown rice if preferred. Adjust cooking times based on the type of rice.
- Chicken broth will give the rice more flavor. If you use water, you may need to add extra salt for seasoning.
- If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder as a substitute (½ tsp). However, fresh garlic is more flavorful.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese may not melt as smoothly.
- Avoid removing the lid while the rice is cooking. If you prefer firmer rice, reduce the liquid by ¼ cup.
- Some rice cookers have a “white rice” setting, which works well for this recipe. If your rice cooker switches to the “keep warm” mode before the rice is fully cooked, let it rest on the warm setting for 5-10 minutes to absorb any remaining liquid.
- Keep a close eye on the garlic as it sautés; garlic can burn quickly. If it starts to brown, immediately remove it from the heat.
- Fluffing the rice with a fork prevents it from becoming mushy. Avoid stirring too vigorously, as this can break the grains and make the rice sticky.
Calories: 257kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 6g | Fat: 8g | Saturated Fat: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fat: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fat: 2g | Trans Fat: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 23mg | Sodium: 593mg | Potassium: 100mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 232IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 1mg
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 257kcal
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