This garlic Parmesan rice is a simple but flavorful side dish that pairs well with a variety of main courses, from grilled chicken to seafood.
Jump to Recipe Print recipe
This Parmesan rice is a simple yet delicious dish that brings a touch of comfort to any meal. It’s a great way to spice up your weeknight meals without adding any fuss.
This simple recipe comes together quickly and packs a big punch of flavor. It goes well with grilled chicken, roasted vegetables, or your favorite main course. And, with just a few ingredients, it’s a go-to for any weeknight.
You Will Love This Recipe
Overview of Ingredients
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 fluffy and separates well. 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 take longer to cook). Avoid short-grain varieties, which tend to stick and don’t get wet.
- Chicken Broth (or Water). The 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 make sure you add the rice well.
- Butter. Butter adds flavor and a touch of creaminess to the dish. You can use olive oil instead if you like, although the flavor will be a little lighter. For a dairy free option, plant butter works well too.
- Garlic. Freshly minced garlic is best here. If you are in trouble, you can substitute ½ teaspoon of garlic powder.
- Parmesan Cheese. Parmesan adds a sweet, nutty texture that makes rice really 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 flavor without changing the integrity of the dish.
- Salt and Black Pepper. A pinch of salt helps to enhance all the flavors in the dish, while black pepper adds a subtle kick. Adjust these to taste.
- Fresh parsley (if desired): A sprinkling 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 replace it with a small amount of fresh basil or chives.
How to do it
Be sure to check out the full recipe and ingredient list below
Step 1: For soft, non-sticky rice, rinse the rice in cold water several times, draining between rinses, until the water runs out.
Step 2: In the pan method, grind the rice washed with broth or water and salt for 15-18 minutes until tender. For the rice recipe, combine the cleaned rice, broth or water, and salt, and cook according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 3: While the rice is cooking, saute the minced garlic in butter over medium heat for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not mushy.
Step 4: Stir in 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
- Clean the rice. Washing removes excess starch, which helps prevent the rice from sticking.
- Use Fresh Garlic. Freshly minced garlic has a stronger, more aromatic flavor than minced or powdered garlic, which makes a noticeable difference in taste.
- Cook with broth. Using chicken or vegetable broth instead of water gives the rice more flavor. If you use water, remember to add the rice little by little.
- Fluff the Rice. When it’s done cooking, fluff the rice gently with a fork to keep it light and avoid lumps.
- Adjust Seasoning to Taste. Parmesan has its own saltiness, so taste the rice before adding more salt to avoid overcooking.
Storage and reheating
A refrigerator. Transfer the cooled rice to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water or broth.
A refrigerator. For longer storage, place rice in a freezer-safe container or resealable bag and freeze for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
More
Easy Side Dish Recipes
- 1 cup long grain white rice or the type you prefer [Note 1]
- 2 cups chicken broth or water [Note 2]
- 2 of spoons butter
- 4 cloves of garlic it is digested [Note 3]
- ¼ cup grated Parmesan cheese [Note 4]
- Salt and black pepper to taste
- Fresh parsley optional, garnish
-
To remove excess starch, rinse the rice in a bowl of cold water several times, draining between each rinse, until the water runs clear. This helps ensure that the rice cooks fluffy and prevents it from sticking too much. [Note 5]
1 cup long grain white rice
-
If using a saucepan: In a medium saucepan, bring the chicken broth or water to a boil. Add the washed rice and a pinch of salt, reduce the heat to low, cover, and cook for 15-18 minutes (or according to the instructions on your rice package) until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed. [Note 5]If using a rice cooker: (Optional) Add the drained rice, 2 cups of chicken broth (or water), and a pinch of salt to the rice stock. 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
-
While the rice is cooking, heat 2 tablespoons of butter in a small pan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and saute for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not mushy. [Note 7]
2 tablespoons of butter, 4 cloves of garlic
-
When the rice is cooked, fluff it gently with a fork. Add the garlic-butter mixture and the 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
-
Garnish with fresh parsley if desired. Serve alongside your favorite main dish.
Fresh parsley
- Long-grain rice tends to stay soft and flaky, but you can use jasmine, basmati, or brown rice if you prefer. 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 more salt for seasoning.
- If you don’t have fresh garlic, you can use garlic powder instead (½ tsp). However, fresh garlic is very tasty.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best flavor. Pre-grated cheese may not melt well.
- Avoid removing the lid while the rice is cooking. If you prefer hard rice, reduce the liquid by ¼ cup.
- Some rice cookers have a “white rice” setting, which works well in this recipe. If your rice cooker switches to “keep warm” mode before the rice is fully cooked, let it sit in a warm place 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, remove it from the heat immediately.
- Fluffing the rice with a fork prevents it from becoming mushy. Avoid stirring too much, as this can break the grains and make the rice sticky.
Calories: 257kcal | Carbohydrates: 39g | Protein: 6g | Oil: 8g | Saturated Fats: 5g | Polyunsaturated Fats: 0.4g | Monounsaturated Fats: 2g | Trans Fats: 0.2g | Cholesterol: 23mg | Sodium: 593mg | Potassium: 100mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 1g | Vitamin A: 232IU | Vitamin C: 1mg | Calcium: 80mg | Iron: 1mg
Offer: 4 food
Calories: 257kcal
