Butter Rice

My Butter Rice Recipe At A Glance

Primary Cooking Method: Cook
Number of Ingredients: 8
Total Prep Time: 5 minutes
Total Cook Time: 20 minutes
Level of Effort To Make: Easy Peasy
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8 Ingredients to make Butter Rice

• 6 tablespoons unsalted butter: You can use salted butter, but reduce the added salt in the recipe. Margarine works too, though it won’t have the same rich flavor.
• ½ cup onion, diced: Yellow onions are best for sweetness, but white onions will also work. Avoid red onions.
• 1 ½ cups long-grain white rice: Use Basmati or Jasmine for a fluffy texture. Brown rice can be substituted but will require more cooking time and liquid. Avoid short-grain or sticky rice for this recipe.
• (Optional) 2 teaspoons Better Than Bouillon chicken stock: Swap with 2 bouillon cubes or replace the water with 3 cups of chicken broth.
• 3 cups water: Use chicken broth for extra flavor if you skip the bouillon.
• (Optional) 1 bay leaf: They add a mild earthy flavor. Make sure to remove before serving.
• 1 teaspoon salt: Adjust based on the saltiness of your butter or broth.
• ½ teaspoon pepper: Use freshly ground for the best flavor.

Make This Recipe Yours With Additions

• Herbs: Stir in 2 tablespoons of freshly chopped parsley, thyme, or dill.
• Garlic: Add 2-3 minced garlic cloves to the butter and onion mixture.
• Veggies: Toss in 1 cup of peas, diced carrots, or corn.
• Cheese: Stir in ½ cup of grated Parmesan or shredded cheddar for a creamy, cheesy version.
• Nuts: Top with ¼ cup of toasted almonds or pine nuts for a crunch.
• Lemon: Squeeze 1 tablespoon of fresh lemon juice over the rice before serving.
• Protein: Mix in 1 cup of cooked, shredded chicken, chopped shrimp, or crumbled bacon to turn it into a one-pot meal.

How to make Butter Rice

For detailed step-by-step instructions, be sure to check out the full recipe in the recipe card at the bottom of the page.

My Best Cooking Tips for Making Butter Rice

1. Don’t Rinse the Rice: The rice won’t toast if it’s wet and you really want to get that nutty flavor in it. 
2. Toast the Rice First: Before you add the water, let the rice mingle with that melted butter for a few minutes. Toasting it adds a subtle nuttiness and helps keep the grains separate and fluffy.
3. Dice the Onion Finely: You want the onion to blend into the dish, not take over. Finely diced onions cook quickly and evenly, adding flavor without being overpowering.
4. Leave It Alone: Resist the urge to peek while the rice is cooking. Trapping the steam is key to perfectly cooked rice.
5. Fluff, Don’t Stir: When the rice is done, let it rest for a few minutes, then gently fluff it with a fork. Stirring can break the grains and make it gummy.
6. Taste and Adjust: Give it a quick taste before serving. Need more salt? A little extra butter? A squeeze of lemon? This is your chance to make it perfect.

Menu Ideas – What to Eat with Butter Rice

• Slow Cooker Garlic Chicken
• Slow Cooker Apricot Chicken
• Grilled Salmon
• Beef Stir Fry
• Lemon Herb Shrimp
• Curry Chicken
• Honey Garlic Pork Chops
• Teriyaki Glazed Tofu
• Roasted Vegetables

How to store & reheat Butter Rice

Let It Cool: Before packing it up, let the rice cool to room temperature. This helps prevent condensation, which can make it soggy.

Use an Airtight Container: Store your butter rice in an airtight container to keep it fresh and avoid absorbing any fridge odors.

Refrigerate Promptly: Pop it in the fridge within 2 hours of cooking. It’ll stay good for up to 4 days.

Freeze for Longer Storage: For extended storage, freeze your butter rice in a freezer-safe container or zip-top bag. Flatten the bag for easy stacking and quick thawing. It’ll keep well for up to 2 months.

Reheating Butter Rice

1. Microwave Method:
   • Place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl.
   • Add a splash of water or broth to rehydrate it.
   • Cover the bowl with a microwave-safe lid or damp paper towel to trap the steam.
   • Heat in 30-second intervals, stirring gently in between, until warm.
2. Stovetop Method:
   • Heat a skillet or saucepan over medium heat.
   • Add the rice with a splash of water or broth and a small pat of butter.
   • Stir occasionally to ensure even heating, breaking up any clumps as it warms.
3. Oven Method (For Larger Quantities):
   • Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C).
   • Spread the rice in an oven-safe dish, sprinkle with water or broth, and cover with foil.
   • Bake for about 15 minutes or until heated through.

Pro Tip:

Reheat only what you’ll eat—reheating multiple times can dry out the rice or affect its flavor. If frozen, thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating for best results.

Quick Recipe Help and Common Questions