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The Best Fluffy Homemade Rice Pilaf (Easy Weeknight Side Dish)

A close-up of fluffy rice pilaf, featuring toasted vermicelli and fresh chopped parsley, served in a white bowl.
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Make perfect, fluffy rice pilaf without a box mix. This easy recipe uses toasted orzo and savory broth for a flavorful side dish ready for your weeknight table.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1/2 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (like Basmati or Jasmine), rinsed
  • 2 1/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions

  1. Heat the butter and olive oil in a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid over medium heat.
  2. Add the orzo pasta and toast, stirring constantly, until it turns light golden brown, about 3 to 4 minutes. Watch closely to prevent burning.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the saucepan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Add the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the rinsed rice to the pan. Stir and cook for 2 minutes, coating the grains in the fat. This step helps keep the rice fluffy.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  7. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the saucepan tightly with the lid, and simmer for exactly 18 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time.
  8. Remove the saucepan from the heat. Leave the lid on and let the rice rest undisturbed for 10 minutes. This resting period is key for perfect texture.
  9. Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice pilaf with a fork. Stir in the fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • Rinsing the rice removes excess starch, which prevents the final dish from becoming sticky.
  • For a richer flavor, use high-quality chicken broth instead of water.
  • This versatile grain side pairs well with chicken, pork, or seafood.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://cookingbycarla.com/easy-fluffy-homemade-rice-pilaf-recipe/