There is something comforting about a pot of warm rice that’s been given a little attention. This buttery seasoned version has become one of those sides I make more often than I plan to. It started as a quick fix on a weeknight when plain rice felt too bare, and over time it turned into a regular guest at my dinner table. I love how it turns simple dishes into fuller meals without adding stress to the cooking process.
I usually keep a container of this rice in the fridge because it saves me on the nights when I’m tired or short on time. It reheats beautifully and pairs with so many dishes that it has become one of those steady recipes I rely on without thinking twice.
A Rice Side That Fits Into Any Meal
Plain rice has its charm with curries or saucy dishes, but some evenings call for rice that can stand proudly on its own. This version brings gentle flavour from basic pantry spices, a bit of stock powder, and a spoon of butter that softens the grains and brings everything together. It has the kind of taste that makes you reach for an extra spoonful before you even realise it.
Cooking this rice fills the kitchen with a warm smell that almost feels like a promise of a good meal. I’ve had friends ask me what I’m cooking even when it’s just this rice simmering on the stove.
What You’ll Need
You only need standard pantry items for this recipe. Regular white rice works best, though brown rice can be used with some timing adjustments. The spice mix is simple and flexible, which makes this easy to prepare on any day of the week.
None of the ingredients feel fussy or hard to find. Everything blends well into the rice, and the butter ties the whole pot together with a soft savoury finish.
Easy Spice Swaps
Over many rushed evenings, I’ve learned how forgiving this recipe can be. Here are a few swaps that work well:
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If garlic powder is missing, cook a bit of fresh chopped garlic in melted butter and add it in.
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If you’re out of onion powder, add a little extra garlic powder.
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Paprika gives colour but isn’t necessary.
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Thyme can be replaced with oregano or basil. A tiny pinch of sage brings a nice homemade flavour.
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Parsley is mostly for looks. Green onion, basil, chives, or nothing at all will still give you a great pot of rice.
This recipe has seen many variations in my kitchen, and each one turned out satisfying in its own way.
How To Cook This Seasoned Butter Rice
Making this rice is a simple one-pot process that fits easily into busy routines.
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Add the rice, water, and seasonings to your pot. Stir so the spices spread evenly.
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Heat until the edges begin to bubble and the surface looks active.
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Cover tightly and lower the heat so it simmers gently without boiling over.
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Let it cook undisturbed, then allow the pot to rest off the heat so the grains finish quietly.
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Add butter and fluff the rice gently so each grain gets coated.
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Serve warm, with herbs on top if you’d like a bit of colour.
You end up with soft, fragrant rice that feels satisfying even without anything poured over it.
Storing This Rice
I often cool this rice in a wide bowl so it reaches room temperature quickly and then store it in an airtight container. It keeps well in the fridge for several days and reheats without turning gummy.
It also freezes smoothly, which makes it perfect for meal prepping. I pack it into small portions so I can take out just what I need on a busy night. A quick warm-up in the microwave brings it right back to life.
What To Serve With This Rice
This rice works beautifully with roasted chicken, baked fish, grilled vegetables, or simple stir-fries. On evenings when I want something quick but comforting, I often pair it with a fried egg and some sautéed greens.
It fits into casual dinners and weekend meals just the same. You can dress it up or keep it simple depending on your mood.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice?
Yes. It will need extra liquid and more cooking time, but the flavour turns out lovely.
Can I skip the butter?
You can use oil, though butter gives a softer finish and richer taste.
Can I add vegetables to the rice?
Green peas, corn, or small diced carrots mix in nicely and make the rice more filling.
Is this rice freezer friendly?
Yes. Cool it first, then freeze in portions for easy reheating.
Can I make it without stock powder?
Yes. Use herbs, garlic, and salt to bring flavour to the rice.
Buttery Seasoned Rice
This buttery, savory rice turns a simple pot of grains into a standout side dish.
Ingredients
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 3¼ cups cold water
- 2 teaspoons chicken bouillon powder (or 2 cubes dissolved in hot water)
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon dried thyme
- 2 tablespoons dried parsley (optional)
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 50 g (about 3 tablespoons) unsalted butter
Instructions
- Combine the rice, water, bouillon, garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, thyme, parsley, salt, and pepper in a large saucepan. Give everything a quick stir to distribute the seasonings.
- Bring the pot to a gentle simmer over medium-high heat. As soon as the edges begin to bubble and the surface starts to ripple, cover the pot and reduce the heat to medium-low so it continues simmering quietly.
- Let the rice cook undisturbed for 13 minutes without lifting the lid. After the time is up, tilt the pot just enough to check that the liquid has been absorbed, then remove it from the heat.
- Keep the lid on and allow the rice to rest for 10 minutes so the grains finish steaming and turn fluffy.
- Add the butter to the warm rice and use a spatula to gently fluff and fold it through until every grain is coated and fragrant. Serve warm.
Nutrition Information
Yield
8Serving Size
1Amount Per Serving Calories 134Total Fat 5gSaturated Fat 3gUnsaturated Fat 2gCholesterol 15mgSodium 321mgCarbohydrates 19gFiber 1gSugar 0gProtein 2g
Easy Shrimp Recipes.com, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thought
This buttery seasoned rice has become one of those quiet favourites in my kitchen. It’s simple, steady, and dependable, which makes it the kind of recipe you turn to on busy days or slow weekends. Whether you serve it with a hearty main or enjoy it on its own, it brings a comforting touch to any meal. If you keep it in your rotation, I’m sure it will become one of those dishes you find yourself making far more often than expected.
