Garlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Introduction
Garlic Parmesan Rice is a flavorful and comforting side dish that pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses. With fragrant garlic, rich Parmesan, and fresh parsley, this rice recipe is both simple and satisfying.

Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice (about 200 grams)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1/2 cup freshly grated Parmesan cheese
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 2 cups chicken broth (about 500 ml)
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Instructions
- Step 1: Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Step 2: In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat and sauté the minced garlic for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned.
- Step 3: Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and toast it by stirring for 2-3 minutes to lightly brown the grains.
- Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth, then season with salt and black pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Step 5: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan, and let it simmer for 15-18 minutes until the rice is tender and liquid is absorbed.
- Step 6: Remove the saucepan from heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to steam.
- Step 7: Fluff the rice gently with a fork, then stir in the Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley.
- Step 8: Transfer the rice to a serving dish and garnish with extra Parmesan and parsley if desired. Serve warm.
Tips & Variations
- Use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth for a vegetarian-friendly option.
- For extra richness, stir in a splash of cream or a small knob of butter along with the Parmesan.
- Add toasted pine nuts or chopped sun-dried tomatoes for added texture and flavor.
- Make sure not to lift the lid while the rice is simmering to ensure even cooking.
Storage
Store any leftover garlic Parmesan rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and warm it gently in the microwave or on the stovetop, stirring occasionally to restore moisture.
How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice?
Yes, but the cooking time and liquid ratio will differ. Brown rice typically requires more liquid and a longer cooking time, around 40-45 minutes. Adjust accordingly for best results.
Is it necessary to rinse the rice before cooking?
Rinsing the rice helps remove excess surface starch, which prevents the rice from becoming gummy and ensures a fluffier texture. It is recommended but optional depending on your preference.
PrintGarlic Parmesan Rice Recipe
Garlic Parmesan Rice is a flavorful and creamy side dish featuring toasted long-grain rice cooked in savory chicken broth, infused with garlic, and finished with freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley. This easy stovetop recipe pairs beautifully with a variety of main courses, providing a rich and satisfying accompaniment.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 23 minutes
- Total Time: 33 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
Dry Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain rice (about 200 grams)
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
- 1/4 teaspoon black pepper (or to taste)
Fresh Ingredients
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped
Dairy
- 1/2 cup Parmesan cheese, freshly grated
- 2 tablespoons butter
Liquids
- 2 cups chicken broth (about 500 ml)
Instructions
- Prepare Ingredients: Gather all ingredients ensuring the garlic is minced and the parsley is chopped for easy use during cooking.
- Rinse Rice: Rinse the long-grain rice thoroughly under cold water to remove excess starch, which helps to achieve fluffy, separated grains after cooking.
- Sauté Garlic: Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add minced garlic and sauté for 1-2 minutes until fragrant but not browned, enhancing its flavor.
- Toast Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and toast it in the garlic butter mixture for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently to coat the grains and bring out a nutty aroma.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth, then season with salt and black pepper. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil.
- Simmer Rice: Once boiling, reduce heat to low and cover the saucepan. Let the rice simmer gently for 15-18 minutes until fully cooked and the liquid is absorbed.
- Rest and Fluff: Remove the saucepan from heat and keep it covered for 5 minutes. This resting phase allows the rice to steam and settle perfectly.
- Finish with Cheese and Parsley: Fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains, then stir in the freshly grated Parmesan cheese and chopped parsley for a creamy, flavorful finish.
- Serve: Transfer the rice to a serving dish and optionally garnish with extra Parmesan cheese and parsley for added presentation and taste.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice removes extra starch and prevents clumping.
- Be careful not to burn the garlic while sautéing, as it can turn bitter.
- Use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor; pre-grated cheese may not melt as well.
- Chicken broth adds savory depth, but vegetable broth can be substituted for a vegetarian option.
- For a richer flavor, consider adding a splash of heavy cream or a pinch of nutmeg along with the Parmesan.
Keywords: Garlic Parmesan Rice, Garlic Rice, Parmesan Rice, Easy Side Dish, Stovetop Rice, Creamy Rice

