Recreate the comfort of your favorite boxed rice pilaf — fluffy, flavorful, and free from the additives and excess sodium found in packaged mixes.
Back in college, I leaned on boxed mixes because they were fast and forgiving. I remember feeling a little fancy stirring up a pouch of instant pilaf. As I learned more about cooking and became more health-conscious, I realized how easy it is to make a better version at home with whole ingredients.
The aroma while this pilaf cooks instantly recalls those boxed mixes, and the flavor is remarkably similar — if not a bit better — without the unnecessary additives.
Why Make Rice Pilaf from Scratch?
Homemade pilaf is just as quick as plain boiled rice and only takes a few extra minutes to prepare. Aside from chopping garlic and measuring spices, everything happens while the liquid comes to a boil. You likely already have the ingredients on hand, and the result is fresher, less salty, and more satisfying than store-bought mixes.
🥘 Ingredients Needed
• butter
• chicken or vegetable broth
• water
• white or long-grain rice
• orzo
• dried minced onion
• ground turmeric
• fresh garlic
• kosher salt
• black pepper
Instructions
Start by melting 1 tablespoon of butter in a medium saucepan.
Once the butter is melted, add 1 cup chicken broth (or vegetable broth) and 1 cup water. Bring the liquid to a boil.
Stir in the rice, orzo, and spices until well combined.
Return to a boil, then reduce the heat to a gentle simmer.
How Long Do You Cook it For?
Cover and simmer for 16–18 minutes, checking and stirring occasionally to prevent sticking. If the liquid is absorbing too quickly, add 1/2 cup water and lower the heat.
After 16–18 minutes the rice should be tender and fluffy. Fluff with a fork, garnish with chopped parsley, and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve immediately as a side. It pairs beautifully with sautéed bell peppers and crispy chicken thighs, or any protein and vegetables you prefer.
📖 Options
This pilaf is versatile. Try these variations:
• Garlic and herb — add extra minced garlic and mixed dried herbs.
• Chicken-flavored — season with poultry seasoning.
• Extra garlic — increase minced garlic for a bolder flavor.
• Vegetable pilaf — fold in diced red bell pepper, broccoli, sautéed onions, or peas.
Have You Tried This Recipe?
Please rate it and leave a comment below. I would love to hear what you think!
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Better Than a Box Rice Pilaf
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp butter
- 1 cup chicken broth Bone broth or vegetable broth work well also
- 1 cup water
- 1 cup white or long grain rice
- ⅓ cup orzo Raw or cooked leftover is fine
Spices
- 2-3 cloves garlic, minced
- ⅛ tsp ground turmeric
- ⅛ tsp black pepper
- ½ tsp kosher salt
- ½ tsp dried minced onion
Instructions
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Add butter, broth, and water to a small saucepan.
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Bring to a boil, then stir in rice, orzo, and spices.
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Return to a boil, then reduce to a simmer.
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Simmer covered for 18 minutes, stirring occasionally. If liquid is evaporating too quickly, add a little more water and lower the heat.
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Fluff with a fork and serve.
Notes
Special Equipment Needed
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Medium saucepan with a lid
Nutrition
Nutrition information is approximate and is provided as a guide.