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If you’re looking for a simple side dish that works with just about everything, this easy seasoned rice is it. It’s fluffy, buttery, and lightly spiced using pantry staples you probably already have on hand. No chopping, no sautéing, and no fancy techniques — just a reliable, flavorful rice you can make on a busy weeknight.
We serve this seasoned rice alongside chicken, beef, fish, and even saucy dinners where you want something comforting to soak up every bite. It’s especially good paired with bold main dishes and simple roasted vegetables.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
- One pot, minimal effort — everything cooks together with no extra steps
- Pantry-friendly ingredients you likely already have
- Mild but flavorful, making it family-friendly and easy to customize
- Versatile side dish that pairs with countless dinners
This is one of those recipes you make once and then keep coming back to because it just works.
Ingredients You’ll Need
- Long-grain white rice
- Butter
- Chicken broth or water
- Onion powder
- Garlic powder
- Paprika
- Dried thyme
- Salt and black pepper
- Bouillon powder
- Crushed red pepper flakes (optional)
- Dried parsley
Simple ingredients, but when they cook together, the rice turns lightly golden, fluffy, and full of flavor.
Equipment Needed
- Medium saucepan with lid – A snug-fitting lid helps the rice steam properly and finish tender.
- Measuring cups and spoons – Accurate measurements keep the seasoning balanced (especially helpful for spices and bouillon). I swear by these adjustable measuring spoons.
- Fork or rice paddle – For fluffing the rice without smashing the grains.
No extra tools needed — this stays nice and simple.
How to Make Seasoned Rice
This recipe is all about letting the rice absorb flavor as it cooks. Everything goes into the pot together so the butter melts into the grains while the spices bloom gently in the hot liquid.
As the mixture comes to a boil, the broth carries the seasoning evenly through the rice. Once covered and simmering, the rice slowly absorbs the liquid, becoming tender without turning mushy. Letting it rest off the heat is key — that final steam finishes the texture and keeps the grains fluffy instead of sticky.
A quick fluff with a fork at the end redistributes the seasoning and brings the whole dish together.
This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases.
PrintSeasoned Rice
This seasoned rice is an easy one-pot side dish made with long-grain white rice, butter, pantry spices, and broth for extra flavor. It’s simple to prepare, customizable, and pairs well with chicken, beef, fish, or vegetables.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: about 6 cups
- Category: Side Dish
- Cuisine: American
Ingredients
- 2 cups long-grain white rice, uncooked
- 1 TBSP onion powder
- 1 TBSP garlic powder
- 1 tsp paprika
- ½ tsp dried thyme
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 2 tsp chicken bullion powder
- ¼–½ tsp crushed red pepper flakes (optional – to taste)
- 1 TBSP dried parsley
- 4 TBSP butter
- 3½ cups chicken broth or water
Instructions
- Add the uncooked rice, onion powder, garlic powder, paprika, thyme, salt, black pepper, bouillon powder, crushed red pepper flakes, dried parsley, butter, and broth or water to a medium pot. Stir to combine.
- Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 18–20 minutes, or until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Remove from heat and let the rice rest, covered, for 5–10 minutes.
- Fluff with a fork before serving. Add an extra TBSP of butter if desired and garnish with additional parsley.
Notes
-
Using chicken broth adds more depth of flavor than water, but both work well.
-
For a vegan option, substitute vegetable broth or water and use oil or plant-based butter.
-
Adjust the crushed red pepper flakes to control heat.
-
Swap in Creole seasoning, curry powder, or another spice blend to change the flavor profile.
Tips for Success
- Use chicken broth instead of water for deeper flavor
- Keep the lid on while simmering — releasing steam too early can affect texture
- Let the rice rest before fluffing so excess moisture redistributes evenly
Storage & Reheating
Store:
Let rice cool completely, then store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
Reheat:
Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a small splash of broth or water to refresh the texture.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this rice vegan?
Yes. Use vegetable broth or water and swap the butter for oil or plant-based butter.
Can I make it spicier?
Absolutely. Increase the crushed red pepper flakes or add a pinch of cayenne.
What type of rice works best?
Long-grain white rice gives the fluffiest results. Short-grain or instant rice will change the texture and cooking time.
What to Serve With Seasoned Rice
This rice pairs especially well with bold, savory mains. Try it with our Juicy Garlic Herb Chicken, where the rice soaks up every bit of that flavorful sauce.
You can also serve it alongside other favorites from our Easy Dinner Recipes, or round out the meal with additional sides like roasted vegetables or salads from our Side Dish Recipes collection.
And if you want something warm and comforting on the table, adding a loaf from our Bread Recipes category makes this feel like a complete, cozy family meal.
Final Thoughts
This seasoned rice is proof that simple doesn’t have to mean boring. It’s dependable, flavorful, and flexible enough to fit into just about any dinner plan — exactly the kind of recipe every home cook should have in their back pocket.
If you make it please consider leaving a review. We love to see your posts! Tag us on Facebook, Instagram, or TikTok! @ourgratefulkitchen
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