Description
A comforting and flavorful Chicken Flavored Rice made by sautéing long grain white rice and orzo pasta in butter, then simmering them in a savory chicken broth seasoned with dehydrated onion and black pepper. This easy stovetop recipe results in tender, aromatic rice perfect as a side dish for various meals.
Ingredients
Scale
Rice and Pasta
- 1 cup Long Grain White Rice
- ½ cup Orzo Pasta
Seasonings and Broth
- 2 tablespoons Butter
- ½ teaspoon Dehydrated Onion
- ¼ teaspoon Black Pepper
- 3¼ cups Chicken Broth
- 1 tablespoon Chicken Base
- Salt (if needed at the end)
- Chopped Fresh Parsley (for garnish, optional)
Instructions
- Melt Butter: Melt the butter in a medium saucepan (2½–3 quarts) over medium heat until foamy, preparing the base for toasting the rice and orzo.
- Sauté Rice and Orzo: Add the long grain white rice and orzo pasta to the melted butter. Sauté for 5 minutes while stirring frequently until the grains are lightly golden in spots, enhancing the nutty flavor.
- Add Seasonings and Broth: Stir in the dehydrated onion and black pepper into the rice mixture. Then pour in the chicken broth.
- Dissolve Chicken Base: Add the tablespoon of chicken base and stir well until it is completely dissolved, infusing the broth with rich chicken flavor.
- Bring to Boil: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil, which should take about 2 to 3 minutes.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to medium and simmer uncovered until the liquid has nearly evaporated and the rice and orzo begin appearing at the surface, about 10 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking to the pan.
- Cook Covered: Lower heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and cook for approximately 20 minutes or until the rice and orzo are tender. Stir only once halfway through this cooking period to allow even cooking without breaking the grains.
- Fluff and Release Steam: Once cooked, remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. This helps to separate the grains and release excess steam for a perfect texture.
- Season to Taste: Taste the rice mixture and add salt if necessary; a pinch of salt is usually sufficient to enhance the flavors.
- Garnish and Serve: Optionally garnish with freshly chopped parsley for a pop of color and freshness. Serve warm and enjoy as a delicious side dish.
Notes
- Toast the rice and orzo well to develop a rich, nutty flavor.
- Use low-sodium chicken broth if you prefer to control the salt level better.
- Be careful when stirring during the simmering stage to avoid breaking the rice grains.
- Letting the rice rest covered after cooking can help achieve a fluffier texture.
- Chopped parsley adds freshness but can be omitted if desired.
- Prep Time: 5 minutes
- Cook Time: 35 minutes
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Keywords: Chicken Flavored Rice, stovetop rice recipe, rice and orzo, easy side dish, chicken broth rice, savory rice
