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Butter Rice Recipe

Butter rice is one of those side dishes that feels simple yet irresistible. I’ve made it countless times — as a companion to roasted chicken, grilled seafood, or even just a quick fried egg on top when I need comfort food. It’s buttery, aromatic, and has a soft, fluffy texture that soaks up whatever it’s paired with.
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Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings: 4
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Asian, Chinese
Calories: 220
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup long-grain white rice basmati or jasmine work best – These grains stay fluffy and separate when cooked
  • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter – The base flavor that gives the rice its rich comforting taste
  • 1¾ cups water – For cooking the rice evenly
  • ½ teaspoon salt – Enhances the flavor and balances the richness
  • ½ teaspoon garlic powder optional – Adds subtle depth without overpowering
  • 1 tablespoon chopped parsley optional – For freshness and a pop of color at the end

Equipment

  • Medium saucepan with lid
  • Wooden spoon or spatula 
  • Measuring cups
  • Small bowl 
  • Fork

Method
 

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This removes excess starch and helps keep the final texture fluffy instead of sticky.
  2. In a medium saucepan, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and stir gently for 1–2 minutes until it starts to smell nutty. This toasting step boosts the flavor.
  3. Pour in the water, salt, and garlic powder if using. Stir once, then bring to a boil.
  4. Once it’s boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid. Simmer gently for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  5. Turn off the heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then uncover and fluff with a fork. Stir in chopped parsley or an extra dab of butter if you like.

Notes

Rinsing the rice is key to avoiding gummy texture. If you’re using salted butter, reduce or skip the added salt. You can double the batch, but be sure to use a large enough pot. For extra buttery flavor, add a teaspoon of butter on top before serving.