Rich and Savory Golden Onion Butter Rice Recipe
Introduction
This Rich and Savory Golden Onion Butter Rice is a comforting side dish that elevates simple rice with deeply caramelized onions and buttery goodness. Perfect for pairing with your favorite proteins or enjoying on its own, this recipe brings warm, layered flavors to the table.

Ingredients
- 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Step 1: In a medium saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat. Once hot, add the chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown, about 8-10 minutes.
- Step 2: Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until fragrant.
- Step 3: Stir in the rice and cook for 1-2 minutes to toast it lightly.
- Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth and add salt and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Step 5: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
- Step 6: Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice with a fork.
- Step 7: Garnish with fresh chopped parsley before serving.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, use homemade chicken broth or a good-quality store-bought broth.
- Swap the long-grain rice for basmati or jasmine for a different aromatic profile.
- Add a pinch of smoked paprika or a few saffron threads during cooking for unique flavor notes.
- Use vegetable broth and omit butter to keep it fully vegetarian and lighter.
Storage
Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice and warm it gently in a skillet or microwave to restore moisture without drying out.
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 brown rice requires a longer cooking time and more liquid. Adjust simmering time accordingly, typically about 40-45 minutes.
What if I don’t have fresh parsley?
Dried parsley can be used, but add it at the end of cooking to preserve more flavor. You can also substitute with fresh cilantro or chives for a different but fresh herb note.
PrintRich and Savory Golden Onion Butter Rice Recipe
This Rich and Savory Golden Onion Butter Rice is a flavorful and aromatic side dish made by sautéing onions and garlic in butter and olive oil, then cooking long-grain rice in chicken broth until tender and infused with rich flavors. Garnished with fresh parsley, it makes a perfect accompaniment to a variety of main courses.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Total Time: 40 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
- Diet: Vegetarian
Ingredients
Rice and Broth
- 1 ½ cups long-grain rice
- 3 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for a vegetarian version)
- 1 teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Vegetables and Herbs
- 1 large onion, finely chopped
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon fresh parsley, chopped
Fats and Oils
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
Instructions
- Sauté Onions: In a medium saucepan, heat the butter and olive oil over medium heat until hot. Add the finely chopped onions and sauté until they turn golden brown, about 8-10 minutes, stirring occasionally to ensure even cooking without burning.
- Add Garlic: Add the minced garlic to the pan and sauté for an additional 1-2 minutes until the garlic becomes fragrant but not browned, enhancing the aromatic profile of the dish.
- Toast Rice: Stir in the long-grain rice, cooking for 1-2 minutes to lightly toast it. This step helps to enhance the nutty flavor and texture of the rice.
- Add Broth and Seasonings: Pour in the chicken broth and add salt and black pepper. Increase the heat to bring the mixture to a boil, ensuring the rice is fully immersed in the flavorful liquid.
- Simmer Rice: Reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with a lid, and let it simmer gently for 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been fully absorbed.
- Rest and Fluff: Remove the pan from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then, fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains and incorporate air for a light texture.
- Garnish and Serve: Sprinkle the freshly chopped parsley over the rice for a fresh, vibrant finish before serving your delicious golden onion butter rice.
Notes
- For a vegetarian option, substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth.
- Adjust salt according to dietary preferences or broth saltiness.
- Ensure onions are cooked to a deep golden brown for maximum flavor.
- Do not lift the lid during simmering to prevent steam from escaping, which could affect cooking time.
- Use a fork to fluff rice instead of a spoon to maintain grain separation.
Keywords: Onion Butter Rice, Savory Rice, Side Dish, Easy Rice Recipe, Long Grain Rice, Comfort Food

