Skip the box from the grocery store. This homemade rice pilaf is full of flavor and made with simple, real ingredients. Bursting with flavors of garlic, onion, butter, and lemon. The the best part is how simple it is!
Perfect Side Dish – Addition to Dinner
Makes 3-4 Servings
Recipe Details
Servings: 4 Servings
Prep Time: 5 Minutes
Cook Time: 15-20 Minutes
Total Time: 20-25 Minutes
Ingredients List
- 5-6 Tablespoons Unsalted Butter, added at different times
- Small/Medium Yellow Onion, diced
- 3-4 Garlic Cloves, grated
- 1 Cup Orzo
- 1 Cup Rice
- 3 Cups Chicken Broth
- 1 Lemon, juiced
Method
- Melt the butter in a small saucepan over medium heat. Once melted, add the diced yellow onion and cook until soft and golden. Add the grated garlic and cook for about 30 seconds, until fragrant.
- Add the orzo and remaining butter, stirring to coat. Let the orzo toast until lightly golden.
- Stir in the rice.
- Pour in the chicken broth and add salt, if desired. Bring to a gentle simmer, then reduce the heat to low and cover. Let cook until the liquid is absorbed and the rice is tender.
- Squeeze fresh lemon juice over the pilaf just before serving.
Success Tips & Tricks
Toast the orzo and rice until lightly golden. This adds extra flavor and keeps the pilaf from tasting flat.
Stir often at the beginning so nothing sticks while the butter melts and the grains toast.
Storage
Let the rice pilaf cool completely before storing.
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2-3 days.
Reheating
Stovetop *preferred
Add the pilaf to a saucepan with a splash of broth or water. Cover and warm over low heat, stirring occasionally.
Microwave:
Place in a microwave-safe bowl, add a splash of liquid, cover loosely, and heat in 30-second intervals until warmed through.
Our Table Scratch Kitchen 
Happy you’re here!