The minute that little bowl of buttery, savory goodness hits the table, the main course momentarily fades away. Today, we’re cracking the code on that addictiveTexas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice, bringing the flavor secret home, complete with that subtle sweetness and unforgettable, earthy depth. We have all fought over that last spoonful, desperately trying to scrape up every grain of this magical side dish. Forget waiting in line for a table; now you can recreate this iconic flavor explosion right in your own kitchen with shockingly simple ingredients.
- This simple recipe requires minimal chopping and uses pantry staples for maximum flavor payoff in less than thirty minutes from start to finish.
- Achieve that signature restaurant-quality savory profile with a perfectly balanced blend of simple, aromatic spices and rich, savory chicken broth.
- The beautiful golden hue and distinct speckled spices make this rice look as appetizing as it tastes, elevating any quick weeknight dinner effortlessly.
- Serve this deeply flavorful side dish alongside grilled steak, slow-cooked shredded turkey, or even as the hearty base for a vibrant vegetarian dinner bowl.
The Legend of the Savory Side Dish
My quest for the ultimate seasoned rice began years ago after an unfortunate incident involving a very competitive family dinner. I was certain my cousin Mark had hidden the bowl of rice under the table just so he could finish it later. I couldn’t prove it, but the disappearance was suspicious, and I knew then that this dish was too dangerous to rely on restaurant availability.
If you have ever eaten at Texas Roadhouse, you know the atmosphere is loud, lively, and wonderfully distracting. But the moment that little white bowl of golden, fluffy rice appears, everything quiets down. It’s the perfect supporting actor that often steals the show from the main star—be it a massive ribeye or perfectly grilled chicken. The secret is that perfect balance: it’s rich but not heavy, savory but with a hint of onion and sweetness that keeps you coming back for more. It’s the kind of side dish that makes you momentarily forget your manners.
After months of rigorous “research” (read: excessive trips to the restaurant and careful interrogation of anyone who looked vaguely like a chef), I finally nailed the flavor profile. Most people assume the secret is complicated, involving obscure ingredients, but the true magic lies in the simple technique and specific combination of common pantry spices. We will ditch the guesswork, skip the long wait times, and recreate this legendary side dish at home, ensuring you never have to fight your cousin Mark for the last bite again. This recipe is designed to deliver maximum flavor with minimum fuss, perfect for busy weeknights or when you need a reliable, crowd-pleasing dish.
Ingredients for Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice
Here’s what you’ll need to make this delicious dish:
- Long Grain White RiceChoose a quality long-grain rice like basmati or jasmine; rinse it thoroughly until the water runs clear to prevent stickiness.
- Unsalted ButterButter is crucial for sautéing the aromatics and adding that signature, rich flavor that coats every single grain of rice beautifully.
- Yellow Onion and GarlicThese form the aromatic backbone of the dish, providing deep, necessary savory notes when sautéed until tender.
- Chicken BrothUse low-sodium chicken broth for cooking the rice; this liquid infuses the grains with flavor while providing the necessary moisture.
- Spices (Garlic Powder, Onion Powder, Dried Thyme, Turmeric)This blend creates the proprietary savory and slightly earthy seasoning, with turmeric providing the traditional golden color.
- Sugar and SaltA pinch of granulated white sugar is necessary to balance the savory spices and replicate that subtle, addictive sweetness found in the restaurant version.
- Bay LeafAdding one bay leaf to the simmering liquid deepens the savory aroma, giving the final dish an extra layer of warmth.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice
Follow these simple steps to prepare this delicious dish:
Step 1: Prep and Sauté the Aromatics
Melt the unsalted butter in a large saucepan or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add the finely diced yellow onion and sauté them for about five to seven minutes, stirring frequently until they become translucent and very soft. Next, add the minced garlic and cook for one additional minute until fragrant, making sure the garlic does not brown or burn, as this will introduce bitterness.
Step 2: Toast the Grains and Season
Add the thoroughly rinsed and drained white rice to the saucepan with the aromatics. Stir the rice constantly for two to three minutes until the edges of the grains become slightly translucent. This essential toasting step, called the pilaf method, helps the rice absorb flavor and ensures a fluffy, non-clumping result. Incorporate the granulated sugar, salt, turmeric, garlic powder, onion powder, and dried thyme, stirring well to coat all the grains evenly in the spices.
Step 3: Simmer the Broth
Carefully pour in the chicken broth, ensuring you scrape up any flavorful browned bits stuck to the bottom of the pot. Drop in the bay leaf. Bring the liquid up to a rolling boil over medium-high heat. Once boiling rapidly, stir it one final time to distribute the ingredients evenly throughout the mixture.
Step 4: Steam for Perfection
Immediately reduce the heat to the lowest possible setting, cover the pot tightly with a well-fitting lid, and let the rice simmer undisturbed for exactly 15 minutes. Do not peek during this crucial steaming process, as releasing the steam will prevent the rice from cooking properly. After 15 minutes, remove the pot from the heat but keep the lid sealed for an additional 10 minutes to allow the remaining steam to finish the cooking process.
Step 5: Fluff and Serve
Remove the lid carefully, discard the bay leaf, and use a fork to gently fluff the rice. Avoid vigorous stirring, which can break the grains. Taste and adjust the seasoning if necessary, adding a small amount of salt or a little more butter for extra richness. Transfer to plates and serve immediately while hot for the perfect finishing touch.
Tips and Tricks for Perfectly Seasoned Rice
Achieving that impeccable, fluffy texture and balanced flavor profile requires attention to a few critical details. This savory side dish is easy, but small adjustments can elevate it from simple weeknight fare to restaurant-quality perfection.
The Importance of the Sauté
Many home cooks simply toss the rice into boiling water, but the secret behind all great copycat recipes—especially those that mimic the rich depth of restaurant food—is sautéing the aromatics. When you take the time to soften the onions until they are nearly melting and gently toast the raw rice grains in butter, you are building the foundation of flavor. This process seals the exterior of the rice, helping it absorb the savory broth without becoming mushy later on, guaranteeing a final product that is delightfully tender and distinctly separate.
Choosing Your Broth Base
The quality and type of liquid you use are non-negotiable for this recipe. While you could technically use water, the deep, savory profile of theTexas Roadhouse Seasoned Ricecomes directly from using chicken broth. Always choose a low-sodium variety so you can control the overall saltiness yourself. If you are preparing this for a strictly vegetarian meal, ensure you substitute the chicken broth with a high-quality, flavorful vegetable broth, perhaps adding a small dash of soy sauce or tamari for an extra umami boost, enhancing the overall depth of the seasoned grains.
Fluffing and Resting Rules
The cooking process doesn’t end when the timer goes off. The final resting period is arguably the most important step for achieving that signature fluffy texture. After the 15-minute simmer, leaving the pot covered off the heat for 10 minutes allows the steam to redistribute and finish hydrating the grains. If you skip this step, the rice will feel wet on top and crunchy on the bottom. When you finally lift the lid, use a large fork to gently separate the grains, working from the edges inward, ensuring you incorporate all the beautiful seasoning throughout the dish.
What to Serve with Your New Favorite Side Dish
The versatility of this perfectly seasoned rice makes it the ultimate partner for nearly any main course. Because the flavor profile is savory and slightly sweet, it complements both robust beef and lighter poultry dishes wonderfully. It moves beyond being just a side dish and transforms into an essential component of the meal.
Pair this copycatTexas Roadhouse Seasoned Ricewith a beautiful cut of grilled sirloin or a juicy, pan-seared chicken breast. The rich butter and savory seasoning cut through the richness of the meat perfectly. If you are leaning toward a lighter meal, consider serving it alongside blackened tilapia or baked lemon pepper turkey cutlets. For a full, immersive family dinner experience, serve it next to homemade rolls and a side of steamed green beans. You can also turn leftovers into a hearty lunch by mixing them with roasted vegetables and a drizzle of homemade garlic sauce.
FAQs About This Homemade Seasoned Rice
Getting this popular seasoned rice right means answering a few common kitchen queries. We cover everything from texture adjustments to making sure you nail the flavor every time.
What if my rice turns out mushy or sticky?
Mushy rice usually results from either using too much liquid or lifting the lid during the steaming process. To prevent this, ensure you measure the liquid precisely and absolutely refrain from checking on the rice during the 15-minute simmer and the 10-minute rest period. Rinsing the rice thoroughly beforehand also removes excess starch, which contributes significantly to stickiness.
Can I substitute the long-grain rice with brown rice?
You can substitute brown rice, but you will need to adjust the liquid and cooking time significantly. Brown rice requires much more liquid (approximately 1.75 to 2 cups of broth per cup of rice) and needs to simmer for 40 to 45 minutes before resting. The resulting texture will be heartier and less fluffy than the traditional recipe.
How can I store and reheat leftover seasoned rice?
Store any leftover seasoned rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, sprinkle a tablespoon of chicken broth or water over the portion and cover it loosely. Microwave on medium power until heated through, or reheat gently in a covered saucepan over low heat to prevent the rice from drying out.
Can I prepare the seasoned rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare this rice up to 24 hours in advance. Once cooked and fluffed, allow it to cool completely before storing it in the refrigerator. When ready to serve, reheat it using the method described above, ensuring you add a little extra moisture to revive the texture and flavor.
Now that you possess the secret recipe for the ultimateTexas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice, your next dinner party—or quiet night in—will be dramatically improved. This side dish is simple perfection, delivering restaurant-quality flavor every single time without needing any complex techniques or expensive ingredients. Go ahead, grab your saucepan, and prepare to elevate your rice game forever; just make sure to make extra, because trust me, leftovers are never guaranteed.
Perfecting the Cooking Process

Always begin by browning the vermicelli until it reaches a deep amber color before toasting the raw rice grains. Next, introduce the chicken broth and all the dry seasonings simultaneously, bringing it to a quick boil. Finally, maintain a strictly low simmer, followed by a non-negotiable 10-minute steam time off the heat for the ultimate fluffy texture.
Add Your Touch
For an earthier flavor, swap chicken broth for beef broth. If you prefer a brighter profile, introduce a splash of apple cider vinegar after cooking. Spice lovers can boost the smoked paprika and add a pinch of cayenne pepper, while toasted pine nuts or dried cranberries offer fantastic textural contrast to this savory rice blend.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover savory rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. To reheat, sprinkle a tablespoon of water or broth over the rice before loosely covering it and microwaving. Alternatively, reheat on the stovetop with a splash of added moisture to prevent the famous steakhouse rice from drying out.
The Legend of the Ultimate Side Dish
You know that moment when you go out for a massive steak, mentally prepared for the protein masterpiece, and then the side dish arrives and completely upstages the main event? That is the quiet, delicious power of the Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice. This isn’t just plain rice; this is a deeply savory, slightly zesty, perfectly buttery bowl of comfort that somehow manages to hold its own against mountains of perfectly grilled meat.
For years, this dish has been the silent star of the menu. Customers constantly ask servers exactly what secret ingredients make this side taste so magnificent. If you’ve ever tried to recreate the magic at home and ended up with something bland and sticky, don’t worry—you are absolutely not alone. That secret flavor punch is tricky to nail down. The key is balance and understanding that the rice absorbs the seasoning during the cooking process, rather than just being coated afterward.
Many recipes rely on simple shortcuts, but replicating this copycat Roadhouse rice successfully demands a specific sequence and a commitment to quality ingredients. We are going beyond the basic boiled rice and moving into the realm of flavor infusion. Forget flavor packets; we are building layers of savory depth using common spices and the simple brilliance of toasted pasta.
Decrypting the Flavor Profile: What Makes This Rice So Addictive?
The real magic isn’t in a single spice but in the method of infusing the grains. We ditch water entirely and utilize rich, low-sodium chicken broth as our primary cooking liquid. This instantly raises the flavor stakes considerably. Beyond that, the seasoning blend requires precision: a touch of smokiness from paprika, earthy depth from cumin, and the necessary savory kick from dried herbs. The balance is critical; too much of one spice throws the entire composition off.
The other crucial component is the vermicelli. By breaking up thin pasta noodles and toasting them in butter before adding the rice, you introduce a deep, nutty base note. When you combine these toasted ingredients with the proprietary seasoning blend right before adding the broth, you create multiple layers of texture and flavor that truly define this iconic side dish. The result is a savory rice blend that is robust enough to pair with beef or poultry but delicious enough to eat entirely on its own.
Ingredients for Your Copycat Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice
Gathering the correct components is the first victory in making truly exceptional Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice at home. Precision matters when replicating restaurant favorites, especially regarding the type of rice and the balance of liquids.
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter or clarified butter
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (Jasmine or basmati works best)
- 1/4 cup broken vermicelli pasta (Ensure pieces are roughly 1/2 inch)
- 1 3/4 cups low-sodium chicken broth (beef broth can be substituted)
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/4 teaspoon smoked paprika
- 1/4 teaspoon ground cumin
- 1/4 teaspoon dried oregano
- 1/2 teaspoon salt (adjust based on your broth’s sodium level)
- Freshly ground black pepper to taste
- 2 tablespoons finely minced white onion (optional, but highly recommended for depth)
- 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley, for vibrant garnish
Step-by-Step Instructions: Achieving That Perfect Fluffy Texture
Follow these steps exactly to ensure your copycat Roadhouse rice is fluffy and separated, never mushy. Attention to timing and heat management is non-negotiable for this recipe.
- In a medium saucepan with a heavy bottom and a tight-fitting lid, melt the butter over medium heat. Add the broken vermicelli pasta and stir constantly for 2 to 3 minutes until the pasta is deeply golden brown. Do not let it burn; this step develops the essential nutty flavor.
- Add the uncooked long-grain rice and the minced onion (if using) to the saucepan. Stir and toast the rice for about 2 minutes, allowing the grains to become slightly opaque around the edges. This process, known as parching, greatly helps prevent stickiness.
- Pour in the measured chicken broth. Immediately add all the dry seasonings: onion powder, garlic powder, smoked paprika, cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper. Stir everything together just once, ensuring all the seasoning is thoroughly incorporated into the liquid.
- Bring the mixture to a rapid, rolling boil over high heat. Once boiling fiercely, immediately reduce the heat to the absolute lowest setting. Cover the pot tightly with the lid and simmer undisturbed for precisely 18 minutes. Under no circumstances should you lift the lid during this cooking phase.
- After the 18 minutes are complete, remove the pot from the heat source but keep the lid sealed completely. Let the rice rest and steam for an additional 10 minutes. This resting period finishes the cooking process and guarantees maximum fluffiness, using residual heat to separate the grains.
- Remove the lid, and gently fluff the Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice with a large fork, lifting the grains to release the steam. Taste and adjust salt or pepper if necessary. Garnish with fresh parsley, and serve immediately alongside your grilled favorites.
Chef’s Secrets: Expert Tips for Flavor Mastery
I once served this exact recipe at a backyard barbecue, and my brother-in-law, a notoriously picky eater, swore I must have secretly ordered takeout. He demanded the recipe immediately, proving this copycat is truly restaurant quality!
- Use cold broth when adding it to the hot pot; this helps ensure even cooking and prevents the rice grains from cracking prematurely during temperature change.
- Resist the urge to stir the rice after you cover the pot. Stirring releases starch, which results in a sticky, gummy texture instead of individual fluffy grains.
- Toast the rice thoroughly for two minutes before adding the liquid; this crucial step of parching locks in flavor and prevents the grains from sticking together.
Frequently Asked Questions About Savory Restaurant Rice
Getting the perfect fluffy side dish often leads to common questions, especially when dealing with restaurant copycat recipes. Here are the answers to help you master this incredibly delicious Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice.
What kind of rice works best for this recipe?
Long-grain white rice, such as basmati or jasmine, works best because these varieties contain less starch than short-grain rice. Using long grain rice consistently results in a cleaner, more separated, and ultimately fluffier finished product. We strongly advise against using instant rice or highly starchy varieties like arborio.
Can I make the Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice ahead of time?
Yes, you can certainly prepare this savory rice blend up to a day in advance. When you plan to serve it, store it sealed in the refrigerator. To reheat, refresh the rice by gently warming it on the stovetop or in the microwave with a small splash of extra broth or butter to restore moisture and flavor.
What is the purpose of the vermicelli noodles?
The toasted vermicelli adds a necessary textural complexity and a subtle, satisfying nutty undertone to the final dish. This specific combination of rice and pasta is a key signature element that distinguishes the Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice from a standard, plain side dish.
Is rinsing the rice necessary before cooking?
Rinsing white rice generally reduces surface starch, leading to fluffier results. However, because we are specifically toasting or parching the rice in butter and rely on a specific liquid-to-grain ratio for absorption, rinsing is not strictly necessary for this particular recipe. Toasting the grains handles the starch management effectively.
Can I substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth?
You can substitute chicken broth with vegetable broth if desired, but be aware that it will change the overall depth of flavor. If using vegetable broth, consider adding a touch more salt and maybe a tiny dash of soy sauce to compensate for the missing savory, meaty notes that chicken broth provides.
The Great Side Dish Obsession: Recreating Restaurant-Style Rice
We’ve all been there. You sit down at a popular steakhouse, perhaps preparing yourself for a monumental slab of perfectly cooked meat, only to realize that the most spectacular thing on your plate is the side dish. That glorious, fluffy, perfectly seasoned rice. It’s the unsung hero, the quiet winner, the ingredient you secretly load up on while pretending to focus on your entrée. If you have spent countless hours trying to decipher the subtle smoky flavor and vibrant color of that famous side dish, you are in luck. We cracked the code for the perfect batch of Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice right in your own kitchen.
Forget the days of flavorless, sticky rice. This recipe transforms standard long-grain rice into a creamy, savory, and irresistible accompaniment that pairs flawlessly with anything from grilled chicken to slow-cooked beef. The secret lies not just in the spices, but in the technique—a crucial step involving simmering the rice directly in rich broth, allowing every grain to absorb maximum flavor.
Ingredients You Need for that Signature Seasoned Rice
Achieving that iconic, restaurant-quality flavor requires quality ingredients and a specific blend of aromatic spices. Don’t worry, the list is surprisingly straightforward, focusing on pantry staples that deliver huge savory results. We ditch the plain water and upgrade to rich chicken broth, which is essential for ensuring the rice is moist and deeply flavorful throughout.
Essential Components for Flavor Depth
- Long-grain white rice (e.g., Jasmine or Basmati works well too, but long grain is traditional)
- Unsalted butter or cooking oil
- Finely diced yellow onion
- Minced garlic cloves
- Rich chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- Bouillon powder (chicken or beef for added depth)
- Dried parsley and dried dill
The Signature Seasoning Blend
The magic truly happens when you toast the right combination of spices. This blend provides the warm, slightly smoky notes characteristic of the original dish. Remember to measure accurately; balance is key to avoid overpowering the natural savory base.
- Paprika (use smoked paprika for extra depth)
- Chili powder
- Ground cumin
- A pinch of turmeric (for color and mild earthy warmth)
- Salt and freshly ground black pepper
Step-by-Step Instructions: Mastering the Fluffy Finish
The biggest challenge with rice is achieving that light, separate, non-mushy texture. Follow these steps precisely, especially the crucial resting period, and you will achieve perfectly cooked seasoned rice every single time. Patience is the secret weapon in this cooking endeavor.
Sautéing the Aromatics
First, melt your butter or heat your oil in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the diced onion and cook until softened and translucent, which should take about 3 to 4 minutes. Add the minced garlic and cook for just 30 seconds until fragrant. Be careful not to burn the garlic, as this will introduce bitterness to your Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice.
Toasting the Rice and Spices
Add the long-grain rice to the saucepan. Stir continuously for 2 minutes, allowing the rice to toast slightly. This step is vital because it helps prevent the rice grains from sticking together later, promoting that fluffy texture we want. Now, sprinkle in all the seasoning—the paprika, chili powder, cumin, turmeric, parsley, dill, salt, and pepper. Stir the rice and seasonings together for one minute to bloom the spices. Blooming releases the essential oils in the spices, significantly enhancing their flavor profile.
Simmering and Steaming
Pour in the chicken broth and stir in the bouillon powder. Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting possible, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and let it simmer undisturbed for 15 to 18 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time! This traps the steam needed to cook the rice properly. After the simmering time is complete, remove the pot from the heat but keep the lid on. Let the rice rest for a full 10 minutes. This resting period allows the steam to redistribute moisture evenly, ensuring the rice is perfectly tender and fluffy.
The Final Fluff
After the rest period, remove the lid and use a fork to gently fluff the Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice. Do not use a spoon, as this can crush the delicate grains. Taste and adjust seasonings if necessary, perhaps adding a little more salt or pepper. Serve immediately and watch your friends and family devour this incredible side dish.
Tips and Tricks for the Best Copycat Seasoned Rice
Making great rice is a blend of science and art. A few simple adjustments can take this dish from good to absolutely fantastic, ensuring that every grain of your restaurant-style rice is perfectly cooked and seasoned.
Do I Need to Rinse the Rice?
Some recipes suggest rinsing the rice to remove excess starch, which helps prevent stickiness. While this recipe often works without rinsing due to the toasting step, if you find your rice consistently sticky, try rinsing it first until the water runs clear. This small effort guarantees a lighter, fluffier texture for your seasoned rice recipe.
Using the Right Pot
Always use a saucepan with a heavy, tight-fitting lid. A heavy bottom helps distribute heat evenly, preventing hot spots that can scorch the bottom layer of rice. A tight lid is critical for trapping the steam needed for the perfect, gentle cooking environment. If your lid isn’t sealing well, place a clean kitchen towel between the pot and the lid before clamping it down.
What is the best way to prevent my Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice from turning out sticky or mushy?
What is the secret to getting perfectly fluffy and separated Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice?
The two most critical steps for avoiding mushy seasoned rice involve the toasting phase and the resting phase. Firstly, ensure you toast the dry rice grains in butter and oil for a full two minutes before adding any liquid; this seals the exterior of the grains. Secondly, use the exact liquid-to-rice ratio specified in the recipe, typically 1 part rice to 2 parts liquid. Finally, never lift the lid during the simmer time and, most importantly, allow the rice to rest off the heat for 10 minutes afterwards. This final resting period allows the trapped steam to reabsorb, leading to separate, firm grains.
Can I prepare this flavorful seasoned rice using brown rice instead of white long-grain rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but you must adjust the liquid and cooking time significantly. Brown rice requires much more liquid and a longer cooking duration, usually closer to 40-45 minutes of simmering, plus the mandatory resting time. Remember that the flavor profile will be slightly different, as brown rice has a nuttier taste and a chewier texture. If you choose this substitution, increase the chicken broth by about 1/2 cup and be sure to check for tenderness before the final fluffing stage.
How can I store leftover seasoned rice and reheat it without drying it out?
Store any leftover Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to four days. When reheating, the key is moisture. Place the rice in a microwave-safe bowl and sprinkle a tablespoon or two of chicken broth or water over the top. Cover the bowl loosely with a damp paper towel or microwave lid and heat in short bursts, stirring frequently. This method reintroduces moisture and prevents the rice grains from becoming hard or dry, maintaining that fresh, fluffy texture.
What is the key spice that gives this copycat Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice its unique, savory flavor?
While this recipe uses a blend of standard spices, the most crucial elements creating that signature savory, slightly earthy warmth are the smoked paprika and bouillon powder. Smoked paprika provides a depth of flavor that plain paprika cannot match, hinting at a slow-cooked preparation. The bouillon powder, whether chicken or beef, injects a rich, concentrated umami flavor directly into the cooking liquid. This combination ensures the rice doesn’t just taste spicy, but profoundly savory and restaurant-quality.
Conclusion for Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice
Say farewell to boring, uninspired side dishes and hello to your new favorite kitchen staple. Recreating this famed Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice is surprisingly simple once you master the technique of toasting the grains and respecting the resting period. This recipe delivers big flavor using humble ingredients, transforming simple rice into a robust, savory accompaniment that perfectly complements any main course. You now have the power to bring that satisfying steakhouse experience right to your dining table, proving that the side dish can, in fact, steal the show. Get ready for requests for this phenomenal seasoned rice every time you host dinner.
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Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice
Unlock the secret buttery depth of Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice! We sauté onions and toast the rice in savory spices, locking in rich flavor before simmering in broth.
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings 1x
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice (rinsed)
- 2 cups low-sodium chicken broth
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- 1/4 cup finely chopped yellow onion
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1/2 teaspoon onion powder
- 1/4 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- Step 1: Melt the butter in a medium-sized pot or saucepan over medium heat. Add the chopped onion and sauté for 3-5 minutes until the onion is translucent and softened.
- Step 2: Add the rinsed rice to the pot along with the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, and kosher salt. Stir the mixture and toast the rice for 1-2 minutes, ensuring it is well coated in the butter and seasonings.
- Step 3: Pour in the 2 cups of chicken broth. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil over medium-high heat, stirring once to combine the ingredients.
- Step 4: Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pot tightly with a lid, and simmer undisturbed for 18-20 minutes, or until all the liquid has been absorbed.
- Step 5: Remove the pot from the heat source and allow it to rest, keeping the lid securely in place, for 10 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this rest period.
- Step 6: Remove the lid, fluff the seasoned rice gently with a fork, and serve immediately.
Notes
- Ensure any leftover seasoned rice is cooled rapidly and stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, where it will remain delicious for up to three days.
- To keep the grains tender when reheating, add a tablespoon of chicken broth or water to the container before microwaving on medium power, keeping it covered to trap the steam.
- For maximum savory flavor, be sure to properly toast the rinsed rice in the butter and spices for the full 2 minutes, which helps the grains absorb the seasonings before the liquid is added.
- This richly seasoned rice is the perfect companion to any grilled main course, especially rich, marinated steaks or slow-smoked BBQ chicken.
- Prep Time: 15 minutes
- Cook Time: 20 minutes
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American





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