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Easy Homemade Fluffy Rice Pilaf with Orzo and Herbs

A mound of fluffy rice pilaf, featuring toasted vermicelli and fresh parsley garnish, served on a white plate.
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You will learn how to make a flavorful and fluffy rice pilaf using simple ingredients like orzo, onions, garlic, and chicken broth. This easy side dish is perfect for weeknight dinners and pairs well with chicken or beef.

Ingredients

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  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 tablespoon butter
  • 1/2 cup orzo pasta
  • 1 small yellow onion, finely chopped
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (Basmati works well)
  • 2 1/2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth)
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
  • 2 tablespoons fresh parsley, chopped

Instructions

  1. Heat the olive oil and butter in a medium saucepan or deep skillet over medium heat.
  2. Add the orzo to the pan and toast, stirring frequently, until it turns light golden brown, about 3 to 5 minutes. Watch it closely so it does not burn.
  3. Add the chopped onion to the pan and cook until softened, about 5 minutes.
  4. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.
  5. Add the rice to the pan and stir constantly for 2 minutes to lightly toast the grains. This step helps create a fluffy texture.
  6. Pour in the chicken broth, salt, and pepper. Bring the mixture to a boil.
  7. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pan tightly with a lid, and simmer for 18 minutes without lifting the lid.
  8. Remove the pan from the heat and let it stand, still covered, for an additional 10 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this resting time.
  9. Fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in the fresh parsley before serving.

Notes

  • For a richer flavor, toast the rice and orzo until they are a deeper golden brown.
  • You can substitute the chicken broth with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
  • This recipe makes a fantastic savory rice accompaniment to any main course.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://whiskdaily.com/easy-homemade-fluffy-rice-pilaf/