Rice Pilaf Recipe

This classic rice pilaf recipe is a simple yet flavorful side dish made with long-grain rice, sautéed onions, butter, and savory chicken stock. Baking the rice in the oven creates perfectly fluffy grains with rich, buttery flavor every time. Whether you’re serving grilled chicken, salmon, beef, or roasted vegetables, this easy rice pilaf recipe is a versatile addition to any meal. Discover more flavorful recipes like Rice Pilaf Recipe right here.

Ingredients

• 2 tablespoons butter
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ½ medium onion, finely chopped
• 2 cups long-grain white rice
• 3 cups chicken stock
• 1½ teaspoons salt
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• 1 pinch saffron (optional)

Directions

• Preheat the oven to 350°F (175°C).
• Melt the butter and olive oil together in a large saucepan over medium heat.
• Add the chopped onion and cook until soft and lightly golden, about 7–8 minutes.
• Remove the pan from the heat.
• Place the rice into a 9×13-inch baking dish.
• Stir the cooked onions into the rice until evenly coated.
• In a separate saucepan, combine the chicken stock, salt, cayenne pepper, and saffron.
• Bring the stock mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer for 5 minutes.
• Carefully pour the hot stock over the rice and stir to combine.
• Spread the rice mixture evenly in the baking dish.
• Cover the dish tightly with aluminum foil.
• Bake for 35 minutes, or until the rice is tender and the liquid has been absorbed.
• Remove the baking dish from the oven and let it rest, covered, for 10 minutes.
• Remove the foil and gently fluff the rice with a fork before serving.

Preparation Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Rest Time: 10 minutes
• Total Time: 1 hour 10 minutes
• Servings: 6
• Yield: 6 servings