If you adore the comforting and zesty flavors of a good side dish that can elevate any meal, you will absolutely fall in love with the Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe. This dish is a perfect blend of aromatic spices and tender rice cooked to fluffy perfection, making it a standout accompaniment to everything from grilled steaks to hearty vegetable dishes. The incredible seasoning mix lends that signature Texas Roadhouse taste that’s both familiar and exciting, turning simple rice into a flavorful delight you’ll want to make again and again.
Ingredients You’ll Need
Gathering these simple yet essential ingredients is the first step toward creating the Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe. Each component plays a vital role — the rice provides fluffy texture, the broth enriches the flavor, and the seasonings bring that unmistakable, mouthwatering aroma and color.
- 1 cup long-grain white rice: The base of this dish, long-grain rice stays fluffy and separate when cooked, perfect for absorbing flavors.
- 2 cups chicken broth: Adds depth and richness compared to water, ensuring every bite is packed with savory goodness.
- 1 tablespoon olive oil: Helps toast the rice and brings a subtle fruity note while preventing sticking.
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder: Infuses a mellow, savory garlic flavor without overwhelming the dish.
- 1 teaspoon onion powder: Adds a gentle sweetness and complexity that balances the spices.
- 1 teaspoon paprika: Gives a smoky warmth and beautiful red hue, enhancing both taste and appearance.
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper: Adds a gentle heat and sharpness for extra flavor dimension.
- 1/2 teaspoon salt: Essential for seasoning and bringing out the flavors of the other ingredients.
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional): Kicks up the heat just a little for those who love a mild spicy twist.
How to Make Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe
Step 1: Rinse the Rice
Begin by rinsing the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and prevents the rice from becoming gummy, ensuring each grain stays light and fluffy.
Step 2: Heat the Olive Oil
Place a medium saucepan over medium heat and add the olive oil. Allow it to warm up so it’s ready to gently toast the rice, which adds a nutty flavor and slightly firmer texture.
Step 3: Toast the Rice
Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and sauté it for 2 to 3 minutes, stirring frequently until it becomes lightly golden. This step is key for building flavor and preparing the rice to absorb all the lovely spices.
Step 4: Add the Seasonings
Sprinkle in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and if you like a little heat, the cayenne pepper. Stir well to coat every grain with this fragrant seasoning blend, infusing the rice with that distinctive Texas Roadhouse allure.
Step 5: Pour in the Chicken Broth
Pour 2 cups of chicken broth into the pan and bring it to a gentle boil. The broth will carry all those seasonings through the rice as it cooks, intensifying the flavors beautifully.
Step 6: Simmer the Rice
Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan. Let the rice simmer gently for 18 to 20 minutes, or until the liquid is fully absorbed and the grains are tender but not mushy.
Step 7: Let It Rest and Fluff
Remove the pot from heat but keep it covered. Let the rice sit undisturbed for 5 minutes—this resting period allows steam to finish the cooking process evenly. Finally, fluff with a fork to separate the grains and serve.
How to Serve Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe
Garnishes
To truly impress, try garnishing the rice with fresh chopped parsley or cilantro. The pop of green adds vibrant color and a fresh herbaceous note that complements the warm spices wonderfully.
Side Dishes
This Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, seared steak, or even a hearty veggie stir-fry. Its rich yet balanced flavor profile can stand up to bold mains or act as a flavorful side to lighter fare.
Creative Ways to Present
For an inviting presentation, serve the rice in a colorful bowl alongside a drizzle of lime juice or sprinkle with toasted nuts like slivered almonds or pine nuts. You can also turn it into a stuffed pepper filling for a fun twist that brings a fresh meal to your table.
Make Ahead and Storage
Storing Leftovers
Store any leftover Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Proper storage preserves its flavor and texture so it tastes just as delicious the next day.
Freezing
You can freeze the cooked rice by placing it in a freezer-safe container or heavy-duty freezer bag. It will keep well for up to 2 months and provides a convenient meal prep option.
Reheating
To reheat, sprinkle a little water over the rice to add moisture, then microwave covered or warm it gently on the stovetop. Fluff again after reheating to restore its light, fluffy texture.
FAQs
Can I use water instead of chicken broth?
While water can work in a pinch, chicken broth is highly recommended for the Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe to achieve its signature rich and savory flavor.
What if I don’t have cayenne pepper?
If you’re missing cayenne pepper or prefer no heat, feel free to omit it entirely. The rice will still have plenty of flavor thanks to the other spices.
Can I use brown rice for this recipe?
Brown rice requires more liquid and a longer cooking time, so the recipe would need adjustments. For authentic texture and timing, long-grain white rice is the best choice.
Is olive oil necessary or can I substitute it?
Olive oil adds a subtle fruitiness and aids in toasting the rice, but you can substitute with other neutral oils like vegetable or canola oil if preferred.
Can I add vegetables to this rice?
Absolutely! Chopped bell peppers, onions, or peas can be sautéed with the rice and seasonings before adding the broth for a more colorful and nutrient-packed version.
Final Thoughts
This Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe truly brings a little bit of southern charm and bold flavor to your meal table. I can’t recommend it enough for anyone who loves food that’s both comforting and exciting. Give it a try — I promise it’s the kind of recipe you’ll keep coming back to, whether for weeknight dinners or special gatherings with friends and family.
Print
Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice Recipe
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
- Total Time: 35 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: American
Description
Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice is a flavorful and aromatic side dish inspired by the beloved steakhouse. This recipe features perfectly cooked long-grain white rice seasoned with a blend of garlic, onion, paprika, and a touch of cayenne pepper for a subtle kick. Simmered in savory chicken broth and sautéed briefly to enhance its nutty flavor, it makes a delightful complement to any meal.
Ingredients
Rice and Broth
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
Seasonings
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
- 1 teaspoon garlic powder
- 1 teaspoon onion powder
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
- 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
Instructions
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch, ensuring fluffier cooked rice.
- Heat Olive Oil: In a medium saucepan, heat the olive oil over medium heat to prepare for sautéing the rice.
- Toast the Rice: Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan and sauté for 2-3 minutes, stirring frequently until the rice becomes lightly toasted and fragrant.
- Add Seasonings: Stir in the garlic powder, onion powder, paprika, black pepper, salt, and cayenne pepper (if using) to evenly coat the rice with spices.
- Add Chicken Broth: Pour in the chicken broth and bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
- Simmer: Once boiling, 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 is fully absorbed.
- Rest and Fluff: Remove the saucepan from heat and let the rice sit, covered, for 5 minutes. Then fluff the rice gently with a fork before serving.
Notes
- Rinsing the rice is important to prevent clumping and achieve a fluffy texture.
- Adjust the cayenne pepper amount to control the spiciness level according to your preference.
- Chicken broth can be substituted with vegetable broth for a vegetarian option.
- If you do not have paprika, smoked paprika can add a smoky depth of flavor.
- Leftover rice can be refrigerated for up to 3 days and reheated gently with a splash of broth or water.
