Herbed Rice Pilaf
A flavorful herbed rice pilaf featuring tender rice, aromatic herbs, and savory broth, perfect as a side dish or main for family dinners and gatherings.
Ingredients
Instructions
- In a skillet, sauté rice, celery, and onion in butter until the rice is lightly browned and the vegetables are tender.
- Spoon the rice mixture into a greased 2-quart casserole dish.
- Combine chicken broth, Worcestershire sauce, soy sauce, dried oregano, and dried thyme; pour over the rice mixture.
Tips & Substitutions
For a richer flavor, consider using homemade chicken broth instead of store-bought. You can substitute the long grain rice with jasmine or basmati rice for a slightly different texture. If you want to add more protein, cooked quinoa or lentils can be used in place of meat. Fresh herbs can also be added for a brighter taste.
Serving Suggestions
This herbed rice pilaf pairs beautifully with grilled meats or roasted vegetables. Serve it alongside chicken recipes like Balsamic B~B~Q Chicken for a complete meal. You can also add a simple green salad for freshness. For a vegetarian option, consider pairing it with stuffed bell peppers or a vegetable stir-fry.
Storage & Reheating
Allow the herbed rice pilaf to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, add a splash of chicken broth or water in a saucepan over low heat, stirring occasionally until warmed through. You can also microwave it in a covered dish with a bit of liquid.
Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)
Each serving of Herbed Rice Pilaf contains roughly 362 calories, with 12g protein, 80g carbohydrates, and 8g fat. It is an excellent source of iron (174% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (134% of the Daily Value), and calcium (105% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and vitamin A. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2123mg per serving (92% of the Daily Value).
Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.
* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, you can prepare the rice pilaf ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator. Simply follow the recipe up to the point of baking, then cover and refrigerate. When ready to serve, just heat it in the oven until warmed through.
What types of meat can I use in this recipe?
You can use any cooked meat such as chicken, beef, or even vegetarian products like tofu or seitan. Just ensure that the meat is cooked before adding it to the rice mixture to ensure even heating.
Can I add more vegetables to the pilaf?
Absolutely! Feel free to add vegetables like peas, carrots, or bell peppers for added color and nutrition. Just sauté them along with the celery and onion until tender before combining with the rice.
Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).