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–+ servings
a single serving of rice pilaf in a bowl next to half of an onion.
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5 from 3 votes

Rice Pilaf For One

Easy single serving rice pilaf made with white rice, butter, onions, garlic, and broth. Light, fluffy, and full of flavor - the perfect side dish for any meal.
Prep Time5 minutes
Cook Time35 minutes
Resting Time5 minutes
Total Time45 minutes
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: French
Diet: Gluten Free
Keyword: rice, rice pilaf
Servings: 1 serving
Author: Joanie Zisk

Equipment

Ingredients

  • ¼ cup long grain white rice
  • 1 tablespoon salted butter
  • ½ cup finely chopped onions
  • 1 clove garlic -minced
  • ⅛ teaspoon kosher salt
  • ¾ cup low sodium chicken broth
US - Metric

Instructions

  • Place the rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cool running water until the water runs mostly clear. Drain well and set aside.
  • Melt butter in a 10-inch skillet over medium heat. Add the onions and garlic and cook until soft and translucent, about 2 minutes.
  • Add the rice and stir to coat it in the butter. Cook, stirring often, until lightly toasted, about 3 to 4 minutes.
  • Stir in the broth and salt, then bring to a boil.
  • Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 to 18 minutes, until the rice is tender and the liquid is absorbed.
  • Remove from the heat and keep covered for 5 minutes.
  • Fluff the rice with a fork and season with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

  • Rinse the Rice: Rinse under cold water until the water runs clear to remove excess starch. This helps the grains stay separate and fluffy.
  • Sauté for Flavor: Cook the onions and garlic until soft and fragrant before adding the rice. This builds a flavorful base.
  • Toast the Rice: Stir the rice in butter for a minute or two before adding broth. Toasting enhances flavor and prevents mushiness.
  • Simmer Gently: Keep the heat low after adding the broth so the rice cooks evenly and absorbs all the flavor.
  • Let it Rest: After cooking, cover and let the rice sit for 5 minutes before fluffing. This allows the steam to finish cooking the grains.
  • Fluff Before Serving: Use a fork to gently fluff and separate the rice before serving.
  • Use the Right Pan: A 10-inch skillet or saucepan with a tight-fitting lid works best for a single serving. It keeps the heat even and prevents the rice from drying out.

Nutrition

Serving: 1serving | Calories: 313kcal | Carbohydrates: 42g | Protein: 8g | Fat: 12g | Saturated Fat: 7g | Cholesterol: 30mg | Sodium: 449mg | Potassium: 322mg | Fiber: 1g | Sugar: 3g | Vitamin A: 350IU | Vitamin C: 6.8mg | Calcium: 31mg | Iron: 0.7mg

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