Texas Roadhouse Rice Recipe

If you’re like me, there’s something incredibly comforting about a dish that hits all the right notes. I’ve always loved the savory side dishes at Texas Roadhouse, and their rice is one that stands out. The Texas Roadhouse Rice Recipe is a fan favorite, and I was eager to recreate it at home.

If you’re craving something that adds a little spice and lots of flavor to your meal, this rice dish is a perfect choice.

The first time I tasted this rice, I knew it was special. The rich aroma, the perfect blend of spices, and the savory finish made it the kind of dish I couldn’t stop thinking about.

You don’t have to go to Texas Roadhouse to enjoy it, though! You can easily recreate this dish at home and surprise your family or friends with a side that’s sure to impress.

What Makes Texas Roadhouse Rice So Popular

In my opinion, Texas Roadhouse rice has earned its popularity because of how well it balances flavors. It’s not just your average rice; it’s packed with seasonings like smoked paprika, garlic, and a hint of soy sauce.

The toasty flavor of the rice, combined with the chicken broth, really makes this dish stand out from the usual bland side options.

The rice is flavorful but not overpowering, making it the perfect complement to just about any main dish, from grilled meats to seafood. It’s rich but not greasy, making you want more with every bite.

Texas Roadhouse Rice Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain white rice
• 2 cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons butter
• 1 small onion, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
• 1/2 teaspoon black pepper
• 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
• 1 tablespoon soy sauce
• 1 tablespoon dried parsley (plus extra for garnish)

Kitchen Appliances

• A medium-sized skillet or sauté pan
• A spoon or spatula for stirring
• A measuring cup
• A lid

How to Make Texas Roadhouse Rice

Preparation of Ingredients

Start by gathering all the ingredients. Chop the onion, mince the garlic, and measure everything out so it’s ready to go.

Cooking the Rice

Heat your skillet over medium heat and melt the 2 tablespoons of butter in the pan. Once melted, add the rice and toast it for 4 to 6 minutes until it turns a golden brown. Stir occasionally to make sure it doesn’t burn.

Sautéing the Onion and Garlic

Once the rice is toasted, add the chopped onion to the pan and cook for about 2 to 3 minutes. Add the minced garlic and sauté for another minute, stirring constantly to avoid burning.

Mixing in the Seasonings

Sprinkle in the smoked paprika, garlic powder, black pepper, and cayenne pepper (if using). Stir to combine everything evenly. Then, add the soy sauce and mix again to coat the rice with all the flavors.

Cooking with Broth

Slowly pour in the chicken broth, stirring as you go. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover the pan with a lid and let it simmer for 22 to 25 minutes, checking occasionally to ensure the liquid is being absorbed.

Final Steps

When the liquid is mostly absorbed, turn off the heat and let the rice rest covered for 5 minutes. After the rest, fluff the rice with a fork to separate the grains and make it nice and light.

Serving

Garnish with a sprinkle of dried parsley for a pop of color and serve hot. Your Texas Roadhouse rice is ready to enjoy

Important Chef Tips

• Don’t rush the toasting process. Toasting the rice in butter gives it a unique, rich flavor, so take your time. The golden color means it’s done!
• Use low-sodium chicken broth if you’re watching your sodium intake. The soy sauce already brings plenty of salt to the dish.
• Add a little more butter if you want extra creaminess. Butter helps to create a silky texture in the rice, so feel free to adjust it to your preference.

What to Pair With This Rice Dish

• Fried Chicken: The crispy texture of fried chicken complements the soft and savory rice perfectly.
• Grilled Steak: A juicy steak is always a great choice alongside this rice. The rice will soak up the steak’s flavors and add an extra layer of richness.
• Cactus Water Drink: The refreshing cactus water drink balances the richness of the rice, making for a well-rounded meal.
• Grilled Shrimp: If you’re in the mood for seafood, grilled shrimp pairs wonderfully with the rice’s smokiness.
• Roasted Vegetables: For a lighter, vegetarian option, roasted vegetables add a fresh touch to your plate.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, you can use brown rice, but you will need to adjust the cooking time and the amount of liquid since brown rice takes longer to cook and absorbs more liquid. I recommend using 2 1/2 cups of chicken broth and simmering for about 40-45 minutes until the rice is tender.

Is this rice spicy?

It has a slight kick from the cayenne pepper, but it’s not overly spicy. If you prefer a milder flavor, you can skip the cayenne pepper or use a smaller amount.

Can I add vegetables to this rice?

Yes, you can add vegetables like bell peppers, peas, or corn for extra texture and color. Just sauté them with the onions and garlic before adding the rice.

What if I don’t have smoked paprika?

If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika works as well. Smoked paprika gives the rice a unique smoky flavor, but the dish will still be delicious without it.

How do I know when the rice is done?

When the rice has absorbed all the liquid and is tender to the bite, it’s done! You can fluff it with a fork to check for any remaining liquid. If there’s some left, cover it and let it rest for a few more minutes.

If you’ve been craving Texas Roadhouse rice, I hope this recipe brings that same delicious experience to your kitchen.

The blend of spices, the toasty rice, and the savory chicken broth make it a dish you’ll want to serve again and again. It’s simple, flavorful, and always a hit with family and friends.

So give it a try and let me know how it turns out for you! Don’t forget to share your cooking experience with us, and be sure to follow us on Pinterest for more delicious recipes.