Herb Rice is as simple as it gets—toss uncooked rice with a few ingredients, bake it in one dish, and let the oven work its magic for evenly fluffy, tender results!
straightforward Herb Rice Recipe
Calling this recipe straightforward might be an understatement—it’s a true “dump it and bake” dish, no slow cooker or rice cooker needed.
The result? Tender, flavorful herb rice that pairs evenly with so many meals.
I’m obsessed with baking rice like this—it’s so straightforward and makes enough to use for meals all week. I’ve used this method for baking white rice, brown rice, and a reliable curry rice, and this yellow rice is another big hit at my house!
Ingredients
- Basmati rice: Best for fluffy and tender results; other types aren’t as consistent.
- Chicken broth: Use a flavorful broth for the best flavor; veggie broth works too.
- Garlic and onion powder: Add savory flavor without being too strong.
- Thyme, parsley, and oregano: Give earthy, herby flavors.
- Salt & pepper: Adjust based on your preference and how salty the broth is.
- Butter: Makes the rice rich and helps it bake evenly.
- Fresh parsley & lemon: skippable, but they add freshness and brightness.
How To Make Herb Rice
- Heat oven: Heat to 400°F and spray a ceramic 9×13 pan.
- Mix ingredients: Add rice, broth, seasonings, and butter; stir and spread evenly.
- Bake covered: Cover with foil and bake for 40 minutes.
- Bake uncovered: Remove foil and bake 15 more minutes.
- Rest: Cover again and let sit for 10 minutes.
- Fluff and serve: Fluff with a fork, add parsley and lemon if you like, and serve.
Ways To Change Things Up!
- Mediterranean Herb Rice: Use more oregano, add fresh dill, and finish with lemon juice and zest.
- Garlic Herb Rice: Add extra garlic powder or garlic paste with the herbs.
- Italian Herb Rice: Mix in Italian seasoning and top with fresh basil.
- Add Veggies: Add frozen peas or corn on top while the rice rests; they’ll heat through evenly.
How To Serve Herb Rice
- Chicken: Pair this rice with a reliable all-purpose grilled chicken or baked chicken thighs.
- Baked Chicken Tacos: Serve alongside tacos and a simple cilantro-lime sauce.
- With Shrimp: reliable with this dish that has overlapping herbs and seasonings.
- Chicken Stroganoff: Swap the pasta for this herb rice for a satisfying twist.
- Greek Chicken: Serve with this rice and a generous spoonful of Tzatziki.
Storage
Herb Rice Storage
- Leftovers: Cool completely and store in an airtight container for 4–6 days. Reheat in the microwave, stovetop, or oven.
- Freeze: Cool, move to freezer-safe containers, and freeze for up to 6 months. Reheat in the microwave with a damp paper towel, stirring as needed. Add water if it seems dry.
More straightforward Side Dish Recipes
- Brown Sugar Roasted Carrots with cinnamon
- Cilantro Lime Rice made on the stovetop
- Roasted Sweet Potatoes with the best seasoning blend
- Green Beans with Bacon and lemon almonds
- Coconut Rice with fresh lime
