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Homemade Homemade Rice a Roni Recipe recipe photo

Homemade Rice a Roni Recipe

This Homemade Rice a Roni is a delightful, flavor-packed dish that’s easy to customize and perfect for any meal!
Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 40 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American

Ingredients
  

  • 1 cup brown or white long-grain rice
  • 1/2 cup orzo or broken up vermicelli/spaghetti (for gluten-free, opt for GF orzo or spaghetti)
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 2 tablespoons butter
  • 1 small yellow onion (finely chopped)
  • 3-4 tablespoons chopped walnuts or pecans
  • 3 cups chicken broth or beef broth (for a vegetarian option, use vegetable broth)
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried rosemary
  • 1/2 teaspoon dried thyme
  • 1 tablespoon chopped fresh parsley
  • Salt and pepper (to taste)

Equipment

  • Large skillet
  • Wooden spoon
  • Measuring cups and spoons
  • Knife and cutting board

Method
 

  1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil and butter over medium heat. Once melted, add the finely chopped onion. Sauté for about 3-4 minutes until the onion becomes translucent and fragrant.
  2. Add the long-grain rice and orzo (or broken spaghetti) to the skillet. Stir frequently for about 5-7 minutes, allowing the rice and orzo to toast slightly.
  3. Next, toss in the chopped walnuts or pecans. Stir them into the rice and orzo mixture, allowing them to toast for an additional 2-3 minutes.
  4. Carefully pour the chicken or vegetable broth into the skillet. Add the salt, dried rosemary, and dried thyme. Stir well to combine all the ingredients.
  5. Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover the skillet, and let it simmer for about 18-20 minutes, or until the rice is tender.
  6. Once the rice is cooked, remove the skillet from heat. Let it sit, covered, for an additional 5 minutes. Then, uncover and fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the fresh parsley and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.

Notes

  • Feel free to add seasonal vegetables like peas or bell peppers for extra nutrition.
  • For a protein-packed version, consider adding cooked chicken or tofu.
  • This dish is freezer-friendly; store in an airtight container for up to 3 months.