Easy Microwave Rice Pilaf
Transform dinnertime with this quick and flavorful Easy Microwave Rice Pilaf—ready in under 30 minutes! Combining fluffy long-grain white rice with the savory richness of chicken or vegetable broth, this dish is elevated by sautéed onions, carrots, and a hint of garlic, all conveniently cooked in your microwave. A sprinkle of dried parsley adds an herby touch, while optional slivered almonds bring crunch and elegance to every bite. Perfect as a speedy side or a light, standalone meal, this recipe saves time without compromising taste. Ideal for weeknight dinners or meal prep, it’s a simple yet satisfying way to bring restaurant-quality pilaf to your table in a fraction of the time.
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Recipe Information
Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian option)
- 2 tablespoons butter
- 0.5 cup yellow onion, finely chopped
- 0.5 cup carrot, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon dried parsley
- 0.5 teaspoon salt
- 0.25 teaspoon black pepper
- 2 tablespoons optional slivered almonds for garnish
Instructions
Place the butter in a large, microwave-safe bowl and microwave on high for 30-40 seconds, or until melted.
Add the chopped onion, diced carrot, and minced garlic to the bowl. Stir to coat them in the melted butter.
Microwave the mixture on high for 3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until the vegetables are softened.
Add the rice, chicken broth, parsley, salt, and black pepper to the bowl. Stir well to combine.
Cover the bowl tightly with microwave-safe plastic wrap or a microwave-safe lid. Be sure to leave a small vent for steam to escape.
Microwave on high for 5 minutes, then reduce the power to 50% and microwave for an additional 10 minutes.
Carefully remove the bowl from the microwave (it will be hot) and let it sit, covered, for 3 minutes to allow the rice to finish steaming.
Fluff the rice with a fork and garnish with optional slivered almonds if using. Serve immediately and enjoy!
Nutrition Facts
Calories |
662 | ||
|---|---|---|---|
% Daily Value* |
|||
| Total Fat | 32.3 g | 41% | |
| Saturated Fat | 13.8 g | 69% | |
| Polyunsaturated Fat | 0.7 g | ||
| Cholesterol | 66 mg | 22% | |
| Sodium | 3123 mg | 136% | |
| Total Carbohydrate | 80.0 g | 29% | |
| Dietary Fiber | 6.7 g | 24% | |
| Total Sugars | 9.9 g | ||
| Protein | 13.7 g | 27% | |
| Vitamin D | 0.1 mcg | 1% | |
| Calcium | 133 mg | 10% | |
| Iron | 4.1 mg | 23% | |
| Potassium | 807 mg | 17% | |
*The % Daily Value tells you how much a nutrient in a serving of food contributes to a daily diet. 2,000 calories a day is used for general nutrition advice.
