Better Than Texas Roadhouse Seasoned Rice (Copycat Recipe)

This authentic Texas Rice Seasoned recipe delivers fluffy, perfectly seasoned Texas rice packed with toasted garlic and vibrant fresh herbs.

The Ultimate Seasoned Texas Rice

If you are looking for a side dish that steals the show, this Seasoned Texas Rice is exactly what your dinner table needs. It takes simple pantry staples and transforms them into an incredibly aromatic, fluffy Texas rice dish that pairs perfectly with everything from grilled steaks to roasted chicken.

By updates to standard grains with rich, toasted garlic, savory seasonings, and a pop of fresh herbs, this seasoned recipe brings a massive punch of flavor with very little effort.

Prep time: 5 minutes | Cook time: 20 minutes | Servings: 4

Ingredients You'll Need

• 1 cup long-grain white rice

• 2 tablespoons butter or olive oil

• 3 cloves garlic, finely minced

• 2 cups low-sodium chicken or vegetable broth

• 1 teaspoon onion powder

• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika

• Salt and freshly cracked black pepper, to taste

• 1/4 cup fresh Italian parsley, finely chopped

• Optional: A pinch of red pepper flakes for a little kick

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Toast the Garlic and Rice

Melt the butter (or heat the olive oil) in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until it’s fragrant and lightly golden. Pour in the uncooked rice and stir constantly for 2–3 minutes. Toasting the grains coat them in the garlic butter and locks in that distinct flavor profile.

2. Simmer to Perfection

Pour in the broth, onion powder, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper. Bring the liquid to a rolling boil, then give it one quick stir. Turn the heat down to low, cover the pan with a tight-fitting lid, and let it simmer undisturbed for 15 minutes. No peeking! Leaving the lid on keeps the steam inside so the grains cook evenly.

3. Steam and Fluff

After 15 minutes, remove the pan from the heat but leave the lid on for another 5 minutes. This final rest lets any remaining moisture distribute evenly, giving you the ultimate fluffy texture. Remove the lid, toss in the fresh chopped parsley (and red pepper flakes if you like a bit of heat), and gently fluff with a fork.

Chef's Tips for Success

• Rinse the rice: For distinct, non-sticky grains, rinse your dry rice under cold water in a fine-mesh strainer until the water runs clear before cooking.

• Make it vegan: Easily swap the chicken broth for vegetable broth and use olive oil or a plant-based butter alternative.