Are you looking for a flavorful upgrade to your everyday rice? Well, I have the perfect rice recipe for you, great for regular days and holidays. Today, we’re taking rice pilaf to a new level with my go-to Creole seasoning. And you don’t need to spend all day in the kitchen to achieve this deliciousness! This versatile side dish is ready to grace the table in less than 30 minutes. That’s what I’m talkin’ about!

Rice Pilaf vs. Risotto

When I moved to the U.S. years ago, I could hardly believe how little people consume rice (at least where I was). LOL. 😂 Believe me, it was hard for me to adjust to at first because I love all things rice.

Recipe Ingredients

How to Make Rice Pilaf

Toast the Rice – Melt butter in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. When the butter has melted, add rice and brown, stirring occasionally, for 2-3 minutes.  Aromatics – When rice has browned, add onion, garlic, celery, and thyme, and cook for another minute. At least until the onion becomes soft and translucent.  Season with salt, pepper, Creole seasoning, and a bay leaf. Cook until fragrant (about 30 seconds), stirring often.  Simmer – Add the chicken broth and stir. Bring to a boil, stirring once or twice. Reduce heat to low, cover saucepan, and simmer until rice is tender and the liquid absorbs (15-18 minutes). Add Veggies – Remove the pan from the heat, and stir in the green onions and zucchini (if using). Let the rice rest (covered) for 5 minutes, and then fluff the rice with a fork or serving spoon. Serve – Garnish with chopped parsley and serve.

Recipe Variations

Make Ahead Instructions

To make this ahead, just follow the cooking instructions and then let it cool down. Cover and store it in the fridge for a day or two. Reheat rice pilaf in a pan over low heat, adding a little more broth to moisten it back up. And yes, you can freeze it for 2-3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge for the easiest reheating.

Serving and Storage Instructions

While rice pilaf is best fresh and steaming hot, it’s also a great leftover. Keep it in the fridge in an airtight container for 3-4 days. Then reheat it on the stove or microwave for a quick and easy side.

What to Serve With Rice Pilaf

Rice pilaf pairs well with almost anything entree. Pellet grilled salmon, stuffed pork chops, and roast turkey are good choices. One of those with a tossed salad and garlic bread, and you’ve got a meal fit for a king. For those who observe the Holy Week as I do, you can pair this Rice Pilaf here with this tasty and super easy baked cod.

More Incredibly Simple Rice Recipes to Try

Watch How to Make It

[adthrive-in-post-video-player video-id=”nKq9CBps” upload-date=”2020-03-28T14:51:19.000Z” name=”Rice Pilaf ” description=”Rice Pilaf – an upgrade to your everyday rice made with white rice simmered in a chicken broth and seasoned with creole seasoning. Fluffy, fragrant, tasty rice with a kiss of warm flavors!” player-type=”default” override-embed=”default”] This blog post was originally published in April 2019 and has been updated with additional tips, new photos, and a video

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