Texas Roadhouse Rice Recipe: If you’ve ever dined at Texas Roadhouse, you already know their seasoned rice is more than just a side dish—it’s the quiet star on the plate. Perfectly fluffy, lightly spiced, and packed with savory flavor, it complements everything from grilled steak to BBQ chicken. The good news? You don’t need to visit the restaurant every time the craving hits.
This simple and classic Texas Roadhouse rice recipe brings that signature flavor right into your kitchen. It’s easy to prepare, budget-friendly, and doesn’t require complicated techniques. Whether you’re planning a family dinner or just want to upgrade your weeknight meals, this step-by-step guide will help you recreate the taste you love with confidence.
Let’s get started.
Why You’ll Love This Texas Roadhouse Rice Recipe
This recipe stands out because it balances simplicity with bold flavor. Unlike plain white rice, Texas Roadhouse rice is seasoned just right. It’s savory, slightly smoky, and full of subtle spice without being overwhelming.
Here’s why this recipe works so well:
- It uses basic pantry ingredients.
- It takes less than 30 minutes to prepare.
- It pairs well with almost any protein.
- It’s easy enough for beginners.
The beauty of this dish is in its versatility. You can serve it with grilled steak, roasted chicken, pork chops, or even as a base for a rice bowl. It’s not overly complicated, yet it feels special—like something you’d order at your favorite restaurant.
Ingredients You’ll Need
To make authentic-style Texas Roadhouse rice at home, gather the following ingredients:
- 2 cups long-grain white rice
- 4 cups chicken broth (low sodium preferred)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
- 1 small onion, finely diced
- 1 teaspoon paprika
- ½ teaspoon garlic powder
- ½ teaspoon onion powder
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
- ½ teaspoon salt (adjust to taste)
- 1 teaspoon soy sauce (optional, for depth)
- ½ teaspoon red pepper flakes (optional, for mild heat)
- Fresh parsley for garnish (optional)
These ingredients work together to create that signature savory flavor. The chicken broth adds richness, while the paprika gives it a warm color and mild smokiness.
Kitchen Tools Required
Before cooking, make sure you have:
- Medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid
- Wooden spoon or spatula
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Knife and cutting board
Using a saucepan with a lid is important because the rice needs steady, even heat to cook properly. A tight seal ensures the steam stays inside, making the rice fluffy instead of sticky.
Step-by-Step Guide to Making Texas Roadhouse Rice
Step 1: Prepare Your Ingredients
Start by measuring out all your ingredients. Dice the onion finely so it blends smoothly into the rice. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs mostly clear. This removes excess starch and helps prevent clumping.
Taking a few minutes to prep everything beforehand makes the cooking process smoother and more enjoyable.
Step 2: Sauté the Aromatics
Heat the olive oil or butter in a medium saucepan over medium heat. Once hot, add the diced onion.
Cook for about 3–4 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the onion becomes soft and translucent. Avoid browning it too much. You want it fragrant and tender, not crispy.
This step builds the base flavor of the dish. The onion releases natural sweetness that enhances the overall taste of the rice.
Step 3: Add Rice and Toast Lightly
Add the rinsed rice to the saucepan. Stir it well to coat each grain with oil and mix it with the sautéed onion.
Toast the rice for about 2–3 minutes. Stir frequently to prevent burning. This light toasting enhances the flavor and gives the rice a slightly nutty undertone.
It’s a simple step, but it makes a noticeable difference in the final dish.
Step 4: Add Liquids and Seasoning
Pour in the chicken broth. Stir gently to combine. Then add:
- Paprika
- Garlic powder
- Onion powder
- Black pepper
- Salt
- Soy sauce (if using)
- Red pepper flakes (if using)
Stir everything well so the seasonings are evenly distributed.
The chicken broth should completely cover the rice. If needed, add a small splash of water. Bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
Step 5: Simmer to Perfection
Once the liquid starts boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the saucepan with a lid.
Let the rice simmer for 18–20 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this time. The trapped steam is essential for proper cooking.
After 20 minutes, turn off the heat but leave the lid on for another 5 minutes. This resting period allows the rice to finish steaming and absorb any remaining moisture.
Step 6: Fluff and Finish
Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork. This separates the grains and gives the rice its signature light texture.
Taste and adjust seasoning if needed. If desired, sprinkle fresh chopped parsley on top for a pop of color and freshness.
Your Texas Roadhouse-style rice is now ready to serve.
Tips for the Perfect Texas Roadhouse Rice
Want restaurant-quality results every time? Keep these tips in mind:
- Always rinse your rice before cooking.
- Use long-grain rice for the best texture.
- Keep the lid closed while simmering.
- Avoid stirring during cooking.
- Let the rice rest before fluffing.
If your rice turns out slightly sticky, it may have too much liquid. If it’s undercooked, add a tablespoon of hot water, cover, and steam for a few more minutes.
Small adjustments can make a big difference.
Serving Suggestions
Texas Roadhouse rice pairs beautifully with:
- Grilled steak
- BBQ chicken
- Smoked sausage
- Pork chops
- Baked salmon
You can also use it as a base for a rice bowl topped with sautéed vegetables and your favorite protein. It’s flavorful enough to stand on its own, yet mild enough to complement bold main dishes.
For a complete meal, serve it with a fresh green salad or roasted vegetables.
Storage and Reheating Tips
Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
To reheat:
- Add 1–2 tablespoons of water.
- Cover with a microwave-safe lid.
- Heat in 1-minute intervals, stirring gently.
The added moisture prevents the rice from drying out. You can also reheat it in a skillet over low heat with a splash of broth.
Freezing is possible, but fresh is always best for texture.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Even simple recipes can go wrong. Here are common mistakes:
- Using too much liquid
- Cooking on high heat
- Lifting the lid repeatedly
- Skipping the resting time
- Not seasoning properly
Patience is key. Rice needs controlled heat and steady steam to cook evenly. Follow the steps carefully, and you’ll achieve consistent results.
FAQs about Texas Roadhouse Rice Recipe
1. Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?
Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but it requires more liquid and a longer cooking time. Increase the broth slightly and allow extra time for the rice to become tender.
2. Is this rice spicy?
Not necessarily. The red pepper flakes are optional and can be adjusted to suit your taste. Leave them out entirely for a mild dish or add more for extra heat.
3. Can I make this recipe vegetarian?
Absolutely. Simply replace the chicken broth with vegetable broth. The rice will still be flavorful and satisfying.
4. Why is my rice mushy?
Mushy rice is usually caused by too much liquid or overcooking. Measure ingredients carefully and avoid lifting the lid while the rice is cooking to maintain proper steam.
5. Can I double the recipe?
Yes. Double all the ingredients and use a larger pot to ensure the rice cooks evenly without clumping or spilling.
Conclusion
This Texas Roadhouse rice recipe proves that simple ingredients can create bold, comforting flavor. With just a few pantry staples and a straightforward cooking method, you can recreate this restaurant favorite in your own kitchen.
It’s fluffy, savory, and perfectly seasoned—making it an ideal side dish for nearly any meal. Whether you’re cooking for guests or preparing a weeknight dinner, this recipe delivers reliable, satisfying results every time.
Now that you know the step-by-step process, you’re ready to bring that Texas Roadhouse flavor home.
