Simple Buttered Corn Rice Recipe (Easy Side Dish)
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Buttered Corn Rice is an easy and comforting side dish that makes plain rice taste extra special. The rice cooks with sweet corn, butter, garlic, onion, and chicken bouillon for a rich, savory flavor in every bite. It is quick to prepare, made with simple ingredients, and ready in about 30 minutes. Serve this buttery corn rice with chicken, beef, fish, or your favorite weeknight meal.
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Why You’ll Love Buttered Corn Rice
- Rich and buttery flavor – Every bite is filled with the comforting taste of butter, garlic, and onion. The sweet corn adds a light sweetness that balances the savory rice. It is a simple side dish that tastes extra special.
- Quick and easy to make – This Buttered Corn Rice is ready in about 30 minutes. The prep work is simple, and most of the cooking time is hands-off. It is a great choice for busy weeknight dinners.
- Made with simple ingredients – You only need rice, frozen corn, butter, garlic, onion, and a few pantry staples. There is no need for complicated ingredients or special cooking skills. Everything comes together in one skillet for easy preparation.
- Perfect with many main dishes – Serve this buttery corn rice with chicken, beef, seafood, or your favorite family meal. Its mild and savory flavor works well with many different cuisines. You can also enjoy it on its own as a light and comforting dish.
- Fluffy rice with sweet corn in every bite – Toasting the rice before adding the water helps create a delicious texture and flavor. The frozen corn cooks right along with the rice, so there is no need to thaw it first. The finished dish is warm, fluffy, and full of buttery goodness.
Ingredients For Buttered Corn Rice
- Olive oil – Helps prevent the butter from burning and gives the rice a smooth, savory base.
- Salted butter – Adds rich flavor and makes the rice taste warm, comforting, and delicious.
- Garlic – Brings a bold, savory flavor that pairs perfectly with the butter and corn.
- White onion – Adds a mild sweetness and extra depth to the rice.
- Medium-grain rice – Creates a tender texture while still holding its shape as it cooks.
- Frozen corn – Adds natural sweetness, bright color, and juicy bites throughout the dish.
- Boiling water – Cooks the rice evenly and helps it become soft and fluffy.
- Chicken bouillon – Gives the rice a deeper savory flavor without requiring extra ingredients.
- Chopped parsley – Adds fresh color and a light herbal finish.
- Sliced green onions – Add freshness, color, and a mild onion flavor to the finished rice.
For the exact measurements of the ingredients, see the printable recipe card at the bottom of this article.
How To Make Buttered Corn Rice
- Melt the butter with the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-low heat.
- Add the garlic and onion. Stir for about 30 seconds until fragrant.
- Pour in the rice and cook it for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until lightly golden.
- Stir in the frozen corn without thawing it first.
- Carefully add the boiling water and chicken bouillon. Mix everything together.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat.
- Cover the skillet and let the rice cook for 15 minutes.
- Turn off the heat and keep the skillet covered for 5 more minutes.
- Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork.
- Finish with chopped parsley or sliced green onions before serving.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve buttered corn rice alongside juicy grilled chicken for an easy and satisfying dinner.
- Pair it with homemade pepper steak for a rich and comforting meal.
- Enjoy it with fried grouper fillets or Tuscan garlic shrimp for a simple side that adds buttery flavor.
- Add it to a weeknight dinner plate with juicy garlic pork bites.
- Serve it at potlucks, holidays, or special occasions as a crowd-pleasing rice dish.
- Spoon the rice into a serving bowl and sprinkle chopped parsley or sliced green onions over the top for extra color.
- Enjoy the rice on its own as a light and comforting meal.
Tips For Success
- Toast the rice until it is lightly golden – Let the uncooked rice cook in the butter and olive oil for about 5 minutes before adding the liquid. Stir it often so it toasts evenly and does not burn. This step gives the rice a slightly nutty flavor. It also helps the grains keep a better texture while cooking.
- Use boiling water – Make sure the water is already boiling before pouring it into the skillet. Hot water helps the rice begin cooking right away. It also supports more even cooking and helps prevent the rice from becoming too soft. Pour it in carefully because the skillet and ingredients will already be hot.
- Do not thaw the corn – Add the frozen corn directly to the skillet. There is no need to prepare it separately or wait for it to defrost. The corn will cook along with the rice. This keeps the recipe simple and helps you get dinner on the table with less prep work.
- Keep the lid closed while the rice cooks – Once the skillet is covered, resist the urge to peek. The trapped steam is needed to cook the rice evenly and make it tender. Lifting the lid releases that steam and may affect the final texture. Let the rice cook undisturbed for the full 15 minutes.
- Let the rice rest before serving – After the cooking time ends, turn off the heat but leave the lid in place. Allow the rice to rest for another 5 minutes. This extra time helps finish the cooking process. It also makes the rice lighter and fluffier when you loosen it with a fork.
- Fluff the rice gently – Use a fork instead of stirring the finished rice with a spoon. Gently lift and separate the grains without pressing them together. This helps keep the rice from becoming compact or mushy. Add the parsley or green onions after fluffing for fresh color and flavor.
- Adjust the garnish to your taste – Chopped parsley gives the finished dish a light, fresh flavor. Sliced green onions add freshness with a mild onion taste. You can use one garnish or both. Sprinkle them over the rice just before serving so they stay bright and colorful.
- Try the suggested add-ins after cooking – For a different version, stir in cheese, jalapeños, crispy bacon, cooked peas, carrots, diced bell peppers, or shredded chicken. Add these only after the rice has finished cooking. This allows the rice to cook properly while giving you plenty of ways to change the finished dish.
Variations And Substitutions
- Use fresh corn – Fresh corn cut from the cob can be used instead of frozen corn. It adds a crisp texture and natural sweetness to the rice. Stir it into the skillet at the same point you would add the frozen corn.
- Use canned corn – Drained canned corn also works well in this recipe. Make sure to drain it thoroughly before adding it to the skillet. This helps prevent extra liquid from affecting the texture of the rice.
- Try a different rice – Medium-grain rice gives the dish a tender and slightly chewy texture. Long-grain rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice can be used for a lighter and fluffier result. Short-grain rice can also be used if you prefer a softer and stickier texture.
- Replace the water and bouillon – Instead of using boiling water and chicken bouillon, you can cook the rice with chicken broth. This gives the rice a deep and savory flavor while keeping the ingredient list simple.
- Make it vegetarian – Use vegetable bouillon or vegetable broth in place of the chicken bouillon. This simple substitution keeps the buttery, garlicky flavor while making the rice suitable for a vegetarian meal.
- Make it gluten-free – Most of the ingredients in this dish are naturally gluten-free. Choose chicken bouillon, vegetable bouillon, or broth that is clearly labeled gluten-free. Always check the package before using it.
- Add cheese – Stir a handful of cheese into the rice after it has finished cooking. The warmth of the rice will help the cheese melt and create a richer, creamier side dish.
- Add jalapeños – Mix in chopped jalapeños after cooking for a spicy variation. They add heat that balances the sweetness of the corn and the richness of the butter.
- Add crispy bacon – Crumbled cooked bacon gives the rice a smoky and savory flavor. Stir it in after fluffing the rice so the bacon keeps more of its texture.
- Add vegetables – Cooked peas, carrots, or diced bell peppers can be mixed into the finished rice. These additions bring extra color, texture, and flavor to the dish.
- Add shredded chicken – Stir cooked shredded chicken into the rice after it is done. This turns the side dish into a heartier and more filling meal.
- Change the garnish – Finish the rice with chopped parsley, sliced green onions, or both. Parsley adds fresh herbal flavor, while green onions add a mild onion taste and bright color.
Storage And Reheating
- Store leftover Buttered Corn Rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Let the rice cool before sealing the container and placing it in the fridge.
- To reheat on the stovetop, add the rice to a skillet or saucepan with a small splash of water or broth. Warm it over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until heated through. The added liquid helps restore moisture and keeps the rice from drying out.
- To reheat in the microwave, place the rice in a microwave-safe dish and add a small splash of water or broth. Cover loosely and heat in short intervals, stirring between each one, until the rice is hot.
- Fluff the reheated rice with a fork before serving. Add a little extra butter, chopped parsley, or sliced green onions to refresh the flavor if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use fresh or canned corn instead of frozen corn?
Yes. Fresh corn cut from the cob works well in this Buttered Corn Rice recipe. You can also use canned corn as long as it is drained well before adding it to the skillet. Frozen corn is the easiest option because you can add it straight from the freezer without thawing. No matter which type you use, the corn adds sweetness, color, and texture to the rice.
What type of rice works best for Buttered Corn Rice?
Medium-grain rice is recommended for this recipe. It becomes tender while still keeping a slightly chewy texture. Long-grain rice, jasmine rice, or basmati rice can also be used if you prefer rice that is lighter and fluffier. Short-grain rice will create a softer and stickier result.
Do I need to rinse the rice first?
The original recipe does not include a rinsing step. The dry rice is added directly to the skillet and toasted in the butter and olive oil. Toasting the rice helps add flavor and improves the finished texture. Stir it often so it becomes lightly golden without burning.
Why should I toast the rice before adding the water?
Toasting the rice gives it a mild, nutty flavor. It also helps the grains hold their shape while they cook. Add the uncooked rice to the skillet after sautéing the garlic and onion. Cook it for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until the grains look lightly golden.
Do I need to thaw the frozen corn?
No. The frozen corn can go straight into the skillet. There is no need to thaw or cook it separately. Add it after the rice has finished toasting, then stir it in before pouring in the boiling water. The corn will heat and become tender while the rice cooks.
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Why does the water need to be boiling?
Using boiling water helps the rice begin cooking right away. It also supports even cooking and helps prevent the rice from becoming overly soft. Carefully pour the boiling water into the hot skillet because the mixture may bubble. Stir in the chicken bouillon before bringing everything to a boil.
Can I use chicken broth instead of water and bouillon?
Yes. Chicken broth can replace the boiling water and chicken bouillon. This is an easy way to add savory flavor without using bouillon. Make sure the broth is hot before adding it to the skillet. This helps the rice continue cooking evenly.
Can I make Buttered Corn Rice vegetarian?
Yes. Replace the chicken bouillon with vegetable bouillon. You can also use hot vegetable broth instead of the water and chicken bouillon. The rice will still have plenty of flavor from the butter, garlic, onion, and sweet corn. Check the bouillon or broth label to make sure it fits your dietary needs.
Is this Buttered Corn Rice gluten-free?
Rice, corn, butter, garlic, onion, and olive oil are naturally gluten-free. The chicken bouillon is the ingredient that needs to be checked carefully. Some brands may contain gluten or be processed with gluten-containing ingredients. Choose a bouillon or broth that is clearly labeled gluten-free.
Why should I keep the lid closed while the rice cooks?
The covered skillet traps steam, which is needed to cook the rice. Removing the lid too soon allows the steam to escape. This can cause the rice to cook unevenly or take longer to become tender. Keep the skillet covered for the full 15 minutes of cooking time.
Why does the rice need to rest after cooking?
The 5-minute resting period helps finish the cooking process. Turn off the heat, but keep the lid on the skillet. The remaining steam continues to soften the rice and helps the grains become fluffy. After resting, remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork.
How do I keep the rice from becoming mushy?
Toast the rice in the butter and olive oil until it is lightly golden before adding the liquid. Use the correct amount of water and avoid lifting the lid while the rice cooks. Let it rest covered for 5 minutes after turning off the heat. Fluff the finished rice with a fork instead of stirring it heavily.
Can I add other vegetables?
Yes. Cooked peas, carrots, or diced bell peppers can be added after the rice is finished. These vegetables add extra color, flavor, and texture. Stir them in gently after fluffing the rice. Make sure any added vegetables are already cooked and hot.
Can I turn this side dish into a complete meal?
Yes. Stir cooked shredded chicken into the rice after it has finished cooking. You can also add crispy bacon or cheese for a heartier dish. Mix-ins should be added at the end so they do not affect how the rice cooks. Serve the finished rice warm.
What can I serve with Buttered Corn Rice?
This rice pairs well with chicken, beef, fish, seafood, and many other main dishes. Its mild buttery flavor makes it easy to serve with different meals. It also works well for potlucks, holidays, and weeknight dinners. You can even enjoy it on its own as a light and comforting meal.
How should I store leftover Buttered Corn Rice?
Let the rice cool before placing it in an airtight container. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 2 days. Keep the container tightly sealed so the rice does not dry out. Reheat only the amount you plan to serve.
What is the best way to reheat the rice?
Add a small splash of water or broth before reheating. Warm the rice over medium-low heat on the stovetop, stirring occasionally, until hot. You can also microwave it in short intervals, stirring between each one. The added liquid helps restore moisture and keeps the rice from becoming dry.
Other Easy Corn Recipes
Other Easy Rice Recipes
Buttered Corn Rice
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Ingredients
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 3 tbsp salted butter
- 4 garlic cloves minced
- 1/4 cup white onion finely diced
- 1 1/2 cups medium-grain rice
- 10 oz frozen corn 1 bag
- 3 cups water boiling
- 1 tbsp chicken bouillon
- 2 tbsp parsley chopped, optional
- 2 tbsp green onions sliced, optional
Instructions
- Add the olive oil and butter to a large 12-inch skillet.
- Heat the skillet over medium-low heat until the butter is completely melted.
- Add the minced garlic and diced onion. Cook for about 30 seconds, stirring frequently.
- Add the uncooked rice and cook for about 5 minutes, stirring often, until it becomes lightly golden.
- Add the frozen corn directly from the freezer and stir it into the toasted rice.
- Increase the heat to medium. Carefully pour in the boiling water, add the chicken bouillon, and stir well.
- Bring the rice mixture to a boil, then immediately reduce the heat to low.
- Cover the skillet with a lid and cook the rice for 15 minutes without opening the lid.
- Turn off the heat and leave the skillet covered for another 5 minutes.
- Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Sprinkle with chopped parsley or sliced green onions and serve warm.
Notes
- Do not lift the lid while the rice cooks. The trapped steam helps the rice cook evenly.
- For a gluten-free version, use chicken bouillon that is clearly labeled gluten-free.
