Rice Pilaf with Orzo

You’ll love the tender rice and golden orzo pasta in this Rice Pilaf with Orzo. This impressive and tasty side dish is so easy to make.

Rice Pilaf with Orzo is an awesome blend of textures and flavors that elevate any meal from ordinary to extraordinary. This dish brings you fluffy long-grain rice mixed with tender orzo pasta, each grain glistening with a hint of olive oil and seasoned to perfection.

Imagine the slight crunch of golden brown onions mixed with the soft, buttery feel of orzo, all brought together with a hint of fresh parsley for a pop of color and freshness. It’s a simple yet sophisticated dish that promises to be a hit at your dinner table.

Orzo pasta has always been a dish that my whole family has enjoyed. It has a nice nutty flavor and is really the best part of this dish. I’ve included below some of my favorite additions that you can pick from as well!

Whether you’re looking to impress guests or just spice up your weekly meal rotation, Rice Pilaf with Orzo is a superb choice. Its effortless preparation and gourmet appeal make it a favorite for any occasion.

Try it tonight and watch as this simple side dish transforms your meal with its elegant flair and delicious taste.

Common Questions About Rice Pilaf with Orzo

Can I use chicken broth instead of water for more flavor?

Absolutely! Substituting chicken broth for water in this rice pilaf adds a rich depth of flavor. I’ll never say no to that!

There are so many different ways to do this. Whether you use homemade chicken stock or a good quality store-bought broth, it will enhance the savory notes of the pilaf beautifully.

Is it possible to make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare a good Rice Pilaf ahead of time. Simply cook it as directed, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator. Reheat gently with a splash of water or additional broth to keep the pilaf moist and fluffy.

How can I add more protein to this dish?

To make this pilaf a more substantial meal, you can add cooked chicken, pork chops, or even roasted vegetables. For a vegetarian boost of protein, consider stirring in some cooked chickpeas or green peas right before serving.

Storage

This is really the perfect side dish to so many main course meals. Truth be told, I like this orzo rice recipe all on its own too!

Refrigerator: Keep any leftover rice pilaf in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days.

Freezer: Freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight and reheat carefully.

Tips

The last thing you want is to over or under-cook your orzo pilaf recipe. Follow the instructions and you’ll be good to go with this easy side dish.

• Perfect Texture: To achieve fluffy rice and tender orzo, ensure you use a medium heat setting and keep a close eye to prevent sticking or burning.
• Freshness First: Add fresh parsley just before serving to maintain its bright color and crisp flavor.
• No Overcooking: Avoid overcooking the orzo as it should be al dente, just like when preparing pasta.

Ingredients

You can decide on the type of rice you want. I personally prefer jasmine rice but you can go with basmati rice or even brown rice if you really want to!

• Olive oil
• Yellow onion
• White rice
• Orzo
• Minced garlic
• Water
• Better than bouillon chicken
• Salt and pepper
• Parsley

How to Make Rice Pilaf with Orzo

Make sure you save the recipe card down below. It’s always nice to have it later on when you decide to come back and make this again.

1. Heat the olive oil in a large frying pan, over medium heat and saute the onions until tender, about 5 minutes.  
2. Add the rice and the orzo and stir constantly while it heats for about 2 minutes. 
3. Stir in the garlic and mix constantly for another 30 seconds or until fragrant.  
4. Add the water, bouillon, salt, and pepper.  Stir to combine.  
5. Continue to cook over medium-low heat until the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked, about 20 minutes.  
6. Serve with a garnish of parsley, if desired.  

Kitchen Supplies You’ll Need

I wonder how they make orzo. It’s such an interesting little rice-shaped pasta. Very different from other pastas out there, for sure!

• Large frying pan
• Stockpot for boiling water
• Strainer
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Mixing bowl
• Serving dish

What to Serve With Rice Pilaf with Orzo

This versatile pilaf pairs wonderfully with Mediterranean dishes such as honey garlic chicken or roasted lamb. It also complements simple grilled fish or vegetables, making it perfect for a nutritious and complete family dinner.

Why You Should Make Rice Pilaf with Orzo

I think this is a really great way to enjoy pasta. You’ll definitely be making this easy rice pilaf recipe with orzo again!

• Versatile Side Dish: Matches well with a variety of main dishes.
• Crowd-Pleaser: Loved by both adults and children for its mild yet satisfying flavor.
• Quick and Easy: Ready in about 30 minutes, making it ideal for a busy weeknight.

Variations and Add-Ins for Rice Pilaf with Orzo

There is no reason to just eat plain rice these days. We’ve got so many options available to us! Let me know how it goes in the comments below.

• Nutty Delight: Toss in some toasted pine nuts or slivered almonds for a crunchy texture.
• Fruitful Additions: Mix in some golden raisins or dried cranberries for a sweet contrast.
• Cheese Please: Stir in some grated Parmesan cheese just before serving for a creamy finish.
• Herb Infusion: Sprinkle in fresh chopped herbs like basil, cilantro, or dill at the end of cooking for a burst of freshness and color. 
• Citrus Zest: Add a zest of lemon or orange to brighten up the flavors. This citrusy zest can be mixed in with the rice and orzo just before serving for a tangy twist that complements the savory notes perfectly.
• Spicy Kick: For those who enjoy a bit of heat, sprinkle some red pepper flakes or stir in a dash of chili powder while cooking. 
• Veggie Boost: Incorporate chopped bell peppers, zucchini, or mushrooms during the cooking process. 
• Protein Pack: Add cooked, diced chicken, shrimp, or even chunks of sausage to turn this side dish into a hearty main course. 

If you love this easy side dish recipe, you’re going to love these other sides too. Please click each link below to find the easy, printable recipe!

More Great Rice Recipes

Instant Pot White Rice

Butter Rice

Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice

Easy Spanish Rice

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