Lemon Chive Rice – Fresh Twist + Easy Comfort + A Zesty Weeknight Side You’ll Love!

Looking for a fresh yet cozy side dish that pairs beautifully with grilled meats, roasted veggies, or your favorite weeknight protein? This Lemon Chive Rice is vibrant, buttery, and aromatic — combining the refreshing zest of lemon, savory notes from chicken broth and butter, and the unique flavor of garlic chives. Whether you're serving guests or meal prepping for the week, this rice is a flavorful and elegant choice that’s far from boring.

Rice is a staple in many cultures, but sometimes it needs a little glow-up. I created this Lemon Chive Rice as a way to turn an everyday grain into something exciting and light — perfect for Australian summers or Korean-style BBQ meals. The hint of curry powder gives it a subtle golden warmth, while the lemon zest and garlic chives add brightness and complexity. It’s satisfying but not heavy, and it’s a fantastic way to use up herbs from your garden. Bonus: it’s a one-pot recipe, and you can make it in a rice cooker or on the stovetop — perfect for any kitchen setup. Leftovers? They reheat like a dream and taste just as good the next day.

 


Key Ingredients & Their Roles

Long grain rice Gives a light, fluffy texture and separates easily after cooking.

Chicken broth Adds savory depth and enhances flavor compared to plain water.

Lemon zest Provides a refreshing, citrusy lift that brightens the entire dish.

Garlic chives Milder than regular garlic, these add a herby, slightly garlicky finish that makes this rice pop.

 







Lemon Chive Rice Recipe Details

Prep Time: 10 mins | Cook Time: 30 mins (depending on method) | Total Time: ~40 mins | Cuisine Type: Fusion / Comfort / Everyday | Calories (Estimate): ~240 kcal per serving | Serving Size: 4–6 servings

 

📝 Ingredients:

  • 3 cups long grain rice
  • 3½ cups chicken broth (or vegetable stock for vegetarian option)
  • 3 tbsp butter
  • 1 small onion, finely chopped
  • 1 small carrot, finely chopped
  • ½ tsp curry powder
  • Zest of 1 lemon
  • ¼ cup garlic chives, finely chopped
  • ¼ tsp black pepper

 

👨‍🍳 Instructions:

  1. Rice Cooker Method:
  2. Rinse the rice until water runs mostly clear. Drain well.
  3. In the rice cooker pot, add butter, then the rinsed rice, chopped onion, carrot, curry powder, lemon zest, garlic chives, black pepper, and chicken broth.
  4. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Cook using your rice cooker’s white rice setting. Once done, fluff with a fork and serve warm.
  6. Stovetop Method:
  7. Rinse and drain rice.
  8. In a large saucepan, melt butter over medium heat.
  9. Add onion and carrot. Sauté for 2–3 minutes until softened.
  10. Stir in curry powder, lemon zest, and rice. Sauté for another 1–2 minutes.
  11. Pour in chicken broth, garlic chives, and black pepper. Stir well.
  12. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low. Cover and simmer for 15–18 minutes, or until the rice is fully cooked.
  13. Let sit covered for 5 minutes. Fluff and serve.


Tips & Ingredient Substitutions

✔ Make it vegetarian by swapping chicken broth for vegetable broth.

✔ Vegan version: Use olive oil instead of butter and a good-quality vegetable broth.

✔ Add-ins: Try peas, corn, or edamame for extra color and nutrition.

✔ To store: Cool completely and store in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.

✔ To reheat: Microwave with a splash of water to maintain moisture.

 


Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ Section)

Q: Can I make this lemon chive rice ahead of time?

A: Yes! It reheats well and can be made a day in advance. Just add a splash of water when reheating.

Q: Can I use dried chives instead of fresh garlic chives?

A: Fresh garlic chives give the best flavor, but you can use dried chives in a pinch — just reduce the amount to 1 tablespoon.

Q: What can I serve this rice with?

A: It’s perfect with grilled salmon, baked chicken, tofu stir-fry, or as a base for a rice bowl.

Q: Can I freeze this rice?

A: Yes, freeze in portions for up to 1 month. Defrost and reheat with a little broth or water.

Q: Can I use basmati or jasmine rice instead?

A: Absolutely! Just adjust the water ratio based on the rice type you're using.


Wrap-Up 

If you’re tired of plain rice, this Lemon Chive Rice is the twist you didn’t know you needed. It’s zesty, savory, and ridiculously easy — a perfect companion to so many meals. Try it out and let me know in the comments how you paired it!

 

💬 What’s your favorite rice-based dish? I’d love to hear your go-to comfort rice recipe!

👉 Check out my Roasted Vegetables with Balsamic Garlic Dressing next for another easy side idea with a flavor punch!

 


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