Name: Cilantro Lime Rice
Prep time: 5 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 30 min
Cuisine: Mexican-Inspired
Ingredients: 1 tbsp olive oil; ½ onion, diced; 1 cup long grain white rice; ½ tsp garlic salt; ½ tsp ground cumin; 2 cups chicken broth (or vegetable broth for vegetarian); Zest and juice of 2 limes; ½ cup fresh cilantro, chopped

Jump to Recipe·Leave a Review

Cilantro lime rice is one of those effortless side dishes that always brings a fresh, zesty flavor to the plate. I make it with fluffy long grain rice, sautéed onions, bright lime juice, and loads of chopped cilantro. It pairs beautifully with beans, grilled meats, tacos, burrito bowls—you name it. Simple ingredients, quick steps, and a bold finish make it a staple in my kitchen.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

I love how quick and flavorful this rice is. It cooks up in just 30 minutes and doesn’t need fancy tools or ingredients. The citrusy tang of lime with the savory depth of cumin and garlic salt creates a taste that’s anything but boring. It’s also incredibly versatile—I serve it with everything from black beans to spicy shrimp to barbacoa beef. Plus, leftovers make the best rice bowls or wraps.

Ingredients

(Here’s a tip: Check out the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)

olive oil
onion, diced
long grain white rice
garlic salt
ground cumin
chicken broth
limes (zest and juice)
fresh cilantro, chopped

Directions

Sauté the Onion
I heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat and sauté the diced onion for 3 to 5 minutes until it turns translucent and fragrant.
Toast the Rice and Seasonings
Next, I add the rice, garlic salt, and cumin. I stir constantly for another 3 to 5 minutes so the rice gets lightly toasted, which adds a subtle nuttiness to the final dish.
Add Liquid and Simmer
I pour in the chicken broth, then stir in the zest and juice from two limes. I bring everything to a boil, then reduce the heat and cover. The rice simmers for about 18 to 20 minutes until all the liquid is absorbed and the grains are tender.
Finish with Cilantro
Once cooked, I fluff the rice with a fork and fold in the chopped cilantro while it’s still hot. Sometimes I add an extra squeeze of lime juice for more brightness before serving.

Servings and timing

Yield: 4 servings
Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

Variations

I occasionally make this with vegetable broth for a vegetarian version or switch out white rice for brown rice when I want something heartier. For a spicier twist, I toss in a chopped jalapeño while sautéing the onions. If I want to add more richness, a small pat of butter stirred in with the cilantro does the trick.

Storage/Reheating

Leftover cilantro lime rice stores well in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. I reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water or broth to bring back the fluffiness. It also freezes well, and I’ve used frozen batches for quick lunches by reheating directly from frozen with a little extra liquid.

FAQs

Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

Yes, but it will need a longer cook time and slightly more liquid. I usually add an extra 1/2 cup of broth and simmer for 35 to 40 minutes.

What if I don’t have fresh limes?

Bottled lime juice works in a pinch, but fresh limes give the best flavor—especially with the zest included.

Can I make this in a rice cooker?

Absolutely. I just sauté the onion separately and then toss everything into the rice cooker with the broth and seasonings. Add cilantro after it’s done cooking.

Is it okay to use vegetable broth?

Yes, I’ve made it with vegetable broth and it’s just as tasty. Great option for keeping it vegetarian.

Can I prepare this ahead of time?

Yes, I often make it a few hours ahead. I reheat it with a splash of broth and stir in fresh cilantro just before serving to keep the flavors vibrant.

Conclusion

Cilantro lime rice is one of those easy wins I keep in rotation all year long. It’s fresh, fluffy, and packed with flavor, making it the ideal side for everything from grilled meats to tacos to rice bowls. Whether I’m meal prepping or cooking for a crowd, this dish always brings something bright and special to the table.