This fluffy, zesty joanna gaines cilantro lime rice is made with long-grain white rice, fresh lime juice, and chopped cilantro, and ready in 25 minutes. The warm grains absorb the bright citrus and herb mixture the moment they are fluffed with a fork. I always keep these basic ingredients on hand for quick weeknight dinners.
Why This Classic Works
I used to think plain white rice was fine until I tried infusing it with fresh lime zest and cilantro. The addition of butter adds a subtle richness that balances the sharp citrus perfectly.
My biggest mistake early on was adding the cilantro before cooking the rice, which turned it completely gray and bitter. Stirring the fresh herbs in at the very end keeps everything vibrant and tasting fresh.
joanna gaines cilantro lime rice Ingredients
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 2 cups chicken broth
- 1 tablespoon unsalted butter
- 1 teaspoon kosher salt
- 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
- 1 teaspoon lime zest
How To Make joanna gaines cilantro lime rice
- Rinse The Rice: Place the rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.
- Simmer The Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, chicken broth, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- Rest Off Heat: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to steam.
- Add Flavor: Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Gently stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest until evenly distributed.
Recipe Tips
- Rinse thoroughly: Washing the rice removes excess surface starch, preventing a gummy or clumpy texture.
- Use fresh limes: Bottled lime juice has a bitter aftertaste that will ruin the bright flavor of this dish.
- Wait to fluff: Letting the rice rest off the heat allows the moisture to distribute evenly so the grains do not break.
What To Serve With Cilantro Lime Rice
This bright side pairs beautifully with grilled chicken, steak fajitas, or blackened fish. The acidity of the lime cuts through rich meats and complements spicy taco seasonings perfectly.
How To Store
Keep leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. Reheat in the microwave with a splash of water to steam the grains back to a fluffy texture.
FAQs
Can I use brown rice instead?
Yes, but you will need to increase the broth to 2.5 cups and the simmer time to about 40-45 minutes.
Why did my rice turn out sticky?
Skipping the rinsing step or stirring the rice while it simmers releases starch, making it sticky.
Can I freeze cilantro lime rice?
Yes, you can freeze it in a freezer-safe bag for up to 3 months. Let it thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.
Nutrition
- Calories: 185 kcal
- Total Fat: 3 g
- Saturated Fat: 2 g
- Cholesterol: 8 mg
- Sodium: 650 mg
- Total Carbohydrate: 35 g
- Protein: 4 g
joanna gaines cilantro lime rice
4
servings5
minutes20
minutes25
minutesFluffy, zesty joanna gaines cilantro lime rice made with fresh cilantro, lime juice, and butter, ready in 25 minutes. This bright side dish easily completes your next taco night or grilled chicken dinner.
Ingredients
1 cup long-grain white rice
2 cups chicken broth
1 tablespoon unsalted butter
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
2 tablespoons fresh lime juice
1 teaspoon lime zest
Directions
- 1. Rinse The Rice: Place the rice in a fine-mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until the water runs clear.
- 2. Simmer The Rice: In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, chicken broth, butter, and salt. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
- 3. Rest Off Heat: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to steam.
- 4. Add Flavor: Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Gently stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest until evenly distributed.
