This flavorful cilantro lime rice is the perfect easy side dish to brighten up any meal. Made quickly in the Instant Pot, it’s light, zesty, and ready to serve in no time!
Start by turning on your Instant Pot and setting it to the sauté mode. Add the butter and let it melt until it’s hot and bubbly. Toss in the rice and stir it around for a couple of minutes until the grains look a little translucent. Next, pour in the water, chicken broth, lime juice, and sprinkle in some salt. Give everything a quick stir, then close the lid and lock it in place.
Set the pot to high pressure and cook for 4 minutes. It will take about 10 minutes for the pressure to build up before the timer starts. Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully switch to the quick release to let out any remaining steam.
When it's safe to open the lid, remove it and stir in the lime zest. Fluff the rice gently with a fork to mix everything together. Serve it right away with lime wedges on the side and a sprinkle of fresh chopped cilantro for a bright, fresh finish.
- Rinse the rice thoroughly before cooking to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
- Use fresh lime juice for the best flavor instead of bottled juice.
- Let the rice rest for a few minutes after cooking to allow steam to finish cooking it evenly.
This rice is bright and flavorful with fresh cilantro and zesty lime. It cooks quickly and comes out fluffy every time thanks to the Instant Pot®. It’s a perfect side for Mexican dishes or any meal needing a fresh, tangy touch.
Serve this rice alongside grilled chicken, fish tacos, or black beans. It also works well as a base for burrito bowls or as a fresh side with spicy dishes. Garnish with extra cilantro or a lime wedge for added brightness.
Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently with a splash of water to keep it moist. You can also freeze it in portions and thaw in the fridge before reheating.
