A zesty and fragrant rice is the perfect side dish for any meal, coming together quickly and easily in the Instant Pot®. With fresh lime and cilantro, it adds a bright, refreshing twist to your dinner table.
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon butter
- 1 cup long-grain rice
- 1 cup water
- ½ cup chicken broth
- ¼ cup lime juice
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 lime, zested
- 4 wedges lime
- 1 tablespoon chopped cilantro, or to taste
Step 1
Turn on your Instant Pot to the sauté setting and add the butter. Once it’s melted and sizzling, stir in the rice and cook it for a couple of minutes, stirring now and then, until the grains look translucent. Pour in the water, chicken broth, lime juice, and sprinkle in some salt. Give everything a quick stir, then close the lid and set the pot to high pressure for 4 minutes. It will take about 10 minutes to come up to pressure.

Step 2
When the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes. After that, carefully switch to quick release to let out the remaining steam. Once the lid is off, mix in the lime zest and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Serve it right away with lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro on top.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use brown rice instead of long-grain white rice?
You can, but cooking time and liquid amounts will need to be adjusted since brown rice takes longer to cook.
Is it okay to use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth?
Yes, vegetable broth works fine and keeps the recipe vegetarian-friendly.
Can I make this recipe without an Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook it on the stove by simmering covered until the rice is tender, but cooking times will be longer.
How do I store leftovers and reheat them?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stove with a splash of water.
Can I add more cilantro if I like it?
Absolutely! Adjust cilantro to your taste when stirring it in or as a garnish.
What if I don’t have lime juice on hand?
Fresh lemon juice can be used as a substitute, though it will slightly change the flavor.
Should I rinse the rice before cooking?
Rinsing is optional but recommended to remove excess starch and prevent clumping.
Can I double the recipe in the Instant Pot?
Yes, but make sure not to exceed the max fill line and adjust cooking time slightly if needed.
VP
By Vikram Patel
Recipe Writer
Vikram writes simple recipes with helpful tips to make cooking easier and more enjoyable.