Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet

Name: Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 30 min
Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients: 2 cups long-grain rice; 1 tablespoon olive oil; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon lime zest; Juice of 2 limes; 3 cups vegetable broth; 1/2 teaspoon salt; 1/4 teaspoon black pepper; Fresh cilantro for garnish

Highlighted under: Everyday Comfort Food Recipes

I love creating vibrant dishes that capture the essence of a region, and this Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet is a perfect example. The zesty lime combined with aromatic garlic brings a burst of flavor to the fluffy rice, making it a standout side or a delightful main dish. It's an effortless way to bring the tropical vibes into my kitchen, and what's great is that it only takes a few minutes to prepare. Once you try this dish, you’ll definitely want to make it again and again.

Created by

Jessica Brown

Last updated on 2026-01-14T07:33:35.269Z

When I first tasted garlic lime rice in Jamaica, it instantly became a favorite. The combination of citrus and savory garlic creates an unforgettable flavor profile. I realized that the simplest ingredients can create a dish that packs a punch. My secret tip? Let the lime zest sit in the rice for a few minutes before serving—it enhances the fragrance and taste significantly.

As I experimented with this recipe, adjusting the garlic and lime ratios, I found the perfect balance. It’s a versatile dish, so whether I’m serving it with grilled chicken or black beans, it always complements my meal beautifully. Trust me, this skillet will become a household staple!

Why You'll Love This Recipe
Bright, zesty flavors that awaken your taste buds
Simple and quick preparation, perfect for busy weeknights
Versatile enough to pair with a variety of proteins and vegetables

Understanding the Ingredients

The foundation of this Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet lies in the use of long-grain rice. This type of rice cooks up fluffy and separated, which is crucial for absorbing the zesty lime and aromatic garlic. If you find yourself without long-grain rice, jasmine or basmati rice can serve as excellent substitutes due to their similar cooking properties and fragrant profiles. Just be aware that adjusting cooking times might be necessary if you're switching the rice type.

Fresh lime juice and zest are essential for delivering that vibrant, zesty flavor that defines this dish. If you're short on fresh limes, bottled lime juice could work in a pinch, but fresh is always best for its bright notes. I’d recommend zesting the limes first, as it intensifies the lime flavor without adding extra acidity that could dominate the dish.

Cooking Techniques for Perfect Rice

Rinsing the rice before cooking is a non-negotiable step; it removes excess starch, preventing it from becoming sticky. If you skip this step, you may end up with clumpy rice. When rinsing, swirl the rice in a bowl of cold water until it runs clear—this could take a minute or two, but it’s worth the time for that fluffy texture.

Sautéing the garlic in olive oil before adding the rice releases its essential oils, infusing the dish with a fragrant aroma. Keep an eye on the garlic; you want it to become fragrant but not browned, as burnt garlic can impart a bitter flavor. Once the garlic is fragrant, stirring in the rinsed rice creates a glossy coating, ensuring every grain absorbs the flavors to come.

Ingredients

Gather these ingredients to create your Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet.

Ingredients

2 cups long-grain rice
1 tablespoon olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lime zest
Juice of 2 limes
3 cups vegetable broth
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Fresh cilantro for garnish

With these fresh ingredients, you're ready to whip up this vibrant dish!

Instructions

Follow these steps to cook your Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet perfectly.

Prepare the Rice

Rinse the long-grain rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This will help remove excess starch and prevent the rice from being sticky.

Cook the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until fragrant, about 1 minute.

Add Rice and Liquid

Stir in the rinsed rice and cook for another 2 minutes, stirring occasionally. Pour in the vegetable broth, lime juice, salt, and pepper, and bring to a boil.

Simmer

Lower the heat to a simmer, cover the skillet, and cook for 18-20 minutes until the rice is tender and all the liquid is absorbed.

Finishing Touches

Remove from heat and fluff the rice with a fork. Add lime zest and mix well. Let it sit for a few minutes before serving to enhance the flavor.

Garnish

Serve with fresh cilantro on top to add a pop of color and flavor.

Your dish is now complete and ready to enjoy!

Pro Tips

For an extra kick, consider adding diced jalapeños or bell peppers when cooking the garlic. This will not only elevate the taste but also add beautiful colors to your dish.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet is perfect for meal prep. You can cook the rice ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to four days. Reheat in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of vegetable broth or water to revive its fluffy texture. I often make a larger batch to enjoy as a side dish or turn it into a hearty meal by adding leftover proteins and veggies.

If you want to freeze the rice, ensure it cools completely before storing it in a freezer-safe container. It can last in the freezer for up to three months. When ready to eat, simply defrost in the refrigerator overnight, then reheat it gently on the stove with a bit of broth to prevent it from drying out.

Serving Suggestions and Variations

The versatility of this dish shines through when pairing it with a variety of proteins. For a traditional Caribbean vibe, serve it alongside jerk chicken or shrimp. It also complements vegetarian dishes nicely; try it with grilled vegetables or black beans for a satisfying meatless meal. The fresh cilantro garnish not only brightens the dish visually but adds a refreshing herbal note that enhances the lime flavor.

If you're in the mood for a different twist, consider adding diced bell peppers or peas during the final minutes of cooking. This not only boosts nutrition but adds vibrant color to the rice. For an extra kick, feel free to toss in a chopped jalapeño or a dash of cayenne pepper when cooking the garlic. Each variation allows for creativity while still keeping the essence of this stunning dish.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use jasmine rice instead of long-grain rice?

Yes, jasmine rice works wonderfully in this recipe! Just keep an eye on the cooking time as it may vary slightly.

→ Is there a substitute for vegetable broth?

Absolutely! You can use chicken broth or even water with a squeeze of lime for a lighter version.

→ How can I make this dish spicier?

You can add crushed red pepper flakes or diced chili peppers to the oil when sautéing the garlic for a spicy kick.

→ Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Yes, you can prepare it a few hours in advance. Just reheat it gently before serving, adding a bit of broth or water as needed.