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 jasmine rice; 4 cups vegetable broth; 4 cloves garlic, minced; 1 teaspoon lime zest; 1 tablespoon olive oil; Salt and pepper to taste; Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional); 1 lime, juiced

Highlighted under: World Recipes

I absolutely love making Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet! The vibrant flavors of garlic and lime create a delicious twist on traditional rice dishes. This recipe not only brings a taste of the Caribbean into my kitchen but also elevates simple ingredients into a fragrant and satisfying meal. Whether I'm enjoying it as a quick weeknight dinner or serving it at a gathering, this dish always impresses. Plus, it's ready in just 30 minutes, making it perfect for busy days!

Created by

Cressida Northwood

Last updated on 2026-01-14T03:21:34.691Z

I remember the first time I tried Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet. The explosion of flavors was mesmerizing! After several tests, I found that toasting the garlic before adding it to the rice enhances the dish's overall taste, releasing its aromatic oils. The bright lime juice blended into the dish at the end is crucial, as it forms a fresh and tangy finish that keeps you wanting more.

This recipe quickly became a family favorite. The key is to use fresh lime juice—it makes all the difference in capturing that authentic Caribbean vibe. To add even more depth, I sometimes include a sprinkle of fresh cilantro just before serving, which really brightens up the dish!

Why You Will Love This Recipe
A symphony of garlic and lime flavors that's unforgettable
Quick and easy to prepare—perfect for busy nights
Versatile: serve it as a main or side dish

Elevating a Simple Grain

The choice of jasmine rice for this dish adds an essential aromatic quality that elevates the overall flavor profile. Its subtle floral notes work beautifully with the bold lime and garlic components, creating a balance that enchants each bite. When properly rinsed, jasmine rice achieves the perfect texture—fluffy and slightly sticky, which allows it to absorb the garlic and lime juices effectively without becoming mushy.

To achieve that light, airy texture, it's crucial to sauté the garlic until it turns golden brown. This brings out its natural sweetness and adds depth to the dish. If you cook the garlic too quickly or at too high a temperature, it can burn, resulting in a bitter taste that overshadows the fragrant rice. Maintaining a medium heat throughout the sautéing process ensures that the garlic becomes golden without losing its desirable flavors.

Balancing Flavors

The inclusion of lime zest and juice is what truly sets this Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice Skillet apart. Lime zest adds a vibrant, citrusy fragrance that complements the richness of the garlic. When you squeeze fresh lime juice over the finished dish, it brightens the entire flavor profile and enhances the freshness. To maximize the zing, choose a ripe lime and roll it on the countertop before juicing to release more juice.

Don’t hesitate to experiment with the seasoning! While salt and pepper are essential, consider adding a pinch of cayenne pepper or some finely chopped jalapeño for heat. If you're looking for a variation on the flavors, you can also incorporate a dash of soy sauce or coconut aminos for a savory twist to the dish.

Ingredients

For the Rice

2 cups jasmine rice
4 cups vegetable broth
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 teaspoon lime zest
1 tablespoon olive oil
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh cilantro for garnish (optional)
1 lime, juiced

Instructions

Prepare the Rice

Rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This removes excess starch and helps achieve fluffy rice.

Cook the Garlic

In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté for about 2-3 minutes until golden brown. Be careful not to burn it!

Combine Ingredients

Once the garlic is sautéed, add the rinsed rice to the skillet. Stir to coat the rice in the garlic oil.

Add Broth and Season

Pour in the vegetable broth, lime zest, salt, and pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for 18-20 minutes or until the rice is cooked through.

Finish with Lime Juice

Once cooked, remove the skillet from heat and squeeze the fresh lime juice over the rice. Fluff with a fork and garnish with fresh cilantro, if desired.

Serve

Serve the rice warm, either as a main dish or as a flavorful side. Enjoy!

Pro Tips

For added protein, consider mixing in black beans or grilled chicken.

Make-Ahead and Storage

This Jamaican Garlic Lime Rice can be made ahead of time, making it an excellent choice for meal prep. Cook the rice as per the instructions, allowing it to cool completely before transferring it to an airtight container. It can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you're ready to enjoy it, simply reheat in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of broth or water to prevent it from drying out.

If you want to freeze the rice, cool it completely and place it in a freezer-safe bag or container. It can be stored for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw it in the refrigerator overnight and then warm it on the stove. Just fluff it with a fork after heating to restore its beloved texture.

Serving Suggestions

This skillet rice works excellently as a main or side dish. Pair it with grilled chicken or shrimp marinated in lime juice and garlic for a complete Caribbean-inspired meal. You could also serve it with sautéed vegetables or a fresh salad for a lighter option. The vibrant flavors of this dish can stand alone or complement a variety of proteins.

For an even heartier meal, consider mixing in some black beans or chickpeas for added protein and texture. You can also top the rice with slices of avocado, diced tomatoes, or even a dollop of sour cream for creaminess that contrasts beautifully with the zesty flavors.

Questions About Recipes

→ Can I use brown rice instead?

Yes, but you'll need to adjust the cooking time as brown rice takes longer to cook.

→ Is this dish vegan?

Absolutely! As long as you use vegetable broth, this dish is completely vegan.

→ Can I make this ahead of time?

Yes! You can prepare it in advance and reheat it when ready to serve.

→ What can I serve with this dish?

This rice pairs wonderfully with grilled meats, Caribbean-style veggies, or even as a bed for spicy shrimp.