Cilantro Lime Rice (Chipotle Copycat)

Cilantro Lime Rice (Chipotle Copycat)

4 servings
This easy cilantro lime rice tastes just like Chipotle’s—fresh, zesty, and perfectly fluffy every time. Made with simple ingredients like lime juice, cilantro, and olive oil, it’s a versatile side dish that pairs perfectly with burrito bowls, tacos, or grilled meats.

Ingredients

  • extra long grain rice

    jasmine rice, or basmati rice

    1 c
  • lime

    juice of

    ½
  • water
    2 c
  • kosher salt
    1 tsp
  • fresh chopped cilantro
    3 tbsp
  • olive oil

    divided

    3 tsp

Directions

  1. 1

    In a small or medium heavy pot with a tight fitted lid, add the rice, water, 1 teaspoon of oil and salt.

  2. 2

    Bring to a boil over high heat until most of the water evaporates and just skims the top of the rice. Cover and reduce the heat to low 15 minutes, without stirring or lifting the lid.

  3. 3

    Shut off flame and keep covered an additional 5 minute, no peaking! After 5 minutes, fluff with a fork.

  4. 4

    In a medium bowl, combine chopped cilantro, lime juice, rice and remaining oil and toss until completely mixed.

Cilantro Lime Rice (Chipotle Copycat)

Cilantro Lime Rice (Chipotle Copycat)

25 min4 servings194 cal

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About this Recipe

Craving that signature fresh, zesty side dish from your favorite burrito spot? This easy Cilantro Lime Rice recipe delivers all the authentic Chipotle flavor you love, made right in your own kitchen.

This recipe shines by transforming simple extra long grain rice into a perfectly fluffy, flavorful masterpiece. The secret lies in the harmonious balance of bright, tangy lime juice and aromatic fresh cilantro, complemented by a touch of olive oil and just the right amount of kosher salt. It's designed to be perfectly seasoned and wonderfully light, mimicking the iconic restaurant taste without any fuss.

What can you expect from this Cilantro Lime Rice? A perfectly fluffy texture, with each grain distinct and never clumpy. You'll love the vibrant, tangy kick from fresh lime, beautifully complemented by the herbaceous notes of freshly chopped cilantro. It's an incredibly satisfying side that tastes gourmet but is remarkably simple to achieve, making it a staple in your weeknight rotation.

While delicious as is, you can easily adapt this recipe to your preferences. For a bolder citrus punch, consider adding a little extra lime juice to taste at the end. If you prefer a milder flavor, slightly reduce the amount of fresh chopped cilantro. You can also experiment with different long-grain rice varieties like jasmine rice or basmati rice for subtle aromatic differences.

This versatile side dish is the ultimate accompaniment to homemade burrito bowls, crispy tacos, or perfectly grilled meats. Serve it as a bright, refreshing contrast to savory dishes for a meal that feels both fresh and complete.

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