Chipotle-style fluffy rice with fresh cilantro and lime
Cilantro Lime Rice
Prep Time
5 min
Cook Time
20 min
Total Time
25 min
Servings
4
4 cups
Difficulty
Easy
Cost
Budget
$
Cilantro Lime Rice
Chipotle-style fluffy rice with fresh cilantro and lime
★4.8(14)
Bright, fluffy white rice finished with fresh lime juice, cilantro, and a drizzle of oil — just like the famous fast-casual version.
5m
Prep Time
20m
Cook Time
25m
Total Time
4
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Budget $
Cost
Sarah Chen
(Updated )
This is the rice that made a fast-casual chain famous, and for good reason. The combination of fluffy long-grain rice with fresh lime juice and chopped cilantro is deceptively simple but creates a side dish that elevates everything from burrito bowls to grilled chicken to simple black beans.
The key is adding the cilantro and lime after cooking, while the rice is still hot. The heat gently wilts the cilantro, releasing its aromatic oils, while the lime juice brightens every grain. A small drizzle of oil adds richness and helps the flavors cling.
Ingredients
Instructions
- 1
Rinse rice under cold water until it runs clear.
- 2
Combine rice, water, 1 teaspoon oil, and 1/2 teaspoon salt in a medium saucepan. Bring to a boil.
- 3
Reduce heat to the lowest setting, cover tightly, and cook for 18 minutes.
- 4
Remove from heat, keep covered, and let rest 5 minutes.
- 5
Fluff with a fork. Add lime juice, lime zest, cilantro, and remaining oil. Toss gently to combine.
- 6
Taste and adjust salt and lime to your preference. Serve immediately.
Serving Suggestions
Ways to Serve This Dish
Serve with warm corn tortillas and fresh lime wedges
Top with crumbled queso fresco and sliced avocado
Pair with a side of Mexican rice and refried beans
Serve with classic coleslaw and cornbread on the side
Substitutions
Long-grain white riceBasmati or jasmine rice
Both add their own aromatic qualities.
CilantroFlat-leaf parsley
For those with the cilantro-aversion gene.
LimeLemon
Different citrus flavor but equally bright.
Tips & Storage
Pro Tips
Use basmati rice for an even fluffier result.
Add the cilantro and lime right before serving for the freshest flavor.
If you are in the cilantro-tastes-like-soap camp, substitute fresh parsley and a squeeze of lemon.
Storage
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. For longer storage, freeze individual portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months. Label with the date and recipe name.
Reheating
Microwave with a sprinkle of water. Add fresh cilantro and a squeeze of lime after reheating.
Nutrition Facts
Per serving (1 cup) · 4 servings
Calories210
LowModerateHigh
A moderate-calorie serving · based on a 2,000 cal daily diet
Protein4g
Carbohydrates42g
Fat3g
Fiber1g
Sugar0g
Sodium280mg
Nutritional values are approximate and may vary based on specific ingredients and preparation methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
- I hate cilantro. Can I still make this?
- Yes! Use fresh parsley and a bit of lemon zest instead. It will be different but still delicious.
- Can I use a rice cooker?
- Absolutely. Cook the rice as usual in the rice cooker, then fold in the cilantro, lime, and oil when done.
Explore More
About Sarah Chen
Sarah Chen is a professional recipe developer and food editor with over a decade of experience in test kitchens and food media. She trained at the Culinary Institute of America before spending six years developing and testing recipes for national food publications, where she honed her ability to translate restaurant techniques into approachable home cooking. At RecipePool, Sarah leads recipe development, ensuring every dish is tested at least three times for clarity, accuracy, and genuine deliciousness. When she is not in the kitchen, she is browsing farmers markets and collecting vintage cookbooks.
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