Cilantro Lime Rice will bring your plain white rice new life. Inspired by Chipotle’s beloved side dish, this homemade version pairs perfectly with grilled meats, burrito bowls, or as a fresh addition to any meal. With the bright zing of lime and the earthy pop of fresh cilantro, this rice is an easy upgrade that’s sure to impress. If you’re looking for another flavorful rice dish, try our Garlic Parmesan Rice.
Ingredients and Substitutions
White Rice: For this recipe, long-grain white rice is our go-to. You can substitute with Basmati or Jasmine for a slightly different aroma and finish—both work well with the citrusy notes.
Fresh Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is a must for authenticity. But if you are not a fan of cilantro, you could try flat-leaf parsley for a milder herbal note, though it will lose the signature flavor of the dish.
Lime: The key to the lime flavor is using both zest and juice. Zest half a lime before juicing it—you’ll want about 1 teaspoon of zest and 1 tablespoon of juice. This combination adds brightness without overpowering the rice. In a pinch you could use bottled lime juice.
How to Make Fluffy, Flavorful Rice
To keep your rice from getting sticky, rinse it under cold water until the water runs clear before cooking. This removes excess starch and helps each grain stay separate and fluffy. After cooking, fluff the rice with a fork and mix in the lime juice, zest, and cilantro while the rice is still warm so the flavors meld beautifully.
How to Make Ahead, Store, or Freeze Rice
- Refrigerator: Let the rice cool fully before transferring it to an airtight container. It will keep in the fridge for up to 5 days. Reheat with a splash of broth or oil to restore moisture.
- Freezer: Portion cooled rice into freezer-safe bags, label, and freeze for up to 6–8 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight and reheat as needed.
- Meal Prep: This rice is ideal for batch cooking. Make a double batch and use it throughout the week in bowls, wraps, or alongside protein.
Serving Suggestions for Cilantro Lime Rice
This rice does more than play a sidekick. Serve it with tacos, fajitas (Chicken or Steak), or stuffed bell peppers. Use it as a base for burrito bowls layered with Chipotle-style chicken, beans, and toppings. It’s also a great filler for wraps or meal-prep lunches.
Cilantro Lime Rice
Ingredients
- 4 cups long-grain rice, cooked per package instructions
- ½ medium lime, zested and juiced
- 2 to 3 tablespoons fresh cilantro, chopped
- 2 tablespoons unsalted butter
- ½ teaspoon kosher salt
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine the cooked rice with the zest and juice of the lime, chopped cilantro, butter, and kosher salt. Stir until the butter is melted and everything is evenly mixed. Serve warm.
This recipe is adapted from Iamhomesteader’s Copycat Cilantro Lime Rice.
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