Go Back

Copycat Cilantro Lime Rice

A fluffy, bright, restaurant-style cilantro lime rice inspired by Chipotle—made with fresh lime, cilantro, and perfectly seasoned long-grain rice.
Print Recipe Pin Recipe
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Total Time 20 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 180
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Rice Base
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice rinsed
  • 1.75 cups water or chicken broth
  • 1 tbsp butter or olive oil
  • 0.5 tsp salt
  • 1 bay leaf optional
Flavor Additions
  • 1 lime zested and juiced
  • 0.25 cup fresh cilantro finely chopped

Equipment

  • Pot with lid
  • Mixing bowl
  • Citrus zester
  • Knife

Method
 

  1. Rinse rice until the water runs clearer.
  2. Heat butter in a pot and toast rice for 1–2 minutes.
  3. Add water or broth, salt, and bay leaf. Bring to a boil.
  4. Reduce heat to low, cover, and cook for 15 minutes.
  5. Turn off heat and let rice rest covered for 5 minutes.
  6. Remove bay leaf and fluff with a fork.
  7. Add lime zest, lime juice, and cilantro. Toss gently to combine.

Notes

Adjust lime and salt to taste just before serving for best flavor.