Inspired by the rice at the popular restaurant, Chipotle, it is the ideal easy side dish for so many of your favorite Mexican mains, as well as a variety of other dishes. A brief chop and a quick squeeze are all you need… In case you haven’t noticed, I’m a big time rice eater. From a variety of sides like Saffron Rice and Arroz con Gandules, to more elaborate rice based mains like Katsudon and Jollof Rice, I can’t get enough of the grain. This cilantro lime rice is the simplest yet. It’s so easy you’re never going to stop making it…
Why We Love Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice
It’s super versatile. You can use it in burritos or burrito bowls, like at Chipotle, or serve it alongside your favorite mains.This rice requires next to no extra effort. Once your basic white rice is cooked, it only takes a few minutes.The flavors are so good. You’re going to be amazed how such simple ingredients can elevate your rice so much.
What Type of Rice to Use for Cilantro Lime Rice
We recommend either jasmine rice or basmati (which is what we use). They are naturally fragrant, and much more forgiving. Regular long grain rice can easily become mushy. If you prefer brown rice, you can follow the same recipe, just adjust the cooking time of the rice.
Ingredients
RiceWaterSaltOilLime JuiceChopped Cilantro
How to Make Cilantro Lime Rice
Cook the rice in salted water. While it’s cooking, chop the cilantro, squeeze the limes and mix them together in a small bowl, along with the oil. When the rice is done cooking, fluff it with a fork, allow it to cool for a couple of minutes, then toss in the cilantro lime juice mixture. That’s it!
What to Serve with this Chipotle Rice Recipe
Of course, it is great in burritos and bowl meals, which is how it gained its fame at Chipotle. It’s a perfect side for a variety of Latin American meat mains like Barbacoa, Pollo Asado, Bistec Encebollado, or Pollo Guisado. Use it to sop up your favorite curries. I love it with my Chicken Masala, Pork Vindaloo, or Sri Lankan Chicken Curry.
Leftovers and Storage
You can refrigerate leftover cilantro lime rice in an airtight container for 3-4 days. When ready to eat, reheat the leftovers in the microwave. TIP: Cooked rice can grow bacteria quickly if not kept at proper temperature. After cooking, allow rice to come to room temperature, then refrigerate within one hour. If you wish to freeze the leftovers, spread them evenly on a baking sheet. Place in the refrigerator. Then once it has completely cooled, portion the rice into ziploc bags, then freeze. So guys, the next time rice is on the menu, give it a big time flavor boost by making this Chipotle copycat cilantro lime rice. Your friends and family will be so impressed that they’ll never guess how easy it is. Pin or bookmark this great recipe so you always know where to find it. And be sure to subscribe to GypsyPlate, we’re always cooking up new recipes for you!
Cilantro Lime Rice, on our Gypsy Plate… enjoy!
Try these other great side dishes!Mediterranean Quinoa SaladCreamed CornMoroccan CouscousHabichuelas GuisadasSweet Potato FriesSpicy NoodlesFarro Salad
