Description
This copycat Chipotle cilantro lime rice is fluffy, zesty, and packed with fresh cilantro and bright lime flavor. It’s easy to make at home and the perfect side dish for burritos, tacos, rice bowls, or any Mexican-inspired meal.
Ingredients
- 1 cup long grain rice or basmati rice
- 2 cups chicken stock or vegetable stock
- 2 teaspoons olive oil
- Pinch of salt
- 1 tablespoon butter (optional, highly recommended)
- 2 tablespoons lime juice, freshly squeezed
- Zest of 1 lime
- 1 cup cilantro leaves, finely chopped
Instructions
- Rinse the rice: Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer or bowl and rinse several times, gently rubbing the grains with your fingertips to remove excess starch and any dirt.
- Sauté the rice: Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and sauté, stirring often, until the rice just begins to turn lightly golden. Do not let it brown.
- Add the liquid: Pour in the chicken stock or vegetable stock and add a pinch of salt. Scrape down any rice sticking to the sides of the pan.
- Bring to a boil: Reduce the heat to medium-low and bring the liquid to a boil.
- Simmer the rice: Cook uncovered until the water level drops below the surface of the rice. Then reduce the heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer for about 12 minutes, or until the rice is cooked and most of the liquid is absorbed.
- Rest the rice: Remove the saucepan from the heat and let it sit covered for 5–10 minutes. Do not open the lid during this time.
- Finish the rice: Open the lid and add the butter, lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. Gently fluff the rice with a fork or spatula. Taste and add more salt if needed.
- Serve: Serve warm with burritos, tacos, rice bowls, or your favorite Tex-Mex or Mexican-inspired dishes.
Notes
- Use long-grain rice for the best texture; avoid sticky rice varieties.
- Rinsing the rice helps remove starch so the grains stay fluffy and separate.
- Chicken or vegetable stock adds much more flavor than plain water.
- Sautéing the rice first enhances the flavor and helps prevent sticking.
- If needed, adjust the liquid ratio next time to 1 3/4 cups liquid per 1 cup rice depending on your stove and pan.
- Always cook rice over low heat and let it rest before opening the lid for the fluffiest results.
- Prep Time: 5 mins
- Cook Time: 20 mins
- Category: Side Dish
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Mexican