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This easy cilantro lime rice recipe is served in a wooden bowl with fresh lime.
5 from 6 votes
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Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

Make delicious Chipotle copycat Cilantro Lime Rice that tastes just like the original in 30 minutes or less with this recipe! White rice is cooked on the stovetop or in an Instant Pot, then mixed with fresh cilantro and lime juice.

Course Side Dish
Cuisine Mexican
Prep Time 5 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 25 minutes
Servings 6 servings
Calories 157 kcal
London Brazil

Ingredients

  • 1 cup white rice long grain
  • 1 ¾ cup water
  • 2 Tbsp. oil divided
  • 1 tsp. salt to taste
  • 2 Tbsp. lime juice freshly squeezed
  • ¼ cup chopped cilantro leaves

Instructions

  1. Add rice to a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cool running water for 1-2 minutes, or until the water runs clear. Let drain completely.

  2. Add water to a medium-sized pot and bring to a boil. Once boiling add 1 tablespoon of oil, salt, and rinsed and drained rice.

  3. Bring the ingredients back to a boil and then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 20-25 minutes. Check on the rice after 20 minutes to see if it is done.*

  4. Once cooked, turn off heat and add remaining tablespoon of oil, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Mix until just combined.

  5. Serve immediately with a sprinkle of additional cilantro and a sprinkle of black pepper. Enjoy!

Recipe Notes

Meal Prep and Storage

  • To Prep-Ahead: This rice is best when served immediately, but it can be prepared up to 1-2 days in advance. Wait to mix in the cilantro until just before serving, after it has been reheated.
  • To Store: Cilantro Lime Rice can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator, for up to 3-4 days.
  • To Freeze: The rice can also be frozen in an airtight, freezer-safe container for up to 3-4 months. The rice should be fully defrosted before reheating.
  • To Reheat: Add the rice to a skillet over medium-low heat with a touch of oil. Cook it for 4-5 minutes, stirring frequently, until warmed through.

Nutrition Facts
Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
Amount Per Serving
Calories 157 Calories from Fat 45
% Daily Value*
Fat 5g8%
Saturated Fat 1g6%
Trans Fat 1g
Sodium 324mg14%
Potassium 45mg1%
Carbohydrates 25g8%
Fiber 1g4%
Sugar 1g1%
Protein 2g4%
Vitamin A 47IU1%
Vitamin C 2mg2%
Calcium 12mg1%
Iron 1mg6%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.