Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

Introduction

Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice is a vibrant, flavorful side dish that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or bowls. Its fresh lime and cilantro notes brighten the fluffy rice, making it a favorite for home cooks and fast-food fans alike.

Ingredients

• 1 cup long grain rice (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 one lime
• 1 cup cilantro leaves (finely chopped)

Instructions

1. Step 1: Rinse the rice in a fine mesh strainer or bowl by scrubbing gently with your fingertips several times to remove excess starch and any dirt.
2. Step 2: Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and sauté, stirring constantly until the rice just begins to turn slightly opaque. Avoid browning the rice.
3. Step 3: Add 2 cups of chicken or vegetable stock to the rice. Scrape any rice stuck to the pan sides into the liquid.
4. Step 4: Increase heat to bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce to medium-low. Cook uncovered until the water level drops just below the surface of the rice.
5. Step 5: Lower the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pan with a lid, and simmer for about 12 minutes. Do not stir during this time to prevent rice from becoming sticky or burning.
6. Step 6: Remove the pan from heat and let it sit undisturbed with the lid on for 5 to 10 minutes to allow steam to fully cook and fluff the rice.
7. Step 7: Remove the lid and gently fluff the rice with a fork or spatula. Stir in butter, lime juice, cilantro, lime zest, and salt to taste.
8. Step 8: Serve warm alongside your favorite dishes.

Tips & Variations

• For a vegetarian version, use vegetable stock instead of chicken stock to maintain rich flavor.
• Add a pinch of cumin or garlic powder to the rice while cooking for extra depth.
• Use fresh lime juice and zest for the best bright, citrus flavor.
• If you want a creamier texture, stir in a teaspoon of sour cream before serving.

Storage

Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to keep it moist. Avoid overheating to prevent drying out the rice.

How to Serve

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use regular long grain rice instead of basmati?

Yes, regular long grain rice works well in this recipe, but basmati adds a slightly nuttier flavor and fluffier texture.

Is it necessary to rinse the rice?

Rinsing rice removes excess starch, which helps prevent it from becoming sticky and clumping together. It also washes away any impurities.

Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

Print Recipe

★★★★★

5 from 80 reviews

This Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice recipe delivers vibrant, fluffy long-grain basmati rice infused with fresh lime zest and juice, aromatic cilantro, and a subtle buttery richness. Perfect as a flavorful side dish, it mimics the beloved Chipotle restaurant style and can be easily adapted for vegetarian diets by using vegetable stock.

• Author: Amy
• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 25 minutes
• Total Time: 35 minutes
• Yield: 4 servings 1x
• Category: Side Dish
• Method: Stovetop
• Cuisine: Mexican-inspired
• Diet: Vegetarian

Ingredients

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Rice and Liquid

• 1 cup long grain rice (basmati rice)
• 2 cups chicken stock (or vegetable stock for vegetarian option)
• Pinch of salt

Flavor Enhancers

• 2 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 tablespoon butter (optional, highly recommended)
• 2 tablespoons lime juice (freshly squeezed)
• Zest of one lime
• 1 cup cilantro leaves (finely chopped)

Instructions

1. Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water using a fine mesh strainer or bowl. Scrub gently with your fingertips to remove surface starch and any dirt, which prevents the rice from sticking and ensures fluffiness.
2. Sauté the Rice: Heat olive oil in a heavy-bottom saucepan over medium heat. Add the rinsed rice and sauté, stirring gently until the rice begins to change color but does not brown, which enhances flavor without burning.
3. Add Liquids: Pour in 2 cups of chicken or vegetable stock for every 1 cup of rice. Scrape any rice sticking to the side of the pan into the liquid to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.
4. Cook the Rice: Increase the heat to bring the liquid to a boil, then reduce flame to medium-low. Cook uncovered until the liquid level drops below the surface of the rice. Lower the heat further to the lowest setting, cover the pan with a lid, and let simmer for about 12 minutes without stirring to prevent breaking the grains.
5. Rest the Rice: Remove the saucepan from heat but keep the lid on. Let the rice sit undisturbed for 5 to 10 minutes to allow steam to finish cooking and make the rice fluffy.
6. Fluff and Season: Open the lid and add butter, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and chopped cilantro. Gently fluff the rice with a fork or spatula to combine without mashing. Adjust salt to taste.
7. Serve: Serve the cilantro lime rice warm alongside your favorite dishes for a vibrant, aromatic side.

Notes

• Rinsing rice helps achieve fluffy, non-sticky grains.
• Do not stir rice during cooking; stirring can make it gummy.
• Using chicken stock adds more flavor, but vegetable stock can be used for a vegetarian version.
• Butter is optional but enhances creaminess and richness.
• Cook rice on low heat to avoid burning and uneven cooking.
• Allowing the rice to rest after cooking helps improve texture.

Keywords: cilantro lime rice, chipotle copycat, basmati rice recipe, mexican side dish, flavorful rice, cilantro rice