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Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice: Easy & Fluffy Homemade Recipe

A close-up mound of fluffy cilantro lime rice, bright green with fresh herbs, served on a white plate.
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Make the best homemade cilantro lime rice that tastes better than Chipotle’s. This quick and easy recipe delivers bright, zesty flavor and perfectly fluffy texture in under 30 minutes, ideal for burrito bowls or tacos.

Ingredients

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  • 1 cup long-grain white rice (Jasmine or Basmati recommended)
  • 2 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1/2 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
  • 1/4 cup fresh lime juice (about 2 limes)
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This step helps achieve fluffy cilantro lime rice.
  2. In a medium saucepan, combine the rinsed rice, water, vegetable oil, and salt.
  3. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat.
  4. Once boiling, immediately reduce the heat to the lowest setting, cover the pot tightly, and simmer for 15 minutes without lifting the lid.
  5. Remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for an additional 10 minutes. Do not lift the lid during this resting period.
  6. Fluff the cooked rice gently with a fork.
  7. Stir in the fresh cilantro, lime juice, and lime zest until everything is evenly combined.
  8. Taste and adjust salt or lime juice if needed for your preferred zesty flavor. Serve immediately as a side dish or base for your favorite Mexican meals.

Notes

  • To prevent mushy rice, do not skip rinsing the rice or the 10-minute resting period off the heat.
  • For a richer flavor base, substitute the water with low-sodium chicken broth.
  • If you prefer a softer texture for burrito bowls, use slightly less water (1 3/4 cups).
  • This recipe is naturally gluten free.

Nutrition

Find it online: https://kingscook.com/easy-cilantro-lime-rice-recipe/