Cilantro Lime Rice

Pin & Save for Later!

Discover the secret to making the perfect Cilantro Lime Rice, a Chipotle taste-alike that’s guaranteed to be a hit at any family dinner.

This simple yet delicious Mexican recipe brings a bright and zesty flavor to your table, making it the ideal side dish for a wide range of Mexican food, from burrito bowls to your Cinco de Mayo feast.

Not only is it a flavorful side that pairs well with both Asian and Mexican inspired dishes, but it’s also an easy to make recipe that can be prepared as a budget-friendly, 30-minute meal.

A bowl of bright and zesty Cilantro Lime Rice garnished with fresh cilantro, capturing the essence of a Mexican recipe, served with a spoon.

Why Cilantro Lime Rice is a “Must-Try”

Cilantro Lime Rice isn’t just another rice recipe; it’s a game-changer in the world of side dishes.

  • Chipotle Taste-alike: Achieves that sought-after Chipotle flavor, making it better than Chipotle’s own version.
  • Mexican Recipe with a Twist: While rooted in Mexican cuisine, its bright and zesty taste is versatile enough to complement both Asian and Mexican inspired dishes.
  • Perfect for Any Occasion: Whether it’s a casual family dinner or a special celebration like Cinco de Mayo, this rice will be a crowd-pleaser.
  • Easy to Make: This recipe is ideal for anyone looking for an easy to make recipe that doesn’t sacrifice flavor for convenience.
Close-up of a spoonful of Cilantro Lime Rice, highlighting its Chipotle taste-alike flavor, ready to complement any family dinner or burrito bowl.

Cilantro Lime Rice Ingredients

To prepare this delightful side dish, you’ll need the following ingredients:

  • Rice: The base of our dish, providing a neutral canvas for the flavors.
  • Olive Oil: Used to sauté the rice, giving it a slightly crispy texture and rich flavor.
  • Garlic Clove: Adds a subtle warmth and depth.
  • Lime Zest & Lime Juice: The key components that provide the bright and zesty taste.
  • Salt: Enhances the overall flavors of the dish.
  • Cilantro: Fresh cilantro is stirred in at the end for that unmistakable fresh, herbal note.
ngredients for Cilantro Lime Rice laid out: rice, olive oil, a garlic clove, fresh cilantro, lime zest, and lime juice, embodying the essence of a Mexican recipe.

Cilantro Lime Rice Instructions

  1. Sauté Rice: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and a finely minced garlic clove, stirring until the rice is lightly golden.
  2. Simmer: Add water and salt to the skillet, bringing it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender. Cook according to package instructions.
  3. Flavor: Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the lime zest, lime juice, and finely chopped cilantro.
  4. Serve: Enjoy this flavorful side dish with your favorite Mexican food or as part of a burrito bowl for a memorable family dinner.
A pan full of bright and zesty Cilantro Lime Rice, perfectly cooked and garnished with fresh cilantro leaves, embodying the authentic Mexican recipe taste.

Tips for the Perfect Cilantro Lime Rice

  • Fresh Ingredients: Use fresh lime juice and cilantro for the best flavor.
  • Rice Type: Long-grain white rice is preferred for its fluffy texture.
  • Chipotle Taste-alike: For that authentic Chipotle taste-alike experience, ensure the balance of lime and cilantro suits your preference.

This Cilantro Lime Rice recipe is not only a delicious and easy to make recipe but also a budget-friendly option that brings a Chipotle taste-alike experience right into your home.

Whether it’s served as a side dish or as part of a burrito bowl, this Mexican recipe is sure to add a flavorful and zesty touch to your next family dinner or Cinco de Mayo celebration.

Person holding a bowl of flavorful Cilantro Lime Rice, showcasing the perfect Chipotle taste-alike side dish for a burrito bowl or Cinco de Mayo feast.

What to Serve with Lime Cilantro Rice

Chicken Piccata

Close-up view of Chicken Piccata with thin chicken slices in a glossy, tangy lemon sauce garnished with capers and fresh green herbs.

Chicken Breast in Garlic Sauce

golden-brown chicken breast smothered in a creamy garlic butter sauce, garnished with fresh herbs.

Paprika Baked Chicken Thighs

Overhead shot of Paprika Baked Chicken Thighs in a white baking dish, showcasing the rich color and seasoning.

Lemon Butter Chicken

Tender Lemon Butter Chicken in a skillet, showcasing the golden crust and lemon garlic sauce.

FAQ

Can I make Cilantro Lime Rice ahead of time?

Yes, it reheats well, making it a convenient option for meal prep.

Is this recipe budget-friendly?

Absolutely! This budget recipe uses simple ingredients for a delicious side dish.

How can I incorporate this into a 30-minute meal?

Cilantro Lime Rice is quick and easy to prepare, making it an excellent component of a 30-minute meal, especially for busy weeknights or a quick Cinco de Mayo preparation.

A spoonful of freshly made Cilantro Lime Rice, showcasing the perfect balance of bright lime and fresh cilantro, ideal for Mexican recipes.
Bright and zesty Cilantro Lime Rice served as a side dish, ready to complement your burrito bowl or any Mexican food during a Cinco de Mayo feast.
Yield: 6. servings

Cilantro Lime Rice

Prep Time: 5 minutes
Cook Time: 25 minutes
Total Time: 30 minutes

The perfect Cilantro Lime Rice, a Chipotle taste-alike that's easy to make and ideal for any Mexican dish. This budget-friendly, 30-minute meal adds a bright, zesty flavor to family dinners, burrito bowls, and Cinco de Mayo celebrations. A flavorful side that's better than Chipotle!

Ingredients

  • 2 cups long-grain jasmine rice
  • 1½ cups water
  • 3 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil, divided
  • 1 small garlic clove, finely minced
  • 1 teaspoon lime zest
  • ½ teaspoon sea salt
  • 1½ tablespoons fresh lime juice
  • ½ cup finely chopped fresh cilantro

Instructions

  1. Sauté Rice: In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat. Add the rice and a finely minced garlic clove, stirring until the rice is lightly golden.
  2. Simmer: Add water and salt to the skillet, bringing it to a boil. Then, reduce the heat, cover, and simmer until the rice is tender. Cook according to package.
  3. Flavor: Once the rice is cooked, remove from heat and stir in the lime zest, lime juice, and finely chopped cilantro.
  4. Serve: Enjoy this flavorful side dish with your favorite Mexican food or as part of a burrito bowl for a memorable family dinner.

Nutrition Information

Yield

6

Serving Size

1

Amount Per Serving Calories 91Total Fat 2gSaturated Fat 0gTrans Fat 0gUnsaturated Fat 2gCholesterol 0mgSodium 180mgCarbohydrates 15gFiber 0gSugar 0gProtein 2g

Pin & Save for Later!

You may also like

Skip to Recipe

Sharing is Caring

Help spread the word. You\'re awesome for doing it!