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    Home » Recipes » Recipes

    Restaurant-Style Cilantro Lime Rice (Better Than Chipotle w/Video)

    Published: Apr 12, 2025 by Kelly · This post may contain affiliate links · Leave a Comment

    Jump to Recipe

    This easy Cilantro Lime Rice recipe (arroz verde con cilantro y limón) transforms white or brown rice into the most vibrant, delicious Mexican side dish. I share my two flavor-boosting secret ingredients and an easy technique that creates authentic, aromatic, richly flavored cilantro rice (think Chipotle copycat but WAY better). Ideal for burrito bowls, taco night, or served with your favorite Mexican main dishes like enchiladas and quesadillas!

    Fresh cilantro lime rice garnished with bright green cilantro leaves, finely chopped chives and juicy lime wedges on an elegant serving dish, showing perfectly cooked individual grains with subtle glossy sheen from bacon fat.
    Jump to:
    • Why This Recipe Works
    • How to Make Cilantro Lime Rice Video
    • Why You'll Love This Recipe
    • Ingredients
    • How to Make Cilantro Lime Rice
    • Baked Cilantro Lime Rice (Foolproof Cooking Method)
    • What Does Cilantro Lime Rice Taste Like?
    • Substitutions
    • Flavor Variations
    • Equipment
    • Rice Cooker Cilantro Lime Rice Instructions
    • Instant Pot Method
    • How to Meal Prep, Store, and Freeze Cilantro Lime Rice
    • How to Reheat Cilantro-Lime Rice
    • How to Serve
    • Top Tips
    • Different Rice Varieties
    • Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting
    • FAQs
    • Is Cilantro Lime Rice Healthy?
    • More Easy Mexican & Tex-Mex Recipes
    • More Easy Rice Recipes
    • Recipe
    • 📖 Recipe
    • Food Safety
    • Restaurant Secrets for Perfect Rice
    • Why Rinsing Rice Matters

    Why This Recipe Works

    Wondering how to make cilantro lime rice better than your local Mexican restaurant (or Chipotle rice)? The secrets are surprisingly simple. This is the best cilantro rice recipe out there — at least my family thinks so!

    Mexican rice and beans platter with pico de gallo, guacamole, sour cream, and shredded lettuce on the platter at a Mexican restaurant.
    A Mexican restaurant's soft taco platter with mexican rice with corn, zucchini, and, tomato, black beans, cheese, diced tomatoes, shredded lettuce and crema (showing how much better this recipe for cilantro lime rice looks).

    And here's why you'll never need to pay for restaurant cilantro lime rice again:

    First, instead of cooking rice in water as most recipes call for, I use homemade chicken stock, which adds more delicious flavor (store-bought works great too).

    Second, I don't just toss the cooked rice with cilantro and lime juice like most recipes. I use an authentic Mexican technique of pureeing the cilantro (stems and all) with the homemade chicken stock and then use it to cook the rice in. This method infuses every grain with fresh herbaceous flavor while giving the rice a beautiful pale green hue.

    My last secret? Instead of tossing the cooked rice with butter at the end (which again, most other recipes call for), I use a touch of bacon fat. It adds a subtle smokiness and depth that makes this rice incredibly hard to stop eating (you've been warned). Trust me, once you try this method, you may never go back to basic cilantro rice again!

    Adding a few fresh cilantro leaves, some finely minced chives, and a squeeze of fresh lime juice just before serving gives you a cilantro lime rice taste that adds a bright citrus flavor and enhances the dish. But for added versatility, you can serve it as is for classic cilantro rice with fresh cut limes on the side so everyone can decide for themselves if they want to add it.

    If you're planning a Cinco de Mayo dinner party, this Mexican rice pairs perfectly with real deal Authentic Tex-Mex Cheese Enchiladas with Red Enchilada Sauce (that literally took me years of testing to perfect) and these Easy Creamy Restaurant-Style Refried Beans.

    How to Make Cilantro Lime Rice Video

    Watch this quick video to see how seriously easy it is to make Cilantro Lime Rice!

    Homemade Mexican dinner plate featuring cheese enchiladas, creamy refried pinto beans topped with melted cheese and authentic Mexican cilantro rice - better than restaurant enchilada plate.

    Why You'll Love This Recipe

    • More flavorful than Chipotle's rice by a mile - Blending cilantro with the cooking liquid infuses every grain with herb flavor for restaurant-quality rice at home
    • Versatile - Perfect for burritos, burrito bowls, taco night, or alongside any Mexican-inspired meal
    • Flexible flavor - Works beautifully as either traditional cilantro rice or cilantro-lime rice by adding fresh squeezed lime juice
    • Zero waste - Uses the entire cilantro bunch, including cilantro stems, maximizing flavor while minimizing food waste
    • Perfectly fluffy texture - I give you two ways to make fluffy rice (stovetop or baked cilantro lime rice) that ensures each grain remains distinct and fluffy, never gummy or mushy
    • Make-ahead friendly - Excellent for meal prep and reheats beautifully for quick weeknight meals
    • Healthy Cilantro Lime Rice - Allows you to control the ingredients for a fresher, cleaner version of your restaurant's favorite rice.
    • Restaurant-quality results - Using chicken broth and a touch of bacon fat adds a subtle richness that elevates this rice, while puréeing the cilantro with the broth means every kernel of rice is full of flavor
    Fresh ingredients labeled for cilantro lime rice including long grain rice, vegetable oil, fresh cilantro bunch, lime, onions, chives, garlic, salt, chicken stock, and bacon fat a half sheet pan.

    Ingredients

    It's wild how just a few cheap pantry ingredients can transform humble rice into something this craveable. If you have dietary restrictions or you simply don't have some or all of these ingredients, check out the Substitutions section below for the best alternatives.

    • Long grain white rice - Basmati or canilla rice (an extra long grain rice) work best for fluffy, distinct grains that don't clump together.
    • Bacon fat - One of my secret ingredients that adds remarkable depth and a subtle smokiness you have to taste for yourself.
    • Onion - White onion is traditional and creates an aromatic base that enhances the overall flavor, but you can also use yellow onions.
    • Fresh garlic - Adds essential savory notes that complement the cilantro perfectly.
    • Chicken broth - I use homemade chicken stock, which is superior in flavor to boxed or canned chicken stock, but store-bought works great for convenience.
    • Fresh cilantro - I use just the right amount to allow the other flavors to also shine through.
    • Salt - I use Diamond Crystal Kosher salt, but any salt will do (add less salt if using regular table salt or sea salt and adjust accordingly.
    • Fresh Lime - Adds brightness and acidity that balances the herbaceous cilantro, which bottled lime juice can't do.
    • Chives - Optional garnish that adds another layer of fresh, mild onion flavor, and is pretty to look at.

    See recipe card for quantities.

    A homemade deluxe cheese enchilada platter with creamy refried beans and cilantro rice.

    How to Make Cilantro Lime Rice

    Making your own Chipotle rice (but one that's way better tasting) involves two key techniques that set this recipe apart: toasting the rice first to develop nutty flavors and using cilantro-infused chicken broth as the cooking liquid for maximum flavor impact. Here's the step-by-step process in a nutshell:

    Step 1. Toast the rice: Sauté onions 3-5 minutes in oil until translucent, add garlic and sautè for one minute, then add rice and cook until slightly toasted with a nutty aroma.

    Long grain rice toasting in vegetable oil for the first step of preparing authentic cilantro rice and cilantro lime rice, creating nutty flavor and preventing grains from sticking together.
    Toasted long grain rice ready for garlic addition in cilantro lime rice preparation, showing golden-brown color and separated grains for optimal flavor absorption.
    Aromatic garlic sautéing with toasted rice for cilantro lime rice, adding depth of flavor before liquid ingredients are incorporated for perfect Mexican-style rice.

    Step 2. Prepare cilantro broth: Blend fresh cilantro (stems and all) with chicken stock.

    Fresh cilantro leaves and stems with chicken stock inside Vitamix blender carafe, ready to be pureed for authentic Mexican cilantro rice, to create vibrant green cooking liquid for maximum flavor infusion.
    Bright green cilantro-infused chicken stock freshly blended to maximum smoothness, ready to be added to toasted rice for authentic Mexican cilantro rice with vibrant color and intense herb flavor.

    Step 3. Cook the rice: Add the plain chicken stock, cilantro-chicken stock, and salt to the toasted rice, bring to a boil, then simmer covered about 20 minutes until perfectly tender.

    Vibrant green cilantro-chicken stock mixture being stirred into toasted rice with garlic, creating a flavorful base for cilantro lime rice before simmering covered for 20 minutes until perfectly tender and aromatic.

    Step 4. Finish with flavor: Remove it from the heat, add the bacon fat (or butter if using), fluff the rice with a fork, and rest covered for 10 minutes before serving. Just before serving, stir in the minced chives and top with more fresh cilantro leaves.

    Perfectly cooked cilantro rice removed from heat with visible green cilantro flecks throughout, ready for bacon fat addition and fluffing to create rich texture before final 10-minute rest for optimal flavor development.
    Rich bacon fat being added to freshly cooked cilantro rice, melting into the hot grains to add depth of flavor and silky texture before fluffing and final resting period.

    For cilantro-lime variation: Toss with fresh lime juice and/or a little lime zest or serve fresh lime wedges to let people decide for themselves to add it or not.

    A serving platter with light green colored Mexican cilantro rice.

    Hint

    Don't skip toasting the rice or blending the chicken stock with cilantro! The toasting step develops essential flavor, and helps prevent the rice kernels from clumping together. While the blended cilantro mixture coats every rice kernel for maximum flavor. For the fluffiest texture, avoid lifting the lid during cooking and allow the full 10-minute rest period after cooking.

    Find detailed instructions in the recipe card.

    Purple le creuset dutch oven on the stove.

    Baked Cilantro Lime Rice (Foolproof Cooking Method)

    If you're at all nervous about getting the perfect fluffy rice texture, the most foolproof method is to cook it in the oven. This is a method that many restaurants use to make perfect fluffy rice without a rice steamer. Here's how to adjust this recipe to bake the rice in the oven instead:

    Follow steps 1-2 in the instructions. Once you've brought the cooking liquid and rice to a boil, reduced it to a simmer, and covered it with a lid, it’s time to place it into a preheated 375°F/190°C oven for approximately 20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove it from the oven, add the bacon fat (or butter if using), fluff it with a fork, cover, and rest for 10 minutes before serving.  

    A dutch oven or an oven-proof casserole dish with a tight fitting lid works great.

    What Does Cilantro Lime Rice Taste Like?

    Cilantro lime rice offers a bright, fresh flavor profile that's both vibrant and comforting at the same time. The cilantro provides an herbaceous note that permeates each grain because of my broth infusion method.

    When finished with lime juice, you get a pleasant tanginess that perfectly balances the savory elements from the chicken broth, garlic, onions, and bacon fat (or butter or lard if you choose to use that instead).

    Unlike plain white rice, which serves merely as a backdrop, this cilantro-lime rice stands confidently as a flavorful component of any meal. The subtle smokiness from the bacon fat adds depth without overpowering the fresh herbs. This rice is well-balanced rather than being overtly in your face "cilantro"!

    Homemade cheese enchilada platter with authentic refried beans, and Mexican cilantro rice.

    Substitutions

    Here are the best ingredient alternatives that will still create a delicious rice dish the whole family can enjoy:

    • Vegan Cilantro Lime Rice: Substitute vegetable oil or margarine for the bacon fat (or lard) tossed in at the end when fluffing the rice, and use vegetable stock or water to replace the chicken stock.
    • Vegetarian Clilantro Lime Rice: Substitute butter to replace the bacon fat (or lard) tossed in at the end when fluffing the rice, and use vegetable stock or water to replace the chicken stock.
    • Clilantro Lime Brown Rice: Substitute white rice with brown rice, but you'll need to add additional cooking liquid and cook the rice for longer. (*see brown rice section below for specific measurements and cooking requirements)
    • Yellow onion: While white onion is traditional, you can easily substitute yellow onion. Just do not substitute red/purple onion because it will stain the rice an ugly color green-blue color.
    • Garlic Powder: Substitute 1 teaspoon of garlic powder (not garlic salt) for the fresh garlic in a pinch, but I don't recommend it unless you absolutely have no other choice.
    • Butter: Substitute butter for the bacon fat if you want a different rich flavor.
    • Parsley: While substituting parsley for cilantro will create an entirely different flavored rice, for anyone who thinks cilantro tastes like soap, parsley is an option...or...
    • Authentic Mexican Rice: For anyone who thinks cilantro tastes like soap, simply omitting it from this recipe will give you a traditional Mexican white rice, which is incredibly delicious and still FULL of delicious flavor beyond your regular white rice recipes.
    Photo collage of best cilantro lime rice add-ins featuring fresh jalapenos, corn, and cooked black beans.

    Flavor Variations

    Beyond the classic cilantro lime rice, this versatile recipe can be adapted in numerous ways to complement different cuisines and main dishes. Below are a few tasty ways to enjoy it:

    • Cilantro-Lime Rice: Simply toss the finished rice with freshly squeezed lime juice before serving. This bright, tangy version is perfect for burrito bowls and pairs wonderfully with grilled meats like carne asada, grilled chicken, or lamb.
    • Corn and Cilantro Rice: Add 1 cup of fresh or frozen corn kernels to the pot just as the rice finishes cooking. The residual heat will steam the corn to perfection so there's no need to cook it first. That said, if you have leftover corn, you can add that too.
    • Jalapeño Cilantro Rice: Add 1-2 finely diced jalapeños or serranos (seeds removed for less heat) with the onions for a kick of heat.
    • Tomato Cilantro Rice: Add ½ cup of finely diced tomatoes just before adding the cooking liquid
    • Mexican Street Corn Rice: Mix in 1 cup charred corn kernels, cotija cheese, and a sprinkle of chili powder
    • Chipotle Cilantro Rice: Stir in 1-2 teaspoons of adobo sauce from canned chipotles for smoky heat
    • Cayenne Kick: Add ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper to the cooking liquid for subtle background heat
    • Cilantro Lime Rice with Black Beans: Fold in 1 cup of cooked or drained and rinsed black beans after the rice is cooked for added protein and a more substantial side dish that can even serve as a light main course with a little sliced avocado added.
    • Coconut Cilantro Lime Rice: Replace half the broth with coconut milk for a creamy variation with tropical notes that pairs beautifully with Thai or Caribbean dishes.
    • Garlic-Lovers Cilantro Rice: Double the garlic for an intensely aromatic version that complements grilled or baked seafood (like shrimp scampi) particularly well.
    • Lime Zest Cilantro Rice: Add lime zest to the cooking liquid for an even more pronounced citrus flavor throughout the rice.
    • Cumin-Cilantro Rice: Add 1 teaspoon ground cumin when toasting the rice for warm, earthy notes
    • Cilantro Rice Pilaf: Include diced bell peppers, peas, and carrots with the onions

    Equipment

    • 4-quart sauce pan with tight-fitting lid - Essential for properly cooking rice without sticking
    • Vitamix, blender, or food processor - For creating the cilantro-infused broth
    • Wooden spoon - For stirring without breaking the rice grains
    • Scale or Measuring cups and spoons - For accurate proportions
    • Fork - For fluffing the finished rice

    Rice Cooker Cilantro Lime Rice Instructions

    Making cilantro lime rice in a rice cooker is incredibly convenient and yields perfect results every time. Here's how to adapt this recipe:

    • Sauté the onions and garlic in a separate pan with lard or oil until translucent
    • Blend the cilantro with 2 cups of warm chicken broth as in the stovetop method
    • Add the rice, sautéed onion mixture, remaining broth, and cilantro broth to your rice cooker
    • Cook according to your rice cooker's instructions for white rice (usually just pressing the "white rice" button)
    • When the cooking cycle completes, add the bacon fat or butter, fluff with a fork, and let stand covered for 10 minutes
    • Add optional lime juice just before serving

    This rice cooker method is particularly helpful when preparing multiple dishes for a Mexican-themed dinner party or family meal, freeing up stovetop space for other components.

    Instant Pot Method

    The Instant Pot makes cooking cilantro lime rice nearly effortless with consistent results every time. Here's how to adapt this recipe:

    • Set Instant Pot to Sauté function and add lard or oil
    • Add onions and sauté until translucent, then add garlic and cook for 30 seconds
    • Add rice and sauté for 2 minutes until lightly toasted
    • Meanwhile, blend cilantro with 2 cups of the broth
    • Press Cancel, then add all broth (plain and cilantro-infused) and salt to the pot
    • Secure lid, set valve to Sealing position, and cook on Manual/Pressure Cook for 4 minutes
    • Allow natural pressure release for 10 minutes, then carefully release remaining pressure
    • Stir in bacon fat or butter, fluff with a fork, and let stand covered for 5 minutes
    • Add lime juice just before serving if desired

    The Instant Pot method is perfect for busy weeknights when you want to minimize active cooking time while still achieving restaurant-quality results.

    A serving platter filled with homemade cilantro-lime-rice garnished and ready to be eaten.

    How to Meal Prep, Store, and Freeze Cilantro Lime Rice

    Meal prep rice makes an easy Mexican side dish and can be prepared in several ways to save time during busy weeks. Here's how to properly store it:

    Refrigerator Storage

    Making cilantro lime rice in advance:

    Prepare the rice up to 4 days ahead and store it in the refrigerator. Reheat with a splash of water in the microwave or on the stovetop, then add fresh lime juice just before serving to brighten the flavors.

    For planning a week of varied meals, make a large batch of cilantro rice over the weekend, then portion and use it in different ways throughout the week:

    • Monday: Serve with panko-crusted chicken and roasted vegetables
    • Tuesday: Use as filling for stuffed peppers
    • Wednesday: Make burritos or burrito bowls with your favorite toppings
    • Thursday: Turn into a rice salad with added corn, chopped rotisserie chicken, beans, avocado, and salsa
    • Friday: Use as a base for fish tacos or a rice bowl with garlic shrimp

    Freezer Storage

    For longer storage, freeze cooled rice in portion-sized containers or freezer bags for up to 3 months. I often freeze individual portions for quick meal additions later. Press flat in freezer bags to thaw more quickly and save space.

    How to Reheat Cilantro-Lime Rice

    The best way to reheat meal-prepped cilantro rice depends on your kitchen equipment (or lack thereof).

    Stovetop Method

    To reheat refrigerated rice, add a drizzle of vegetable oil to a large skillet or sauté pan set over medium-high heat, add the rice, and sautè, moving it around until the rice is heated through (about 5 minutes). You may add 1-2 tablespoons of water or chicken broth as needed for reheating larger amounts of rice.

    Note: Using a large surface area like a 12-inch skillet or 4 to 6-quart sauté pan or braiser allows the rice to have more direct contact with heat, which helps it reheat more quickly and helps avoid making it mushy.

    Microwave Method

    To reheat refrigerated rice, sprinkle with 1-2 tablespoons of water or chicken broth per cup of rice, cover, and microwave for 1-2 minutes, fluffing it halfway through.

    Reheating Frozen Rice

    Thaw, then reheat: For frozen rice, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator or use the defrost setting on your microwave before reheating.

    Reheat from frozen: You can also reheat directly from frozen by heating 1 tablespoon of oil over high heat in a wok or large 6-quart sauté pan. Just before the oil starts to smoke, add the rice and stir fry it around to break up any frozen clumps until the rice is warmed through. It shouldn't be dry at this point, but you do have the option of adding 1-2 tablespoons of chicken broth or water to the rice and fluffing it before serving.

    You can add a sprinkle of chopped cilantro and/or a squeeze of fresh lime juice to brighten the flavors before serving.

    A photo collage of my best mexican and tex-mex recipes to serve with homemade refried beans including cheese enchiladas, mexican cilantro rice, sheetpan loaded nachos, beyond meat tacos, tacos al pastor, quesadillas, and grilled chicken.

    How to Serve

    Cilantro rice and cilantro lime rice are incredibly versatile and complement countless dishes. Here are some of our favorite ways to enjoy it:

    What to Serve with Cilantro Lime Rice

    • Burrito Bowls: Create restaurant-style bowls with black beans, grilled chicken or carnitas, fresh salsa, guacamole, and cheese
    • Mexican Mains: Serve alongside enchiladas, fajitas, or chile rellenos
    • Grilled Proteins: Pairs perfectly with lime-marinated grilled shrimp, carne asada, or citrus chicken
    • Seafood: Complements fish tacos, shrimp tacos, blackened salmon, or garlic butter scallops
    • Vegetarian/Vegan Meals: Creates a complete protein when combined with black beans, or grilled tofu, diced oven-roasted (or steamed) sweet potatoes or butternut squash, and topped with avocado lime crema.

    The bright cilantro flavor also works beautifully with Thai curries, Jerk Chicken, Jamaican Beef Patties, and Indian dishes.

    Top Tips

    • Use the cilantro stems - Unlike some herbs, cilantro stems are tender and packed with flavor. Including them in your puree maximizes flavor and makes this a zero-waste recipe.
    • Toast the rice properly - Don't rush this process; cook until the rice turns slightly opaque with a nutty aroma for the best texture and flavor development.
    • Let the rice rest - Rice should always rest for half as long as it is cooked to allow moisture to distribute evenly, resulting in perfectly fluffy rice. In this recipe, the rice cooks for 20 minutes and, therefore, should rest 10 minutes after cooking.
    • Keep the lid on - Resist the urge to peek during cooking, as this releases steam and can result in unevenly cooked rice.
    • Use cilantro leaves AND stems - The stems contain just as much flavor as the leaves and add a beautiful pale green color to the rice.
    • Add lime juice at the end - For the brightest flavor, add fresh lime juice just before serving rather than during the cooking process.
    Comparison photo of long grain white rice compared to brown rice which can both be used to make cilantro lime rice.

    Different Rice Varieties

    While long-grain white rice is traditional for cilantro lime rice, you can adapt this recipe for various rice types. Use traditional Here's how they each perform:

    Using Brown Rice vs. White Long Grain Rice

    Brown rice creates a heartier, healthier version with a nutty flavor and more fiber. Increase cooking liquid to 2½ cups per cup of rice and extend the cooking time to 35-40 minutes. The texture will be chewier, but it pairs wonderfully with the cilantro and lime.

    Using Parboiled Long Grain White Rice

    For parboiled rice, reduce the water by ¼ cup (using 1 ¾ cups total) and decrease cooking time to 15-18 minutes instead of 20-25. Since parboiled rice is partially cooked, it requires less liquid and time to prepare.

    Follow the same toasting process with oil as directed in the original recipe. After cooking, add the bacon fat, fluff the mixture, add lime juice and/or lime zest (if desired), and let stand for 5 minutes before serving.

    Best Rice for Cilantro Lime Rice

    Basmati rice or Carolina Gold Rice are my top choices for their ability to maintain distinct grains after cooking, but any long-grain white rice works great. Jasmine rice also works, but adds its own unique floral notes (which you may not want), and it can also be more expensive.

    Standard long-grain rice also performs well, while medium or short-grain varieties (like those used for risotto or sushi) tend to become too sticky for traditional cilantro lime rice.

    For an authentic restaurant-style texture, never use par-cooked rice, and be sure to rinse your rice thoroughly (until the water runs clear) before cooking it to remove excess starch that can cause clumping and mushy rice.

    A measuring cup filled with mushy rice that wasn't rinsed before cooking rendering it clumpy - showing you how to avoid rice that's not cooked properly.
    Rice that wasn't rinsed before cooking, rendering it mushy and clumpy.

    Common Mistakes & Troubleshooting

    Even experienced cooks occasionally encounter issues when making rice. Here's how to solve a few common problems:

    Mushy Rice

    If your rice turns out too wet or mushy, it's likely due to too much liquid, not enough cooking time, or not washing the rice well enough before cooking to remove excess starch.

    To fix already cooked mushy rice, spread it on a baking sheet and place in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes to dry out. For next time, ensure you wash the rice until the water runs clear (use the starchy rice water for your vegetable garden for zero waste), use the correct rice-to-liquid ratio, and allow the full resting period after cooking.

    Undercooked Rice

    If your rice is still firm or crunchy after cooking, add an additional ¼ cup of water or broth, cover tightly, and cook on low heat for another 5-10 minutes. Check for doneness and repeat if necessary.

    Bland Rice

    If your cilantro lime rice lacks flavor, it could be underseasoned. Enhance the flavor by adding more salt, a bit of bacon fat, butter or oil, additional fresh cilantro, and more lime juice to taste. For next time, ensure you're using flavorful broth rather than water and properly toasting the rice at the beginning for the best flavor.

    Stuck or Burned Rice

    To prevent rice from sticking to the pot, make sure to use enough fat, and cook over low heat once it's simmering. If you do get some burnt stuck rice on the bottom and you can smell it, remove it from the pot as quickly as possible without scraping the bottom of the pan. Instead, carefully scoop out the good rice from the top and leave the burnt rice on the bottom.

    Add water to the pot with the burnt rice and allow it to soak for several hours to make the burned rice easier to clean out of your pot.

    Troubleshooting cilantro-lime rice to keep it from turning brown with black cilantro pieces in it (a pot of brown cilantro lime rice with unappetizing color).

    Dingy Colored or Brown Colored Cilantro Lime Rice↑

    If your cilantro rice (or cilantro lime rice) is discolored, turned brown, black, or dark and unsightly, it means the cilantro has oxidized. In this recipe, keeping cilantro green in rice requires the puréed cilantro-chicken stock (or water) mixture to be added to the toasted rice and brought to a boil very soon after it's prepared.

    If you leave the puréed mixture at room temperature for too long, the cilantro will oxidize and turn the rice brown with black specks in it.

    The photo above shows what your cilantro-lime rice will look like if the puréed cilantro mixture is prepared too far in advance of when it's going to be used which To avoid this, blend the cilantro mixture while the garlic is sautéing, then add it directly to the toasted rice and bring it to a boil. This technique keeps the rice color bright green, fresh-looking.

    FAQs

    Is Cilantro Lime Rice Healthy?

    Cilantro lime rice is a nutritious side dish with several health benefits depending on how much you eat and whether or not it's loaded up with fat and salt. This is why making it at home is better than heading to Chipotle to get your fix - because you have control over the ingredients and the amounts used.

    • Whole grain option: When made with brown rice, it provides additional fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
    • Fresh herbs: Cilantro contains antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and K, and has been shown to have detoxifying properties.
    • Reduced Fat Cilantro Lime Rice: Reduce the oil in this recipe to just 2 tablespoons (30g) and omit bacon fat for a much healthier version. You can choose to add a pat of butter or extra virgin olive oil at the end to fluff the rice or simply leave it out for even fewer calories. And you can make it even healthier by toasting the rice with extra virgin olive oil, coconut oil, avocado oil, or grapeseed oil instead of standard vegetable oil.
    • Low-Sodium Cilantro Lime Rice: Using homemade unsalted chicken broth, low-sodium store bought chicken broth, or even water allows you to have full control of the sodium content. You may even reduce the salt by as much as you need to fit within your low-sodium diet.
    • Versatile base: Serves as the foundation for adding other nutritious ingredients like beans, vegetables, and lean meat like chicken, pork, turkey, or shrimp.

    With a few adjustments, this rice makes an excellent base for creating balanced meals with lean proteins and vegetables.

    Can I make this rice in a rice cooker?

    Yes! To adapt this recipe for a rice cooker, sauté the onions and garlic with the oil in a separate pan first, then add them to your rice cooker along with the rinsed rice, cilantro-infused broth, and salt. Cook according to your rice cooker's instructions for white rice. When the rice is cooked, toss with the bacon fat (or butter), add freshly squeezed lime juice (for cilantro-lime version), and garnish with chives.

    Is this recipe gluten-free?

    Yes, this recipe is naturally gluten-free as written. Just ensure your chicken broth (is using store-bought) is certified gluten-free if you have celiac disease or severe gluten sensitivity.

    Can I make this rice ahead of time for a party?

    Absolutely! This rice reheats beautifully. Cook it up to two days ahead, store it in the refrigerator, then reheat gently with a splash of broth or water in a covered pot on low heat or in the microwave. For the best flavor, add fresh lime juice (if using) and chives just before serving. See the Storing section above for more detailed instructions.

    I don't have a blender. Can I still make this recipe?

    Yes! Instead of blending cilantro with broth, very finely chop the cilantro (both leaves and tender stems) and add it directly to the pot along with the broth. The color will be less uniform and have more specks of cilantro throughout, and still taste great!

    Can I use brown rice instead of white rice?

    Yes, you can substitute brown rice, but you'll need to adjust both the liquid amount and cooking time. For brown rice, use 2½ cups of broth instead of 2 cups and increase the covered cooking time to about 30-40 minutes. The texture will be chewier but equally delicious, with added nutritional benefits.

    How does this compare to Chipotle's cilantro lime rice?

    This recipe produces a more flavorful rice than Chipotle's version because we blend cilantro directly into the cooking liquid, infusing every grain with flavor. Second, this recipe uses chicken broth as the cooking liquid which automatically adds more delicious flavor. Next, the addition of bacon fat (you can use butter instead) and sautéed onions and garlic also creates deeper flavor complexity than Chipotle's version. Lastly, our method allows you to adjust the cilantro and lime intensity to your preference, and when you make it at home, you get to use higher-quality ingredients. Win-Win!

    What should I do if my rice turns out too wet?

    If your rice is too wet after cooking, remove the lid, place a clean kitchen towel over the pot, and replace the lid. Let it sit for 10-15 minutes - the towel will absorb excess moisture. Alternatively, spread the rice on a baking sheet and place in a 300°F oven for 5-10 minutes to dry it out slightly.

    Can I use parsley instead of cilantro in rice?

    Yes, you can substitute parsley for cilantro if you don't enjoy cilantro's flavor or are serving someone with the cilantro-soap gene. Parsley will create a completely different flavor, but the technique remains the same. Flat-leaf (Italian) parsley works better than curly parsley for this substitution. If you're goal is to make traditional Mexican rice, simply omit the cilantro and don't use parsley either. This recipe (made without the addition of cilantro) makes an authentic Mexican white rice that is as delicious as the cilantro version, just not herbacious.

    Does cilantro go with rice?

    Absolutely! Cilantro pairs great with rice, creating a fragrant, herbaceous flavor profile that elevates plain rice to a delicious side dish. Cilantro's bright, slightly citrusy notes complement the neutral canvas of rice, especially when enhanced with aromatics like onion and garlic. This herb-rice combination is popular in Mexican, Latin American, Indian, and Southeast Asian cuisines. My Chinese students in my cooking school in Chengdu, LOVED this rice - it crosses all cultural divides.

    What is cilantro lime made of?

    Cilantro lime rice is made of long-grain white rice cooked with fresh cilantro (both leaves and stems- zero wastte), lime juice, sometimes lime zest, aromatics like onions and garlic (and sometimes a bay leaf or epazote), chicken broth (in this recipe for added flavor) but usually water for cooking liquid, and a small amount of fat (like bacon fat, butter, or oil). The distinctive flavor comes from infusing the cooking liquid with blended cilantro and finishing with fresh lime juice to taste. These are just a few of the secret ingredients and techniques I use to enhance the flavor beyond most other recipes.

    Do I need to rinse the rice before cooking?

    If you want the fluffiest rice without it clumping together, you must rinse it really well to rid it of excess starch when cooking on the stovetop. When using a rice cooker, it's a little more forgiving if you don't wash it, but I recommend doing so anyway for the best fluffiest rice possible. Washing rice before cooking removes excess surface starch, resulting in fluffier grains that don't clump together. For the best restaurant-style cilantro lime rice, I recommend rinsing until the water runs clear. This step takes just a minute but makes a noticeable difference in the final texture.

    Can I freeze cilantro lime rice?

    Yes, cilantro lime rice freezes exceptionally well. Cool completely, then portion into airtight containers or freezer bags. It will maintain quality for up to 3 months. To reheat, see my detailed instructions in the Storage section above!

    Why add the cilantro at the end instead of cooking with the rice?

    In this recipe, we actually do both! The bulk of the cilantro is blended with chicken broth and cooked with the rice to infuse every grain with flavor. Adding a small amount of fresh cilantro at the end provides a bright, fresh flavor boost and vibrant color that would be lost if all the cilantro were cooked. This two-step approach gives you the best-tasting homemade cilantro lime rice.

    Is cilantro lime rice the same as green rice?

    No, though they're similar. Cilantro lime rice specifically features cilantro and lime flavor. Green rice (arroz verde) typically includes additional green ingredients like poblano peppers, tomatillos, or spinach along with cilantro, creating a more complex flavor profile and deeper green color. Our cilantro rice method creates a lighter green hue focused specifically on bright cilantro flavor.

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    A serving platter with light green colored Mexican cilantro rice.

    Restaurant-Style Cilantro Lime Rice (Better Than Chipotle)


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    • Author: Kelly
    • Total Time: 30 minutes
    • Yield: 8-10 cups 1x
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    Description

    This restaurant-style Cilantro Lime Rice recipe transforms plain rice into a vibrant, flavorful Mexican side dish that tastes even better than Chipotle's! Perfectly fluffy long-grain rice is infused with fresh cilantro and savory aromatics, with the option to add fresh lime juice for a bright accompaniment to your favorite Mexican, Thai, or Indian meals - and it's ready in under 30 minutes!


    Ingredients

    Units Scale
    • ½ cup vegetable oil (118g)
    • 2 cups long grain white rice (380g)
    • Heaping ⅓ cup onion, diced (60g) (sub yellow onion)
    • 3 teaspoons fresh garlic, smashed or finely minced (7g)
    • 2 tablespoons bacon fat (30g) (sub unsalted butter)
    • 3 teaspoons kosher salt (9g) (or half as much table salt)
    • 4 cups chicken broth, divided into 2 cup portions (960g)
    • 1 bunch fresh cilantro (14g)
    • optional ingredient: juice from ½ lime, or more or less to taste (for cilantro-lime rice option)
    • optional ingredient: 1 heaping tablespoon chives, minced

    Optional add-ins:

    1 cup fresh or frozen corn kernels (135g) can be added to the rice just as it finishes cooking along with the bacon fat. The residual heat will steam cook the rice as it rests.


    Instructions

    1. Add the oil to a 4-quart (4 liter) sauce pan over medium-high heat. Add the onion and rice and cook, stirring 3-5 minutes or until the onions are translucent and the rice is toasted and fragrant. Add the garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
    2. While the garlic is cooking, purée the cilantro with 2 cups of chicken stock (or water if using) using a blender or food processor.
    3. Add the 2 cups of plain chicken stock, 2 cups of cilantro-chicken stock mixture, and the salt to the rice, and bring to a boil. Reduce heat to low, cover with a lid, and simmer undisturbed for 20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.
    4. Remove it from the heat, add the bacon fat (or butter if using), fluff the rice with a fork, and rest for 10 minutes before serving. Just before serving, stir in the minced chives, and top with more fresh cilantro leaves and freshly squeezed lime juice if desired. Enjoy!

    Baked Cilantro-Lime Rice Cooking Method↓:

    Once you've brought the cooking liquid and rice to a boil, reduced it to a simmer, and covered it with a lid in Step #3, it’s time to place the rice into a preheated 375°F/190°C oven for approximately 20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed. Remove it from the oven, add the bacon fat (or butter if using), fluff it with a fork, cover, and rest for 10 minutes before serving.  You'll need a dutch oven or other oven safe casserole dish with tight-fitting lid.

    Notes

    The towel trick: Placing a clean kitchen towel between the pot and lid during the resting period absorbs excess steam for perfectly fluffy rice especially if you think you've added excess cooking liquid for some reason.

    For an even more prominent garlic flavor, add finely minced garlic instead of the smashed garlic cloves. I like to use smashed garlic to perfume the rice and then remove it just before serving, which is a great option when serving guests who aren't big garlic fans. 

    To get the most out of this rice and make it more flexible (especially for meal-prepping weekly dinners), instead of adding lime juice to the entire batch, serve lime wedges on the side. This way, you can use the rice for more dishes throughout the week without the lime interfering.

    Bay Leaves: Why I don't use them in this recipe, but it's an option: While Chipotle Mexican Grill most likely adds a single bay leaf to the rice cooking water, it's not necessary for the best cilantro lime rice. I don't use it because this rice is perfect on its own and truly tastes like what your local Mexican spot serves. If you've never cooked with bay leaves (fresh or dried), they can be overpowering if added to the cooking liquid too early or adding too many. Use it sparingly (even ½ of a dried bay leaf would be enough to flavor this recipe without overwhelming the other flavors). 

    • Prep Time: 10 minutes
    • Cook Time: 20 minutes
    • Category: Side Dishes
    • Method: Stovetop or Oven Baked Options
    • Cuisine: Mexican + Tex-Mex

    Nutrition

    • Serving Size: ¾ cup
    • Calories: 195
    • Sugar: 0.5g
    • Sodium: 535mg
    • Fat: 10.5g
    • Saturated Fat: 2.5g
    • Unsaturated Fat: 8.5g
    • Trans Fat: 0g
    • Carbohydrates: 24g
    • Fiber: 0.5g
    • Protein: 3g
    • Cholesterol: 5mg

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    Food Safety

    • Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
    • Cool leftover rice quickly (within 1 hour) and refrigerate promptly to prevent bacterial growth

    See more guidelines at USDA.gov.

    Restaurant Secrets for Perfect Rice

    Having worked in restaurant kitchens, I've learned that professional chefs rely on several key techniques for consistently perfect rice:

    • Proper rice-to-liquid ratio: Restaurants measure precisely, typically using 1:1.5 for white rice and 1:2 for brown rice
    • Toasting the rice: This step develops nutty flavors and helps each grain remain distinct
    • Using homemade stock: Restaurant kitchen stocks are far more flavorful than store-bought versions, but even a quick 30-minute pressure cooker chicken broth tastes amazing in this recipe.
    • Proper resting period: Professional chefs always allow rice to rest, covered, for 10-15 minutes after cooking
    • The towel trick: Placing a clean kitchen towel between the pot and lid during the resting period absorbs excess steam for perfectly fluffy rice
    • Adding fat at the finish: A small amount of high-quality fat (butter, olive oil, or rendered animal fat) added after cooking enhances flavor and texture

    These professional techniques are incorporated into this recipe to give you restaurant-quality results at home. The unique approach of blending cilantro with the cooking liquid is a technique that consistently delivers superior flavor compared to just mixing chopped cilantro and lime juice into cooked rice at the end.

    Why Rinsing Rice Matters

    The simple step of rinsing rice before cooking makes a significant difference in the final texture of cilantro lime rice. Here's why:

    • Removes excess starch: Surface starch causes rice grains to stick together, creating a gummy texture
    • Improves grain separation: Rinsed rice cooks into distinct, individual grains rather than clumping
    • Creates fluffier texture: The reduction in starch allows the rice to achieve that light, fluffy restaurant-quality texture
    • Cleaner flavor: Rinsing removes any dust, debris, or processing residues, resulting in purer rice flavor
    • Better absorption: Clean rice absorbs the cilantro-infused liquid more effectively

    Simply place your rice in a fine-mesh strainer and rinse under cool running water, stirring gently with your fingers until the water runs clear rather than cloudy. This takes about 1-2 minutes but makes a noticeable difference in your final dish. After rinsing, drain well before proceeding with the recipe.

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    Hi, I'm Kelly! A private chef helping busy families cook and enjoy tastier, healthier meals at home. Born and raised in Arkansas, I've lived and worked in NYC, Sichuan China, and now Northeast Italy. Each of these places impacts the diverse way we cook, live, and celebrate life. You'll find a bit of everything here whether you're new to cooking, or you've made it all. If you love to eat, you're in the right place!

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