Published 4/12/2022 • Updated 1/30/2024 If you like Chipotle’s cilantro lime rice, you are going to love this dish! You can make it with white rice or brown rice and it’s great for meal prep. One thing I never skimp on when I am in line at Chipotle is their cilantro rice! Whether it is their cilantro brown rice or cilantro white rice, I am game. I am a rice girl. Now you don’t have to leave your house to pick up a burrito bowl from Chipotle (say what?!). You can make it in the comfort of your own home. Make a batch of cilantro lime rice and serve it in this beef taco bowl or these vegetarian rice bowls!
White Rice or Brown Rice?
Do you prefer white rice or brown rice? It’s ok to like them both! We like the bite that brown rice has and we love starchy long grain white rice, it’s a classic! But what is the difference between the two? Brown Rice: Brown rice comes in a long grain or a short grain! It is a whole grain that still has it’s nutritious germ and fibrous bran! It tends to have a little bit more of an earthy flavor. White Rice: White rice also comes in many different shapes and sizes. The main difference between white rice and brown rice is that the white rice is stripped of its bran and germ. White rice has less fiber and is a bit easier to digest! No matter what type of rice you choose, they both taste great with fresh cilantro and lime juice.
How to Make Cilantro Lime Rice
Does anyone else have a hard time making perfect rice on the stove? Don’t worry, you’re not alone! The trick to perfect rice is to get your water ratio right and then don’t forget it once you’ve turned your heat down for the rice to simmer. Making cilantro brown rice and cilantro white rice is as easy as 1-2-3 once you nail down the rice! Begin by bringing 2 cups of water and one cup of rice to a boil. Once the rice has started to boil, turn your heat to low, cover with the lid and let the rice simmer for 35-40 minutes. Here’s a tip –> Sometimes I make sure that my burner isn’t running hot by checking on the rice ever 15 to 20 minutes. When the rice has absorbed all of the liquid in the pot, remove it from the heat and pour rice into a mixing bowl and fluff it with a fork. Then let the rice cool completely in the fridge for about 30 minutes. Finally, add the garlic powder, lime juice, cilantro, and salt to the rice and mix well! Get creative –> If you want to make this cilantro rice your own, go ahead and add in other fun spices! You can add a little heat by adding red pepper flakes or hot sauce! Or amp up the lime flavor by adding lime zest. You could also make your cilantro lime rice a little creamy by adding a couple tablespoons of greek yogurt to your rice! The options are endless.
Can I use Minute Rice for cilantro lime rice?
If you are in a pinch and don’t have time to prepare rice on the stove, feel free to use minute rice! You will have to follow the cooking instructions on the box and then after that, just add in the rest of the ingredients from our recipe. Cilantro Lime Shrimp Bowls It’s a great option if you are out of normal rice or need to make a side dish in a hurry!
Do you use the stems of cilantro?
Yes, you can use the stems of a cilantro! Cilantro is one of the only fresh herbs where you can do that! Just be sure to chop the stems into small pieces.
Can I add cheese to cilantro lime rice?
You bet you can add cheese to this cilantro lime rice! We suggest adding a 1/4 cup of grated cotija cheese. It adds a nice salty bite!
How do you store cilantro lime rice?
Once your cilantro lime rice is completely cool, you can store it in an airtight container for up to a week in the refrigerator.
What to Serve with Cilantro Rice
Cilantro Lime Shrimp Bowls 6 Ingredient Bean Burritos Beef Taco Bowls Best Ever Pork Tacos Ahi Tuna Tacos Rotisserie Chicken Enchiladas Easy Salsa Verde
Photos by: The Wooden Skillet
