Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe

If you’ve ever found yourself scooping an extra serving of rice at Chipotle because you just can’t get enough of that zesty, herby flavor, you’re going to fall hard for this Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice recipe! Fluffy, beautifully aromatic, and bursting with fresh lime and vibrant cilantro, this homemade version is about as close as it gets—and it’s surprisingly easy to make right in your own kitchen.

Ingredients You’ll Need

This Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice is built on just a handful of simple ingredients, but trust me—they all matter! Each brings its own layer of flavor or texture to the finished rice: from rich chicken or veggie stock to a burst of fresh citrus and heaps of vibrant green cilantro.

• Long Grain Rice (preferably basmati): For that tender, fluffy, restaurant-style result; basmati gives the best texture and subtle fragrance.
• Chicken Stock or Vegetable Stock: This is the secret to depth and savoriness—using stock instead of water takes your rice from basic to bold.
• Olive Oil: Lightly coats and toasts the grains at the start, ensuring the rice won’t clump together.
• Salt: Even just a pinch is essential to bring out all the flavors.
• Butter (optional but highly recommended): Just a spoonful makes the rice velvety, rich, and oh-so-satisfying—don’t skip it if you can!
• Fresh Lime Juice: The star ingredient for zing and a pop of citrusy aroma (make sure it’s freshly squeezed!).
• Lime Zest: Use a microplane for the zest; it packs extra fresh flavor with zero bitterness.
• Cilantro: A whole cup of finely chopped leaves gives the rice its bright color and signature herbal kick.

Variations

The beauty of Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice is how easy it is to make your own! Don’t hesitate to tailor this recipe to fit your pantry, your diet, or your latest craving—the possibilities are endless.

• Brown Rice Version: Swap white basmati for long grain brown rice—it’s nutty, chewy, and adds extra fiber (just increase the cooking time accordingly).
• Vegan & Dairy-Free: Skip the butter and stick with olive oil for a light, plant-based option that doesn’t sacrifice flavor.
• Extra Garlicky: Sauté a minced garlic clove in the olive oil before adding rice for another layer of savory goodness.
• Spicy Lime Rice: Toss in a pinch of crushed red pepper flakes or finely chopped jalapeño if you love a subtle kick.

How to Make Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice

Step 1: Rinse the Rice

This part really makes a difference! Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer or bowl, and rinse thoroughly with cool water, gently swishing with your fingertips. Rinsing removes surface starch, which keeps the grains from sticking and helps guarantee perfectly fluffy Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice every time.

Step 2: Sauté the Rice

Heat the olive oil in a heavy-bottomed saucepan over medium heat. Once shimmering, add the rinsed rice and stir to coat every grain. Sauté for a couple of minutes until it just starts to look a bit translucent, but don’t let it brown—this step adds a subtle nutty aroma and keeps the rice light.

Step 3: Add Liquids and Simmer

Pour in your chicken or vegetable stock and a pinch of salt. Scrape down any rice stuck to the side, then bring to a gentle boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat so the liquid is just barely simmering—this is the trick to letting the rice absorb all that flavor for your Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice without drying out.

Step 4: Steam to Perfection

Once almost all the liquid has disappeared (look for steam holes and rice poking through the top), lower the heat as much as possible, cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid, and let it cook undisturbed for about 12 minutes. Don’t peek! This lets the rice finish gently steaming for that cloud-like texture.

Step 5: Let It Rest

After turning off the heat, keep the lid on and allow the rice to rest for another 5–10 minutes. This little pause lets every grain stay tender, finish absorbing moisture, and keeps your Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice light and fluffy.

Step 6: Finish with Cilantro and Lime

Now for the magic: Remove the lid, add softened butter, fresh lime juice, lime zest, and that lush pile of chopped cilantro. Gently fluff the rice with a fork (never a spoon!) to mix everything evenly, and if needed, adjust salt to taste. Your Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice is officially ready to devour!

How to Serve Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice

Garnishes

For that extra-special Chipotle feel, scatter a little more chopped cilantro and a sprinkle of fresh lime zest right before serving. Add a lime wedge on the side—it’s not just pretty, it lets everyone add an extra burst of citrus exactly how they like it!

Side Dishes

This rice goes with absolutely everything: tuck it into burritos, pile it under grilled chicken or shrimp, or spoon it as the base of a colorful bowl with beans, salsa, and all your favorite toppings! Even as a star side for tacos or fajitas, Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice shines.

Creative Ways to Present

Try serving your rice in a fun build-your-own burrito bowl bar alongside salsas, grilled veggies, and guacamole. Or, for a party, mold the rice in small ramekins and invert onto plates for a festive, restaurant-inspired look—it’s always a hit on taco night!

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Allow your rice to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 4 days. The fresh lime and cilantro stay surprisingly vibrant—which means extra-tasty leftovers for quick lunches or dinner in a pinch.

Freezing

You can absolutely freeze Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice! Let it cool, portion into freezer bags or containers, and freeze for up to two months. Thaw overnight in the fridge or quickly in the microwave when you need it.

Reheating

To reheat, sprinkle the rice with a little water and cover loosely before microwaving on medium. This helps revive every grain’s fluffiness—just give it a gentle fluff with a fork and you’re good to go!

FAQs

Final Thoughts

If you’re looking for an easy, restaurant-worthy side dish that never fails to impress, you’ll love making Copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice at home! Give it a try, play around with the variations, and see just how deliciously versatile your favorite burrito shop rice can be in your very own kitchen.

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