I Want To Shovel This Copycat Chipotle Rice Recipe Into My Mouth RN
Aug 10, 2023
To me, Chipotle’s cilantro lime rice is what makes Chipotle, well, Chipotle. After years of ordering, I simply can’t imagine opting for brown rice (health reasons, yada yada) over a heaping scoop of the soft and flavorful white rice. It’s mouthwatering, providing the perfect zesty balance to the rest of my bowls and burritos – whatever the mood is. Get your taste buds ready for a fiesta, because I’ve cracked the chain’s copycat recipe, thanks to Meggan at Culinary Hill. Trust me, you'll be doing a happy dance with each and every bite. Let’s dive in!
Ingredients for Chipotle's Cilantro Lime Rice
You *only* need a small handful of ingredients to create lasting flavor. While you can use any rice you please for this recipe, white long-grain rice works best to emulate Chipotle's rice. The citrusy juice and generous amount of cilantro complete the recipe with pure deliciousness.
- 2 cups basmati rice unrinsed, or any long-grain white rice, rinsed
- 1 bay leaf
- Salt
- 1 teaspoon olive oil
- 2 tablespoons fresh cilantro, minced (or omit / sub parsley)
- 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice, from 1-2 limes
- 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice, from 1-2 lemons
How to Make This Chipotle Rice Recipe
It's as simple as cooking rice, then adding the lime juice and seasonings to the pot. Soon enough, you'll have Chipotle-level rice to top tacos, rice bowls, and burritos! Finish the meal off with a hefty tequila cocktail – for the good vibes.
- Bring 8 cups water to a boil in a large pot. Add rice, bay leaf, oil if using, and salt to taste (Meggan likes using 2 teaspoons). Stir and return to a boil. Boil uncovered for 10 to 12 minutes.
- Remove bay leaf. Using a fine mesh strainer, drain rice and rinse with hot water. Pour into a large bowl.
- Stir in cilantro, lime juice, and lemon juice. Season to taste with salt. Serve hot, or at room temperature.
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Recipe + photography by Culinary Hill.
