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Easy and simple to make, this cilantro lime rice is an easy way to add flavor to your favorite dishes. Serve it as a side with your favorite Mexican mains or grilled meats for a filling and hearty meal.

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Cilantro lime rice is my favorite side to order at Chipotle’s, and it’s so easy to make your own at home when you get that craving!

This is a great side dish to serve with your favorite Mexican recipes, and it’s so fresh and vibrant. It’s also great for your weekly meal prep. So simple and so delicious!

Be sure to try my Mushroom Rice and Shrimp Fried Rice too!

Why you will love this cilantro lime rice recipe!

Quick and easy: It only takes a minute or two of extra time to add some pizzaz to plain rice.
Simple ingredients: You only need a few basic ingredients for this side dish, most of which you’ll have to hand already.
One pot: This rice is cooked and seasoned in the same pot, so clean up is a breeze!

Ingredients

Rice: I make this recipe with long grain rice like Basmati rice.
Broth or water: To cook the rice. I like to use chicken broth or vegetable stock for extra flavor, but water will work just fine.
Butter: For a rich flavor. You can use salted or unsalted, just adjust the amount of added salt.
Garlic: Use freshly minced garlic for the best flavor.
Lime: We use both the zest and juice of the lime for a really fresh and zingy flavor.
Cilantro: Fresh cilantro adds a great herby freshness. If you don’t like cilantro, you can substitute it with parsley.
Kosher salt

How to make cilantro lime rice

Bring water or chicken stock in a medium saucepan to a boil on the stove top, add rice, stir, cover, and reduce the heat to low. Simmer for 15 minutes until the water is absorbed and rice is tender.
Remove the pot from heat (keep it covered) and let it sit for 10 minutes.
Fluff rice with a fork, add the butter, minced garlic, lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro, and salt. Toss everything together and serve immediately!

process images of making cilantro lime rice

close up image of rice with lime and cilantro

What’s the best rice to use?

I like to make this recipe with long-grain white rice like Jasmine or Basmati rice, I find it really lets the flavors from the cilantro and lime shine through. You can make this with wild or brown rice if you prefer, just follow the package instructions as they will require a longer cooking time.

Can you make it ahead of time?

Yes! This cilantro lime rice is great for meal prep for the week and will keep well in the refrigerator in an airtight container for 4 to 5 days. You can enjoy it cold or reheat it quickly. You can reheat it in the microwave for a minute with a couple of tablespoons of water, or on the stovetop for larger portions.

What do you serve it with?

This rice is a great side dish to serve with all of your Mexican favorites, as well as protein like grilled chicken or steak. Try it with:

Blackened Salmon Tacos with Avocado Salsa
Tilapia Veracruz
Pan Grilled Chicken & Sauteed Vegetables
Grilled Shrimp Skewers
Burrito Bowls
Chicken Enchiladas

TIPS FROM NELI’S KITCHEN

Recipe Notes and Tips

Be sure to check my top tips for How To Cook Rice for the best results.
Use fresh lime juice, don’t be tempted to use bottled as it won’t have the same fresh and zingy flavor.
If making ahead of time, let the cilantro lime rice cool completely before storing.

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