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Bowl of copycat chipotle rice with fresh cilantro and lime on a wooden table

Copycat Chipotle Rice Recipe

Fluffy, fresh, and loaded with cilantro and lime, this copycat Chipotle Rice is an easy 30-minute side dish that tastes better than the restaurant version.
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 15 minutes
Resting Time 5 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 8 portions
Course: Dinner, Side Dish
Cuisine: American, Mexican
Calories: 145
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1 1/2 cups dried jasmine rice or basmati rice rinsed well until water runs clear
  • 3 cups water filtered recommended for best flavor
  • 1 tbsp olive oil
  • 1 1/2 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp garlic powder
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro packed, finely chopped including stems
  • 1/4 cup fresh-squeezed lime juice about 2 medium limes
  • black pepper or crushed red pepper flakes optional, to taste

Equipment

  • Medium saucepot with tight lid
  • Sieve
  • Large bowl

Method
 

  1. Pour the rice into a large bowl. Run cold water over it, stirring gently, until the water runs mostly clear. Drain carefully through a sieve.
  2. Set a medium saucepot over high heat. Add the drained rice, water, olive oil, salt, and garlic powder. Stir once to combine.
  3. Cover with a tight-fitting lid and bring to a boil. Once boiling, stir once, cover again, and reduce heat to medium. Simmer undisturbed for 15 minutes until vent holes form on the surface and all water has evaporated.
  4. While the rice cooks, finely chop the cilantro and squeeze the limes.
  5. Remove the pot from heat. Keep the lid on and allow the rice to steam for 5 minutes without lifting the lid.
  6. Stir in the chopped cilantro and fresh lime juice. Fluff gently with a fork, taste, and add pepper if desired. Serve warm.

Notes

Do not skip rinsing the rice before cooking. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 5 days. Reheat with a small splash of water on the stovetop or covered in the microwave. Freezing is not recommended as it affects texture.