You don’t need to be familiar with Chipotle’s iconic Mexican cilantro lime rice to know this recipe is absolutely delicious. Fluffy white rice infused with bay leaf, lime, cilantro, and onion creates an irresistible side dish. It’s a step up from plain white rice—elevated yet still incredibly easy to make. Think of it as a Chipotle-inspired classic, perfected.
INGREDIENTS
- 1 1/2 cups long-grain white rice (e.g., basmati)
- 1/2 medium yellow onion, finely diced
- 1 bay leaf
- 2 tablespoons olive oil
- 2 1/4 cups cold water (or as directed on the rice package)
- 1 1/4 teaspoons kosher salt (adjust to taste)
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 limes, zested and juiced
- 2/3 cup cilantro (leaves and stems), finely chopped, plus extra for garnish
- Sliced jalapeño (optional, for serving)
INSTRUCTIONS
- Rinse the Rice: Rinse the rice under cold water to remove excess starch.
- Cook the Onion and Rice: Heat a medium saucepan over medium heat. Add the olive oil. Once warm, stir in the diced onion, rinsed rice, and bay leaf. Cook for 1–2 minutes, stirring, until the onion becomes translucent.
Tip: Avoid adding the garlic at this stage to prevent it from burning. - Simmer the Rice: Pour in the water, add the salt and minced garlic. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce to a simmer. Cover the pot and cook until the water is absorbed, about 20 minutes.
- Fluff and Season: Remove the lid and fluff the rice with a fork. Discard the bay leaf. Stir in the lime zest, lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Adjust seasoning to taste.
- Serve: Serve the rice hot, garnished with extra cilantro and sliced jalapeño if desired.
Note: Nutrition information is an estimate provided for reference only and has not been verified by medical or nutrition professionals.
