Chipotle's Official Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
Chipotle's Official Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe! is a easy American recipe that serves 4. 390 calories per serving. Recipe by Kaitlyn Taylor on YouTube.
Prep: 10 min | Cook: 20 min | Total: 40 min
Cost: $2.20 total, $0.55 per serving
Ingredients
- 2 cups Jasmine Rice (rinsed until water runs clear)
- 3 cups Water (for cooking rice)
- 2 teaspoons Salt (kosher or table salt)
- 6 tablespoons Olive Oil (2 tbsp added to cooking water, 4 tbsp added after cooking)
- 1 Bay Leaf (Removed after rice is cooked)
- 2 tablespoons Lime Juice (Freshly squeezed from 1 lime)
- 6 tablespoons Cilantro (Finely chopped, stems shaved off)
Instructions
Rinse the Rice
Place the jasmine rice in a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold running water, stirring with your hand, until the water runs clear.
Time: PT5M
Combine Ingredients
In a medium saucepan, add 3 cups water, the rinsed rice, 2 teaspoons salt, 2 tablespoons olive oil, and 1 bay leaf. Stir briefly to combine.
Time: PT5M
Cook the Rice
Place the saucepan over high heat and bring to a rolling boil. Once boiling, reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15 minutes.
Time: PT20M
Temperature: High then low
Prepare Lime Juice
While the rice simmers, roll the lime on the countertop to soften, cut in half, and squeeze the juice into a small measuring cup (about 2 tablespoons).
Time: PT2M
Chop Cilantro
Using a chef's knife, shave the cilantro stems by running the blade along them, then finely chop the leaves. Transfer to a small bowl.
Time: PT3M
Fluff and Transfer Rice
When the rice has finished simmering, remove the bay leaf, uncover, and gently fluff with a fork. Transfer the rice to a large mixing bowl.
Time: PT2M
Finish the Dish
Add the remaining 4 tablespoons olive oil, the fresh lime juice, and the chopped cilantro to the rice. Fold gently until everything is evenly coated.
Time: PT5M
Nutrition Facts
- Calories
- 390
- Protein
- 8 g
- Carbohydrates
- 45 g
- Fat
- 21 g
- Fiber
- 1 g
Dietary info: Vegetarian, Vegan, Gluten-Free, Dairy-Free
Allergens: None
Ingredient Substitutions
- Instead of Jasmine Rice: Basmati rice, Long grain white rice
- Instead of Salt: Sea salt
- Instead of Olive Oil: Vegetable oil, Canola oil
- Instead of Lime Juice: Lemon juice
- Instead of Cilantro: Parsley (different flavor)
Equipment Needed
- Medium Saucepan
- Fine Mesh Sieve
- Measuring Cups
- Measuring Spoons
- Wooden Spoon
- Large Mixing Bowl
- Chef's Knife
- Cutting Board
- Citrus Juicer (optional)
Critical Steps — Do Not Skip
- Rinse the rice until the water runs clear to remove excess starch.
- Simmer the rice with the correct water ratio and timing (15 minutes low heat).
- Add lime juice and cilantro after the rice is cooked to preserve bright flavor.
Chef Tips from the Video
- For extra aroma, toast the bay leaf in the oil before adding water.
- If you prefer a milder lime flavor, start with 1 tablespoon juice and adjust to taste.
Troubleshooting
Rice turns out mushy.
Reduce the water by ¼ cup or shorten the simmer time; ensure the lid is tight to keep steam in.
Rice is dry and under‑cooked.
Add an extra ¼ cup water, cover, and simmer for another 3–5 minutes.
Storage
Refrigerator: Store in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Freezer: Freeze in a sealed bag or container for up to 1 month; reheat with a splash of water.
Room temperature: Do not leave at room temperature for more than 2 hours.
Make-Ahead Tips
- Cook the rice up to step 6, let it cool, and refrigerate. Add lime juice and cilantro just before serving.
- Reheat leftovers in a skillet with a splash of water to restore fluffiness.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the cultural significance and history of cilantro lime rice in American cuisine?
Cilantro lime rice blends Mexican and Southern U.S. flavors, becoming a staple side at backyard barbecues and Tex‑Mex restaurants. Its bright citrus notes reflect the influence of Latin American cooking on modern American home meals.
What are the traditional regional variations of cilantro lime rice in Mexican cuisine?
In coastal Mexico, the rice may include additional ingredients like chopped jalapeño or roasted corn. In the Yucatán, achiote (annatto) is sometimes added for color and earthy flavor.
How is cilantro lime rice traditionally served in Mexican restaurants?
It is often served as a side alongside tacos, grilled meats, or seafood, sometimes garnished with extra lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro for visual appeal.
What occasions or celebrations is cilantro lime rice traditionally associated with in the United States?
The dish is popular at summer gatherings, picnics, and Cinco de Mayo celebrations because its fresh flavors complement grilled foods and festive drinks.
What makes cilantro lime rice special or unique in American fusion cuisine?
The combination of fluffy jasmine rice with bright lime juice and herbaceous cilantro creates a light, aromatic side that bridges Asian rice textures with Latin American flavor profiles.
What are the most common mistakes to avoid when making cilantro lime rice?
Common errors include not rinsing the rice (resulting in gummy texture), using too much water, and adding lime juice before the rice is fully cooked, which can make the grains soggy.
Why does this cilantro lime rice recipe use jasmine rice instead of regular long‑grain rice?
Jasmine rice has a naturally fragrant, slightly buttery aroma that complements the citrus and cilantro, giving the dish a more aromatic profile than plain long‑grain rice.
Can I make cilantro lime rice ahead of time and how should I store it?
Yes, cook the rice up to step 6, let it cool, and refrigerate in an airtight container for up to 3 days. Add the lime juice and cilantro just before serving to keep the flavors fresh.
What texture and appearance should I look for when making cilantro lime rice?
The rice should be fluffy, with each grain separate, and lightly coated with a glossy olive‑oil sheen. The cilantro should be bright green and evenly distributed, and the lime juice should give a subtle sheen without making the rice wet.
How do I know when the rice is done cooking?
When the water has been fully absorbed, the grains are tender, and a fork can easily separate them, the rice is done. A quick taste test should reveal no crunch.
What does the YouTube channel Kaitlyn Taylor specialize in?
The YouTube channel Kaitlyn Taylor focuses on approachable, everyday home cooking with an emphasis on fresh ingredients, quick weeknight meals, and clear step‑by‑step tutorials.
How does the YouTube channel Kaitlyn Taylor's approach to American comfort food differ from other cooking channels?
Kaitlyn Taylor emphasizes minimal equipment, budget‑friendly ingredients, and a relaxed teaching style, often sharing personal tips like her cilantro‑shaving technique, which sets her apart from more production‑heavy channels.
Last updated: August 29, 2026
