Homemade Cilantro Lime Rice is full of the bright, zesty flavors of fresh cilantro, lime juice and lime zest. This vibrant rice is perfect as a side dish and complements many dishes.
Look at the video tutorials and discover how easy it is to make – you might just skip the trip to Chipotle once you discover how simple it is to make at home.
This post may contain affiliate links. Read my disclosure policy.
We love Mexican inspired meals here and this Cilantro Lime Rice is the perfect addition. Serve alongside Fish Tacos, roll it into your favorite chicken burrito, or add it to a veggie burrito bowl, topped with fresh Pico de Gallo and black beans. This rice is ideal for Cinco de Mayo celebrations or any day of the week. You will love every bite.
Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
When people think of cilantro lime rice, they often think of Chipotle’s version. However, this isn’t an exact recipe because… my family wasn’t very impressed with Chipotle (there, I said it) – my kids aren’t fans and I honestly believe our homemade version is way better .
My sister Tanya taught me how to make this cilantro lime rice. It’s incredibly fresh and satisfying, thanks to freshly squeezed lime juice, chopped cilantro, and lime zest. Tanya’s tip to brown the rice in coconut oil further enhances the flavor. Plus, it reheats wonderfully and gets wonderfully crispy, making it perfect for Fish Taco Bowls!
Cilantro rice is incredibly versatile and pairs wonderfully with any protein: chicken, pork, beef or fish.
Cilantro Lime Rice Video
Watch me make the cilantro lime rice. My step-by-step instructions make it easy to get perfectly fresh, flavorful rice every time. You’ll appreciate how easy it is to prepare this delicious side dish.
Ingredients for coriander and lime rice
The key to making great cilantro lime rice is to use fresh ingredients to really highlight the bright flavors of the lime and cilantro.
- Long grain rice – Use basmati or jasmine rice to create a fluffy base for this dish. These varieties are less sticky and ensure that the beans do not clump together.
- Chopped coriander – Adds a fresh, herbaceous flavor and a burst of color. Use the tender leaves and stems and toss the tough stems for the best texture.
- Lime zest – Provides a stronger lime flavor and adds great color to white rice. Always squeeze the lime before cutting and juicing it.
- Lime juice – Contributes a spicy, citrus flavor that livens up the dish and complements the flavor of the coriander.
- Garlic – adds a savory punch
- Oil – Helps toast the rice, enhancing its flavor and ensuring that the grains remain separated after cooking. I prefer to use coconut oil for more flavor, but extra virgin olive oil works too.
Should I rinse the rice before cooking?
It’s always a good idea to rinse rice to remove impurities, debris, dirt and starch, resulting in a softer, less sticky texture.
How to rinse rice: Place the rice in a fine mesh strainer and rinse under cold water until the water underneath runs clear. Drain it carefully before proceeding with the first step of the coriander and lime rice recipe.
Pro Tip:
It’s okay to add the rice to the pot while it’s still moist after rinsing, just drain it well as drops of water can cause hot oil to splatter. The moisture in the rice will evaporate during cooking and it will toast perfectly.
How to prepare coriander and lime rice
- Fry the rice – Melt the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the uncooked rice and stir to coat it with oil. Continue stirring until the rice starts to turn golden. Add the garlic and stir for another minute, until fragrant.
- Cook the rice – Add the water and bring to the boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until all the water is absorbed, about 18 minutes (or according to the instructions on the rice package). Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for another 10 minutes.
- Flavor and serve – Transfer the rice to a serving bowl, garnish with fresh cilantro, lime zest, lime juice and salt and toss to combine. If desired, add additional salt and lime juice to taste.
Pro Tip:
For this cilantro lime rice, I recommend adding salt after cooking the rice. This ensures better flavor control and even distribution, while also helping to keep the rice fluffy and tender.
Can I replace brown rice?
Brown rice takes longer to cook, but you can substitute white rice if you want. Just follow the instructions on the package to know the exact cooking times.
Can I make this in an Instant Pot?
You can use an Instant Pot for this recipe, making it even quicker to prepare. This pressure cooker method is perfect for busy weekdays or when you need a quick and delicious side dish.
How to make instant cilantro lime rice: Reduce the water to 1 1/4 cups and add it to the Instant Pot along with just 2 tablespoons oil, garlic, and long-grain white rice. Cook on high pressure for 3 minutes. When the timer goes off, let the steam release naturally. Once the pressure is released, add the lime juice, lime zest, chopped cilantro and season with salt and pepper to taste.
What to serve with coriander and lime rice?
Fresh cilantro, a staple herb in Asian, Middle Eastern, and Latin American cuisines, makes this cilantro lime rice recipe perfect to serve:
After you
- Refrigerate: After cooling, store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Portion the cooled rice into zip-top bags and store flat in the freezer for up to 3 months.
- To defrost: Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating. If it’s airtight freezer bag OR food saver bagyou can also defrost it quickly under cold running water.
- To heat: add a little water to dissolve any lumps of rice without overhydrating it and heat on the stove over medium heat or in the microwave. Fluff with a fork and enjoy!
This cilantro lime rice recipe is a quick, flavorful, and versatile side dish that adds a burst of fresh, vibrant flavor to any meal. Save yourself the trip to Chipotle and make it better right at home.
Other rice recipes
Rice is a simple ingredient with endless possibilities, from soups to appetizers to side dishes and desserts! If you love this cilantro lime rice recipe, be sure to check out these other rice recipes, from basic cooked white rice to delicious and creative recipes like cheesy rice balls.
HUNGRY FOR MORE? Subscribe to Natasha’s newsletter e YouTube to find inspiration during meals and let’s connect on social media! Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, PinterestAND X for a peek behind the scenes at Natasha’s Kitchen.
Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
Cilantro Lime Rice is full of zesty flavors of fresh cilantro, lime juice and lime zest. It’s the perfect side dish for grilled meats, seafood and vegetarian entrees. It’s also fantastic in burritos, tacos and salads.
Prevents the screen from going dark
-
Melt the oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat. Add the uncooked rice and stir to coat it with oil. Continue stirring until the rice starts to turn golden. Add the garlic and stir for another minute, until fragrant.
-
Add water and bring to a boil. Then, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer until all the water is absorbed, about 18 minutes (or according to the instructions on the rice package). Remove from heat and let rest, covered, for another 10 minutes.
-
Transfer the rice to a serving bowl and season with fresh cilantro, lime zest, lime juice, salt, and jalapeño (if using). If desired, add additional salt and lime juice to taste.
230kcal Calories38G Carbohydrates3G Protein7G Fat
Nutrition Facts
Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
Amount per serving
% daily value*
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
