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Chipotle White Rice

Chipotle White Rice - recipe card
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Fluffy, fragrant white rice infused with lime and cilantro, just like the popular chain restaurant. Each grain stays separate and tender, with a bright citrus finish that complements any Mexican dish.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 1 cup long-grain white rice, rinsed until water runs clear
  • 1 3/4 cups water
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 teaspoon kosher salt
  • 2 tablespoons fresh lime juice (from 1 lime)
  • 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped

Instructions

  1. Rinse the rice thoroughly in a fine-mesh strainer under cold running water for about 1 minute, until the water runs clear. This removes excess surface starch that would otherwise make the rice gummy or sticky.
  2. In a medium saucepan with a tight-fitting lid, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat until shimmering. Add the rinsed rice and cook, stirring constantly, for 2 to 3 minutes. The grains will turn translucent and begin to smell toasty; this step adds nutty flavor and helps the rice stay separate during cooking.
  3. Pour in the water and add the kosher salt. Stir once to combine, then increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a rolling boil. Immediately reduce the heat to low, cover the saucepan with the lid, and let it simmer without lifting the lid for 15 to 18 minutes. The steam trapped inside is essential for even, gentle cooking.
  4. After 15 minutes, check if the water is absorbed and the rice is tender. If not, continue cooking covered for 2 to 3 more minutes. Once done, remove the pan from the heat and let it sit covered for 5 minutes to allow any remaining steam to finish the cooking process without scorching.
  5. Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork to separate the grains. While the rice is still warm, drizzle the lime juice over the top and sprinkle with the chopped cilantro. Gently fold the rice with a fork or spatula until the lime and cilantro are evenly distributed. Taste and adjust salt or lime juice if desired. Serve immediately.

Notes

Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, sprinkle a few drops of water over the rice, cover, and microwave in 30-second bursts until steaming, or reheat in a skillet over medium heat with a splash of water or broth, stirring often, until hot. For longer storage, freeze the rice in a resealable bag for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.

Nutrition

Keywords: chipotle white rice, cilantro lime rice, mexican rice, copycat chipotle rice, side dish, easy rice recipe, stovetop rice, fresh cilantro, lime rice

Find it online: https://copycatkitchenco.com/chipotle-white-rice/