The simplest and absolute dependable Cilantro Lime Rice you’ll ever make. Cooked long grain white rice is tossed with lots of finely chopped cilantro and lime zest and juice. Yields 4 cups or 8 (1/2-cup) servings.

I remember the first time I tried cilantro lime rice. It was forever ago when a friend and I first tried Chipotle on our lunch break. I ordered the massive 80 pound burrito (now I’m more of a fajita bowl kind of girl) and inside was the most satisfying and savory rice I had ever tasted.

Now there’s only one way I like my cilantro lime rice.

Extra cilantro. Extra lime.

It’s the only way.

For this Cilantro Lime Rice Set out:

long grain white rice – If using brown rice, adjust the cook time for the rice.
kosher salt – Enhances flavors in this method.
cilantro (fresh) – Lends a pop of brightened distinct herbaceous freshness.
lime zest and juice – Adds bright citrusy flavor.
olive oil – Adds subtle earthy flavor while helping keep the rice from becoming too sticky.

What type of rice to use to make cilantro lime rice?

Typically, I use long grain white rice for this dish. However, if you use brown rice, you’ll need more time to cook the rice.

Most rice cookers come with their own specific measuring cup. With that said, using the measuring cup that comes with your rice cooker, measure and add 2 “cups” rice to a mesh strainer. Rinse with cool water, shaking the rice a little, until the water runs clear.

Drain the water and add it to your rice cooker with 1 teaspoon of kosher salt.

Then fill the water up to the correct waterline.

Then, like your slow cooker, set it and forget it. Well, for at least 40 minutes or so.

Meanwhile, trim the thick stems off of a bunch of cilantro and, if you have a salad spinner, wash and spin dry. Then transfer it to a cutting board and finely chop.

Once the rice is cooked, fluff it up a bit with a fork.

Then transfer it to a mixing bowl and add in all the finely chopped cilantro, zest of 2 limes, the juice of 1/2 a lime and 1 teaspoon olive oil.

Gently toss.

Until combined.

Honestly, this may be better than Chipotle’s.

So fresh and well-seasoned!

What To Serve Cilantro Lime Rice With:

Besides using in burritos, enchiladas, tacos or in chicken or steak fajita bowls, below is a list of some savory main dishes to serve this notable cilantro lime rice with.