Chipotle Rice Instant Pot

Want to know how to make Chipotle Rice Instant Pot? This is a Chipotle Copycat Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice.

Cilantro Lime Rice is versatile and pairs well with a variety of dishes. It can be served as a side dish alongside grilled chicken, beef, or fish, or used as a base for burritos, tacos, or bowls. The vibrant flavors of the rice help to balance and complement the other components of a meal.

This flavorful rice dish is often associated with the cuisine of Chipotle Mexican Grill, a popular fast-casual restaurant chain that offers it as a menu item. However, Cilantro Lime Rice can be easily made at home using simple ingredients and is a delicious addition to any meal with a Mexican or Tex-Mex flair.

If you love this recipe, feel free to try my Mexican Noodle Casserole or my Mexican Fideo Soup.

Jump to:

• What Is Cilantro Lime Rice?
• Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe Ingredients
• How to make Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice
• Do you use cilantro stems?
• What to serve with Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice
• Substitutions
• Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe Variations
• Equipment
• How to store Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice
• Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe Top tips
• Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
• Food safety

What Is Cilantro Lime Rice?

Cilantro Lime Rice is a flavorful and aromatic rice dish that is typically made by cooking rice with cilantro (also known as coriander) and lime juice. It is a popular side dish in Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine and is known for its bright and refreshing flavors.

To make Cilantro Lime Rice, rice is cooked in water or broth along with fresh chopped cilantro and lime juice. The cilantro adds a fresh and herbaceous taste, while the lime juice adds a tangy and citrusy flavor. The combination of these ingredients gives the rice a vibrant and zesty profile.

Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe Ingredients

You'll only need a few simple ingredients to make this. The exact measurements are listed in the recipe card below. Here's an overview of what you'll need:

• Basmati rice
• Water
• Salt
• Cilantro
• Limes

See recipe card for quantities.

How to make Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice

Hint: Read your rice instructions and go with the amount of water you are supposed to use according to your rice! Every different type of rice absorbs differently so this is very important.

Do you use cilantro stems?

Yes, cilantro stems can be used in cooking, including when making Cilantro Lime Rice. While the leaves of cilantro (coriander) are the most commonly used part, the stems are also edible and have a similar flavor to the leaves. They can be added to recipes to enhance the cilantro flavor and provide additional texture.

When using cilantro stems in Cilantro Lime Rice or any other dish, it's a good idea to finely chop them to ensure they blend well with the rice. The stems can be added along with the chopped cilantro leaves during the cooking process to infuse the rice with their flavor. Some people even prefer using the stems as they contain a concentrated cilantro taste.

What to serve with Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice

• Grilled or Roasted Chicken: The fresh and tangy flavors of the Cilantro Lime Rice complement grilled or roasted chicken beautifully. It adds a vibrant and flavorful side dish to the meal. Check out my Chicken and Shrimp Fajitas to serve with this Cilantro Lime Rice.
• Tacos or Burritos: Use the Cilantro Lime Rice as a filling for tacos or burritos. It adds a refreshing and zesty element to balance the flavors of the meat, beans, and other toppings.
• Grilled Shrimp or Fish: The bright flavors of the Cilantro Lime Rice go well with grilled shrimp or fish. It brings a zingy and citrusy taste to the seafood, creating a delicious combination.
• Mexican-inspired Bowls: Create a Mexican-inspired bowl with the Cilantro Lime Rice as the base. Top it with ingredients such as grilled veggies, black beans, avocado slices, salsa, and sour cream for a hearty and flavorful meal.

Substitutions

Rice: I love using basmati rice, but any long grained rice like Jasmin rice will do.

Cilantro: The cilantro is essential for the cilantro lime taste. Some people do not like cilantro, but I don't think you would be on this recipe if you didn't. If you want, you could use parsley instead.

Limes: For best quality, use fresh limes instead of store bought lime juice.

Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe Variations

• Garlic Cilantro Lime Rice: Sauté minced garlic in olive oil before adding the rice to the Instant Pot. This will infuse the rice with a subtle garlic flavor that complements the cilantro and lime.
• Spicy Cilantro Lime Rice: Add some diced jalapeños or a pinch of red pepper flakes to the rice for a spicy kick. Adjust the quantity of spice according to your heat preference.
• Coconut Cilantro Lime Rice: Substitute a portion of the water with coconut milk to give the rice a creamy and tropical twist. The coconut flavor pairs well with the cilantro and lime.
• Black Bean and Corn Cilantro Lime Rice: Add cooked black beans and sweet corn kernels to the rice after it's cooked. This adds extra texture and a burst of flavors, creating a delicious and colorful rice dish.

Check out my Mexican Star Soup for another comforting meal.

Equipment

• Instant Pot: You'll need an Instant Pot or any other electric pressure cooker with a rice cooking function. Ensure that it is clean and in proper working condition. I used my Instant Pot for this recipe.
• Measuring Cups and Spoons: You'll need measuring cups and spoons to accurately measure the rice, water, lime juice, and other ingredients for the recipe.
• Cutting Board and Knife: You'll need a cutting board and a sharp knife to chop the fresh cilantro and prepare the lime for juicing.
• Microplane or Zester (optional): A microplane or zester can be used to grate the lime zest, adding extra citrus flavor to the rice. This step is optional, but it enhances the lime essence.
• Mixing Spoon or Silicone Spatula: You'll need a mixing spoon or silicone spatula to stir the ingredients together in the Instant Pot and scrape the bottom of the pot while cooking.
• Citrus Juicer or Reamer: A citrus juicer or reamer can be used to extract the lime juice. This tool helps to squeeze out the maximum juice from the lime.
• Serving Dish: Once the Cilantro Lime Rice is cooked, you'll need a serving dish to transfer and serve the rice.
• Optional: Plastic Wrap or Aluminum Foil: If you prefer to let the rice rest and steam for a few minutes after cooking, you can cover the Instant Pot with plastic wrap or aluminum foil before placing the lid on top.

How to store Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice

To properly store Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice, follow these steps:

1. Cool the rice: Allow the cooked rice to cool down to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation and moisture buildup.
2. Transfer to airtight containers: Transfer the cooled rice to airtight containers such as glass containers or resealable plastic bags. Make sure the containers are clean and dry before adding the rice.
3. Refrigerate promptly: Place the airtight containers in the refrigerator immediately after transferring the rice. The refrigeration temperature should be set to 40°F (4°C) or below.
4. Label and date: It's a good practice to label the containers with the date of storage. This will help you keep track of the freshness and ensure you use the rice within a recommended time frame.
5. Use within 3-5 days: Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3-5 days. Beyond that, the quality and taste may start to deteriorate.
6. Reheat properly: When ready to eat, reheat the refrigerated rice in the microwave or on the stovetop. Add a small amount of water or broth to help moisten the rice if needed. Make sure the rice is heated thoroughly, reaching a temperature of at least 165°F (74°C), to ensure it is safe to eat.
7. Note: It's important to note that rice can be a breeding ground for bacteria if not handled and stored properly. To minimize the risk of foodborne illness, avoid leaving cooked rice at room temperature for too long and refrigerate it promptly after cooking.

Instant Pot Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe Top tips

• Rinse the rice: Rinse the rice thoroughly under cold water before cooking to remove any excess starch. This helps prevent the rice from becoming sticky.
• Use the correct rice-to-water ratio: Follow the recommended rice-to-water ratio specified in your recipe. The ratio may vary depending on the type of rice you're using. Typically, for long-grain white rice, the ratio is 1:1 (equal parts rice and water).
• Adjust seasoning to taste: Taste the cooked rice before adding the cilantro and lime juice. If desired, add more salt, lime juice, or even a pinch of cayenne pepper for extra flavor.
• Fluff the rice after cooking: Once the rice is cooked, use a fork to fluff the grains gently. This helps separate the rice and prevents it from clumping together.
• Let the rice rest: After cooking, let the rice rest in the Instant Pot with the lid on for a few minutes. This allows the steam to redistribute and results in a more evenly cooked rice.
• Customize the texture: If you prefer softer or firmer rice, you can adjust the cooking time accordingly. For softer rice, increase the cooking time by a minute or two, and for firmer rice, decrease the cooking time slightly.
• Add lime zest for extra flavor: Consider adding some grated lime zest to the rice along with the lime juice. The zest adds an intense citrus flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.
• Don't overcook the rice: Be mindful of the cooking time to avoid overcooking the rice. Overcooked rice can turn mushy and lose its texture. Follow the recipe instructions and adjust the cooking time based on your preference.
• Serve with fresh cilantro: Before serving, garnish the Cilantro Lime Rice with fresh chopped cilantro. This adds a pop of freshness and enhances the flavor of the dish.
• Double-check the sealing ring: Ensure that the Instant Pot's sealing ring is properly in place and free from any food debris. This helps create a tight seal and prevents steam from escaping during cooking.

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Food safety

• Cook to a minimum temperature of 165 °F (74 °C)
• Do not use the same utensils on cooked food, that previously touched raw meat
• Wash hands after touching raw meat
• Don't leave food sitting out at room temperature for extended periods
• Never leave cooking food unattended
• Use oils with high smoking point to avoid harmful compounds
• Always have good ventilation when using a gas stove

See more guidelines at USDA.gov.