The Best Homemade Chipotle Rice Recipe
What You’ll Love About This Recipe
This chipotle rice recipe is super easy to make and packed with flavor, perfect for spicing up your meals. You’ll love how it transforms ordinary rice into something special, with just a few simple ingredients. No fancy cooking skills needed—anyone can whip this up in no time. It’s super versatile**, pairing perfectly with tacos, bowls, or as a side dish. Plus, it’s a great way to add a smoky, zesty kick** to your dinner routine without breaking the bank.
Recipe
This homemade Chipotle rice recipe brings the signature flavor of the restaurant right to your kitchen. It’s simple, flavorful, and pairs perfectly with burritos, bowls, or tacos.
Ingredients:
- 1 cup long-grain white rice
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- ½ teaspoon salt
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 2 tablespoons chopped fresh cilantro
Instructions:
- Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. Drain well.
- In a saucepan, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Add the rice and stir for about 1 minute.
- Pour in the water, add the bay leaf and salt. Bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15–18 minutes until the water is absorbed.
- Remove from heat and let it sit, covered, for 5 minutes.
- Fluff the rice with a fork, then stir in the lime juice and cilantro.
Notes:
- For extra flavor, use chicken or vegetable broth instead of water.
- Adjust lime juice and cilantro to taste.
Equipment:
- Saucepan with lid
- Fork
Time:
- Prep time: 5 minutes
- Cooking time: 20 minutes
Cuisine:
Mexican
Serving:
4 servings
Nutrition
Nutritional values for one serving of homemade Chipotle rice.
| Nutrient | Amount per Serving |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 kcal |
| Protein | 4 g |
| Carbohydrates | 45 g |
| Fat | 2 g |
| Fiber | 2 g |
| Sugar | 1 g |
What To Serve With It
I love pairing my homemade chipotle rice with protein like grilled chicken or black beans for a hearty meal. Fresh sides, such as a crisp avocado salad or tangy pico de gallo, really balance the flavors. It’s a simple way to make the dish feel complete and satisfying.
Protein Pairings
Since this chipotle rice is packed with flavor, you’ll want to pair it with proteins that can stand up to its bold taste without overpowering it. Grilled chicken is my go-to—it’s simple, juicy, and complements the smoky heat perfectly. For meal prep, I’ll marinate chicken thighs ahead of time so they’re ready to cook. Steak is another winner; its richness balances the rice’s spice. If you’re into seafood, shrimp cooks quickly and adds a light, fresh touch. Tofu works too—season it well, then pan-fry for a plant-based option. These protein sources make it a complete, satisfying dish every time.
Fresh Sides
Pairing this chipotle rice with the right proteins is just the start—it’s time to think about fresh sides to round out the meal. I love quick variations like tossing roasted corn with lime or adding seasonal twists, like pomegranate seeds in fall. Cultural influences shine with avocado slices or pickled red onions. For storage tips, keep sides chilled until serving to maintain crunch. A simple cucumber salad or black bean salsa adds brightness without overpowering the rice. Mix textures—creamy, crisp, tangy—to balance flavors. These sides elevate the meal, making it feel complete yet effortless. Experiment and enjoy!
