Need a quick and flavorful side dish? This Five Minute Cafe Rio Cilantro Lime Rice is the answer! Made with instant rice, fresh cilantro, and tangy lime juice, it’s a fast and easy way to add a burst of flavor to any Mexican meal. Whether you serve it as a side or use it as a base for a burrito bowl, it’s sure to satisfy your taste buds in just five minutes!
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Below you will find tips, tricks and helpful hints for making this recipe including step by step instructions with pictures. If you would like to go directly to the recipe, scroll down to the recipe card or tap "Jump to Recipe" at the top of the page.
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Why You'll Love This Cilantro Lime Rice Recipe
If you're looking for a quick and tasty way to jazz up your meal, this Instant Cafe Rio Cilantro Lime Rice is a must-try! It’s super easy to make, ready in just five minutes, and packed with fresh flavors.
The combination of zesty lime and aromatic cilantro brings the perfect balance of freshness to your plate. Whether you're pairing it with tacos, burritos, or enjoying it as a simple side, this rice will quickly become a favorite addition to your go-to recipes!
Cafe Rio Cilantro Lime Rice Ingredients
*Ingredient amounts are located in the recipe card at the end of this post.
- Water: This will be used to cook the rice to the correct texture and consistency.
- Instant Rice: For this recipe, we will be using instant white rice for its convenience and quick cooking time. I used Minute Rice brand.
- Chicken Bouillon: This adds a depth of flavor to the rice while also adding a hint of saltiness. Chicken broth can be substituted for the chicken bouillon cubes or granules. Just replace the water and bouillon with 2 cups of broth.
- Minced Garlic: The addition of garlic brings a delicious aromatic element to the dish.
- Lime Juice: Adds a tangy and refreshing flavor that balances out the other ingredients.
- Cilantro: A staple in Mexican cuisine, cilantro adds a fresh and vibrant flavor to the rice.
How To Make Copycat Cilantro Lime Rice
[Step 1] Boil the 2 cups of water then add the 2 cups of rice and chicken bouillon seasoning.
[Step 2] Turn off the heat and place a lid on the pan. Let the rice rest for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid.
[Step 3] Fluff the rice with a spoon, then stir in the garlic, one tablespoon of lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Serve with fresh limes along side your favorite Mexican dish!
Helpful Kitchen Tools
- Saucepan
- Wooden Spoon
- Measuring Cups
How to Store Leftover Cafe Rio Rice
If you happen to have any leftover rice, store it in an airtight container or ziplock bag in the refrigerator for 3-4 days. Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop with a splash of water to prevent it from drying out.
Recipe Variations
- Brown rice can be used instead of white rice for a healthier option.
- For added protein, add a can of drained and rinsed black beans to the rice.
- For a spicy kick, add diced jalapenos or a dash of hot sauce.
- Sprinkle the finished rice with a little lime zest for more tangy flavor.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I use regular rice instead of instant? Yes, you can use freshly cooked white rice for this recipe. Just make sure to adjust the amount of liquid and cooking time accordingly.
- Can I substitute chicken bouillon with vegetable or beef bouillon? Absolutely! Feel free to use any type of bouillon that fits your dietary preferences or what you have on hand.
- Can I make this recipe vegan? Yes, simply use vegetable bouillon and skip the chicken bouillon. You can also substitute the water with vegetable broth for added flavor.
Final Thoughts
Cilantro Lime Rice is a simple yet flavorful side dish that pairs well with any Mexican-inspired meal. It's also great as leftovers for lunch the next day! Try it with my recipe for Cafe Rio's Sweet Pork Barbacoa and Creamy Tomatillo Dressing.
With just a few minutes and some basic ingredients, you can elevate your meal to the next level with this easy and delicious recipe. Give it a try and see for yourself why Cafe Rio's Cilantro Lime Rice is a fan favorite! Happy cooking!
More Easy Side Dish Recipes
- Five Minute Coconut Rice
- KFC Mashed Potatoes & Gravy
- Chili's Guacamole Recipe
- Restaurant Style Salsa
Instant Cafe Rio Cilantro Lime Rice
Ingredients
- 2 Cups Water
- 2 Teaspoons Chicken Bouillon
- 2 Cups Instant White Rice
- 1 Teaspoon Minced Garlic
- 1 Tablespoon Lime Juice
- ¼ Cup Chopped Cilantro
Instructions
- Boil the 2 cups of water then add the 2 cups of rice and chicken bouillon seasoning.
- Turn off the heat and place a lid on the pan. Let the rice rest for 5 minutes to absorb the liquid.
- Fluff the rice with a spoon, then stir in the garlic, one tablespoon of lime juice, and chopped cilantro. Serve with fresh limes along side your favorite Mexican dish!
