Sometimes the simplest changes make the biggest difference. This vibrant cilantro rice transforms ordinary white rice into a restaurant-quality side dish that’s bursting with fresh flavor and color. Unlike heavy Spanish rice, this lighter version allows the bright, herbaceous flavor of cilantro to shine through, while colorful bell peppers add sweetness and crunch.
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Why this recipe works
The secret to perfect cilantro rice lies in the timing and technique. By cooking the rice in chicken base rather than plain water, you build flavor from the ground up. The oven method ensures even cooking and prevents the bottom from burning. Most importantly, adding the cilantro after the rice has cooled slightly preserves its bright green color and prevents the delicate herbs from wilting into a dull, overcooked mess.
Ingredient overview
Here’s what you need to make this delicious cilantro rice without lime.
- Uncooked parboiled rice – Provides the perfect texture and absorbs flavors beautifully
- Chicken base – Creates a rich, savory flavor foundation throughout the rice
- Unsalted butter – Adds richness and helps create fluffy, separated grains
- Green bell pepper – Contributes sweet crunch and beautiful color contrast
- Red bell pepper – Adds sweetness and vibrant visual appeal
- Fresh cilantro – Provides the signature fresh, herbaceous flavor and aroma
What is chicken base? It’s essentially a concentrated stock. Read more about it and the difference between chicken broth, chicken stock, chicken bouillon, and chicken base.
How to Make This Cilantro Rice Recipe
Cilantro white rice is an easy rice dish to make. Here are the steps:
- Clean and rinse the rice, then drain.
- Combine the chicken base with hot water, then add it to the rice.
- Place the rice in a 350°F oven for 15 minutes.
- Remove from the oven and add the melted butter.
- Return the rice to the oven for 15 more minutes.
- Combine the green and red bell peppers and soften them in hot water.
- Cut off the cilantro stems and chop the leaves.
- Drain and add the tender veggies to the rice along with the cilantro.
- For a touch of citrus, drizzle some freshly squeezed lime juice over the rice.
Recipe Notes and Tips
Before adding the cilantro, allow the rice to cool somewhat. This prevents the heat of the rice from cooking the delicate cilantro leaves, turning them into a washed-out, dull green.
Because this recipe uses chicken base, you may not need to add salt. Taste the stock before adding it to the rice to determine whether you need to add a pinch or two of additional salt.
Recipe variations for cilantro rice without lime
- Cilantro Basmati Rice: Choose basmati long-grain rice. It’s more aromatic than plain rice, and the flavor complements the cilantro.
- Cilantro Jasmine Rice: You can also use jasmine rice instead of regular long-grain white rice.
- Cilantro Brown Rice: You can also make this recipe with brown rice if you like.
- Cilantro Lime Rice: This recipe is for cilantro rice without lime. However, if you want cilantro-lime rice, use fresh limes and toss in some grated lime zest with the water you add to the rice. The lime oils in the zest will infuse the rice with lime flavor as it cooks.
- See my recipe for copycat Chipotle Cilantro Lime Rice.
- Onion Cilantro Rice: Add some garlic and/or scallions. For a bit of heat, add some red pepper flakes.
- Parsley Rice: If you don’t happen to care for cilantro, use chopped fresh parsley instead, or a combination of herbs like dill, chives, basil, and mint.
- Spinach Cilantro Rice: Add some chopped fresh baby spinach to the cilantro.
- Vegetarian Cilantro Rice: For a vegetarian or vegan version, substitute vegetable broth or stock for the chicken base.
What to serve with cilantro rice
This rice side dish can be served hot or cold (perfect for picnics). Here are some more serving suggestions:
- White cilantro rice also works well with chicken, steak, or shrimp.
- Use it as a filling for enchiladas or burritos.
- Use it as a stuffing for bell peppers.
Storage and Reheating Instructions
- Refrigerator Storage: Cool rice quickly on a sheet pan or place it in the fridge uncovered for a few minutes. Store in an airtight container for three to four days.
- Freezer Storage: Place cooled rice in freezer-safe bags or containers. Store for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator.
- Reheating Method: Reheat rice in a saucepan with a splash of water over medium heat, or microwave in short intervals. Fluff with a fork before serving. Frozen rice may be added directly to hot soups, stir-fries, or stews.
Favorite Rice Recipes
- Cajun Rice
- Chipotle Rice
- Hibachi Fried Rice
- Homemade Rice Pilaf
- Mexican Rice Casserole
- Red Beans and Rice
- Rice Balls
- Stick of Butter Rice
- Thai Chicken Fried Rice
Popular Mexican Recipes
Check out more of my easy side dish recipes and the best recipes for Mexican food on CopyKat!
Cilantro White Rice
Ingredients
- 2 1/2 cups uncooked parboiled rice Uncle Ben’s recommended
- 1/4 cups chicken stock base
- 4 tablespoons unsalted butter melted
- 1/2 cup diced green bell pepper
- 1/2 cup diced red bell pepper
- 1/4 cup chopped cilantro leaves
Instructions
- Preheat the oven to 350°F.
- Place the rice in a 3- or 4-quart baking dish. Cover with very hot tap water and stir vigorously to clean and soften the rice. Drain the rice in a colander. Repeat twice with fresh hot water.
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken base with 1 quart of very hot tap water. Mix well with a wire whisk.
- Add the dissolved chicken base to the soaked rice, mix well, and place the rice in the oven uncovered for 15 minutes.
- Remove the rice from the oven, add the melted butter, and mix thoroughly. Cover the dish and return it to the oven for 15 more minutes.
- Meanwhile, combine the green and red bell peppers in a mixing bowl and cover them with very hot tap water. Set aside to soften.
- When the rice has finished baking, drain and rinse the softened peppers. Add the peppers and cilantro to the rice, mix thoroughly, and serve.
Really enjoyed this rice.