Chipotle Brown Rice Recipe

This fluffy, zesty Copycat Chipotle Brown Rice Recipe is made with long-grain brown rice, fresh cilantro, and citrus juices, and ready in 55 minutes. Tossing the hot grains with fresh herbs and lime juice releases a bright, irresistible aroma. I love making a big batch for weekday burrito bowls.

Better Than Takeaway

I used to spend way too much money on takeout just to get my hands on this seasoned rice. The trick I learned is using a mix of both lemon and lime juice for that authentic restaurant flavor.

Initially, I skipped rinsing the rice, which left my early attempts gummy and dense. Taking that extra minute under cold water ensures every grain stays separate and perfectly chewy.

Jump to Recipe

Copycat Chipotle Brown Rice Recipe Ingredients

• 1 cup long-grain brown rice
• 2 cups water
• 1 tablespoon rice bran oil (or vegetable oil)
• 1 bay leaf
• 1/2 teaspoon kosher salt
• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, finely chopped
• 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice
• 1 tablespoon fresh lemon juice

How To Make Copycat Chipotle Brown Rice Recipe

1. Rinse the Rice: Place brown rice in a fine mesh sieve and rinse under cold water until it runs clear.
2. Simmer the Grains: Combine the rinsed rice, water, oil, bay leaf, and salt in a medium saucepan over high heat.
3. Cook Covered: Once boiling, reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 45 minutes until the water absorbs.
4. Rest and Fluff: Remove from heat and let it sit covered for 10 minutes, then fluff with a fork.
5. Mix and Serve: Stir in the chopped cilantro, lime juice, and lemon juice just before serving.

Recipe Tips

• Rinse thoroughly: Removing excess surface starch prevents the grains from clumping together in the pot.
• Use fresh citrus: Bottled juices lack the bright, acidic punch needed to mimic the restaurant version.
• Let it rest: Allowing the rice to sit off the heat helps distribute moisture evenly so the bottom does not turn mushy.

What To Serve With Copycat Chipotle Brown Rice

Serve this zesty side dish alongside grilled adobo chicken or slow-cooked barbacoa beef. It builds a solid foundation for homemade burrito bowls loaded with black beans and fresh tomato salsa.

How To Store

Store leftover rice in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it in freezer-safe bags for up to 3 months. Add a splash of water before reheating in the microwave to restore its moisture.

FAQs

Can I use a rice cooker instead of the stove?

Yes, simply add all the cooking ingredients to your rice cooker and use the brown rice setting. Stir in the cilantro and citrus at the end.

Does it have to be long-grain brown rice?

Long-grain varieties hold their shape best and provide the signature chewy texture. Short-grain rice will turn out much stickier.

What oil is closest to the restaurant version?

The restaurant uses rice bran oil, but any neutral oil like canola or vegetable works seamlessly as a substitute.

Nutrition

• Calories: 210 kcal
• Total Fat: 4 g
• Saturated Fat: 0.5 g
• Cholesterol: 0 mg
• Sodium: 290 mg
• Total Carbohydrate: 38 g
• Protein: 4 g