Put leftover rice to work with this easy Leftover Cilantro Lime Rice! Brightened with fresh cilantro and lime juice, it’s a quick, flavorful side for tacos, burrito bowls, or any weeknight meal. Perfect for using day-old rice and adding zesty flavor in minutes.
Making Cilantro Lime Rice with Leftover Rice
I just made my Crockpot Salsa Chicken and served it directly on top of this Leftover Cilantro Lime Rice. A quick mix of lime juice, chopped cilantro, and a little seasoning gives plain rice new life, making it the perfect base for chicken, tacos, burrito bowls, or any Mexican-inspired meal.
You should never toss out leftover rice—it’s one of the most versatile ingredients in the kitchen. From fried rice to rice bowls and tacos, day-old rice easily transforms into something new and delicious. My favorite ways to use it? This Cilantro Lime Rice and my easy Leftover Rice Tacos are always at the top of the list.
How much rice is in a takeout container?
Approximately 2 cups of packed leftover rice typically fits in a standard takeout container. This leftover rice cilantro lime recipe is super flexible—you can easily scale it up or down depending on how much rice you have on hand.
How to Make Leftover Cilantro Lime Rice
To warm up your leftover rice, heat it in a skillet over medium heat. Add about 3 tablespoons of water and give it a good stir to break up any clumps. Cover the pan with a lid and let it steam for a few minutes, stirring now and then until the rice is heated through and fluffy.
While the rice is warming, finely chop your fresh cilantro and toss it into a small bowl. Add the lime juice and a pinch of salt, then stir to combine
Once the rice is nice and hot, take the skillet off the heat and mix in the cilantro lime mixture. Stir everything together until the flavors are evenly combined. If you like it a little more tangy, feel free to squeeze in some extra lime juice to taste. Then, serve and enjoy!
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Leftover Cilantro Lime Rice
PrintIngredients
- 3 cups leftover white rice
- 1/2 cup cilantro finely chopped
- 3 tablespoons lime juice
- 1/2 teaspoon salt
Instructions
- Place leftover rice in a large skillet over medium heat. Drizzle 3 tablespoons of water on top and stir to help break up any clumps. Cover with a lid and cook for a few minutes, stirring occasionally, until the rice is heated through.
- While the rice warms up, finely chop the cilantro and add it to a small bowl. Stir in the lime juice and salt, giving it a stir to mix it up.
- Once the rice is hot, remove it from the heat and mix in the cilantro lime mixture, stirring until everything is evenly combined. Taste it. Does it need more lime juice? Then add another tablespoon. Serve and enjoy!
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