Chimichurri Rice

Chimichurri Rice is an easy, flavorful herb rice loaded with garlic and fresh herbs such as cilantro and parsley. Best of all, it comes together in one pot and takes only about 20 minutes from start to finish.

Chimichurri Rice

I usually make this easy herb rice whenever I need a quick side for dinner, it’s also perfect for busy weeknights.

I used to cook the rice separately, then prepare the chimichurri sauce and mix them together at the end. But I’ve found that cooking the rice directly with the sauce gives it a much better flavor, so that’s the method I use now. This method also is faster and easier.

I usually serve a bowl of this rice with Crispy fried chicken fingers or Chinese peanut butter chicken for lunch or light dinner.

You'll Need

Here are all the ingredients you'll need to make this dish.

Basmati Rice. I use Basmati rice because it has long grains. Jasmine rice also works fine.

Lemon Juice. It really enhances the flavor.

Olive Oil. You may use sunflower oil instead if you like.

Red Pepper Flakes. For a spicy kick.

Fresh herbs: I use fresh cilantro and parsley to finish the dish before serving. Wash cilantro and parsley thoroughly before using them.

Other ingredients I used: Tomato sauce, onion and garlic, chicken stock and fresh ginger.

Complete information on ingredients and quantities is in the recipe card at the end of the post.

How to Make Chimichurri Rice?

One: Rinse the rice and drain it well to wash away some starch and achieve a fluffy texture.

Two: In a large pot, heat the oil over medium-high heat, add onion and rice, and cook for 2-3 minutes or until the rice turns lightly brown (stirring frequently).

Three: Stir in the ginger, red pepper flakes, garlic, salt, black pepper and lemon juice.

Four: Stir in the tomato sauce and chicken stock, bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and put the lid on the pot and cook for 15 to 20 minutes or until the liquid is absorbed.

Five: Fluff the rice with a fork and then fold in the chopped cilantro and parsley and serve.

Pro Tips

• Choose the right rice for this dish; long-grain rice such as jasmine or basmati rice works best for this dish.
• I highly recommend rinsing the rice before cooking to achieve a fluffy texture by removing some of the starch.
• For this dish, I’ve found that a 1:1 rice-to-liquid ratio works best, so I use 2 cups of rice and 2 cups of chicken stock.
• You may use apple cider vinegar instead of lemon juice.
• If you don't like cilantro, use fresh time instead.

Storing

• Allow leftovers to cool completely, and place them in a well-sealed container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
• To reheat leftovers, microwave for 30-40 seconds or until heated through. 

FAQs

What Does Chimichurri Rice Taste Like?

It has a fresh, herby and slightly tangy taste.

Is This Dish Suitable For Meal Prep?

Absolutely! This dish is great for meal prep! You can divide it into single-serve containers and keep it in the fridge to use throughout the week.

Pair It With

More Side Dish Recipes

• Smoked Salmon Pizza
• Vegetarian Sausage Rolls
• Mexican burgers
• Pan Fried Green Beans
• Zucchini Patties Recipe
• Cabbage Patties
• Thai Fish Patties

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