Quick Answer
Chipotle’s cilantro lime rice contains approximately 210 calories per serving. The exact calorie count can vary slightly depending on the restaurant location and preparation methods. A standard serving size is 3 ounces or 85 grams.
Calories in Chipotle Rice
Chipotle’s signature cilantro lime rice is a popular side dish option for burritos, bowls, tacos, and other menu items. Understanding the calorie content can help customers make informed menu choices.
Here is an overview of the estimated calories in Chipotle’s cilantro lime rice:
| Serving Size | Calories |
|---|---|
| 3 oz (85g) | 210 |
| 1/2 cup (87g) | 220 |
| 1 cup (174g) | 430 |
As you can see, a standard 3 ounce side portion contains about 210 calories. This is based on Chipotle’s published nutrition data.
Exact calorie counts may vary slightly depending on:
– Ingredients and preparation at each restaurant location
– If the rice is made with white or brown rice
– Portion size inaccuracies
However, 210 calories per 3 ounce serving is an accurate estimate.
Nutrition Facts
Here is the nutrition information for Chipotle’s cilantro lime rice according to Chipotle’s website:
| Amount Per Serving |
|---|
| Calories 210 |
| Fat Calories 45 |
| Total Fat 5g |
| Saturated Fat 1g |
| Trans Fat 0g |
| Cholesterol 0mg |
| Sodium 0mg |
| Carbohydrates 36g |
| Fiber 0g |
| Sugars 0g |
| Protein 3g |
As you can see, the majority of calories in Chipotle’s rice come from the carbohydrates. There are 36 grams of carbohydrate per serving, which accounts for about 144 of the 210 calories.
The rice is also low in sodium, containing 0 mg per serving. There is 3 grams of protein and 5 grams of fat. It does not provide any fiber.
This shows that while Chipotle’s cilantro lime rice is fairly high in carbohydrates and calories, it does not contain much sodium or saturated fat.
Ingredients
Chipotle prepares their signature cilantro lime rice fresh daily in each restaurant. It is made with just a few simple ingredients:
– Long grain white rice: The basic rice that provides the carbohydrates and calories. Typically it is steamed.
– Lime juice: Added for a tangy, citrus flavor. Also adds a small amount of vitamin C.
– Cilantro: Fresh chopped cilantro provides flavor, color and trace amounts of nutrients like vitamin K.
– Salt: A small pinch of salt is added for flavor. Keeps the sodium content low.
– Water: The rice is cooked in water, which is absorbed during steaming.
That’s it! Just by combining some basic ingredients like rice, lime, cilantro and salt, Chipotle is able to produce their popular cilantro lime rice. No preservatives, colors or artificial flavors are used.
Preparation Methods
Chipotle uses a fairly straightforward process to prepare their cilantro lime rice each day from scratch:
1. Rinse the raw rice thoroughly to remove excess starch.
2. Add the rinsed rice and water to a rice cooker. Use a 3:1 water to rice ratio.
3. Allow the rice to steam until fully cooked and fluffy. This takes about 20-25 minutes.
4. Transfer the cooked rice to a large bowl. Add diced cilantro and lime juice. Adjust to taste.
5. Portion the rice into serving sizes using portion scoops.
6. Hold the rice in a warm place until assembling entrees.
7. Mix gently before serving to fluff up and distribute ingredients.
As you can see, it’s a pretty simple cooking process focused on steaming the rice properly. The lime juice and cilantro are added after cooking for maximum flavor and color vibrancy. No oils, butter or other ingredients are used.
This cooking method allows Chipotle to serve fresh, delicious cilantro lime rice all day long in each restaurant. While calories and nutrition may vary slightly, you can expect approximately 210 calories per 3 ounce serving.
How Calories Can Vary
While Chipotle intends for the cilantro lime rice to contain 210 calories per serving, there are some factors that can cause slight variation:
Ingredient Variations
– Type of rice: Chipotle may use white, brown or a blend, which alters nutritional values.
– Fresh produce: Ingredients like limes and cilantro can differ based on season, supplier and freshness.
– Restaurant variances: Each location may tweak ingredients based on availability and individual tastes.
Serving Size Differences
– Scoop sizes: Servers may over or under-portion the rice inadvertently.
– Measurement error: Weighing vs scoop methods could also lead to size variances.
– Customer customization: Some customers may request more or less rice than the standard serving.
– Settling: Rice can settle and become packed over time, altering visual serving sizes.
Preparation Inconsistencies
– Cooking methods: Rice cookers may have slight temperature differences, affecting doneness.
– Lime juice amounts: The amount of lime juice added and mixing may change the flavor and moisture level.
– Holding time: Rice held for longer periods before serving may lose moisture and weigh less.
While Chipotle strives for consistency, these factors explain why actual calories can end up slightly higher or lower than the 210 calories stated per serving. Differences of +/- 50 calories are likely from normal restaurant variations.
Tips for Lightening Up Rice
For customers looking to reduce calories in their Chipotle rice, there are a few simple substitutions to consider:
– Ask for brown rice instead of white to add more fiber. This also provides a nuttier flavor.
– Request just 1/2 serving of rice to cut calories in half.
– Opt forother lower calorie grain sides like beans, lettuce or fajita veggies in lieu of rice.
– Order a bowl without rice and add more low cal veggies and salsas.
– Skip the rice completely and make it a salad, taco or burrito bowl instead.
Making these swaps allows you to remove anywhere from 100 to 210 calories per meal. You still get delicious flavor without all the carbs and calories of the cilantro lime rice.
Cilantro Lime Rice Calories in Popular Orders
To give a better idea of how cilantro lime rice calories add up in typical Chipotle orders, here are some popular examples and estimates:
Burrito with Rice
– 1 Flour Tortilla = 300 calories
– 1 serving Cilantro Lime Rice = 210 calories
– Black Beans = 120 calories
– Chicken = 190 calories
– Salsa = 20 calories
– Cheese = 110 calories
– Lettece = 10 calories
– Total Calories = 960
Bowl with Rice
– 1 serving Cilantro Lime Rice = 210 calories
– Black Beans = 120 calories
– Chicken = 190 calories
– Medium Salsa = 30 calories
– Corn Salsa = 60 calories
– Cheese = 110 calories
– Lettuce = 10 calories
– Total Calories = 730
Rice-less Bowl
– Barbacoa = 180 calories
– Black Beans = 120 calories
– Fajita Veggies = 20 calories
– Medium Salsa = 30 calories
– Corn Salsa = 60 calories
– Cheese = 110 calories
– Lettuce = 10 calories
– Total Calories = 530
As you can see, skipping the rice can save 200 or more calories depending on your order. Or you can ask for just 1/2 serving to cut the rice calories in half while still enjoying some of the flavor.
Should You Avoid Chipotle’s Rice?
Chipotle’s cilantro lime rice is high in refined carbs and less nutrient-dense than many whole grain options. However, it can still be part of a balanced diet in moderation.
Here are some pros and cons to consider regarding Chipotle’s signature rice:
Pros
– Provides carbohydrates for energy
– Made fresh daily with minimal ingredients
– Compliments savory ingredients like meats, beans and salsas
– Satisfying side option that most customers expect
– Can fit into a daily calorie target in smaller portions
Cons
– High in refined carbs and calories compared to vegetables
– Low in fiber, protein and nutrients
– Extra servings can easily drive up calorie count
– Default option leads some customers to overeat carbs
Overall, enjoying Chipotle’s cilantro lime rice occasionally or in sensible portions is unlikely to be harmful as part of an otherwise balanced diet. But replacing some or all of the rice with lower calorie vegetables, salsa or beans can support better health and waistline control.
Conclusion
Chipotle’s signature cilantro lime rice contains approximately 210 calories per 3 ounce serving. Exact counts can vary based on restaurant preparation, ingredients and serving sizes. While the rice provides carbohydrates and energy, it is not particularly high in fiber, protein or nutrients. Customers can reduce their calorie intake by ordering smaller portions of rice, substituting vegetables or grain-free options, or skipping rice altogether. In moderation, Chipotle’s rice can be part of a healthy lifestyle. But loading up extra servings can quickly increase your calorie consumption. Being mindful of portion sizes and making lower calorie substitutions allows you to enjoy Chipotle while managing your calorie and nutrition goals.
