Easy Moe’s Seasoned Rice Recipe You Can Make Today

Moe’s seasoned rice is not spicy, but it’s not bland either. It has a mild Southwestern flavor—light cumin, a bit of citrus, a pinch of garlic, and just enough salt to balance it out.

It’s white rice, but cooked with flavor built-in, not added after.

Unlike Chipotle’s lime cilantro rice (which is more citrus-forward), Moe’s version leans more into warmth and background flavor.

That makes it ideal for burrito bowls, taco salads, or even as a side dish for grilled chicken or vegetables.

Moe’s Seasoned Rice (Copycat Recipe)

Moe’s seasoned rice brings subtle Southwestern warmth with every bite.

This white rice dish is infused during cooking with cumin, garlic, onion powder, and a splash of lime—giving it layered flavor without overwhelming spice.

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Prep Time 5 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Course Side Dish

Cuisine Southwestern, Tex-Mex

Servings 4

Calories 210 kcal

Equipment

• Medium saucepan with lid (or pot with tight-fitting lid)
• Fine mesh strainer or bowl (for rinsing rice)
• Fork (for fluffing)
• Measuring spoons and cups

Ingredients

  

• 1 cup long-grain white rice (uncooked) – jasmine or basmati works too
• 2 cups water or low-sodium broth (vegetable or chicken)
• 1 tbsp olive oil or butter
• 1/2 tsp garlic powder
• 1/2 tsp onion powder (optional)
• 1/2 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp salt (adjust if using broth)
• 1 tbsp lime juice (fresh preferred)
• 1 tbsp fresh cilantro (optional)

Instructions

 

• Rinse the Rice

  Place rice in a fine mesh strainer or bowl.

  Rinse under cold water, swishing the grains with your hand. Repeat until water runs mostly clear (2–3 times).
  
• Toast the Rice

  In a medium saucepan, heat olive oil or butter over medium heat.

  Add the rinsed rice and toast for 2–3 minutes, stirring constantly, until rice looks slightly golden and opaque.
  
• Bloom the Spices

  Add garlic powder, onion powder (if using), ground cumin, and salt to the rice.

  Stir for 30–60 seconds to release aroma and coat the grains.
  
• Add Liquid and Boil

  Pour in the water or broth. Stir once and bring to a rolling boil over high heat.
  
• Simmer Gently

  Once boiling, reduce heat to low. Cover the pot with a tight-fitting lid and simmer undisturbed for 18–20 minutes.
  
• Let It Rest

  Remove the pot from heat. Keep covered and let it rest for 5 minutes to redistribute moisture.
  
• Fluff and Finish

  Remove the lid and fluff the rice gently with a fork. Stir in lime juice and optional chopped cilantro before serving.
  

Video

Notes

Cooking Tips

• Rinsing the rice prevents stickiness and keeps grains fluffy.
• Toasting rice boosts flavor and helps grains stay separate.
• Always finish with lime juice—don’t cook it in or it’ll lose its brightness.
• Broth adds savory depth. Use low-sodium to control saltiness.

Keyword Burrito Bowl, Copycat Recipe, Rice, Side Dish, Tex Mex

Serving Ideas

You can use this seasoned rice in almost anything:

It even reheats well the next day if stored in an airtight container.

Final Notes

Moe’s seasoned rice is a great example of how simple ingredients, when cooked right, can deliver big flavor.

This version keeps it easy, clean, and fast. If you have 30 minutes and a saucepan, you can make this today no trip to the restaurant needed.

Want to make it feel like the real Moe’s experience? Pair it with some black beans, fresh pico, and a warm tortilla.