Name: Arroz Verde Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 18 min
Total time: 28 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 4 cups chicken broth (or bone broth, divided); 1 bay leaf (optional); 2 cups white rice; 1/2 cup cilantro; 2 cups baby spinach leaves; 4 green onions (coarsely chopped); 1 lime (zested, plus 1 Tablespoon lime juice); 1 Tablespoon olive oil; ½ teaspoon salt; Salt and pepper (to taste)

Jump to Recipe· 4.2 from 38 reviews

If you’re craving a vibrant, fresh, and bursting-with-flavor side dish that will brighten up any meal, then this Arroz Verde Recipe is your new best friend in the kitchen. This is not just any rice — it’s a brilliant green blend of herbs, spinach, and zesty lime that brings both color and excitement to your plate. It’s incredibly simple to make but delivers such a satisfying depth of flavor, perfectly complementing everything from grilled meats to vegetarian mains. Once you try this Arroz Verde Recipe, it will fast become a staple you reach for again and again.

Ingredients You’ll Need

The image shows separate white bowls and white marble surface holding ingredients for cooking: one bowl filled with white rice, another bowl filled with bright green cilantro, and a bowl filled with dark green spinach leaves. Next to these, there are fresh green onions laid out in a bunch. There is a clear glass measuring cup with light brown chicken stock. A small white bowl holds a single brown bay leaf, and a glass bottle with golden olive oil is present in the top left. The overall setup is clean and organized, placed on a white marbled background. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

These ingredients are refreshingly uncomplicated and each plays a vital role in creating the perfect balance of taste, texture, and that irresistible green hue for your Arroz Verde Recipe.

4 cups chicken broth (or bone broth, divided): This adds a rich, savory base that cooks the rice and infuses it with flavor.

1 bay leaf (optional): Adds a subtle aromatic layer that enhances the overall depth.
2 cups white rice: The canvas for your green masterpiece; rinsing it first ensures fluffiness.
1/2 cup cilantro: Brings fresh, citrusy notes essential for that vibrant flavor.

2 cups baby spinach leaves: Loads of nutrition and the brilliant green color you love.
4 green onions (coarsely chopped): Adds a mild onion bite and complexity.
1 lime (zested, plus 1 Tablespoon lime juice): Brightens the dish with citrus zing.

1 Tablespoon olive oil: Helps blend everything smoothly and adds subtle richness.
½ teaspoon salt: Essential seasoning to bring all flavors together.
Salt and pepper (to taste): For final seasoning adjustments, ensuring the perfect balance.

How to Make Arroz Verde Recipe

Step 1: Cook the rice

Start by bringing 3 ½ cups of chicken broth and the bay leaf to a boil in a medium pot. Add the rinsed white rice, cover, and reduce the heat to a gentle simmer. Let it cook for about 15 to 18 minutes until the rice is tender but not mushy. This gradual simmer locks in moisture and flavor, which makes the rice fluffy and perfectly cooked—exactly what you want for your Arroz Verde Recipe.

Step 2: Prepare the green sauce

While the rice cooks, grab your food processor or blender and toss in the cilantro, baby spinach, green onions, lime zest, lime juice, olive oil, salt, and the remaining ½ cup of chicken broth. Pulse them until you get a coarse green paste. This vibrant sauce is the magic behind the name Arroz Verde, packed with bright herbal freshness and creamy texture that will transform simple rice into a standout dish.

Step 3: Combine and rest

Once the rice is cooked, patiently remove the bay leaf and take the pot off the heat. Stir in your green paste gently until the rice is evenly coated in that stunning sauce. Cover the pot again and let it stand for a few minutes. This resting period allows all the flavors to meld beautifully and the heat to slightly soften the herbs for an unforgettable taste.

Step 4: Fluff and season

Use a fork to fluff the rice, making it light and airy. Now taste and season with salt and pepper as you like. This final touch lets you personalize your Arroz Verde Recipe to your preference before serving.

How to Serve Arroz Verde Recipe

A white pot filled with creamy green risotto, with finely chopped herbs mixed evenly throughout. A white spoon rests inside the pot on the right side, partially submerged in the risotto. The pot is placed on a white marbled surface with soft natural lighting highlighting the texture of the dish. The risotto looks soft and moist, with small grains visible under the vibrant green herb coating. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Garnishes

Adding a simple garnish like a sprinkle of freshly chopped cilantro or a few lime wedges on the side can elevate the dish’s presentation and refresh your palate as you enjoy each bite. A little crumbled queso fresco or toasted pepitas can also add a delightful crunch and extra flavor dimension.

Side Dishes

Arroz Verde pairs wonderfully with a variety of mains. Think grilled chicken, seared fish, or spicy shrimp. It’s also fantastic alongside roasted vegetables or black beans for a wholesome vegetarian meal. This versatility makes it a great go-to dish anytime you want a flavorful base that complements almost anything.

Creative Ways to Present

For a fun twist, serve this green rice in hollowed-out bell peppers, or use it as a vibrant bed beneath a dollop of creamy guacamole and grilled skirt steak. You can also shape it into small cakes and pan-fry for crispy, flavorful patties that are sure to wow your guests.

Make Ahead and Storage

Storing Leftovers

Leftover Arroz Verde keeps beautifully in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 or 4 days. Because the rice contains fresh herbs and spinach, make sure it stays chilled to maintain that bright color and fresh taste.

Freezing

If you want to save even more for later, you can freeze the rice in freezer-safe containers for up to one month. When freezing, lay down a parchment layer between portions to make serving easier and prevent clumping.

Reheating

To bring your Arroz Verde back to life, gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave with a small splash of broth or water. This keeps the rice moist and prevents drying out, ensuring it tastes just as fresh as when you first made it.

FAQs

Can I make Arroz Verde Recipe without chicken broth?

Absolutely! If you want a vegetarian version, simply use vegetable broth or water seasoned with a pinch of salt. The green sauce is so flavorful it will still shine beautifully.

Is it necessary to rinse the rice before cooking?

Yes, rinsing removes excess starch, helping the rice cook up fluffy and less sticky. This step is a little extra effort that pays off in texture.

Can I substitute spinach with other greens?

Definitely! While spinach is mild and vibrant, you can try kale, arugula, or even Swiss chard. Keep in mind the flavor profile will slightly change, so start with small amounts to find your favorite blend.

How spicy is Arroz Verde?

By default, this Arroz Verde Recipe is mild and fresh. If you love spicy food, consider adding a diced jalapeño or a sprinkle of chili flakes into the green paste for a subtle kick.

Can this recipe be made ahead of time?

Yes, you can make it ahead, just store it properly and reheat gently. However, it’s best eaten fresh to enjoy the full brightness of the herbs and lime.

Final Thoughts

This Arroz Verde Recipe is truly a gem in any kitchen—simple ingredients come together to create something exceptional, fresh, and beautifully green. It’s so easy to make and wonderfully versatile, promising to add brightness to your meals all year round. I hope you dive in and enjoy every lively, flavorful bite as much as I do!

Arroz Verde Recipe

Ingredients You’ll Need