Love Chipotle’s carnitas but tired of the takeout bill? You’re not alone! We’re here to help you recreate your favorite Chipotle Copycat Carnitas at home without all the fuss.
❤️ Why you’ll love it
There’s something truly special about making Chipotle copycat carnitas at home. Not only do you get to enjoy the flavors you love without leaving the house, but you also get the satisfaction of creating a restaurant-quality dish in your own kitchen.
- Irresistible Flavor: Let’s face it: the taste is out of this world. Savory, tender, and perfectly seasoned, these carnitas hit all the right notes. The combination of juicy pork, aromatic spices, and a hint of citrus creates a flavor explosion in every bite.
- Easy to Make: This recipe is straightforward and beginner-friendly. Whether you’re using an Instant Pot or a crock pot, the process is simple and the results are consistently delicious. You’ll feel like a pro chef without the culinary school diploma.
- Cost-Effective: Dining at Chipotle frequently can add up. By making these carnitas at home, you save money without sacrificing taste. Plus, you get more bang for your buck with larger portions that stretch across multiple meals.
- Family-Friendly: This is a dish that everyone in the family can enjoy. Kids love the tender, flavorful meat, and adults appreciate the depth of flavor. Plus, it’s a great way to bring everyone together for a meal that feels special.
- Perfect for Meal Prep: If you’re into meal prepping, these carnitas are a life-saver. Make a big batch over the weekend, and you’ll have delicious, versatile meat ready for quick lunches and dinners throughout the week.
🧾 Ingredients
Dry Rub Seasoning: Ground cumin, Smoked paprika, Ground coriander, Dried oregano, Garlic powder, Onion powder, Salt and Black pepper. You can also use the Homemade Chicken Fajita Rub Recipe.
Mix these spices together to create a flavorful blend that will cover every inch of your pork.
Pork Carnitas Ingredients:
- Pork shoulder (also known as pork butt)
- Olive oil
- Chicken broth
- Red onion
- Jalapeño
- Freshly squeezed orange juice
- Freshly squeezed lime juice
Cilantro-Lime Rice Ingredients
- Long-grain white rice
- Water
- Olive oil
- Lime
- Fresh cilantro
- Salt
Pico de Gallo Ingredients
- 3 Roma tomatoes
- Red onion
- Jalapeño
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime
- Salt and pepper
Remaining Burrito Bowls Ingredients
- Black beans
- Corn kernels
- Avocado
- Cilantro
- Lime wedges
🍳 How to Make Chipotle Copycat Carnitas
Cooking the Pork Carnitas
Prepare the Rub: This is the secret ingredient to making these taste just like the real thing. Add the spices to a bowl and mix well. Take your pork shoulder, cut into 3-inch pieces, and rub the spice mixture all over. Ensure every piece is well-coated.
Sear the Pork: If using an Instant Pot, press the “Sauté” button and set it to “High.” Add 1 tbsp of olive oil and place half of the seasoned pork in the pot. Sear until browned on all sides (about 2-3 minutes per side). Remove the seared pork and repeat with another tbsp of olive oil and the remaining pork.
Sauté the Onions and Jalapeño: Add another tbsp of olive oil to the pot. Toss in 1 chopped medium red onion and 1 seeded and chopped jalapeño. Sauté until soft and translucent (around 3-4 minutes).
Cook the Pork: Add the browned pork back to the pot. Pour in 1 cup of chicken broth, 1/2 cup orange juice, and 1/4 cup lime juice. Lock the lid in place, set the steam vent to “Sealing,” and press the “Manual” button on “High.” Set the cook time to 30 minutes. When cooking time is complete, allow pressure to release naturally for 20 minutes, then perform a quick release for any remaining steam.
Crisping the Carnitas: Preheat oven broiler to high. Line a baking sheet with foil. Transfer shredded pork to the sheet, drizzle with 1/4 cup cooking juices, and spread in an even layer. Broil for 4-5 minutes, then turn the meat, drizzle with more juices, and broil another 4-5 minutes until crispy.
Making Cilantro-Lime Rice
While the pork is cooking, let’s prepare the cilantro-lime rice. This zesty rice is the perfect base for your bowl.
Cook the Rice: In a pot, bring 2 cups of water (or chicken broth) to a boil. Add 1 cup of long-grain white rice and 1 tbsp of olive oil. Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes until rice is tender. Once cooked, fluff the rice with a fork. Stir in the zest and juice of 1 lime, 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro, and 1/2 tsp salt.
Preparing Pico de Gallo
Fresh pico de gallo adds vibrant color and flavor to your bowl.
Chop the Ingredients: Dice 3 Roma tomatoes. Finely chop 1/2 medium red onion and 1 seeded jalapeño. Mix with 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro and the juice of 1 lime. Add salt and pepper to taste. Combine everything in a bowl and stir well.
Assembling the Bowls
Now for the fun part—assembling your delicious Chipotle copycat carnitas bowls!
Prepare Your Ingredients: Drain and rinse 1 can of black beans. Prepare 1 cup of corn kernels (fresh or thawed if frozen). Slice 1 avocado. Have fresh cilantro and lime wedges ready for garnish.
Assemble the Bowls: Divide the cilantro-lime rice among 4 to 6 serving bowls. Top with shredded pork carnitas, black beans, corn, pico de gallo, and avocado slices. Garnish with chopped cilantro and lime wedges for that extra zest.
🥄 Variations to Chipotle Carnitas Recipe
Making Chipotle copycat carnitas is a great way to recreate your favorite restaurant flavors at home, but sometimes you might want to mix things up a bit. Here are a few variations to consider that can add new dimensions to your carnitas bowls.
Different Cooking Methods
While using an Instant Pot or slow cooker is common, there are other methods you can try to achieve those deliciously tender carnitas.
- Oven-Braised: For an oven-braised version, place the seasoned pork in a Dutch oven with the braising liquids (chicken broth, orange juice, and lime juice). Cover and cook at 300°F (150°C) for about 3-4 hours, or until the meat is fall-apart tender.
- Stovetop: You can also slow cook the pork on the stovetop. Use a heavy-bottomed pot, bring the liquids to a simmer, then lower the heat and cook on low for several hours until the pork is fully tender.
Flavor Twists
Adding different spices or ingredients can bring exciting new flavors to your carnitas.
- Spicy Kick: Love some heat? Add extra jalapeños or even some chipotle peppers in adobo sauce to the mix. This will infuse the pork with a smoky, spicy flavor.
- Sweet and Savory: For a slightly sweet twist, consider adding a bit of brown sugar or honey to the braising liquid. This contrasts nicely with the savory and spicy elements.
- Citrus Blast: Enhance the citrus flavor by adding zest from the oranges and limes to the dry rub or braising liquid. This will give a refreshing pop to each bite.
Serving Suggestions
Changing up how you serve your carnitas can keep things exciting.
- Tacos: Instead of bowls, use your carnitas to fill soft corn or flour tortillas. Top with your favorite taco fixings like shredded lettuce, cheese, and sour cream.
- Burritos: Wrap the carnitas, cilantro-lime rice, black beans, and pico de gallo in a large tortilla for a hearty burrito.
- Salads: Make a lighter option by serving the carnitas over a bed of mixed greens. Add avocado, corn, black beans, and a tangy lime vinaigrette for a satisfying salad.
- Nachos: Spread tortilla chips on a baking sheet, top with carnitas, cheese, and jalapeños. Bake until the cheese melts, then add pico de gallo, sour cream, and guacamole.
🍽️ What to Serve With This Chipotle Carnitas Copycat Recipe
Creating the perfect Chipotle copycat carnitas bowl doesn’t stop with just the carnitas. To elevate your meal, pairing the carnitas with tasty sides is essential. These sides not only complement the flavors but also add variety and a wow factor to your dish. Let’s look at some great options to serve with your carnitas.
- Mexican Street Corn: Mexican street corn, or elote, is a fantastic side that’s both sweet and savory. Grilled corn on the cob is slathered with a mix of mayonnaise, sour cream, cotija cheese, and lime juice, then sprinkled with chili powder and cilantro.
- Guacamole: Guacamole is a must-have when serving carnitas. Its creamy texture and fresh ingredients like avocados, lime, cilantro, and red onion make for a refreshing contrast to the savory pork.
- Refried Beans: Refried beans add a hearty element to your meal. They’re smooth, flavorful, and seasoned perfectly to complement your carnitas.
- Tortilla Chips: What’s a Mexican-inspired meal without crispy tortilla chips? They’re perfect for scooping up guacamole or enjoying alongside your carnitas bowl.
- Flour or Corn Tortillas: Whether you prefer flour or corn, tortillas are essential. They can be used to make carnitas tacos or even serve as a base for homemade burritos. Warm them on a skillet until they’re pliable and slightly charred.
Storing Your Chipotle Copycat Carnitas
Proper storage ensures that your delicious Chipotle copycat carnitas stay fresh and flavorful for days or even months. Whether you’re planning to enjoy your carnitas over several meals or you want to batch cook for future convenience, knowing how to store and reheat them is crucial.
Refrigerator Storage
After making a big batch of carnitas, you might find yourself with leftovers. Storing them in the refrigerator keeps them fresh for a few days.
- Cool Down: Allow the carnitas to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent excess moisture buildup.
- Use Airtight Containers: Transfer the carnitas to an airtight container. This keeps them from drying out and prevents any unwanted fridge odors from seeping in.
- Label and Date: It’s a good habit to label your container with the date you made the carnitas. They can stay fresh in the fridge for up to 4 days.
Freezer Storage
Freezing carnitas is an excellent way to extend their shelf life, allowing you to enjoy a quick, delicious meal even weeks later.
- Cool Completely: Before freezing, ensure the carnitas are completely cooled. This prevents freezer burn and keeps the texture intact.
- Portion Wisely: Divide the carnitas into meal-sized portions. This way, you only thaw what you need, keeping the rest frozen for future use.
- Double Bag: Place the portions in freezer-safe bags, removing as much air as possible to prevent freezer burn. For an added layer of protection, double bag the portions or use heavy-duty freezer bags.
- Label Clearly: Don’t forget to label the bags with the date. Carnitas can be safely frozen for up to 3 months.
Reheating
Reheating your stored carnitas is easy and quick, letting you enjoy that just-cooked flavor without a lot of hassle.
- Reheating from the Refrigerator:
- Stovetop: Place the carnitas in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Add a splash of water or broth to keep them moist. Stir occasionally until heated through, about 5-8 minutes.
- Microwave: Transfer the carnitas to a microwave-safe dish. Cover with a damp paper towel to prevent drying out. Heat on high for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through.
- Reheating from the Freezer:
- Stovetop: For best results, thaw the carnitas overnight in the refrigerator. Then, reheat as above. If you’re in a hurry, you can reheat directly from frozen, but it will take longer.
- Oven: Preheat your oven to 350°F (175°C). Place the frozen carnitas on a baking sheet and cover with foil. Bake for 20-25 minutes or until heated through.
💭 Tips for Making Easy Copycat Carnitas
Creating Chipotle copycat carnitas at home isn’t just about following a recipe; it’s about getting all the little details right. Here are some essential tips to ensure your carnitas turn out flavorful, tender, and just like your favorite restaurant’s version.
Choose the Right Cut of Meat
Selecting the proper cut of meat is the foundation of great carnitas. Opt for pork shoulder or pork butt. These cuts are marbled with fat, ensuring your carnitas will be juicy and flavorful. Avoid lean cuts like pork loin, which can dry out during cooking.
Searing for Flavor
Don’t skip the searing step! Browning the meat helps to develop a rich, deep flavor through the Maillard reaction. Use a hot pan with a little oil and sear the pork until it’s caramelized on all sides.
Low and Slow
If you’re not using an Instant Pot, the best method is slow cooking.
- Slow Cooker: Cook the pork on low heat for 6-8 hours. This slow braise will break down the connective tissues, making the meat tender and easy to shred.
- Oven: You can also braise the pork in a Dutch oven at 300°F (150°C) for 3-4 hours. Make sure to cover it so it doesn’t dry out.
Customize Your Bowl
The beauty of homemade carnitas bowls is the ability to customize.
- Toppings Galore: Fresh cilantro, lime wedges, jalapeños, avocado slices, and cheese are fantastic toppings.
- Mix and Match: Feel free to mix in your favorite salsas, beans, or even a dollop of sour cream for that extra touch.
❔ FAQs
Can I Customize the Spice Level?
Yes! Feel free to adjust the spices to suit your taste. Add extra jalapeños or chipotle peppers if you like it spicy. If you’re sensitive to heat, reduce the amount of jalapeño or omit it altogether.
More Delicious Recipes
Chipotle Copycat Carnitas
Ingredients
Dry Rub Ingredients:
- ½ TBSP chili powder
- ½ TBSP unsweetened cocoa powder
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- ½ tsp smoked paprika
- ½ tsp chipotle powder
- 1 tsp dried Mexican oregano
- 1 tsp sea salt
- ½ tsp ground black pepper
- 3 TBSP extra virgin olive oil divided
Pork Carnitas Ingredients:
- 3½ – 4½ lbs. pork shoulder roast trimmed and cut into 6-8 chunks
- 3 TBSP extra virgin olive oil divided
- 1 medium red onion diced
- 1 medium jalapeno diced
- ¾ cup chicken broth preferably organic
- ¾ cup fresh orange juice
- 3 TBSP lime juice
Cilantro-Lime Rice Ingredients:
- 1 cup uncooked rice prepared according to package ingredients
- 3 TBSP fresh cilantro leaves chopped
- 3 TBSP fresh lime juice divided
- Sea salt & black pepper to taste
Pico de Gallo Ingredients:
- 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes quartered
- ¼ cup red onion diced
- 2 TBSP fresh cilantro leaves finely chopped
- 2 TBSP fresh lime juice
- Sea salt & black pepper to taste
Remaining Bowl Ingredients:
- 1 large avocado sliced
- 1 cup black beans warmed
- 1 cup whole kernel corn warmed
- 2 large limes cut into wedges
- 3 TBSP fresh cilantro for garnish
Directions
- Combine dry rub ingredients in a small bowl and stir to combine. Rub mixture onto pork until each piece is thoroughly covered. Press well to adhere.
- Push the “Sauté” button on Instant Pot® and set to “High.” Add 1 tablespoon olive oil and half the seasoned pork shoulder pieces to the container. Sear until pork is browned on all sides, approximately 2-3 minutes per side.
- Note: DO NOT use lid while using the “Sauté” function on an Instant Pot.
- Once browned, transfer seared pork to a plate and repeat this process with another tablespoon of olive oil and the remaining pork. Remove browned pork from the Instant Pot® and set aside.
- Add remaining tablespoon olive oil to the container, along with red onion and jalapeño. Sauté, stirring occasionally, until soft and translucent, approximately 3-4 minutes.
- Add browned pork back to the pot and pour chicken broth, orange juice, and lime juice on top. Add lid and lock into place. Set the steam vent to “Sealing.” Press the “Manual” button and adjust to the “High” setting, if necessary. Adjust cook time to 30 minutes. (Select 40 minutes for 4+ pound roasts).
- While the pork is cooking, prepare the Cilantro-Lime Rice and Pico de Gallo by combining the ingredients for each in medium bowls. Stir to combine and set aside until ready to use.
- When the Instant Pot® cook time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 20 minutes before doing a quick release of any remaining steam.
Optional Steps for Crispier Carnitas:
- Pre-heat the oven broiler to high and line a large, rimmed baking sheet with aluminum foil. Transfer pork to the prepared baking sheet and gently shred with two forks. Drizzle with ¼ cup juices from the Instant Pot® and toss to combine before spreading into a thin, even layer. Season with additional salt and black pepper, if desired.
- Place pork under broiler for 4-5 minutes, then remove from oven and add a little more juice before turning the meat to brown the other side. Place back under broiler for another 4-5 minutes or until the pork is nice and crispy on the edges.
- When finished broiling, remove baking sheet from oven and assemble the burrito bowls by dividing the shredded pork, Cilantro-Lime Rice, Pico de Gallo, sliced avocado, black beans, and corn between 4 to 6 serving bowls. To serve, top with chopped cilantro and fresh lime wedges, if desired. Enjoy!
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