If you’re a fan of Chipotle’s Carnitas, you know just how delicious and satisfying their tender, perfectly seasoned pork can be. But what if you could recreate this signature dish at home, making it even more flavorful and customized to your tastes? Well, you’re in luck! This Copycat Chipotle Carnitas recipe is exactly what you need to achieve that perfect balance of savory, citrusy, and herb-infused flavors that make this dish a standout in any burrito, taco, or bowl.
In this article, we will not only walk you through the ingredients and steps to make this Copycat Chipotle Carnitas, but we’ll also dive into the origin of carnitas, provide some tips for making it even better, and answer frequently asked questions. By the end of this, you’ll be able to whip up restaurant-quality carnitas in your own kitchen that will leave your friends and family asking for more.
What is Copycat Chipotle Carnitas?
Copycat Chipotle Carnitas is a homemade version of the beloved carnitas served at Chipotle Mexican Grill. Carnitas, which translates to “little meats” in Spanish, is a slow-cooked pork dish with a flavor profile that combines citrus, herbs, and spices. At Chipotle, the carnitas are seasoned to perfection, cooked low and slow to achieve a melt-in-your-mouth tenderness, and then crisped up in a skillet for a delicious, crispy exterior.
This copycat recipe mimics the tender, juicy pork of Chipotle’s version, using a variety of spices like cumin, oregano, and coriander, with a touch of adobo sauce and citrus juice for that signature taste. The key is in the slow cooking process that allows the pork to become tender enough to shred, creating a juicy base for tacos, burritos, or bowls.
Origin of Carnitas
The word “carnitas” comes from the Mexican culinary tradition, where it refers to pork that is simmered in its own fat or a combination of oil and lard until tender. This method of cooking originated in the state of Michoacán, Mexico, where it is traditionally prepared for celebrations or gatherings, such as holidays, weddings, and other special occasions. Carnitas is usually served as a filling for tacos, burritos, or tamales, and the flavor profile varies depending on regional styles, with some regions emphasizing different spices and herbs.
The version of carnitas that Chipotle has made famous is based on traditional recipes, but with a modern twist. The pork is slow-cooked in a flavorful mixture of orange, lime, garlic, and bay leaves, along with a hint of chipotle heat from the adobo sauce. The result is a sweet, savory, and slightly smoky pork filling that perfectly complements the fresh toppings like guacamole, salsa, and cilantro.
Ingredients for Copycat Chipotle Carnitas
To make this delicious copycat carnitas recipe, you’ll need the following ingredients. Most of them are common in Mexican cooking and can be easily found at your local grocery store or online. Here’s what you’ll need:
Ingredients with Quantities
- 4–5 lb pork shoulder (pork butt), boneless or bone-in
- 2 tsp kosher salt
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 tbsp ground cumin
- 1 tbsp dried oregano
- 1 tbsp ground coriander (optional but authentic)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 small onion, quartered
- 2 tsp adobo sauce (from canned chipotles in adobo)
- 1 small orange, halved (use both juice and rind)
- 1 lime, juiced
- ½ cup chicken broth or water
- 2 tbsp lard or vegetable oil (for searing)
Optional Garnishes
- Fresh cilantro
- Lime wedges
- Pickled red onions
- Guacamole or avocado slices
Step-by-Step Directions for Making Copycat Chipotle Carnitas
Making Copycat Chipotle Carnitas is a straightforward process, though it does require some time to let the flavors develop. Here’s how you can recreate this dish in your own kitchen, step by step.
Step 1: Season the Pork
Start by preparing the pork shoulder. First, pat the pork shoulder dry using paper towels. This will help the seasonings adhere better. Next, rub the pork with the kosher salt, freshly ground black pepper, ground cumin, dried oregano, and ground coriander (if you’re using it). Let the pork sit for at least 30 minutes to allow the seasonings to penetrate. For the best flavor, you can also refrigerate the seasoned pork overnight to allow the spices to develop even more.
Step 2: Brown the Meat
In a large skillet, heat lard or vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Sear the pork on all sides until it turns a golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side. This browning process adds depth of flavor to the meat, which will contribute to the overall richness of the carnitas.
Step 3: Slow Cook the Pork
Once the pork is browned, transfer it to a slow cooker or a Dutch oven. Add the following ingredients to the pot:
- Minced garlic
- Quartered onion
- Bay leaves
- Adobo sauce
- Juice and rind from the orange
- Lime juice
- Chicken broth or water
This mixture will help the pork cook slowly and absorb all the wonderful flavors from the citrus, herbs, and spices.
Step 4: Cook Until Tender
Now, let the pork cook slowly until it is fork-tender:
- Slow cooker method: Cook on LOW for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 5-6 hours.
- Oven/Dutch oven method: Cook at 300°F for 3½–4 hours, covered, until the pork is tender and can be easily shredded with a fork.
Step 5: Shred and Crisp
Once the pork is cooked, remove it from the liquid and shred it using two forks. To achieve the crispy texture similar to Chipotle’s carnitas, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add some of the shredded pork. Drizzle it with a little bit of the cooking liquid and let it crisp up slightly before serving.
Variations of Copycat Chipotle Carnitas
While this Copycat Chipotle Carnitas recipe is perfect as is, you can easily customize it to suit your taste preferences. Here are a few variations you can try:
- Add more spice: If you like your carnitas with a bit more heat, consider adding extra chipotle peppers in adobo sauce or some jalapeños to the slow cooker.
- Use different citrus fruits: For a twist, you can substitute the orange for grapefruit or lemon. This will add a different citrusy flavor to your carnitas.
- Add a touch of sweetness: If you prefer a slightly sweeter carnitas recipe, you can add a tablespoon of brown sugar to the slow cooker along with the other seasonings.
FAQs About Copycat Chipotle Carnitas
Q1: Can I use a different cut of pork for this recipe?
Yes, you can substitute pork loin or pork tenderloin for the pork shoulder. However, pork shoulder is recommended for its marbling and fat content, which results in a tender and flavorful carnitas.
Q2: How do I store leftovers?
Once cooked, Copycat Chipotle Carnitas can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the carnitas for up to 3 months. Just be sure to let it cool completely before freezing.
Q3: Can I make this recipe in an Instant Pot?
Yes! To make Copycat Chipotle Carnitas in an Instant Pot, cook the pork on the Sauté function to brown it. Then add the other ingredients, seal the pot, and cook on high pressure for 60 minutes. Let the pressure release naturally, shred the pork, and crisp it in a skillet as usual.
Q4: What are some other ways to serve carnitas?
Besides burritos, tacos, and bowls, carnitas also make a great filling for nachos, quesadillas, or even sandwiches. You can also serve it as a main dish with rice and beans.
Conclusion
This Copycat Chipotle Carnitas recipe is the perfect way to bring the restaurant-quality flavors of Chipotle right into your home. With tender, juicy pork, balanced spices, and the signature citrusy notes, it’s a recipe that is sure to become a favorite for your next taco night or family gathering. By following the simple steps and tips shared here, you’ll be able to create a carnitas dish that’s even better than the one at Chipotle — all with ingredients that you can easily find at the grocery store.
Now, it’s your turn to try this recipe out and enjoy the deliciousness of homemade carnitas! Whether you’re making a burrito bowl, tacos, or something entirely unique, this recipe will add a burst of flavor to your meal.
