Chipotle Mexican Grill is known for its delicious and customizable burritos, bowls, and tacos. One of their most beloved menu items is their carnitas, a slow-cooked pork dish that is packed with flavor and tender texture. While the restaurant chain has kept their recipe a well-guarded secret, we have uncovered a close approximation that will allow you to satisfy your cravings for their famous carnitas in the comfort of your own home.
If you're a fan of Mexican cuisine, then this recipe is a must-try! Tender, flavorful pork carnitas are the star of this dish, and they're perfect for filling tacos, burritos, or eating on their own. The secret to these carnitas is slow cooking the pork with a mix of spices and citrus juices, giving it a mouthwatering flavor that will have you craving more.
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Epic Paleo Nachos with Carnitas (Dairy-Free,...
Main Ingredients: Plantain Chips, Queso Blanco, Carnitas, Avocados, Red
Who says you can't have nachos while following a paleo diet? These epic paleo nachos are loaded with tender carnitas, fresh toppings, and a dairy-free cheese sauce that will make your taste buds dance. It's the perfect dish for game day or a fun family dinner.
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Carnitas & Street Corn Stuffed Zucchini with Ole...
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Olive Oil, Corn, Red Onion, Zucchini
If you're looking for a low-carb option, these stuffed zucchinis are a delicious and healthy alternative to traditional tacos. The zucchini boats are filled with juicy carnitas, street corn, and topped with a creamy avocado sauce. It's a flavorful and satisfying meal that won't leave you feeling guilty.
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Pork Carnita Tacos
Main Ingredients: Pork Butt Roast, Salt, Cumin, Coconut Oil, Onion
Tacos are a classic Mexican dish, and this recipe takes them to the next level. These pork carnita tacos are made with tender, slow-cooked pork and topped with fresh toppings like cilantro, onions, and a squeeze of lime juice. It's a simple yet delicious meal that everyone will love.
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Mexican Cuban Sandwich
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Ham Slices, Cheese, Pickled Jalapenos
This twist on a classic Cuban sandwich is a must-try for any pork lover. Instead of using traditional ham and pork, this recipe calls for juicy carnitas and adds a Mexican twist with avocado, cilantro, and jalapeño. It's a flavorful and satisfying sandwich that will have you coming back for seconds.
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Carnitas Mac and Cheese Burrito
Main Ingredients: Butter, Flour, Milk, Chipotle, Elbow Pasta, Tortillas
Mac and cheese and burritos may not seem like a likely combination, but trust us, it works! This indulgent dish combines two comfort foods into one delicious meal. The creamy mac and cheese is paired with tender carnitas and rolled up in a soft tortilla for a satisfying and flavorful burrito.
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Carnitas Street Tacos
Main Ingredients: Corn Tortillas, Pork Carnitas, Green Cabbage, Red
Street tacos are a staple in Mexican cuisine, and for a good reason – they're packed with flavor and easy to eat on the go. This recipe for carnitas street tacos is no exception. The tender pork is seasoned to perfection and topped with fresh toppings like salsa, cilantro, and onions. It's a delicious and authentic dish that will transport your taste buds to the streets of Mexico.
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Epic Paleo Nachos
Main Ingredients: Chips, Queso Blanco, Carnitas, Avocados, Red Onion
If you loved the paleo nachos with carnitas we mentioned earlier, then you'll definitely want to give these epic paleo nachos a try. This recipe swaps out the meat for flavorful ground beef and adds a variety of toppings like guacamole, salsa, and jalapeños. It's a perfect snack or appetizer for any occasion.
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Slow Cooker Carnitas Quesadillas
Main Ingredients: Boneless Pork Shoulder, Chipotle Powder, Black Pepper
Quesadillas are a quick and easy meal that can be filled with just about anything. But if you're looking for a flavorful and hearty option, try these slow cooker carnitas quesadillas. The tender pork is paired with gooey cheese and topped with fresh toppings like avocado, cilantro, and salsa. It's a delicious and satisfying meal that the whole family will love.
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Carnitas Enchiladas (Pork Enchiladas)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, All Purpose Flour, Chili Powder, Ground
Enchiladas are another classic Mexican dish, and this recipe puts a tasty spin on them by using carnitas as the filling. The tender pork is mixed with spices and rolled up in a tortilla, then topped with a savory enchilada sauce and cheese. It's a satisfying and flavorful dish that will become a new family favorite.
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Easy Pork Carnitas Taco Board
Main Ingredients: Pork Carnitas, Lime, White Onion, Cilantro, Chip, Blue
If you're hosting a party or get-together, this easy pork carnitas taco board is the perfect way to feed a crowd. It's a DIY taco bar that allows your guests to customize their tacos with their favorite toppings. It's a fun and interactive meal that will have everyone coming back for seconds.
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Torta de Carnitas
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Bolillos, Sour Cream, Chipotle Paste
Tortas are a type of Mexican sandwich that is typically filled with meat, cheese, and other toppings. This recipe for torta de carnitas uses tender pork, avocado, and a chipotle mayo for a flavorful and satisfying sandwich. It's a great option for lunch or a quick and easy dinner.
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Arepas
Main Ingredients: Cornmeal, Salt, Warm Water, Oil, Chipotle, Chicken
Arepas are a type of cornmeal cake that is popular in many Latin American countries. In this recipe, they are stuffed with tender carnitas, cheese, and topped with a creamy avocado sauce. It's a unique and delicious way to enjoy carnitas and perfect for those looking for a gluten-free option.
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Grilled Carnitas and Chorizo Nachos
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Chorizo Sausage, Sweet Peppers, Corn Kernels
If you're a fan of spicy food, then these grilled carnitas and chorizo nachos are a must-try. The combination of tender pork and spicy chorizo creates a flavor explosion that is perfect for game day or any gathering. Top it off with your favorite toppings, and you've got a winning dish.
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Pulled Pork Chipotle BBQSandwich
Main Ingredients: Carnitas, Vegetable Oil, Seasoned Rice Vinegar, Salt
This pulled pork chipotle BBQ sandwich is a delicious and easy way to enjoy carnitas. The pork is slow-cooked in a tangy and smoky chipotle BBQ sauce, then piled high on a soft bun. It's a perfect meal for a busy weeknight or a weekend BBQ.
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Pork Carnitas Tacos With Tomatillo Salsa Verde
Main Ingredients: Salsa Verde, Tomatillos, Green Chilis, Onion, Fresh
This recipe for pork carnitas tacos with tomatillo salsa verde is a delicious way to mix up your taco game. The tangy and flavorful salsa pairs perfectly with the tender pork, and it's topped off with fresh toppings like cilantro and onions. It's a refreshing and satisfying dish that will have you going back for more.
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Carnitas Pizza w/ Chipotle-Avocado Crema
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, Onion, Red Bell Pepper, Jalapeno, Pizza
If you're a fan of pizza and carnitas, then this recipe is a dream come true. The rich and savory carnitas are paired with a spicy and creamy chipotle-avocado crema for a flavor-packed pizza that is sure to impress. It's a great option for a fun and delicious dinner at home.
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Whole30 Chilaquiles with Carnitas and Sweet Potatoes...
Main Ingredients: Sweet Potato, Avocado Oil, Salt, Pepper, Salsa
If you're following a Whole30 diet, you may think that your options for flavorful meals are limited. But these Whole30 chilaquiles with carnitas and sweet potatoes prove otherwise. The tender pork and sweet potatoes are cooked in a tangy and spicy sauce, then topped with fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro. It's a delicious and healthy dish that will satisfy your cravings.
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Pork Carnitas Tacos with Jalapeño Corn Salsa and...
Main Ingredients: Pork Carnitas, Creamed Corn, Flour Tortillas, Fresh
These pork carnitas tacos with jalapeño corn salsa and avocado crema are a fresh and flavorful twist on traditional tacos. The juicy pork is paired with a sweet and spicy corn salsa and topped with a creamy avocado crema. It's a perfect summer dish that will have your taste buds singing.
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Carnitas Caldo (Carnitas Soup)
Main Ingredients: Olive Oil, White Onion, Chayote, Garlic, Chicken Broth
If you're looking for a comforting and hearty dish, this carnitas caldo (carnitas soup) is the perfect option. The tender pork is cooked in a flavorful broth with vegetables and topped with fresh toppings like avocado and cilantro. It's a warm and satisfying meal that's perfect for a chilly day.
The Secret to Chipotle's Carnitas
The Meat
The key to Chipotle's carnitas is the cut of meat used – pork shoulder or pork butt. This cut is known for its marbling and tenderness, making it perfect for slow cooking. To achieve the same succulent and flavorful result, make sure to use pork shoulder or pork butt from your local butcher or grocery store.
The Marinade
Chipotle's carnitas are marinated in a blend of spices that give it its signature taste. To recreate this at home, mix together cumin, oregano, garlic powder, chili powder, salt, pepper, and orange juice. The orange juice adds a hint of sweetness and also helps to tenderize the meat. Let the pork marinate for at least an hour, or overnight for maximum flavor.
The Cooking Method
The secret to Chipotle's carnitas is the slow cooking method. The meat is braised in a combination of water and bay leaves for several hours until it becomes fork-tender. To achieve the same result, use a slow cooker or a Dutch oven and cook the marinated pork on low heat for 6-8 hours. This will allow the flavors to meld and the meat to become incredibly tender.
The Final Touch
After the meat is cooked, it is shredded and placed on a hot skillet to get a crispy exterior. To achieve the same result, heat a skillet over medium-high heat and add a small amount of oil. Add the shredded pork and let it cook for a few minutes until it becomes crispy and caramelized.
Enjoy Chipotle's Carnitas at Home
Now that you have the inside scoop on Chipotle's carnitas recipe, you can enjoy this delicious dish anytime at home. Serve it in a burrito, bowl, or tacos with your favorite toppings and sauces for a truly authentic Chipotle experience. So next time you're craving some flavorful and tender carnitas, skip the line and make it yourself with this secret recipe.