Chipotle Carnitas is a tasty and tender pork dish that is slow-cooked to perfection. It is packed with rich flavors that make it a favorite among Chipotle fans. If you want to try something different for your next meal, carnitas could be a great option.
You can enjoy carnitas in burritos, tacos, or bowls, adding extra flavor to every bite. It pairs well with classic toppings like salsa, sour cream, cheese, guacamole, and cilantro. Other toppings such as refried beans, lettuce, avocado, and pickled onions can also enhance the dish.
Sometimes, the carnitas are juicy and flavorful, while other times, they can turn out dry if not cooked properly. If you love this dish, you can also make a homemade version using a slow cooker or Instant Pot. With the right ingredients, you can recreate the restaurant favorite at home.
I often cook Mexican food because my family enjoys it, and carnitas is one of our favorites. Eating at Chipotle can be costly, so I decided to make their dishes at home. This slow-cooked pork, seasoned with juniper berries, thyme, and bay leaves, turns out tender and delicious every time.
Ingredients
Chipotle Carnitas Nutrition facts
| Carnitas Nutrients | Nutrition Value (4 OZ) |
|---|---|
| Calories | 210 |
| Calories from Fat | 120(g) |
| Total Fat | 12(g) |
| Saturated Fat | 7(g) |
| Trans Fat | 0(g) |
| Cholesterol | 65(g) |
| Sodium | 450(g) |
| Carbohydrate | 0(g) |
| Dietary Fiber | 0(g) |
| Sugar | 0(g) |
| Protein | 23(g) |
How do you make Chipotle carnitas?
To make Chipotle-style carnitas, sear a pork roast until golden brown, then place it in a slow cooker with broth, juniper berries, bay leaves, and thyme. Let it cook until tender, then shred with two forks. For a crispy finish, broil the meat for a few minutes.
Juniper berries give the dish a unique flavor and can be found in most spice aisles. Browning the pork first adds extra flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can skip it. Either way, the carnitas will turn out delicious.
This dish stays fresh for four days in the fridge and up to two months in the freezer. Making a double batch is great for meal prep. Chipotle serves their carnitas soft, but traditional versions are crisped up in a pan or under the broiler.
No slow cooker? Use an oven instead. Just bake the seared pork with the same ingredients at 325°F for about four hours until tender.
WHAT CUT OF MEAT IS CARNITAS?
Carnitas is traditionally made with pork shoulder or pork butt, both rich in flavor and tenderness. Boneless pork country ribs can also be used with great results. Any well-marbled cut of pork will work for this dish.
You can customize the flavor to suit your taste. For a spicy kick, add minced chipotle peppers for a smoky heat. If you prefer a citrus twist, replace some broth with orange and lime juice for a bright, fresh flavor.
For a different protein option, swap pork for boneless, skinless chicken thighs. Garnish your carnitas with red onion, cilantro, fresh salsa, or cotija cheese. These toppings add extra texture and flavor to the dish.
FAQs
Does carnitas have sugar added?
Chipotle’s carnitas are made without any added sugars. The seasoning ingredients contain no sweeteners, so any subtle sweetness in the carnitas comes naturally from the braising process.
How much proteins is included in carnitas?
A 4 oz serving of Chipotle carnitas has about 23g of protein, but this may vary with portion or customization.
Is carnitas chipotle good?
Many enjoy Chipotle Carnitas for its tender, savory flavor. It pairs well with toppings, but taste is subjective.
What is key ingredient in chipotle carnitas?
Chipotle carnitas use pork shoulder, braised with garlic, cumin, bay leaves, and spices for tenderness and flavor.
Is carnitas chipotle spicy?
Chipotle Carnitas aren’t spicy, just savory and slightly sweet. Heat can be added with salsas or jalapeños.
What are carnitas chipotle?
Chipotle Carnitas are slow-cooked, seasoned pulled pork, braised for a tender, flavorful texture in burritos, bowls, or tacos.
Is chipotle carnitas gluten free?
Chipotle Carnitas are gluten-free, but cross-contamination is possible. Check Chipotle’s allergen menu for details.
