How To Make The Best Chipotle Carnitas Copycat Recipe

WHY I MADE THIS CHIPOTLE CARNITAS COPYCAT RECIPE

I've always loved the deep, rich flavors of Chipotle's Carnitas. But every time I order them, I wondered if I could recreate that same deliciousness at home without the takeout price tag. After a few trials, I finally nailed a Chipotle Carnitas recipe that brings all the slow-cooked goodness of the original restaurant version straight to your dinner table.

WHAT IS THIS COPYCAT CHIPOTLE CARNITAS MADE OF?

What makes this recipe so irresistible is the simple yet powerful combination of ingredients. The tender pork butt cooks low and slow in the Crock Pot while it absorbs aromatic flavors from black pepper, thyme, juniper berries, and bay leaves. Once shredded and crisped in the oven, it delivers the ideal balance of tenderness and slight crunch, just like at Chipotle.

The best part about this remake of the restaurant favorite is that making it at home means you control the ingredients. That means no preservatives and no surprises, just pure, mouthwatering carnitas made with simple ingredients. You can use this as a great base for burrito bowls, tacos, and even rice bowls that your family will enjoy.

This carnitas recipe is so good, just like the rest of my Chipotle Copycat recipes such as The Best Chipotle Barbacoa Copycat Recipe and Chipotle Red Chili Salsa Recipe.

INGREDIENTS FOR THIS CHIPOTLE CARNITAS COPYCAT RECIPE

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this delicious, Chipotle-inspired shredded pork. Scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the detailed ingredient information.

• Pork Shoulder Roast (or Butt): is an excellent choice of cut for tender, juicy and flavorful carnitas. Cooking this in either an Instant Pot, a Dutch oven, or even a slow cooker yields to tender meat.
• Cooking Oil: is great for searing the pork roast. You can use any cooking oil with a high smoking point such as olive oil.
• Bay Leaves: adds a subtle depth of flavor to the slow-cooked pork.
• Sprinkle of Salt: is essential for seasoning and bringing out the meat’s natural flavors.
• Black Pepper: adds warmth and a slight spice kick.
• Juniper Berries: is the secret ingredient and is what gives this recipe that signature taste that's just like Chipotle's.
• Thyme: brings an earthy, herbaceous note. You can use fresh or dried.
• Chicken Broth: is added to the cooking liquid to keep the meat moist and infuses it with savory goodness.

HOW TO MAKE THIS CHIPOTLE CARNITAS COPYCAT RECIPE

Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this post for the cook time and full step-by-step instructions on how to make this copycat Chipotle carnitas recipe.

1. To start, take your pork roast and pat it dry with paper towels. Once properly dried, season the generously with salt and black pepper.
2. Next, heat your cooking oil of choice in a large skillet or cast-iron pan over medium-high heat on the stovetop. When your skillet is hot, sear the pork for about 3 minutes per side until it's golden brown.

1. After the pork roast is seared and rested, place the pork in a slow cooker, adding the rest of the ingredients to the pot insert. Cover it and cook on LOW for 8-10 hours (or HIGH for 4-6 hours) until fork-tender.

1. Remove the pork from the slow cooker crockpot. Using two forks, shred it into smaller pieces, and then drizzle some cooking juices over it to help retain its moisture.
2. Preheat the oven to 375°F and spread the shredded meat on a baking sheet. Roast for 20-30 minutes, stirring halfway through, until crispy but still moist.
3. Use it in tacos, burritos, rice bowls, or enjoy it as-is!

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR THE BEST CARNITAS

• Don’t skip the searing process of browning the meat.
• As the pork cooks on low heat for longer, it ensures ultra-tender meat.
• If you love extra crispy edges, roast the shredded pork a bit longer.
• Pour some of the liquid juices over the carnitas before roasting to keep them from drying.
• The entire pork shoulder should be at least 190°F internally for the best shredding texture.
• A squeeze of citrus, such as lime or orange juice, before roasting can enhance the taste.

WHY YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS CHIPOTLE CARNITAS COPYCAT RECIPE

• It's a great recipe that tastes just like the real thing from Chipotle.
• No fancy ingredients required, just a few pantry staples are needed for an authentic taste.
• This easy copycat carnitas is perfect to make Mexican food favorites like tacos, burrito bowls, and sandwiches.
• This recipe yields a good amount and feeds a crowd with ease. Just adjust the measurements to make a bigger or smaller batch.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQ's)

What are the different ways I can serve this meat?

• Tacos: Load up warm flour tortillas with carnitas, fresh cilantro, diced red onions, and a squeeze of lime juice.
• Burrito Bowls: To make this, serve the Chipotle Carnitas Copycat recipe over rice (cilantro-lime rice is ideal if you have it!) and add your favorite toppings like black beans, pico de gallo, guacamole, and sour cream. If turning into a burrito, add refried beans for extra flavor.
• Salads: In a big bowl, toss the slow-cooked carnitas into a bed of crisp romaine or mixed greens salad with avocado slices, corn, and a tangy dressing. If you want to incorporate more vegetables, add roasted fajita veggies into the mix.
• Nachos: Layer the shredded carnitas over tortilla chips with melted cheese, jalapeños, and salsa.
• Sandwiches: Stuff into crusty bread with pickled onions and a zesty aioli for a Cuban-inspired sandwich.

Is it okay to use different cuts of pork?

Aside from pork shoulder or pork butt, you can also use pork loin. This also works, but the end product is a bit leaner and will be less juicy.

Can I not use juniper berries?

This is fine, however, this is what gives the carnitas that distinct flavor similar to Chipotle's.

Can I use beef instead?

Absolutely! This recipe works well with beef chuck roast. The flavors will be a little different, but the outcome is still so good! I also have this Chipotle Barbacoa Copycat Recipe that you might enjoy!

How do I make this in an Instant Pot?

Sear the whole pork shoulder per first step, then transfer it to the Instant Pot, adjust to pressure cooker settings on high for 1 hour, followed by a 15-minute natural release.

How do I store the leftovers?

You can place your leftover meat in an airtight container and keep in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. To freeze, simply transfer the leftovers in an airtight container or freezer bag and keep in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Can I make this in the oven instead?

Absolutely! Place the seared pork in a Dutch oven, add the remaining ingredients and bake at 300°F for about 3-4 hours until tender.

Do I have to crisp up the pork in the oven?

Not really, but this step enhances the carnitas' flavors. Alternatively, you can do this step in the skillet if you're not keen on prepping the oven for this part.

What’s the best way to reheat carnitas?

Reheat leftover carnitas in a skillet over medium heat for crispy edges or in the oven at 350°F.

The Best Chipotle Carnitas Copycat Recipe