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Chipotle Carnitas – Copycat Recipe
Mar 07, 2026
Chipotle Carnitas – Copycat Recipe
Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of Chipotle’s famous carnitas right at home! This copycat recipe delivers tender, juicy pork seasoned with a delightful blend of spices, perfect for tacos, burritos, or on its own. 🌮🍖
Recipe Details
| Prep Time | |
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| Cook Time | |
| Total Time | |
| Servings | 6 servings |
Ingredients
- 3-4 lbs pork shoulder, cut into large chunks
- 2 tbsp olive oil
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1 tsp salt
- 1/2 tsp black pepper
- Juice of 2 limes
- 1/2 cup orange juice
- 1 bay leaf
Instructions
- In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Brown the pork chunks on all sides.
- Transfer the browned pork to a slow cooker. Add chopped onion, garlic, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, pepper, lime juice, orange juice, and bay leaf.
- Cover and cook on low for 6 hours or until the pork is tender and shreds easily.
- Remove the pork from the slow cooker and shred it with two forks. Return it to the juices and mix well.
- Optional: For crispy edges, spread the shredded pork on a baking sheet and broil for a few minutes until crispy.
Nutrition Information
| Calories | 350 calories |
|---|---|
| Fat | 22g fat |
| Carbohydrates | 5g carbohydrates |
| Protein | 30g protein |
Handy Tips
- For extra flavor, marinate the pork overnight with the spices and juices.
- Serve with warm tortillas, fresh cilantro, diced onions, and lime wedges for a delicious meal.
Ingredient Swaps
- Pork Shoulder: You can use pork butt or even chicken thighs for a leaner option.
- Orange Juice: Substitute with pineapple juice for a different flavor profile.
