Do Share Recipe

Barbacoa Bowl Chipotle Recipe: You Can Try

I’ve always been a fan of creating restaurant-inspired bowls at home, and this Barbacoa Bowl Chipotle Recipe, has quickly become a favorite in my kitchen.

Packed with aromatic spices, tender shredded beef, and fresh toppings, it’s a perfect balance of hearty and flavorful. You’ll love how easy it is to bring that well-loved Chipotle taste to your table.

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Ingredients You Will Need

Here are some ingredients for a barbacoa bowl chipotle.

For the barbacoa beef:

2 pounds beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into large pieces
4 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce
1/3 cup apple cider
3 tablespoons lime juice
4 cloves of garlic
4 teaspoons cumin
1 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves
1 serrano chile pepper, chopped (optional, for heat)
1 tablespoon cayenne pepper (adjust for spice preference)
2 1/2 teaspoons dried oregano
1 cup chicken broth
1 small onion, finely chopped
3 bay leaves

For the barbacoa bowl

2 cups cooked white or cilantro lime rice
1 cup black beans, drained and rinsed
1 cup shredded lettuce
1/2 cup pico de gallo
1/4 cup guacamole
1/4 cup sour cream
1/2 cup shredded cheese (cheddar, Monterey Jack, or a blend)

Note: Serves 6.

Variations to Try

Customizing a barbacoa bowl is a breeze! Here are a few ideas to tailor it to your taste or dietary needs:

Make it low-carb by swapping rice for cauliflower rice.
Use vegan substitutes like jackfruit or seitan for the barbacoa to enjoy a plant-based version.
Opt for dairy-free toppings by skipping sour cream and cheese or using vegan alternatives.
Add roasted veggies like zucchini and bell peppers to boost nutrition and flavor.
Make it spicier with fresh sliced jalapeños or a drizzle of hot sauce.

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Cooking Time

Prep Time: 25 minutes
Cooking Time: 6 hours
Total Time: 6 hours 25 minutes

Equipment You Need

Slow cooker – Essential for achieving tender, flavorful barbacoa beef.
Blender or food processor – To blend the spices and create the sauce.
Large skillet – For searing the beef before slow cooking (optional).
Knife and cutting board – For chopping ingredients like onions and peppers.
Mixing bowls – To assemble and organize the toppings.

How to Make Barbacoa Bowl Chipotle?

A Chipotle-inspired barbacoa bowl is much easier to make at home than you might think! Follow these simple steps.

Step 1: Prepare the Barbacoa Beef

Begin by searing your beef pieces in a skillet with hot oil for a few seconds on each side. This locks in the flavor and gives the meat a nice crust. Once browned, transfer the beef to your slow cooker.

Next, blend the chipotle peppers, apple cider, lime juice, garlic, cumin, oregano, black pepper, and garlic powder into a smooth sauce. Pour the sauce over the beef in the slow cooker, ensuring all pieces are well coated.

Stir in the broth, add the chopped onion and bay leaves, and set your slow cooker on low for 6-8 hours. By the end, the beef will be fork-tender and shred effortlessly.

Step 2: Cook the Rice

While the beef is cooking, prepare your rice. You can keep it simple or jazz it up with lime juice and chopped cilantro for extra flavor. Use store-bought microwaveable rice if you’re short on time!

Step 3: Assemble the Bowl

Once the barbacoa is ready, shred the beef using two forks and discard the bay leaves. Now, it’s time to build your bowl. Start with a base of rice, then layer over your black beans, shredded lettuce, and the barbacoa beef.

Add a scoop of guacamole, a dollop of sour cream, and a generous sprinkle of cheese. Top with fresh pico de gallo for a burst of freshness.

Step 4: Customize Your Bowl

Everyone loves a personalized meal! Set out extra toppings like sliced jalapeños, extra lime wedges, or tortilla strips so your guests or family can craft their perfect bowl.

Why You’ll Love This Barbacoa Bowl Chipotle Recipe?

This barbacoa bowl recipe checks all the boxes for a meal that’s sure to please:

The slow cooker makes the beef incredibly tender and flavorful.
Customizable with endless topping possibilities to suit everyone’s preferences.
Perfectly balanced with protein, fiber, and fresh produce.
Great for meal prep because it tastes just as good the next day.
Cheaper and more convenient than heading to a restaurant!

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How to Serve a Barbacoa Bowl Chipotle?

Presentation matters when serving a bowl. Use wide, shallow bowls so you can see all the colorful layers. Garnish with a wedge of lime, fresh cilantro leaves, or a sprinkle of queso fresco for a finishing touch. Serve with tortilla chips on the side for scooping up any spills!

Nutritional Information

Here’s a quick overview of the nutrition per serving (1 bowl):

Calories: 420
Protein: 28g
Carbohydrates: 34g
Fat: 18g

Make Ahead and Storage

Barbacoa bowls are fantastic for meal prep and stay fresh with proper storage. Prepare the barbacoa beef ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. When you’re ready to serve, simply reheat the meat and assemble your bowl.

For longer storage, freeze the shredded barbacoa in a freezer-safe bag or container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating. Cooked rice also freezes well if stored separately.

Tips for Making the Recipe

Here are some tips I’ve picked up while making this delicious barbacoa bowl:

Don’t skip the chipotle peppers in adobo; they’re critical for that authentic smoky flavor.
If you don’t have a slow cooker, this recipe works beautifully in an Instant Pot too.
Always taste the sauce and adjust spices before pouring it over the beef.
Double the recipe and freeze portions for quick meals on busy days.
Use fresh, high-quality ingredients for the toppings to elevate the flavors.

What is Chipotle’s Barbacoa Made Of?

Chipotle’s barbacoa is made from beef chuck roast, slow-cooked with spices like oregano, cloves, cumin, and chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. The flavors are rich, smoky, and slightly tangy, making it a popular protein choice for bowls, tacos, or burritos.

Is Barbacoa Chipotle Healthy?

Barbacoa can be a healthy choice! It’s high in protein and low in carbs, making it great for those following calorie-conscious or low-carb diets. By pairing it with fresh veggies, beans, and whole-grain or cauliflower rice, you can build a well-rounded meal that balances nutrition and flavor.

With this step-by-step guide, you can now bring all the deliciousness of a Chipotle barbacoa bowl to your own table. It’s a win for your taste buds and your wallet! Happy cooking!

Ben Carraoli