Smoky Slow Cooker Barbacoa Chipotle: Tender Beef Tacos and Burritos Recipe

Chipotle Barbacoa

Barbacoa chipotle is the ultimate crowd-pleaser when you crave tender, smoky beef with a touch of fiery heat. This Mexican-inspired dinner combines shredded chuck roast, smoky chipotle peppers, and aromatic spices for a melt-in-your-mouth experience that’s perfect for tacos, burritos, or rice bowls.

Why You’ll Love This Barbacoa Chipotle Recipe

• Slow-cooked perfection: Let your slow cooker do the work for unbeatable tenderness.
• Smoky spice blend: Chipotle in adobo, cumin, and oregano bring depth and warmth.
• Versatile serving: Great for tacos, burritos, nachos, or simply over rice.

Ingredients for Barbacoa Chipotle

• 3 lb beef chuck roast, trimmed and cut into large chunks
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 (7 oz) can chipotle peppers in adobo, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 cup beef broth
• 1/4 cup lime juice (about 2 limes)
• Salt and pepper, to taste

Instructions to Make Barbacoa Chipotle

1. Pat the beef chunks dry and season generously with salt and pepper.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
3. Brown the beef on all sides, about 10 seconds per side, then transfer to your slow cooker.
4. In the same skillet, add chopped chipotle peppers, garlic, and onion. Sauté until fragrant, about 2 minutes.
5. Pour the sautéed mixture into the slow cooker. Add cumin, oregano, bay leaves, beef broth, and lime juice.
6. Cover and cook on Low for 6–8 hours, or until the beef is fork-tender.
7. Remove and discard bay leaves. Shred the beef with two forks directly in the slow cooker, stirring to coat in juices.
8. Serve hot in tacos, burritos, nachos, or over rice, garnished with fresh cilantro and lime wedges.

Tips for Perfect Smoky Flavor

• For extra heat, add a second chipotle pepper or a pinch of smoked paprika.
• Trim excess fat from the brisket for less grease and a cleaner finish.
• Let the beef rest for 10 minutes after shredding to allow flavors to meld.

Serving Suggestions & Variations

• Toss shredded barbacoa chipotle in warm tortillas with diced onion and cilantro.
• Load up nachos with beans, cheese, and this smoky beef for a game-day hit.
• Make a burrito bowl with rice, black beans, avocado, and a drizzle of crema.

Enjoy your homemade barbacoa chipotle—it’s the perfect way to spice up Taco Tuesday or any casual dinner gathering!