If you’ve ever been to Chipotle, they’ve got the formula for mouth-watering food down to a science. From their fresh guacamole to their perfectly seasoned carnitas, there’s a reason why people line up for their meals. But what if I told you that Chipotle has added a new item to their already killer menu that takes their flavors to a new level? Enter smoked brisket—the smoky, juicy, tender piece of heaven that’s here to change your Chipotle game for good.
Before you say, “Is brisket at Chipotle worth it?” let me answer that right now: Yes. Yes, it is. In this post, I will take you through everything you need to know about Chipotle’s smoked brisket—from what it is, how it’s made, and why it’s become a fan favorite to how you can enjoy it and why you should give it a shot. So buckle up because we’re about to dive into the smoky, savory world of Chipotle’s brisket, and trust me, you’ll want to read every word.
What Is Smoked Brisket at Chipotle?
Let’s start with the basics: What exactly is smoked brisket? Brisket is a cut of meat from the chest of a cow, and it’s known for being tough and needing a long cooking time to become tender. Chipotle has taken this cut of meat and transformed it into something extraordinary by smoking it. This means that the brisket is slowly cooked over wood for hours instead of just cooking it in the oven or on the grill. This slow-cooking process allows the meat to absorb that deep, rich, smoky flavor we love.
Chipotle’s smoked brisket isn’t just any brisket. They marinate it in a unique blend of spices that infuse every inch of the meat with flavor. The result? A smoky, tender, flavorful brisket that falls apart in your mouth with every bite. And the best part? It’s served in your favorite Chipotle format—whether in a burrito, bowl, salad, or taco.
The Process Behind Chipotle’s Smoked Brisket
Now that we know what it is let’s understand how it was made. Chipotle is all about quality ingredients, and that’s no different when it comes to their smoked brisket. The process is all about patience, precision, and the perfect amount of seasoning and smoke. Here’s how it’s done:
- Sourcing the Brisket
- Chipotle doesn’t just grab any old piece of brisket. They ensure the meat they use is of the highest quality and comes from responsibly raised animals. You won’t find any antibiotics or hormones here—just pure, responsibly sourced beef.
- Marinating
- Once the brisket is chosen, it’s marinated in a unique blend of spices that gives it a bold flavor. You’ve got smoky paprika, garlic, onion powder, and a touch of vinegar to help tenderize the meat. The marinade also includes a little lime juice, which helps balance out the richness of the beef with a tangy kick.
- Smoking
- Here’s where the magic happens. The brisket is smoked over wood for hours. And I mean hours—we’re talking anywhere from 6 to 12 hours, depending on the cut. This slow cooking process makes the brisket incredibly tender and allows the smoky flavor to sink in. The wood chips used for smoking give it that deep, rich, smoky taste you can’t get from any other cooking method.
- Shredding and Serving
- Once the brisket has been cooked to perfection, it’s shredded into small pieces. Chipotle ensures the meat stays moist and tender, making every bite juicy and flavorful. It’s then served in your burrito, bowl, taco, or salad, ready for you to dig in and enjoy.
The Flavor of Smoked Brisket at Chipotle
Now that you know how it’s made, let’s discuss the flavor. I don’t know about you, but when I hear “smoked,” I think of that rich, deep, savory taste that comes with it. And let me tell you—Chipotle’s smoked brisket has that in spades. Thanks to that long smoking process, the meat is super tender, almost melt-in-your-mouth tender. It has a beautiful, smoky flavor that’s perfectly complemented by the spices in the marinade.
The seasoning isn’t overwhelming—it’s just the right amount of bold, with hints of garlic, onion, and a little heat. It’s not super spicy, but you can feel a little kick from the peppers. The tang from the vinegar and lime juice cuts through the richness of the beef, so it doesn’t feel heavy or greasy. It’s just…perfect. Every bite is juicy, smoky, and satisfying.
How to Enjoy Smoked Brisket at Chipotle
Okay, now that we’ve got you drooling over that delicious brisket, let’s discuss the best ways to enjoy it. Chipotle is all about customization, so you’ve got options for how you want your brisket. Here are some of the best ways to enjoy this smoky goodness:
- Smoked Brisket Burrito
- The burrito is the classic Chipotle go-to, and it’s just as impressive when you add smoked brisket to the mix. Get a warm, soft flour tortilla and load it up with your favorite ingredients—rice, beans, cheese, guacamole, sour cream, and that smoky brisket. Trust me, it’s the perfect combo.
- Smoked Brisket Bowl
- If you’re in the mood for a bowl instead, this is a great option. Start with a base of rice or lettuce, then add your brisket, beans, fajita veggies, and all your favorite toppings. The best part about a bowl? No need for a tortilla, so you get all the delicious flavors without the extra carbs. Plus, you can load up on toppings to your heart’s content.
- Smoked Brisket Salad
- For something a little lighter, go for a brisket salad. Skip the rice and pile on fresh lettuce, juicy brisket, fajita veggies, salsa, and maybe a little dressing. It’s fresh, flavorful, and the perfect choice if you want something healthy but satisfying.
- Smoked Brisket Tacos
- Tacos are always a good choice, and smoked brisket tacos are no exception. Grab some soft tortillas or crunchy taco shells and load them up with brisket, pico de gallo, cheese, lettuce, and a drizzle of salsa. You’ll love the contrast of the crispy shell and tender meat in every bite.
Why Chipotle’s Smoked Brisket is Worth the Hype
Chipotle has done it again. Smoked brisket has quickly become one of the brand’s most popular offerings, and for good reason. This isn’t just any brisket. It’s smoky, tender, flavorful—and all served in a way that lets you build your perfect meal. Whether you go for a burrito, bowl, salad, or taco, you get a meal guaranteed to satisfy your cravings.
So why is it worth the hype? First, it’s the quality. Chipotle only uses responsibly raised beef, which they smoke perfectly, so you get a delicious and ethically sourced dish. Second, it’s the flavor. That smoky, savory taste paired with the tender texture is something you can’t find at many other fast-casual spots. And finally, it’s the versatility. You can enjoy this brisket in many ways—there’s no wrong choice.
The Ultimate Loaded Baked Potato Soup – For a hearty, creamy soup like this, you can’t go wrong with Roasted Turkey and Avocado BLT Panera on the side. The crispy bacon and creamy avocado complement the richness of the soup, creating a delightful contrast of textures and flavors.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Chipotle Smoked Brisket
1. Is the smoked brisket at Chipotle spicy?
The smoked brisket has a mild spice level. It’s not overwhelmingly hot, but it does have a little kick from the seasoning. If you want more heat, add some hot salsa or jalapeños!
2. How can I customize my smoked brisket meal?
Chipotle offers a wide range of toppings, so you can customize your smoked brisket however you like. Add rice, beans, fajita veggies, salsas, cheese, and even guacamole to your burrito, bowl, taco, or salad.
3. Is the smoked brisket available year-round?
Smoked brisket is often a limited-time offering at Chipotle, so it may not always be available. Check Chipotle’s menu or app to see when it’s back in stock.
4. Can I get smoked brisket without the tortilla?
Yes! You can skip the tortilla and enjoy the brisket in a bowl or salad or as part of your toppings. Chipotle is all about customization so that you can create the perfect meal for your cravings.
5. Does Chipotle offer any sauces to go with the smoked brisket?
Chipotle offers a variety of salsas that pair perfectly with smoked brisket. If you want to add an extra layer of flavor, try their smoky chipotle salsa or the tomatillo-green chili salsa for a bit of heat.
Final Thoughts
Chipotle’s smoked brisket is a game-changer. The rich, smoky flavor, the tender texture, and the perfect balance of spices make it a must-try for anyone who loves good food. Whether you’re a die-hard Chipotle fan or just looking for something new, the smoked brisket is worth adding to your next order. So, what are you waiting for? Head to your local Chipotle and try this delicious new addition—you won’t regret it!
