Chipotle-Lime Pulled Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa

By · Reviewed by AislePrompt Editorial · ·

Slow-cooked pulled pork infused with smoky chipotle and zesty lime, topped with a fresh pineapple salsa for a vibrant Mexican taco experience. This mexican-inspired tacos & burritos ready in about 260 minutes blends pounds pork shoulder, chipotle chili powder, ground cumin into a versatile sauce that lifts everything from grain bowls and roasted vegetables to grilled proteins — a small-batch staple worth keeping in the fridge. Each serving lands at about 380 calories and feeds 6, so a small batch covers several meals across the week without taking over the fridge. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" below to drop this recipe into your week and send the ingredients straight to Instacart. Nutrition values are approximate, calculated from USDA FoodData Central (fdc.nal.usda.gov) — verify against ingredient labels for any health-driven dietary plan.

Prep: 20 min Cook: 240 min Serves 6 Mexican cuisine 380 cal/serving
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Ingredients

Instructions

  1. Step 1: In a small bowl, combine 2 tbsp chipotle chili powder, 1 tbsp ground cumin, 1 tsp garlic powder, 1 tbsp salt, and 1 tsp black pepper to make a dry rub.
  2. Step 2: Rub the 3 pounds pork shoulder evenly with 2 tbsp olive oil and the spice mixture. Place pork in a slow cooker and pour 1/4 cup lime juice over top.
  3. Step 3: Cook on low for 8 hours or on high for 4 hours until the pork is tender and easily shredded with two forks.
  4. Step 4: While pork cooks, combine 1 cup diced fresh pineapple, 1/4 cup finely chopped red onion, 3 tbsp chopped fresh cilantro, and 1 minced small jalapeño in a bowl. Mix gently and set aside.
  5. Step 5: Warm 12 small corn tortillas on a dry skillet over medium heat for 30 seconds per side until pliable.
  6. Step 6: Shred the cooked pork directly in the slow cooker, stir to coat with juices, then assemble tacos by layering pork and pineapple salsa on the warmed tortillas. Serve immediately.

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Frequently asked questions

How long does Chipotle-Lime Pulled Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa take to make?

Total time is about 260 minutes (20 min prep + 240 min cook). A small batch typically covers several meals in the week — store as the recipe directs.

How do I store leftover Chipotle-Lime Pulled Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa?

Transfer to an airtight jar and refrigerate for up to 5–7 days. Most sauces freeze well for up to 2 months — portion into small containers or freezer bags so you can thaw only what you need. Stir before serving; cream- or yogurt-based sauces may separate on standing.

Can I substitute ingredients in Chipotle-Lime Pulled Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa?

Yes — most ingredients in this recipe have flexible swaps. For oil, use any neutral high-smoke-point oil (avocado, grapeseed, refined coconut). For aromatics, dried herbs at ⅓ the volume of fresh work in a pinch. The full ingredient list is shoppable on Instacart so you can see substitutes in real time.

How do I scale Chipotle-Lime Pulled Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa for a different number of people?

The recipe is written for 6 servings. Multiply each ingredient by (your serving target / 6). Cook time stays roughly the same up to 2x; for 3-4x batches, switch from a skillet to a sheet pan or stockpot so the food isn't crowded — overcrowding steams instead of browns.

What goes well with Chipotle-Lime Pulled Pork Tacos with Pineapple Salsa?

Mexican tacos & burritos like this pair well with a simple grain (rice, couscous, or crusty bread), a quick salad with acid (lemon vinaigrette, pickled onions), and a pan sauce or yogurt-based dip. Tap "Plan a meal with the AI" to get specific side suggestions.