Chicken Carnitas are tasty bits of chicken cooked until they are falling apart and super juicy. They’re perfect for tacos, burritos, or just eating straight from the pot!
Honestly, who can resist that mouthwatering smell while they’re cooking? I love piling them high in a taco with fresh toppings—it’s a fiesta in my mouth! 🎉
Making Chicken Carnitas is so easy! Just season your chicken, cook it low and slow, and you’re ready for a fun meal. Trust me, it’s a family favorite every time!
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken Thighs: Boneless, skinless thighs work best for moisture and flavor. If you prefer, you can use chicken breasts, but they may dry out more easily during cooking.
Spices: Cumin, smoked paprika, and chili powder are essential for flavor. If you don’t have smoked paprika, regular paprika will do, but you might miss that smoky flavor. You can also adjust the chili powder based on your spice preference.
Onion & Garlic: Fresh onion and garlic add a lot of flavor. Feel free to use shallots instead of onion for a milder taste, or skip the garlic if you’re not a fan, though it does enhance the dish.
Juices: Fresh lime and orange juices brighten up the dish. If you’re in a pinch, you can use bottled juice, but freshly squeezed definitely tastes better.
Cilantro: This is a great garnish, adding freshness. If you’re not a fan, try using chopped green onions or parsley instead!
How Do I Get the Chicken to Be Perfectly Tender and Shreddable?
To make your chicken juicy and easy to shred, the cooking time and method are key. Here’s how to do it right:
- Start by searing the chicken thighs to lock in juices. Don’t rush this step; let them brown properly on both sides.
- Once you add the juices and cover the skillet, reduce the heat to low. This gentle cooking ensures the chicken becomes tender. Keep it covered to avoid moisture loss.
- Cook for about 30-40 minutes. Test for tenderness by trying to shred with a fork. If it doesn’t shred easily, give it a bit more time!
- After shredding, letting the chicken sit in the juices for a few extra minutes makes it flavorful and moist. Enjoy your delicious chicken carnitas!
How to Make Chicken Carnitas
Ingredients You’ll Need:
For the Chicken:
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1 onion, chopped
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
For the Spice Mixture:
- 2 tsp ground cumin
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp chili powder
- 1/2 tsp salt
- 1/4 tsp black pepper
For the Juices:
- 1 lime, juiced
- 1 orange, juiced
- 2 tbsp olive oil
For Serving:
- Fresh cilantro, chopped (for garnish)
- Sliced avocados (for serving)
- Radishes (for serving)
- Jalapeño slices (for serving)
- Extra lime wedges (for serving)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe takes about 10 minutes to prepare and approximately 40 minutes to cook. In total, you’re looking at about 50 minutes to have delicious Chicken Carnitas ready to enjoy!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Prepare the Chicken:
In a large bowl, mix together the ground cumin, dried oregano, smoked paprika, chili powder, salt, and black pepper. Place the chicken thighs into the bowl and toss them well to ensure they are evenly coated with the spice mixture. This will help bring out all the tasty flavors!
2. Sauté the Onion and Garlic:
Next, heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once hot, add the chopped onion and sauté for about 3-4 minutes until it’s soft and translucent. Then, add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute, stirring it around until it’s fragrant. Smelling good already!
3. Sear the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken thighs to the skillet. Sear them for about 2-3 minutes on each side until they’re golden brown. This step adds a lovely color and flavor to the chicken.
4. Simmer the Chicken:
Pour the lime juice and orange juice into the skillet, stirring to combine. Bring the mixture to a simmer, then cover the skillet with a lid. Lower the heat and let it cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is nice and tender. You’ll know it’s ready when the chicken shreds easily with a fork!
5. Shred the Chicken:
Once the chicken is done, take it out of the skillet and use two forks to shred it. After shredding, return the chicken to the skillet to soak up all those delicious juices for another 5 minutes. Trust me, this step makes it even yummier!
6. Serve and Enjoy:
Now it’s time to serve your Chicken Carnitas! Ladle the chicken into bowls, and top it off with fresh cilantro, sliced avocados, radishes, jalapeño slices, and lime wedges. Enjoy your tasty creation with family or friends!
Can I Use Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs?
Yes, you can substitute boneless, skinless chicken breasts for the thighs. However, keep in mind that chicken breasts can be drier than thighs, so be careful not to overcook them. Reduce the cooking time slightly to ensure they stay juicy.
What Can I Use Instead of Fresh Citrus Juices?
If you don’t have lime or orange juice, you can use vinegar (like apple cider or red wine vinegar) as an alternative, keeping the flavor slightly tangy. For a sweeter touch, try using store-bought citrus juice, but be mindful of added sugars.
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Absolutely! Just add all the ingredients to the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or on high for 3-4 hours. Follow the same shredding steps once cooked. This method allows the flavors to meld beautifully!
How to Store Leftovers?
Store leftover chicken carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. You can also freeze it in portions for up to 3 months. To reheat, thaw in the fridge overnight and warm it on the stove or in the microwave until heated through.
