Name: The Best Instant Pot Chicken Carnitas Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 25 min
Total time: 35 min
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients: 1 ½ lbs chicken thighs (4 large boneless and skinless thighs); ½ tbsp ground cumin; ½ tsp chili powder; ½ tbsp oregano; ½ tbsp garlic powder; 2 tsp kosher salt (or more to taste); 4 tbsp olive oil (divided); 1 medium onion (diced); 6 cloves garlic (minced); ¼ cup chicken broth (low sodium); ¼ cup orange juice (no pulp, freshly squeezed if possible); ¼ cup lime juice; ½ cup cilantro (freshly chopped for serving); 1 lime (cut into wedges for serving)

Ingredients

1 ½ lbs chicken thighs (4 large boneless and skinless thighs)

½ tbsp ground cumin

½ tsp chili powder

½ tbsp oregano

½ tbsp garlic powder

2 tsp kosher salt (or more to taste)

4 tbsp olive oil (divided)

1 medium onion (diced)

6 cloves garlic (minced)

¼ cup chicken broth (low sodium)

¼ cup orange juice (no pulp, freshly squeezed if possible)

¼ cup lime juice

½ cup cilantro (freshly chopped for serving)

1 lime (cut into wedges for serving)

Instructions

Step 1: Pat the chicken thighs dry using paper towels. Combine the cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and garlic powder in a small bowl. Sprinkle the seasoning evenly over both sides of the chicken.

Step 2: Heat the Instant Pot on the Sauté setting and add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Working with 1 or 2 chicken thighs at a time, sear the chicken on both sides for 1 minute each until lightly browned. Transfer the seared chicken to a plate.

Step 3: Add 1 more tablespoon of olive oil and diced onions to the pot. Sauté for about 2 minutes until the onions soften and turn golden. Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 20 seconds until fragrant.

Step 4: Pour in the chicken broth to deglaze the pot. Use a wooden spoon to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom. Then add the orange juice and lime juice, bringing the mixture to a simmer. Let simmer for about 2 minutes.

Step 5: Return the chicken thighs to the Instant Pot. Turn off Sauté mode, secure the lid, and set to pressure cook on the ‘Chicken’ setting for 10 minutes (adjust based on thigh size). Once done, release pressure using the vent setting and wait until the lid can be safely removed.

Step 6: Preheat your oven’s broiler and position a rack in the center. Remove the chicken from the pot onto a cutting board and shred the meat using two forks.

Step 7: Transfer the shredded chicken to a large bowl. Drizzle ¼ cup of the cooking liquid over the chicken and toss to coat evenly. Coat a baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil, then spread the chicken in an even layer. Drizzle another tablespoon of oil over the chicken and toss to coat.

Step 8: Broil the chicken for 10 to 12 minutes, stirring and tossing halfway through. Drizzle 1 to 2 more tablespoons of cooking liquid over the chicken during tossing to keep it moist. Rotate the pan for even cooking.

Step 9: Remove from the oven and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve as a taco bowl with your favorite toppings, in taco shells, or over nachos for a delicious meal.

Tips & Variations

For a smokier flavor, add a pinch of smoked paprika or use chipotle chili powder instead of regular chili powder.

If you like extra crispy carnitas, spread the shredded chicken thinly before broiling and watch closely to avoid burning.

Use chicken breast if preferred, but reduce pressure cooking time to 8 minutes to avoid drying out.

Freshly squeeze the orange juice for best flavor, or substitute with tangerine juice if available.

Add pickled red onions, avocado slices, or a dollop of sour cream for varied toppings.

Storage

Store leftover carnitas in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. Reheat gently in a skillet or microwave, adding a splash of cooking liquid or water to keep the meat moist. You can also freeze the cooked carnitas for up to 3 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

FAQs

Can I use frozen chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken thighs. Increase the pressure cooking time by about 5 minutes and allow for a natural pressure release to ensure the meat is fully cooked and tender.

What can I serve with these chicken carnitas?

Chicken carnitas pair beautifully with corn or flour tortillas, rice, beans, avocado, fresh salsa, pickled onions, and a squeeze of lime. They also work well served over a salad or in a taco bowl with your favorite toppings.