Chicken Carnitas

Whenever I think of cozy family gatherings, the first thing that comes to mind is my beloved Chicken Carnitas. There’s something magical about the aroma of spices wafting through the house, setting the stage for a delightful evening. Just the other day, I prepared this dish for a casual get-together with friends, and it turned out to be the star of the show! Everyone gathered around the table, eager to fill their tortillas with tender, flavorful meat. Not only is this recipe a crowd-pleaser, but it’s also incredibly simple to make. The slow-cooked, seasoned chicken practically falls apart, inviting all sorts of toppings and sides. Pair it with fresh salsa, guacamole, and a sprinkle of lime, and you’ve got yourself a fiesta on your plate!

Ingredients for Chicken Carnitas

The ingredients for Chicken Carnitas are simple yet effective. Each component plays an essential role in creating the rich, mouthwatering flavors that define this dish. The star is undoubtedly the chicken thighs, which, when cooked slowly, become incredibly tender. The spices and aromatics complement the chicken beautifully, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

• 2 tsp ground cumin – This spice adds that warm, earthy flavor that’s fundamental to any carnitas dish.
• 2 tsp chipotle chile powder – For a smoky kick that elevates the dish to another level.
• 2 tsp salt – Essential for bringing out all the flavors in the dish.
• 2 tsp dried oregano – Adds a touch of herbal brightness.
• 1 tsp garlic powder – A staple seasoning that never disappoints in flavor.
• 1 tsp onion powder – Provides a sweet and savory depth.
• 1 tsp ground black pepper – A must for a little heat and flavor enhancement.
• 4 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs – The key protein providing tenderness and richness.
• 1 white onion, roughly chopped – This will become sweet and aromatic during cooking.
• 3 jalapeno peppers – Adds just the right amount of heat; feel free to adjust to your taste.
• 2 oranges – Fresh juice adds a citrusy brightness, making the dish vibrant.

The Process for Making Chicken Carnitas

Making Chicken Carnitas is a rewarding experience that fills your home with mouthwatering scents. You’ll find that the steps are straightforward, and the results are simply fantastic. Let’s dive into the process, so you can enjoy this scrumptious dish!

1. Start by making the dry rub. In a large bowl, combine the ground cumin, chipotle chile powder, salt, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the spices are well combined.
2. Prepare your slow cooker. Place the chopped white onion and whole jalapeno peppers in the bottom of the crockpot, forming a flavorful base.
3. Juice the oranges. Cut the oranges in half and squeeze the juice over the onions and jalapenos. Don’t forget to toss the squeezed halves into the pot for extra flavor!
4. Take the chicken thighs and coat them generously with the spice mixture. Make sure to cover all sides and pat it in so the flavors can penetrate the meat.
5. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onion and jalapeno layer in the crockpot, then pour any remaining orange juice over the top.
6. Cover and cook on low for seven to nine hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become fork-tender. Check occasionally to ensure it’s cooking evenly.
7. Once done, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Discard any fatty areas to keep the meat lean.
8. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the shredded chicken in a thin layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for six to ten minutes, or until the edges are crispy to your liking. This step is essential for achieving that signature carnitas texture.
9. While the chicken bakes, strain the juices from the crockpot and discard the onions, jalapenos, and orange rinds. Use the juices to spoon over the shredded chicken for a touch of extra flavor when serving.
10. Serve your Chicken Carnitas warm, allowing everyone to build their own tacos or bowls with their favorite toppings.

Recipe Variations about Chicken Carnitas

There are countless ways to enjoy Chicken Carnitas, each bringing its own unique twist to this classic dish. Here are some ideas to get your creative juices flowing!

• Add different spices: Experiment with spices like smoked paprika or coriander for a unique flavor profile.
• Switch up the citrus: Try using lime juice instead of orange for a different tangy twist.
• Include more veggies: Toss in additional vegetables like bell peppers or corn for added flavor and nutrition.
• Wrap it up: Use lettuce wraps for a low-carb option while still enjoying the same flavors.
• Make it a salad: Serve Chicken Carnitas over a bed of mixed greens for a refreshing meal!

Serving This Chicken Carnitas

When it comes to serving Chicken Carnitas, the possibilities are endless! Let’s explore some delightful ways to present this dish to your family and friends.

• Tacos: Serve the tender chicken in soft corn or flour tortillas, allowing your guests to customize with toppings like diced onions, cilantro, and lime.
• Burritos: Wrap the carnitas with rice, beans, cheese, and salsa for a hearty meal.
• Bowls: Create delicious burrito bowls with a base of rice, topped with carnitas, beans, corn, and avocado.
• Nachos: Layer crispy tortilla chips with chicken, cheese, jalapenos, and guacamole for a fun appetizer.
• Meal Prep: Store leftovers in airtight containers for easy lunches throughout the week. This dish keeps well and retains its flavor!
• Seasonal Pairings: Enjoy Chicken Carnitas with fresh summer sides like watermelon salad or grilled corn on the cob.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chicken Carnitas is an incredible dish that brings a burst of flavor to any table. Its tender, juicy meat and versatile serving options make it a family favorite. I encourage you to try this recipe for your next meal. With its ease of preparation and delightful taste, it’s sure to impress!

Chicken Carnitas

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Carnitas is packed with flavor and easy to prepare. This dish combines tender chicken with a blend of delicious spices, creating a perfect weeknight dinner that your family will love. Make it tonight for a satisfying meal!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 8 hours hrs

Total Time 8 hours hrs 10 minutes mins

Servings: 8 servings

Course: Dinner

Cuisine: Mexican

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 tsp ground cumin
• 2 tsp chipotle chile powder
• 2 tsp salt
• 2 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tsp garlic powder
• 1 tsp onion powder
• 1 tsp ground black pepper
• 4 pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
• 1 white onion, roughly chopped
• 3 jalapeno peppers
• 2 oranges

Equipment

• Baking Sheet
• Mixing Bowl
• Oven
• Chef's Knife

Method

 

1. Start by making the dry rub. In a large bowl, combine the ground cumin, chipotle chile powder, salt, dried oregano, garlic powder, onion powder, and ground black pepper. Mix thoroughly until the spices are well combined.
2. Prepare your slow cooker. Place the chopped white onion and whole jalapeno peppers in the bottom of the crockpot, forming a flavorful base.
3. Juice the oranges. Cut the oranges in half and squeeze the juice over the onions and jalapenos. Don’t forget to toss the squeezed halves into the pot for extra flavor!
4. Take the chicken thighs and coat them generously with the spice mixture. Make sure to cover all sides and pat it in so the flavors can penetrate the meat.
5. Place the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the onion and jalapeno layer in the crockpot, then pour any remaining orange juice over the top.
6. Cover and cook on low for seven to nine hours, allowing the flavors to meld and the chicken to become fork-tender. Check occasionally to ensure it’s cooking evenly.
7. Once done, carefully remove the chicken thighs from the slow cooker and shred them using two forks. Discard any fatty areas to keep the meat lean.
8. Preheat your oven to 425 degrees Fahrenheit. Spread the shredded chicken in a thin layer on a large baking sheet. Bake for six to ten minutes, or until the edges are crispy to your liking. This step is essential for achieving that signature carnitas texture.
9. While the chicken bakes, strain the juices from the crockpot and discard the onions, jalapenos, and orange rinds. Use the juices to spoon over the shredded chicken for a touch of extra flavor when serving.
10. Serve your Chicken Carnitas warm, allowing everyone to build their own tacos or bowls with their favorite toppings.

Notes

• Tip 1: To make meal prep easier, consider doubling the recipe and freezing half for later use.
• Tip 2: If you want less heat, feel free to remove the seeds from the jalapeno peppers.
• Tip 3: To save leftovers, separate into meal-sized portions and store in an airtight container for 3-4 days in the refrigerator or for 3-4 months in the freezer.
• Tip 4: For a fun twist, try using different types of tortillas, such as spinach or tomato basil.
• Tip 5: If you’re looking for a low-carb option, serve the chicken over a bed of lettuce instead of in tortillas.

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Meet Violet Lane

The Creative Spark I see the kitchen as my art studio. I love experimenting with colors and textures, and I’m usually the one asking, “What if we added this?” I encourage the team to take risks and try new flavor combinations. I love the energy of cooking with six other people it’s chaotic, colorful, and inspiring. I’m hands-on with the cooking and styling, always trying to make our plates look as artistic as they taste.