Slow Cooker Chicken Carnitas Recipe

 With fall here and the weather cooling off, I want to be outside an enjoying these amazing days before we’re cozied up indoors for a few months. With that said I’m always looking to create simple, quick healthy meals that I don’t have to spend hours in the kitchen with. Check out my latest run of slow cooker recipes for #quickhealthy #meals.

Slow Cooker Chicken Carnitas

Ingredients

• 2 ½–3 pounds boneless, skinless breasts
• 1 medium onion, diced
• 4 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 cup orange juice (freshly squeezed, if possible)
• ¼ cup lime juice
• 2 teaspoons ground cumin
• 2 teaspoons smoked paprika
• 1 teaspoon chili powder
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
• ½ teaspoon black pepper
• 1–2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce (optional, for heat)
• 1 tablespoon olive oil (for crisping)

Instructions

1. Prepare the Slow Cooker
   Place the chicken thighs or breasts in the slow cooker. Add the onion, garlic, orange juice, lime juice, and chipotle peppers, if using.
2. Season the Chicken
   In a small bowl, mix together the cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Sprinkle the spice mixture evenly over the chicken.
3. Cook
   Cover and cook on low for 6–8 hours or on high for 3–4 hours, until the chicken is tender and easily shreds with a fork.
4. Shred the Chicken
   Once cooked, transfer the chicken to a large bowl and shred using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker to soak up the juices.
5. Optional: Crisp the Chicken
   Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the shredded chicken in a single layer and cook for 2–3 minutes without stirring, allowing the edges to crisp up. Toss and cook for another 2–3 minutes until slightly crispy.

Serving Suggestions

• Tacos: Serve on warm tortillas with diced onion, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
• Burrito Bowls: Add to a bowl with rice, beans, and your favorite toppings.
• Salads: Use as a protein topping for a fresh, flavorful salad.
• Nachos: Sprinkle over tortilla chips with melted cheese and salsa.

Tips for Perfect Chicken Carnitas

• Double the batch: This recipe freezes well, making it perfect for meal prep.
• Juicier meat: Chicken thighs tend to be more flavorful and moist than chicken breasts.
• Spice level: Adjust the heat by adding more or fewer chipotle peppers.

Enjoy these tender, zesty chicken carnitas for a meal the whole family will love!

Complete this dish with a refreshing drink…..

Non-Alcoholic Pairing

A refreshing, citrus-based beverage is the perfect complement to Slow Cooker Chicken Carnitas. Try these options:

1. Virgin Paloma
   • Mix freshly squeezed grapefruit juice, lime juice, and a splash of sparkling water. Add a touch of agave syrup for sweetness. Serve over ice with a salted rim for an authentic feel.
2. Citrus Agua Fresca
   • Blend orange juice, lime juice, and a hint of honey or agave. Strain, if desired, and serve over ice with a garnish of lime or orange slices.
3. Spiced Iced Tea
   • Brew iced tea with a hint of cinnamon and clove for warmth. Sweeten lightly and serve over ice with a citrus twist.

Tequila Pairing

For a boozy option, tequila’s smoky, earthy notes pair beautifully with the spices and citrus in chicken carnitas. Consider these:

1. Classic Margarita
   • Combine tequila, lime juice, and orange liqueur (like Cointreau) with a touch of agave syrup. Serve over ice in a salted-rim glass for a zesty, refreshing sip.
2. Tequila Paloma
   • Mix tequila, grapefruit juice, lime juice, and a splash of soda water. Serve over ice for a light and bubbly complement to the meal.
3. Reposado Tequila Neat or On the Rocks
   • A smooth reposado tequila, with its subtle oak and caramel notes, pairs wonderfully with the smoky and savory flavors of carnitas.

Whether you’re keeping it non-alcoholic or indulging in a tequila treat, these options will elevate your carnitas experience!