Instant Pot Crispy Chicken Carnitas

Instant Pot Crispy Chicken Carnitas
  • PREP TIME
    25 mins
  • COOK TIME
    35 mins
  • TOTAL TIME
    1 hrs 10 mins
  • SERVING
    10 People
  • VIEWS
    42

Experience the vibrant flavors of Mexico with these incredibly tender and crispy chicken carnitas, made effortlessly in your Instant Pot. A symphony of citrus, spice, and smoky chipotle, this dish is perfect for tacos, bowls, or salads. Get ready for a fiesta in your mouth!

Ingridients

Adjust Servings

Nutrition

  • Carbohydrate
    5 g
  • Cholesterol
    56 mg
  • Fiber
    1 g
  • Protein
    20 g
  • Saturated Fat
    3 g
  • Sodium
    186 mg
  • Sugar
    2 g
  • Fat
    15 g
  • Unsaturated Fat
    0 g

Follow The Directions

01

Step

In a small bowl, combine the cumin, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper. Generously sprinkle the mixture over both sides of the chicken breasts. (5 minutes)

02

Step

Turn on your Instant Pot and select the 'Sauté' function. Add 1 tablespoon of olive oil. Once heated, sear the chicken breasts in batches for 1 to 2 minutes per side, until lightly browned. Transfer the chicken to a plate. (10 minutes)

03

Step

Add the quartered onion and pressed garlic to the Instant Pot. Cook and stir until softened and fragrant, about 2 minutes. Return the chicken to the pot. (5 minutes)

04

Step

Add the chopped cilantro, lime juice, chicken broth, orange zest and juice, chipotle pepper with adobo sauce, and bay leaf. Close and lock the lid of the Instant Pot. Select 'High Pressure' and set the timer for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the thickness of your chicken breasts. Allow 10-15 minutes for the pressure to build. (2 minutes)

05

Step

While the chicken is cooking, prepare the chipotle sauce: In a blender, combine the mayonnaise, chipotle pepper with adobo sauce, milk, salt, and garlic powder. Blend until smooth and creamy. Refrigerate until ready to serve. (5 minutes)

06

Step

Once the cooking time is complete, allow the pressure to release naturally for 10 to 40 minutes. Once the pressure is fully released, carefully unlock and remove the lid. (30 minutes)

07

Step

Preheat your oven's broiler and position a rack about 6 inches from the heat source. Lightly coat a baking sheet with 1 tablespoon of olive oil. (5 minutes)

08

Step

Transfer the cooked chicken breasts to a cutting board. Using two forks, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Place the shredded chicken in a large bowl. Drizzle about 1/4 cup of the reserved cooking liquid from the Instant Pot over the chicken and toss to coat. (10 minutes)

09

Step

Transfer the shredded chicken to the prepared baking sheet. Drizzle with the remaining 1 tablespoon of olive oil, tossing to ensure the chicken is evenly coated. (2 minutes)

10

Step

Broil the chicken in the preheated oven for 5 minutes. Toss the chicken with 1 to 2 tablespoons of the reserved cooking liquid and rotate the baking sheet. Continue broiling until the chicken is crispy and golden brown, about 5 to 7 minutes more. (12 minutes)

11

Step

Serve the crispy chicken carnitas hot with the prepared chipotle sauce, warm tortillas, and your favorite toppings like diced onions, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges.

For extra flavor, marinate the chicken breasts in the spice mixture for at least 30 minutes before cooking.
Adjust the amount of chipotle pepper to your desired level of spiciness. Remember that the adobo sauce also adds heat.
Don't discard the reserved cooking liquid! It's packed with flavor and can be used to add moisture and richness to the carnitas.
If you don't have an Instant Pot, you can also make this recipe in a slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours, then shred and broil as directed.
Leftover carnitas can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet or oven until warmed through and crispy.

Arely Rau

Written by

Our recipe authors are passionate food lovers who share thousands of diverse dishes from around the world. They bring daily cooking inspiration with delicious, easy-to-make recipes for every occasion.

RECIPE REVIEWS

Avarage Rating: 4.9/ 5 ( 14 Ratings)
Total Reviews: (6)
  • Bridie Vonrueden

    The instructions were clear and easy to follow. A weeknight dinner winner!

  • Rhianna Bednar

    These carnitas are amazing! The chipotle sauce is the perfect complement.

  • Paolo Walter

    I added a little extra lime juice and it was perfect! Thanks for the recipe.

  • Frederic Borer

    So easy and flavorful! My family devoured them.

  • Gust Mayertromaguera

    I used chicken thighs instead of breasts and they turned out so juicy and delicious!

  • Andreane Davis

    The crispy texture is what really makes this recipe stand out. Will definitely make again!

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