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Slow Cooker Chicken Carnitas

slow cooker chicken carnitas
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Ingredients

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  • 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 medium orange (zest and juice)
  • 1 medium lime, juiced
  • 1 large onion, quartered
  • 2 garlic cloves, minced
  • 1 tsp ground cumin
  • 1 tsp dried oregano
  • 1/2 tsp chili powder
  • 1/2 cup low-sodium chicken broth
  • 2 tbsp olive oil
  • Salt and freshly ground black pepper to taste

Instructions

  1. Season chicken thighs with salt, pepper, cumin, oregano, and chili powder.
  2. Place onion, garlic, orange zest, orange juice, and lime juice in the slow cooker.
  3. Add the seasoned chicken thighs on top of the aromatics.
  4. Pour chicken broth and drizzle olive oil over the mixture.
  5. Cook on low for 6-7 hours until the chicken is fork-tender.
  6. Remove chicken and shred with two forks.
  7. Optional: Strain and reduce cooking liquid in a saucepan for 10-15 minutes.
  8. Optional but recommended: Spread shredded chicken on a baking sheet, drizzle with some reduced cooking liquid, and broil for 3-5 minutes until edges are crispy.
  9. Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
  10. Serve in warm tortillas with your favorite toppings.

Notes

  • For best results, use chicken thighs rather than breast meat for juicier carnitas.
  • Don’t skip the broiling step if you want authentic crispy-edged carnitas.
  • Leftovers freeze well for up to 3 months.
  • Nutrition facts are estimates and may vary based on ingredients used, portion sizes, and preparation methods.

Nutrition

Keywords: slow cooker chicken carnitas, carnitas recipe, Mexican chicken, taco filling, slow cooker chicken

Find it online: https://www.joyliciousrecipes.com/slow-cooker-chicken-carnitas-easy/