Easy Slow-Cooker Chicken Carnitas: The Ultimate Recipe for Busy Nights

If you’re looking for a delicious and easy recipe that doesn’t require much effort but still delivers big flavor, slow-cooker chicken carnitas are the way to go. This recipe is perfect for busy nights when you want a satisfying meal with minimal prep. Plus, it’s a great alternative to traditional carnitas for anyone who prefers chicken over pork.

Why You’ll Love This Chicken Carnitas Recipe

There’s a lot to love about this easy chicken carnitas recipe, but here are a few reasons why it’s a staple in my kitchen:

• Minimal prep: No need to spend hours in the kitchen. Just season, toss it in the slow cooker, and let the magic happen.
• Full of flavor: The combo of spices, citrus, and slow-cooked chicken creates a tasty meal that’s impossible to resist.
• Versatile: Whether you’re using it for tacos, burritos, or a simple meal with rice and veggies, it works in so many different ways.
• Perfect for leftovers: I always make a big batch so I can enjoy the leftovers throughout the week. It tastes even better the next day!

Ingredients You’ll Need

This recipe is simple, and you might already have most of these ingredients at home. Here’s what you’ll need for the slow-cooked chicken:

• Boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 4-5 pounds) – Thighs are perfect for slow cooking because they stay juicy and tender.
• Onion – A bit of sweetness to balance the savory flavors.
• Garlic – Adds depth and that irresistible flavor we all love.
• Orange juice – For a fresh, citrusy twist that brightens up the dish.
• Lime juice – A little tang to complement the sweetness of the orange.
• Spices – Cumin, oregano, chili powder, and a pinch of cinnamon. These bring so much flavor to the dish!
• Chicken broth – Keeps the chicken moist while it cooks.
• Bay leaves – A small but essential addition for extra flavor.

How to Make These Amazing Chicken Carnitas

Step 1: Season the Chicken

Start by seasoning your chicken thighs. I love using thighs because they hold up so well in the slow cooker and stay juicy. Rub the cumin, chili powder, oregano, cinnamon, salt, and pepper all over the chicken. You want every inch of the meat covered in these spices. Trust me, this step is where the flavor really starts to come together.

Step 2: Sauté the Onion and Garlic

While you can skip this step, I find that sautéing the onion and garlic in a little oil adds an extra layer of flavor. Heat a bit of olive oil in a skillet over medium heat, and sauté the onion and garlic until they’re soft and fragrant. It only takes a few minutes, and your kitchen will smell amazing!

Once done, transfer the onion and garlic to the slow cooker with the chicken.

Step 3: Slow Cook the Chicken

Now it’s time to let the slow cooker do its thing! Add the seasoned chicken to the slow cooker, along with the sautéed onion and garlic. Pour in the chicken broth, orange juice, lime juice, and drop in the bay leaves. Cover the slow cooker and let it cook on low for about 7-8 hours. By the time it’s done, the chicken should be super tender and easy to shred.

Step 4: Shred the Chicken

Once the chicken is cooked and tender, take it out of the slow cooker and place it on a cutting board. Use two forks to shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. It should practically fall apart on its own!

Don’t forget to save some of that delicious cooking liquid from the slow cooker. Drizzle it over the shredded chicken to keep it juicy and full of flavor. You can also adjust the seasoning if you feel like it needs a little more kick.

Step 5: Crisp the Chicken (Optional)

If you like your chicken carnitas with crispy edges (and who doesn’t?), this step is a must! Heat a bit of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Once it’s hot, add the shredded chicken in a single layer. Let it cook for a few minutes without stirring, so it gets crispy. Flip it over and let the other side get crispy too. This step adds a great texture and flavor to the dish!

Step 6: Serve and Enjoy!

Now that your chicken carnitas are ready, it’s time to dig in! You can use them in tacos, burritos, or even serve them over a bed of rice or in a salad. Top with your favorite taco fixings like salsa, guacamole, shredded cheese, and fresh cilantro. You really can’t go wrong.

Tips for the Best Chicken Carnitas

• Use chicken thighs: For the juiciest, most flavorful carnitas, chicken thighs are your best bet. They stay tender and flavorful throughout the slow-cooking process.
• Adjust the seasoning: Feel free to add more chili powder or a splash of hot sauce if you like things spicy. Customize it to fit your taste!
• Crisp it up: Don’t skip the searing step if you love crispy carnitas. It really adds that perfect texture.
• Leftovers: These chicken carnitas make great leftovers! Use them for salads, wraps, or on a plate with your favorite sides.

Final Thoughts

This slow-cooker chicken carnitas recipe is the perfect meal for any busy weeknight. It’s easy to make, packed with flavor, and can be served in so many different ways. Whether you’re making tacos, burritos, or a simple chicken bowl, these carnitas will quickly become a family favorite. And the best part? You’ll have leftovers to enjoy throughout the week.

I hope this recipe helps make your week a little easier and a lot tastier. Give it a try and let me know how it turns out! I’d love to see what you create.