Create mouthwatering slow cooker chicken carnitas with tender meat and bold spices for unforgettable meals that your family will love.
Ingredients
Scale
2 lbs of boneless, skinless chicken thighs
1 tablespoon of olive oil
1 onion, sliced
4 cloves of garlic, minced
1 tablespoon of ground cumin
1 tablespoon of chili powder
1 teaspoon of smoked paprika
1 teaspoon of salt
1 lime, juiced
1 cup of chicken broth
1 jalapeño, sliced (optional)
1 can of diced tomatoes (optional)
Fresh cilantro (optional)
Avocado or guacamole (for garnish)
Pico de gallo (for garnish)
Crumbled queso fresco (for garnish)
Instructions
Sear the Chicken: Heat your olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Season the chicken thighs with salt and sear them for about 3-4 minutes on each side until they’re golden.
Add Aromatics: Sauté the sliced onions and garlic in the same skillet for about 2-3 minutes until slightly caramelized. Transfer everything to the slow cooker.
Mix in the Spices: Add cumin, chili powder, smoked paprika, lime juice, and chicken broth to the slow cooker. Stir gently and nestle the seared chicken thighs into the mix.
Cook Low and Slow: Cover and set the slow cooker to low for about 6-7 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
Shred the Chicken: After cooking, shred the chicken using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the slow cooker and combine with the juices for about 10-15 minutes.
Optional Crisping Step: Spread the shredded chicken on a baking sheet and broil for 5-7 minutes until crispy.
Notes
Slow Cooker Chicken Carnitas is a crowd-pleasing dish filled with tantalizing aromas and comforting flavors. Perfect for gatherings or busy weeknights, it transforms simple ingredients into a delicious meal.
