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Instant Pot Carnitas

4.8/5
20 reviews
Instant Pot Carnitas
Instant Pot Carnitas
75min Total Time
6 people Servings
Easy Difficulty
Budget Cost
420 kcal Calories

Video

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Ingredients

6
  • 3 lbs boneless chicken thighs
  • 1 tablespoon olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon salt
  • 1 teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon oregano
  • 1 cup orange juice
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 2 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 lime, juiced

Instructions

1

Season chicken with salt, pepper, cumin, and oregano.

2

Set Instant Pot to sauté; heat olive oil.

3

Add onion and garlic; sauté until fragrant.

4

Add chicken to the pot; brown on both sides.

5

Pour orange juice and lime juice over chicken.

6

Seal the lid and cook on HIGH pressure for 30 minutes.

7

Allow natural release for 10 minutes, then quick release.

8

Remove chicken; shred with two forks.

9

Return shredded chicken to the pot and mix well.

10

Serve with tortillas, rice, or as desired.

Troubleshooting

Too salty? Serve with unsalted sidesnLacks flavor? Add more spicesnChicken too tough? Reduce cooking time next time

Recipe Variations

Add chipotle for spicenUse chicken breast for leaner optionnServe with sautéed peppers and onions

Serving Suggestions

Serve with corn tortillasnTop with cilantro and limenPair with avocado slicesnGreat in tacos or burritos

Nutrition Facts

420
Calories
37g
Protein
12g
Carbs
27g
Fat
2g
Fiber
5g
Sugar
680mg
Sodium
145mg
Cholesterol

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Skipping browning for flavornOvercooking makes chicken drynNot using enough seasoning can be bland

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, add extra 10-15 minutes cooking time.

What if I don't have orange juice?

Substitute with chicken broth or lime juice.

Can I double this recipe?

Yes, just ensure it fits in the pot.

Is it spicy?

No, but you can add chili for heat.

Can I make it vegan?

Use jackfruit or tofu instead of chicken.

Reviews

Raj
Mar 21, 2026
Delicious! My family loved the flavors.
Maria
Feb 22, 2026
Super easy and quick to make.
Sofia
Mar 17, 2026
Tasted great, but I added more spice.
Chen
Mar 7, 2026
Perfect for tacos; will make again!
Ahmed
Mar 4, 2026
So flavorful, better than takeout.
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