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Instant Pot Carnitas
75min
Total Time
6 people
Servings
Easy
Difficulty
Budget
Cost
420 kcal
Calories
Video
Note: This video is from YouTube and does not belong to us. All rights go to its original creator. Watch on YouTube
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 sides
Lacks flavor? Add more spices
Chicken too tough? Reduce cooking time next time
Recipe Variations
Add chipotle for spice
Use chicken breast for leaner option
Serve with sautéed peppers and onions
Serving Suggestions
Serve with corn tortillas
Top with cilantro and lime
Pair with avocado slices
Great 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 flavor
Overcooking makes chicken dry
Not 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
Apr 28, 2026
Delicious! My family loved the flavors.
Maria
Apr 13, 2026
Super easy and quick to make.
Sofia
Apr 27, 2026
Tasted great, but I added more spice.
Chen
Apr 15, 2026
Perfect for tacos; will make again!
Ahmed
Apr 19, 2026
So flavorful, better than takeout.
