The Best Instant Pot Chicken Carnitas Recipe

Whether you're meal-prepping for the week or hosting a casual dinner, this recipe has you covered! It’s quick enough for busy weeknights but impressive enough for weekend gatherings. You’ll love how easy it is to toss everything into the pressure cooker, set it, and have tender, seasoned chicken ready to enjoy in just minutes.

Since you are here and love delicious recipes involving juicy chicken, check out this Cava Honey Harissa Chicken Recipe or this Easy Taco Bell Chicken Chipotle Melt Copycat Recipe.

What are chicken carnitas?

If you're like me, you might have grown up thinking that the word "carnitas" exclusively referred to the pulled-pork shoulder of the classic Mexican dish. However, "carnitas" literally translates to "little meats" and refers to the style of flavors and braising in which the meat is cooked. So in theory, you can make chicken carnitas, and that's exactly what we did!

These crispy carnitas have the same delicious texture and flavor that you would expect from the pork from a Mexican restaurant but are even better because the meat is healthier and is more available for people with dietary restrictions. If you've never tried it before, give it a shot. I was apprehensive at first as well.

Since pork has a natural saltiness, I immediately thought there was no way the chicken could recreate a similar flavor. But let me tell you, I was pleasantly surprised when I was wrong. It's incredible.

Ingredients for this easy instant pot chicken carnitas recipe

Here are the ingredients you will need to make this instant pot carnitas recipe. Scroll down to the recipe card at the bottom of the page for the detailed ingredient measurements.

• Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs or Breasts: The star of the dish! Tender, flavorful chicken shreds beautifully after cooking, absorbing all the savory and spicy flavors.
• Olive Oil: is to sauté the onions and garlic.
• Onion: provides a sweet and savory base, enhancing the depth of flavor in the carnitas. You'll want it diced for this recipe.
• Garlic Cloves: Infuses the dish with a pungent, aromatic kick, balancing the spices and sweetness. You'll want it minced for this recipe.
• Ground Cumin: adds warm, earthy notes that are a classic part of any carnitas seasoning.
• Chili Powder: brings a smoky heat that complements the adobo.
• Dried Oregano: adds a hint of herbaceousness and slightly citrusy flavor to round out the spices.
• Salt: elevates all the flavors, ensuring that every bite is well-seasoned.
• Black Pepper: adds a subtle heat and sharpness.
• Chipotle Peppers in Adobo Sauce: pack a smoky, spicy punch, adding depth and complexity to the carnitas.
• Adobo Sauce: is the main flavor of the dish that melds everything together.
• Orange Juice: has a bright, sweet tang that complements the spices and helps tenderize the chicken.
• Lime Juice: balances the sweetness of the orange juice with a sharp, citrusy tang that cuts through the richness.
• Chicken Stock: provides moisture and richness, ensuring the chicken stays juicy and flavorful.
• Apple Cider Vinegar: adds a touch of acidity, enhancing the overall brightness.
• Bay Leaves: infuses the broth with a subtle, earthy aroma as it simmers, adding layers of depth to the flavor.

How to make this instant pot chicken carnitas recipe

This is how you can make these crispy chicken carnitas. Make sure to scroll down to the recipe card at the end of this post for the cook times and full step-by-step instructions.

1. Set the Instant Pot to the Saute function. Add a little olive oil, then sauté the diced onion. Stir in the minced garlic and continue to cook.
2. In a small bowl, combine cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, and pepper. Rub this spice mix evenly over the chicken.
3. Place the seasoned chicken in the pot and sear both sides until browned. Pour in the chicken broth, bay leaf, orange juice, lime juice, apple cider vinegar, adobo sauce, and the chopped chipotle peppers.
4. Seal the lid and set Instant Pot to the “Manual” or “Pressure Cook” option, setting it to high pressure for 15 minutes. After cooking, let the natural pressure release happen for 10 minutes, then perform a quick release of the pressure for the remainder.
5. Remove the chicken and shred it with forks. If you like crispy bits and edges, broil the shredded chicken on a baking sheet in the oven for 5-7 minutes. I highly recommend it!

Why you need to make this instant pot chicken carnitas recipe!

• This easy recipe only requires a handful of ingredients that you can quickly find at any grocery store.
• The best part is you get a great meal with only a few actual minutes of hands-on time. It's so fast, you could even make it for dinner tonight.
• This recipe is a fantastic way to meal prep and have tasty meals ready for you for the week ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions - FAQ

How do I store my leftover carnitas?

To store, put your leftover chicken carnitas in an airtight container in the fridge. It should last for at least 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

​What's better for this recipe, chicken breast or chicken thighs?

While both chicken breasts and thighs work well for this recipe, they each have their own individual perks and benefits. Thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful, but breasts will give you a leaner, lower-calorie option while still absorbing all the delicious flavors.

How can I serve this instant pot chicken carnitas recipe?

• Make burrito bowls by building a base of Mexican rice and beans, adding the chicken, and topping it with salsa, sour cream, or pico de Gallo.
• Use the same concept as above but fold it all up in warm tortillas to make chicken carnitas tacos.
• Grab a wide plate, make a bed of tortilla chips topped with melted Monterey Jack cheese and Cotija cheese, and add the chicken for the best nachos you've ever had in your life.

I don't have time to thaw the meat, Can I use frozen chicken?

Yes, you can use frozen chicken, but you will need to increase the cooking time. Set the Instant Pot for 20-22 minutes on high pressure if using frozen chicken.

The Best Instant Pot Chicken Carnitas Recipe