Savory Slow-Cooked Chicken Carnitas: A Flavorful Twist

Savor the flavor-packed twist of Slow-Cooked Chicken Carnitas, a mouthwatering dish that delivers tender and juicy shredded chicken infused with zesty spices. Simply set it and forget it in the slow cooker, allowing the succulent meat to simmer to perfection, ready to be enjoyed in tacos, salads, or rice bowls. Elevate your next meal with this easy and satisfying recipe that will surely become a family favorite.

Savory Slow-Cooked Chicken Carnitas: A Flavorful Twist
  • Prep Time
    25 mins
  • Cook Time
    4 hrs 15 mins
  • Total Time
    4 hrs 40 mins

Ingredients

  • Two chicken bouillon cubes
  • One cup of steaming water
  • A generous tablespoon of fragrant olive oil
  • A diced large white onion
  • Two diced jalapeno peppers for a spicy kick
  • A can of fire-roasted diced green chiles (4 ounces)
  • A teaspoon of salt for flavor
  • A touch of dried cilantro for a herbal note
  • A teaspoon of Mexican-style seasoning blend for a vibrant taste
  • Half a teaspoon of ground cumin for depth
  • Some dried basil, oregano, and garlic powder for an herby touch
  • A hint of garlic and herb seasoning blend
  • A quarter teaspoon each of chile powder, smoked paprika, and dry mustard powder
  • A sprinkle of ground black pepper for a kick
  • Generous 2 and a quarter pounds of skinless, boneless chicken breast halves
  • Zest and juice of two limes and one orange for a zesty twist
  • Four cloves of pungent garlic

Step 1

In a pot, dissolve chicken bouillon in hot water until fully incorporated.

Step 2

Next, in a skillet over medium heat, warm up some oil. Toss in the onions and sauté until they turn a golden brown and become translucent, which should take around 5 minutes. Add in the jalapenos and continue cooking until they soften, about 5 more minutes. Then, stir in the green chiles and let it all cook together for an additional 3 minutes.

Step 3

Now, in a mixing bowl, combine a medley of flavors: salt, fresh cilantro, zesty Mexican seasoning, aromatic cumin, fragrant basil, earthy oregano, garlic powder, a pinch of seasoning blend, spicy chile powder, smoky paprika, a hint of mustard powder, and a dash of bold black pepper.

Step 4

Prepare the chicken by trimming it as necessary, then generously coat all sides with the flavorful seasoning blend.

Step 5

Transfer the sautéed onion mixture into a slow cooker. Pour in the chicken broth, along with the freshly squeezed juice and zest of limes and oranges, and add in whole garlic cloves. Place the seasoned chicken on top of the mixture. Cover and let it cook on the Low setting until the chicken is cooked through and tender, which should take about 4 to 6 hours.

Extra Tips & Suggestions

  1. 1. Organize your spices in small, airtight jars to keep them fresh and easily accessible when adding depth of flavor to your chicken carnitas.
  2. 2. Use stackable containers to store different components of the dish separately, such as the shredded chicken, pickled onions, and cilantro, allowing for easy assembly when ready to enjoy.
  3. 3. Keep your fresh herbs like cilantro and oregano vibrant by storing them in a glass of water in the refrigerator, ready to garnish your savory chicken carnitas.


Slow-Cooked Chicken Carnitas Recipes