Crispy Chicken Carnitas: Instant Pot® Perfection!

Ingredients

• Chicken:
• A touch of aromatic ground cumin, a hint of spicy chili powder, a sprinkle of dried oregano, and a dash of salt and black pepper for flavor, all mixed with three portions of olive oil. These combined with tender skinless chicken breast halves, tangy lime juice, savory garlic, quartered onions, a splash of chicken broth, fragrant cilantro, a kick of chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, zesty orange zest and juice, and a single bay leaf for depth.
• Chipotle Sauce:
• Creamy mayonnaise blended with a touch of milk, a kick of chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, and a pinch each of salt and garlic powder for a flavorful sauce.

Step 1

Mix together a medley of fragrant cumin, spicy chili powder, earthy oregano, and a dash of salt and pepper in a bowl. Gently sprinkle this flavorful blend over the chicken breasts, making sure both sides are coated.

Step 2

Heat up a versatile multi-functional pressure cooker like the beloved Instant Pot® and choose the Saute function. Drizzle a tablespoon of olive oil into the pot and carefully sear the chicken breasts for about 1 to 2 minutes per side, ensuring a nice sear without letting them steam. Once seared to perfection, transfer the chicken to a waiting plate.

Step 3

In the same pot, toss in some minced garlic and diced onion, cooking and stirring until they turn a beautiful golden brown on all sides, which usually takes around 2 minutes. Add the chicken back into the pot, along with a splash of fresh lime juice, chicken broth, fragrant cilantro, a chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, a hint of orange zest and juice, and a single bay leaf before sealing the lid securely. Set the timer for 8 to 10 minutes, depending on the size of your chicken breasts.

Step 4

While the chicken is cooking, whip up a creamy chipotle sauce in an electric blender by combining mayonnaise, milk, chipotle pepper with adobo sauce, a pinch of salt, and a sprinkle of garlic powder. Blend until the sauce is velvety smooth and ready to elevate your dish.

Step 5

Once the pressure in the cooker has naturally released according to the manufacturer's guidelines, carefully unlock and remove the lid. Adjust the oven rack to about 6 inches from the broiler and preheat it for the next step.

Step 6

Move the cooked chicken breasts to a clean surface, reserving the cooking liquid. Using two forks, shred the chicken into tender pieces. Place the shredded chicken in a spacious bowl and drizzle about 1/4 cup of the reserved cooking liquid over it, giving it a good toss to coat evenly. Drizzle a bit of oil over a baking sheet and spread the chicken out on it, drizzling the remaining oil on top and stirring to ensure every piece gets a nice coating.

Step 7

Broil the chicken in the preheated oven for about 5 minutes, then toss it with a splash of the reserved cooking liquid and rotate the pan for even crisping. Continue to broil until the chicken turns crispy and golden, usually taking an additional 5 to 7 minutes. Serve this delectable dish with the creamy chipotle sauce for a burst of flavor that will delight your taste buds.