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Slow Cooker Chicken Carnitas

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Enjoy succulent shredded chicken that’s been simmered with citrus and spices in a slow cooker.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
  • 1 onion, diced
  • 4 cloves garlic, minced
  • 1 orange, juiced
  • 1 lime, juiced
  • 1 tsp cumin
  • 1 tsp oregano
  • 1 tsp chili powder
  • 1 tsp salt
  • 1/2 tsp black pepper
  • 2 bay leaves
  • Tortillas for serving
  • Optional toppings: diced onions, cilantro, lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Place the chicken thighs in the slow cooker. This is the star of our show, and you want it to fit snugly in the pot.
  2. Add the diced onion, minced garlic, orange juice, lime juice, cumin, oregano, chili powder, salt, black pepper, and bay leaves. These ingredients are your flavor powerhouses that will transform the chicken.
  3. Give everything a good stir. Make sure the chicken is coated with all those aromatic juices and spices.
  4. Cover the slow cooker and choose your cooking time: cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 4-5 hours until the chicken is tender and falling apart.
  5. Once your timer goes off, remove the chicken. Using two forks, shred the chicken apart. It should come apart effortlessly!
  6. Return the shredded chicken back into the slow cooker and mix it with the juices. This step is crucial as it ensures the chicken is moist and full of flavor.
  7. Serve the chicken in warm tortillas and top with diced onions, fresh cilantro, and lime wedges as desired. Sit down, gather your loved ones, and enjoy the wonderful meal you’ve created!

Notes

These chicken carnitas are great for meal prep. Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days or freeze for up to 3 months.

Nutrition

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