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Crispy Orange-Lime Chicken Carnitas with Classic Taco Toppings Recipe

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4.1 from 83 reviews

This Chicken Carnitas recipe features tender, juicy chicken thighs marinated in zesty citrus and spices, then baked and broiled to achieve crispy, flavorful bites perfect for tacos or burrito bowls.

  • Total Time: 1 hour
  • Yield: 4 servings

Ingredients

Marinade and Chicken

  • 1 ½ pounds boneless skinless chicken thighs
  • ½ yellow onion, thinly sliced
  • 2 large, juicy oranges, zested and juiced
  • 2 large, juicy limes, zested and juiced
  • 3 cloves garlic, finely chopped or grated
  • 1 medium jalapeno, deseeded as desired and finely chopped
  • 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil
  • 1 teaspoon ground cumin
  • 1 teaspoon ground oregano
  • 1 ½ teaspoons kosher salt

For Serving (Optional)

  • Charred white corn tortillas
  • Cilantro lime rice
  • Black beans
  • Sour cream or cashew crema
  • Pickled red onions
  • Freshly chopped cilantro
  • Queso fresco or cheese of choice
  • Salsa of choice
  • Winter citrus pico de gallo
  • Lime wedges

Instructions

  1. Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl, whisk together the orange zest and juice, lime zest and juice, garlic, jalapeno, olive oil, cumin, oregano, and kosher salt. Add the chicken thighs and thinly sliced yellow onion, tossing to coat evenly. Set aside to marinate for at least 20 minutes or refrigerate covered for up to 8 hours to deepen the flavors.
  2. Preheat the oven: Adjust oven racks so one is in the center and another is 4-6 inches below the broiler. Preheat the oven to 425°F. Line a large rimmed baking sheet with foil for easy cleanup and set aside.
  3. Bake the chicken: Drain excess marinade from the chicken and onions and spread them evenly on the prepared baking sheet. Bake on the center rack for 15-18 minutes, depending on thickness, until the chicken is nearly cooked through.
  4. Shred the chicken carnitas: Remove chicken from the oven. Using two forks or a stand mixer with paddle attachment, shred the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Transfer the shredded chicken back to the baking sheet.
  5. Broil for crispy chicken carnitas: Place the baking sheet under the broiler and broil for 4-5 minutes, turning the pan halfway through. Broil until the chicken is browned and slightly crisped for that perfect carnitas texture.
  6. Serve: Use the crispy chicken carnitas as a filling for charred corn tortillas, or assemble burrito bowls with cilantro lime rice, black beans, and your favorite toppings like sour cream, pickled red onions, fresh cilantro, cheese, salsa, and lime wedges. Enjoy your vibrant and delicious meal!

Notes

  • Marinate chicken for up to 8 hours for enhanced flavor and tenderness.
  • Using a stand mixer to shred chicken saves time and effort.
  • Broiling at the end adds the signature crispy edges typical of carnitas.
  • Feel free to customize toppings according to your palate and dietary preferences.
  • Boneless skinless chicken thighs provide balance of juiciness and quick cooking.
  • Author: ELLA
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 23 minutes
  • Category: Main Dish
  • Method: Baking
  • Cuisine: Mexican

Find it online: https://ellarecipe.com/crispy-orange-lime-chicken-carnitas-with-classic-taco-toppings-recipe/