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Healthy Instant Pot Chicken Carnitas Tacos


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  • Author: Benjamin
  • Total Time: 40 minutes
  • Yield: 6 servings 1x

Description

These Zesty Citrus Garlic Chicken Tacos are packed with bold flavors and perfect for any taco night! Tender, juicy chicken is infused with a smoky blend of cumin, oregano, and chili powder, then simmered in a bright and tangy mix of fresh orange and lime juice. The result is a mouthwatering filling that pairs perfectly with warm tortillas and fresh toppings. Whether you’re cooking for family or entertaining guests, these tacos will be an instant favorite!


Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken breasts or thighs
  • 1 tablespoon ground cumin
  • 1 tablespoon oregano
  • 1 teaspoon salt (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon fresh ground black pepper (or to taste)
  • ½ teaspoon chili powder (or to taste)
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
  • 1 small yellow onion, diced
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • ⅓ cup low-sodium chicken broth or beer
  • ¼ cup orange juice, no pulp (freshly squeezed if possible)
  • ¼ cup lime juice
  • Low-carb flour tortillas for serving
  • Fresh chopped cilantro for garnish

Instructions

    • In a bowl, mix cumin, oregano, salt, black pepper, and chili powder. Rub the seasoning blend evenly over the chicken.
    • Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken on both sides until golden brown, then remove from the pan and set aside.
    • Add the remaining olive oil to the skillet. Sauté the diced onion until softened, then stir in the minced garlic and cook until fragrant.
    • Pour in the chicken broth (or beer), orange juice, and lime juice, scraping up any browned bits from the pan.
    • Return the chicken to the skillet, cover, and let it simmer for about 15 minutes or until fully cooked and tender.
    • Remove the chicken from the pan and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet, mixing it with the flavorful sauce.
    • Serve in warm tortillas, garnished with fresh chopped cilantro.

Notes

    • Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
    • For extra spice, add a pinch of cayenne pepper or diced jalapeños to the marinade.
    • To make it dairy-free, use corn tortillas instead of flour.
    • This recipe also works great with shrimp, beef, or tofu as a protein alternative.
  • Prep Time: 15 minutes
  • Cook Time: 25 minutes
  • Category: Main Course
  • Method: Stove Top
  • Cuisine: Mexican