carnitas recipe crock pot slow cooker
The Best carnitas recipe crock pot slow cooker
I also love how adaptable it is. You can make it with pork shoulder or even pork chops, and it’s always going to turn out juicy and delicious. The slow cooker does all the work for you, so you can focus on other things—like cleaning up the kitchen or playing with the kids—while the meat simmers to perfection. Plus, it’s got a little something for everyone: the smoky, spiced flavors are addictive, but it’s not so heavy that it feels like a reward meal. And because it’s cooked low and slow, you’re getting all the natural goodness of the meat without any of the tough, dry bits that can happen if you overcook it. It’s a win-win for my family’s health too, since it’s packed with protein and vitamins, and it’s way easier than trying to make something from scratch. No one ever knows it’s not a special occasion dish—it’s just good, simple food that never fails.
Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe
Tender, crispy pork carnitas slow-cooked in a rich, flavorful sauce, perfect for tacos, bowls, or bowls. This recipe delivers a perfect blend of fall-off-the-bone tenderness and golden-brown crunch.
🥘Ingredients
- 3 lbs pork shoulder (bone-in or boneless)
- 1 cup orange juice
- 1 cup chicken broth
- 1 tbsp cumin
- 1 tbsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp garlic powder
- 1 tsp onion powder
- 1 tsp salt
- ½ tsp black pepper
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 cup tomato sauce
- 1 tbsp lime juice
- 1 tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp oregano
- Salt and pepper to taste
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C) if you plan to crisp the carnitas afterward. If not, skip this step. -
2
In a mixing bowl, combine orange juice, chicken broth, cumin, smoked paprika, garlic powder, onion powder, salt, black pepper, and bay leaf. Mix well. -
3
Place pork shoulder in a slow cooker. Pour the orange juice mixture over the pork, ensuring it is fully coated. -
4
Cover the slow cooker and cook on LOW for 6 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours, until the pork is tender and easily shreds with a fork. -
5
Transfer the pork to a large bowl. Let it cool slightly, then shred the meat using two forks. Return the shredded meat to the slow cooker. -
6
If using the crisping method, transfer the shredded pork to a baking sheet, drizzle with olive oil, and spread into an even layer. Bake at 425°F (220°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway, until crispy. Set aside. -
7
For the sauce (optional), combine tomato sauce, lime juice, chili powder, oregano, salt, and pepper in a small bowl. Stir well. -
8
Serve the crispy carnitas with the optional sauce, or use as-is in tacos, bowls, or salads.
🔧Equipment
- Slow cooker
- Cutting board
- Sharp knife
- Mixing bowl
- Measuring spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Tips
- For extra flavor, add a pinch of cinnamon or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade.
- If you prefer not to crisp the carnitas, skip the oven step and serve them as-is with a side of salsa.
- Use leftover carnitas in breakfast burritos or as a filling for stuffed peppers.
Substitutions: {“pork”:”Substitute with chicken or turkey for a lighter option.”,”flavor”:”Adjust spices to taste; add a pinch of cayenne for heat.”}
Watch Video Of How Slow Cooker Carnitas Recipe Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Slow Cooker Carnitas
What is the best way to prepare carnitas for the crock pot slow cooker and what ingredients should I use?
To make delicious crock pot carnitas, start with 3-4 lbs of pork shoulder (or pork butt), seasoned with salt, pepper, and a blend of spices like cumin, paprika, garlic powder, and oregano. For extra flavor, add a little liquid smoke or a splash of beer. Cook the pork on the LOW setting for 8-10 hours or on HIGH for 5-6 hours. The meat will fall apart easily, making it perfect for tacos, bowls, or rice.
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How do you ensure the carnitas stay tender and juicy in the slow cooker?
For the most tender and juicy carnitas, use a pork shoulder cut (not just pork chops), which breaks down beautifully in slow cookers. Avoid overcooking—check the meat after 6-8 hours and remove it if it’s falling apart. If needed, cook on LOW for 2-3 more hours. To keep moisture in, lightly coat the pork with oil before seasoning, and don’t overcrowd the crock pot. Adding a little broth or beer during cooking can also help retain moisture.
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Can you use chicken instead of pork for carnitas-style crock pot cooking, and if so, how?
While traditional carnitas are pork-based, you can make a chicken carnitas version by using boneless, skinless chicken thighs or drumsticks (about 3-4 lbs). Season with salt, pepper, and the same spices as pork (cumin, paprika, garlic powder, oregano). Cook on LOW for 6-7 hours or HIGH for 4-5 hours. The chicken will shred easily, but it won’t have the same crispy texture as pork. For extra flavor, add a splash of lime juice or a bit of hot sauce toward the end.
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What are some great side dishes to serve with crock pot carnitas?
Crock pot carnitas pair perfectly with warm tortillas, fresh salsa, pickled onions, and cilantro. Classic sides include:
– Mexican street corn (elote) – Grilled corn with mayo, cotija cheese, chili powder, and lime.
– Black beans or refried beans – Simple and flavorful.
– Cilantro-lime rice – Cook rice with a splash of lime juice and chopped cilantro.
– Avocado slices or guacamole – For freshness and creaminess.
– Mexican street tacos or al pastor tacos – Use leftover carnitas in corn or flour tortillas.
– Pickled red onions or jalapeños – Adds a tangy crunch.
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How do you make carnitas extra crispy in the slow cooker (if you want a crispy exterior)?
While slow cookers don’t create the same crispy texture as a stovetop or oven, you can enhance crispiness with a few tricks:
1. Double-cook the pork – First, sear the pork shoulder in a skillet with oil, garlic, and spices until browned. Then transfer to the slow cooker.
2. Add a little oil – Lightly brush the pork with oil before slow cooking to help it crisp up slightly.
3. Use a higher heat setting – Cook on HIGH for 5-6 hours instead of LOW to encourage browning.
4. Shred and crisp in a pan – After slow cooking, shred the meat and pan-fry it in a little oil for 2-3 minutes until crispy.
5. Bake after slow cooking – Transfer shredded carnitas to a baking sheet and broil for 2-3 minutes for extra crispiness.
