Crispy Chicken Carnitas: Instant Pot® Perfection!

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.