There is something about chipotle, orange & beer with a touch of cumin & mexican oregano that just really melts my heart and excites my tastebuds. And even better, this recipe also honors your body with a leaner chicken thigh versus the traditional pork shoulder (although you can always substitute with the latter).

Set in the crockpot in the morning and have a beautifully fragrant meal awaiting you in the evening. Pairs perfect with Mashed Black Beans and Cilantro Cauliflower Rice OR simply enjoy as tacos with corn tortillas, onion & cilantro on gameday.

Check out more Superbowl recipe ideas here.

Host your Superbowl Party {or weeknight dinner}
with No-Fuss Gameday Favorites.
It’s that easy!

Carnitas, or “little meats” in Spanish, is a beautiful Mexican celebration dish of slow cooked, pulled pork, traditionally fried or confit in its own fat.  Carnitas was prepared with all parts of a pig, which required plenty of time and an entire community for preparation.  Thus, carnitas became a delicacy since it wasn’t typically cooked on everyday occasions.  

Today, carnitas can be easier to find, especially living in California.  It is one of my favorite options to indulge in and I have found that it actually pairs well with a nice crisp Rose or even a non-alcoholic beer option, like Hop Tea!

However, making your own carnitas at home is not as commonplace. 

You can incorporate this easy Carnitas Inspired Crockpot Chicken dish for festive occasions, like a Superbowl party, or even just a tasty weeknight dinner!  (If you are craving more celebration foods, see Doña Maria Mole recipe). A flavorful dinner really can be a festive occasion in itself.  

Easily substitute pork shoulder for the chicken thighs for a more traditional feel (Kitchen Hack #16).

Dalé!

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As a professional chef, I love working with & sharing food in any capacity.

Lately, I have been obsessing over functional, yet flavorful ingredients that you can incorporate into celebrations, big or little, all year round.  Or even to include as a fun weeknight dinner, like this Carnitas Style Chicken recipe. I personally believe meal times should not be an occasion to settle for.. Life is too short for boring food! (I might even make these Chicken “Carnitas” this week for myself!)

Crockpot Chicken “Carnitas”

Directions

1. Cut oranges in half, juice & strain out the seeds. Cut orange peels in quarters and scrape out pulp, reserving the juice. Set aside. Thinly slice the orange peels and set aside.

2. In a small bowl, mix cumin, garlic powder, mexican oregano, and salt. Set aside.

3. Place orange peel slices, cilantro, onions at the bottom of your crockpot. Place chicken thighs on top, seasoning with spice mixture and chipotle peppers. Pour the orange juice and beer around the sides of the chicken, to not rinse the seasoning off the meat.

4. Cover and cook on high for about 4 hours (or 6-7 hours on low) or until the meat is fork tender. Once finished, shred meat with tongs or two forks in your crock pot & your “carnitas” is ready!

5. This chicken can be stored in an airtight container for up to 5 days in your refrigerator or in the freezer for several months.

DCD Community, do you like Carnitas? What is your favorite way of having it? Comment below!