Chicken Carnitas Style
Carnitas is one of Mexico’s most signature and beloved dishes. Carnitas translated means ‘little meats’ referring to the bite-sized shape of the meat traditionally used in this recipe. With our simple 3 steps, now you can easily make a deliciously mild and tangy Carnitas style taco filling at home that tastes like you have spent hours in the kitchen.
Flavour Notes: Orange and lime give the sauce its signature tangy flavour and Ancho chillies bring mild heat.
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Prep time
2 MIN
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Cook time
15 MIN
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Total time
17 minutes
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Ideal for
Dinner -
Make it
Mexican -
Serves
2 - 3
Found in the
Mexican Section
Ingredients
- 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
- 400 grams of shredded chicken thighs or breasts
- 1 medium onion, finely diced
- 1 bunch of coriander, finely chopped
- 1 lime, cut into wedges
How to make it
- Heat up a pan over high heat with a drizzle of vegetable oil.
- When hot, add the chicken, stir and fry for 3 minutes.
- Add the spice blend, cook for another 2 minutes to release the aromatics.
- Add the smaller base flavour sachet and cook for a further 2 – 3 more minutes and stir
- Stir in the larger main sauce sachet, reduce the heat and cover with a lid for 7 minutes
- Warm the Gran Luchito Soft Tacos or Gran Luchito Corn Tortillas according to package directions.
- Fill each taco with the chicken and garnish generously with chopped coriander and a squeeze of fresh lime juice. Serve immediately.
Similar Recipes You Might Like to Try
Crispy Chicken Tacos
FAQs
What cut of chicken works best?
Use boneless, skinless thighs or breasts (many cooks prefer thighs because they stay juicier).
What is “carnitas‐style” chicken?
It means chicken cooked (often braised or baked) with citrus (orange/lime), aromatic spices (cumin, oregano, garlic) then shredded and often finished to get crispy little edges — mimicking the texture/flavour of classic pork carnitas
What are good serving ideas?
Tacos, burritos, bowls, quesadillas, topping for salads. Add warm tortillas, chopped onion, cilantro, lime, salsa. The carnitas-style chicken is very versatile.
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