Instant Pot Crispy Carnitas (with Air Fryer Lid)

Introduction

Instant Pot Crispy Carnitas with an Air Fryer Lid combines the ultimate in flavor and efficiency, delivering savory, melt-in-your-mouth pork with irresistibly crisped edges—without hours in the oven. This dish is a standout for taco nights, crowd-pleasing platters, or effortless meal prep, making it a kitchen staple for anyone who loves bold, authentic Mexican flavors in less time.

Why Instant Pot Crispy Carnitas Are a Must-Try

What sets these carnitas apart is their remarkable tenderness, traditionally achieved by hours of slow cooking, now recreated in a fraction of the time thanks to the Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, 6 Quart. The final, crucial step—crisping the shredded pork using an air fryer lid—delivers authentic restaurant-style texture right at home. The result is a juicy, flavor-packed protein that’s endlessly versatile for tacos, burritos, nachos, or sliders.

The Secrets to Juicy, Flavorful Carnitas

Start by infusing pork shoulder with aromatics like onion, garlic, and orange for a balance of richness and citrusy brightness. Breaking down vegetables for the base is quick and consistent with the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper, ensuring every bite is packed with flavor.

Pressure cooking transforms even the toughest cuts into fork-tender perfection. After shredding, a quick toss in the cooking juices ensures every strand is juicy, while the air fryer finish elevates the texture with those quintessential crispy bits.

Getting That Signature Crispy Finish

After shredding the meat (a job made easier and safer with the Chicken Shredder Tool Twist for Kitchen, Elegant Black), spread it out for finishing. Place it in your Instant Pot with the Air Fryer Lid or a standalone model like the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Grey. For mess-free crisping and easy cleanup, line the basket with Air Fryer Paper Liners, 125Pcs Parchment Paper, 8IN Square.

In just a few minutes, you’ll have delectable, crispy carnitas ready to take center stage in your next meal.

Serving Ideas for Carnitas Everyone Will Love

Lay out a taco bar with warm corn tortillas, chopped onions, cilantro, and salsa. Spoon carnitas over salads, load them into burritos, or crown your favorite nachos for the ultimate game-day snack. Store leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) for easy meal prep throughout the week.

Nutritional Value and Serving Size

This recipe yields about 8 hearty servings. Each serving contains approximately 310 calories, primarily from protein and healthy fats, making it a satisfying choice for a variety of eating plans.

Instant Pot Crispy Carnitas (with Air Fryer Lid): Recap

Experience the succulent tenderness of slow-cooked pork balanced with perfectly crisped edges—all in under an hour. These Instant Pot Crispy Carnitas are a game-changer for weeknight dinners and festive gatherings, marrying ease with unbeatable flavor and texture.

Instructions

1. Add pork shoulder chunks to your Instant Pot Duo 7-in-1 Electric Pressure Cooker, 6 Quart. Season with salt, pepper, and cumin. Top with onion, garlic, and jalapeño (use the Mueller Pro-Series 10-in-1, 8 Blade Vegetable Chopper for quick prep).
2. Pour in orange juice, lime juice, chicken broth, and sprinkle with oregano. Secure the Instant Pot lid, set to “Sealing,” and cook on Manual High Pressure for 35 minutes. Let it naturally release for 15 minutes.
3. With the pot off, switch to “Venting” and open when safe. Transfer pork to a cutting board and shred with the Chicken Shredder Tool Twist for Kitchen, Elegant Black or two forks. Skim excess fat from juices in the pot and return shredded pork to soak up flavor.
4. To crisp: Place shredded pork in a single layer in the Instant Pot liner (or air fryer basket lined with Air Fryer Paper Liners, 125Pcs Parchment Paper, 8IN Square). Attach your air fryer lid or use the COSORI Air Fryer 9-in-1, Compact & Large 6-Qt, Grey. Air fry at 400°F for 5–8 minutes, stirring halfway through, until edges are crisp and golden.
5. Serve immediately with optional toppings and warm tortillas. Store leftovers in Rubbermaid Brilliance Food Storage Containers, Set of 5 (3.2 Cup) for quick lunch or dinner.

Cook and Prep Times

Prep Time: 15 minutes
Cook Time: 50 minutes (including pressure release and air frying)
Total Time: 1 hour 5 minutes

Enjoy the absolute best of authentic Mexican carnitas—faster, crispier, and juicier than ever!