Air Fryer Carnitas

Closeup, low angle shot of two air fryer pork carnitas filled tacos.

4.95 from 19 votes

This flavorful Mexican dish made of pork that has been marinated in spices is quick and easy to make. The result is crispy pork that is perfect for shredding and using as a filling for tacos, taquitos, or burritos or as a topping for salads, nachos, or rice bowls.

Course Main Course, Main Dish Recipes

Cuisine Mexican

Keyword air fryer, carnitas, mexican pork, pork shoulder, taco meat

Prep Time 20

Cook Time 45

Marinating time 6

Servings servings

Calories 441kcal

Author Robin @ All Ways Delicious

Ingredients

2 pounds pork shoulder or butt
Juice of 1 orange
1/2 cup chopped cilantro plus additional for serving
3 tablespoons oil
1 jalapeño diced
4 tablespoons taco seasoning divided
1 teaspoon kosher salt
1 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
12 corn tortillas
1 red onion diced

Instructions

In a mixing bowl add the pork and the spices (2 tablespoons taco seasoning). Top with the oil, juice from the orange, jalapeño, and cilantro. Mix and add pork and mixture to a storage bag. Place in the fridge overnight or for 6 hours.
Create a foil catch tray for the air fryer basket and add the pork shoulder. Pour over the remaining marinade and cook at 350°F for 45 minutes. Turn the pork at 30 minutes.
Remove the pork and shred the meat. Add the remaining taco seasoning and mix.
Dice the onion. Warm the tortillas and load with the pork, onion, and cilantro.

Notes

1. You can make the carnitas ahead and store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in the air fryer at 350°F for 5 to 10 minutes.
2. You can also freeze carnitas. Store in an airtight container or freezer-safe resealable plastic bag for up to 3 months.

Nutrition