Looking for a savory and satisfying breakfast? This Chicken Carnitas Breakfast with Eggs is the perfect way to start your day. Juicy, spiced chicken carnitas are paired with fluffy scrambled eggs and topped with fresh garnishes like avocado and salsa. Packed with protein and bold flavors, this dish is a healthier alternative to pork carnitas, making it great for any occasion, whether it’s a leisurely brunch or a quick weekday breakfast.
Pair this dish with some quick breakfast sides to create a complete morning meal!
Ingredients for Chicken Carnitas Breakfast with Eggs
Here’s what you’ll need to prepare this hearty breakfast:
For the Chicken Carnitas:
- 2 cups cooked chicken (shredded or diced)
- 1 teaspoon ground cumin
- ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
- ½ teaspoon chili powder
- 1 tablespoon lime juice
- 1 tablespoon olive oil
For the Egg Mixture:
- 4 large eggs
- Salt and pepper (to taste)
- 1 tablespoon olive oil or butter
Optional Add-ins:
- 1 medium onion, diced
- 1 small bell pepper, diced
- 1 cup black beans (optional)
Toppings (Optional):
- Sliced avocado
- Salsa or pico de gallo
- Fresh cilantro
- Shredded cheese (cheddar, cotija, or Monterey Jack)
- Lime wedges
How to Make Chicken Carnitas Breakfast with Eggs
Follow these steps to make this quick and easy recipe:
1: Season the Chicken
- Heat a skillet over medium heat and add 1 tablespoon olive oil.
- Toss the cooked chicken with cumin, smoked paprika, chili powder, lime juice, and a pinch of salt.
- Sauté for 2-3 minutes until heated through and lightly browned. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
2: Cook the Vegetables (Optional)
- In the same skillet, add a little more oil if needed.
- Sauté diced onion and bell pepper until softened, about 3-4 minutes. Set aside with the chicken.
3: Prepare the Eggs
- Crack the eggs into a bowl, whisk until smooth, and season with salt and pepper.
- Heat the skillet over medium heat with a bit of oil or butter. Pour the eggs into the skillet and cook, stirring gently, until just set.
4: Combine and Serve
- Add the seasoned chicken (and vegetables, if using) back into the skillet with the eggs. Stir gently to combine.
- Plate the mixture and top with your favorite garnishes like salsa, avocado slices, shredded cheese, and cilantro.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Carnitas Breakfast
- Leftover Chicken is Ideal: Rotisserie chicken or leftover baked chicken works wonderfully for this recipe.
- Add Heat: For a spicy kick, mix in diced jalapeños or a dash of cayenne pepper with the chicken seasoning.
- Make It a Meal: Pair this dish with tortillas for breakfast tacos or serve it over crispy potatoes for a hearty breakfast bowl.
For a great chicken carnitas recipe, check out our Chicken Carnitas Guide!
Variations on Chicken Carnitas Breakfast with Eggs
Chicken Carnitas Breakfast Tacos
Wrap the chicken and egg mixture in warm tortillas for delicious breakfast tacos. Add cheese and salsa for a Tex-Mex twist!
Chicken Carnitas Breakfast Bowl
Serve the mixture over a base of cooked rice, quinoa, or crispy potatoes for a filling breakfast bowl.
Dairy-Free Option
Omit the cheese and butter, and use plant-based toppings like cashew crema or avocado for a dairy-free version.
FAQs About Chicken Carnitas Breakfast with Eggs
Can I use fresh chicken instead of cooked chicken?
Yes! Cook raw chicken with the spices in the skillet until fully cooked before proceeding with the recipe.
How do I make this low-carb?
Omit the black beans and serve the chicken and eggs with low-carb toppings like avocado, cilantro, and lime.
How long do leftovers last?
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in the microwave or skillet.
Conclusion
This Chicken Carnitas Breakfast with Eggs is a flavorful and versatile recipe that’s perfect for starting your day on a hearty note. Whether you serve it as a skillet dish, breakfast tacos, or a protein-packed bowl, the juicy chicken carnitas and soft scrambled eggs will leave you feeling satisfied. Don’t forget to customize the toppings for your own twist on this delicious meal!
For more savory breakfast ideas, check out our Hearty Breakfast Recipes or explore Quick and Easy Morning Meals for more inspiration.
Start your morning with bold flavors and nutritious ingredients! 🌞