Description
Chicken Adobo is a classic Filipino dish featuring tender chicken marinated in a tangy mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices, then simmered to perfection. This savory and slightly sweet stew is traditionally served over steamed rice, making it a hearty, flavorful main course perfect for any meal.
Ingredients
Scale
Chicken Adobo Ingredients
- 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs or drumsticks
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup cane vinegar or white vinegar
- 1/2 cup water
- 6 cloves garlic, smashed
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional)
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil
- Steamed rice for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: In a large bowl or container, combine soy sauce, vinegar, water, smashed garlic, bay leaves, black peppercorns, and brown sugar if using. Add the chicken pieces, ensuring they are fully submerged. Cover and refrigerate to marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to overnight to allow the flavors to penetrate the meat.
- Simmer the chicken: Transfer the chicken along with the marinade to a large skillet or Dutch oven. Bring the mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce the heat to a simmer. Cover the pan and cook for 25–30 minutes, turning the chicken pieces halfway through to ensure even cooking and flavor absorption.
- Reduce the sauce: Remove the lid and continue simmering the chicken for an additional 10–15 minutes. This step allows the sauce to thicken slightly and intensify in flavor, coating the chicken beautifully.
- Optional sear for crispy skin: For added texture and depth of flavor, heat the cooking oil in a separate pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken pieces skin-side down for 2–3 minutes until the skin is crispy. Then return the chicken to the sauce before serving.
- Serve: Plate the chicken hot over steamed rice, spooning generous amounts of the flavorful sauce on top. Enjoy your authentic Filipino Chicken Adobo!
Notes
- Cane vinegar adds authentic flavor, but white or rice vinegar can be used if unavailable.
- Adjust the brown sugar to balance the acidity according to your taste preference.
- You can substitute with boneless chicken; if doing so, reduce the cooking time accordingly to avoid overcooking.
