Chicken Adobo

There’s something truly special about savoring a dish that carries the essence of a culture, and that’s exactly what you’ll find in Chicken Adobo. Growing up, my family would gather at the dinner table, eagerly anticipating the aroma that wafted through the kitchen as this iconic Filipino dish simmered away. The rich, savory scent of marinated chicken slowly cooking in a blend of soy sauce and vinegar would coax us from our rooms, each of us drawn by the promise of a comforting meal. Whether it was a casual weeknight dinner or a festive gathering, Chicken Adobo was a staple that never failed to bring us together. I remember my mother meticulously preparing it, instilling in me the love for this dish. Now, as I pass on this tradition to my own family, I cherish that familiar warmth that fills our home when we sit down to enjoy it together.

Ingredients for Chicken Adobo

The ingredients for Chicken Adobo are simple yet powerful, working in harmony to create a dish that’s both satisfying and flavorful. The key players in this recipe are the chicken and the marinade made from soy sauce and vinegar, which lend the dish its signature taste. Together with aromatic garlic, onion, and green onions, these ingredients create a lovely balance of flavor and texture.

• 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks: The star of the dish, these cuts of chicken become tender and flavorful after marinating and cooking.
• 2 tablespoons olive oil: Used for browning the chicken to achieve a nice texture and flavor.
• ¾ cup white vinegar: This adds a tangy flavor that balances the richness of the chicken.
• ¾ cup soy sauce: A crucial component of the marinade, providing savory depth.
• 4 cloves garlic, minced or crushed: Adds aromatic depth and enhances the overall flavor profile.
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar: This helps to balance the acidity of the vinegar and soy sauce with a hint of sweetness.
• 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper: Adds a subtle kick to the dish without overpowering the other flavors.
• 2 bay leaves: These add a fragrant, herbal note that enriches the sauce.
• ½ onion, diced: Provides sweetness and texture to the dish.
• 2 tablespoons diced green onion, for serving: Adds freshness and a pop of color when garnished on top.

How to Make Chicken Adobo

Creating Chicken Adobo is a simple yet rewarding process. As you follow the steps, you’ll see how easy it is to bring this beloved dish to life. The key is to take your time with marinating and cooking, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.

1. Start by preparing the marinade. In a large bowl, whisk together ¾ cup soy sauce, ¾ cup white vinegar, 4 cloves of minced garlic, 2 tablespoons of brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon of coarse black pepper. Don’t rush this step; take your time to ensure everything is well combined.
2. Add in the 2 pounds of bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks to the marinade. Make sure each piece is fully submerged for optimal flavor. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least one hour, but if you can, let it sit longer—overnight is even better!
3. Once marinated, heat 2 tablespoons of olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Use tongs to remove the chicken from the marinade, shaking off any excess, and place it skin-side down in the hot pan. This step is critical for achieving that lovely golden-brown crust.
4. Brown the chicken on both sides until it’s crispy and golden, about 5 to 7 minutes per side. Once browned, remove the chicken and set it aside on a clean plate.
5. In the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until tender, about 3 minutes. This will pick up all the delicious bits left in the pan.
6. Next, pour the reserved marinade back into the skillet. Bring the sauce to a boil over medium-high heat and let it cook for about 5 minutes or until it thickens slightly.
7. Return the browned chicken to the skillet, ensuring it gets coated with the sauce. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and let it simmer for about 30 minutes. This simmering allows the chicken to absorb all those wonderful flavors.
8. During the last few minutes of cooking, check the sauce. It should be reduced by about half and coating the chicken beautifully.
9. When finished, discard the bay leaves. Spoon the thickened sauce over the top of the chicken and garnish with diced green onion before serving.
10. Serve your Chicken Adobo over rice to soak up all that delicious sauce. Enjoy every bite of this flavorful dish!

Ways to Customize

Customizing Chicken Adobo allows you to tailor this dish to your taste preferences and dietary needs. Here are some exciting ways to make it your own:

• Add Coconut Milk: For a creamier version, add a can of coconut milk during the simmering stage.
• Infuse with Spices: Experiment with spices like star anise or cloves for a unique twist on traditional flavors.
• Use Different Proteins: While chicken is classic, you can also try this recipe with tofu for a vegetarian option.
• Heat it Up: If you enjoy spice, add sliced jalapeños or crushed red pepper flakes to the marinade for a kick.
• Vary the Acidity: Experiment with different types of vinegar (like apple cider or rice vinegar) to change the flavor profile.
• Garnish Creatively: Try garnishing with fresh herbs like cilantro for a fresh, vibrant touch.
• Pair Differently: Serve with mashed potatoes or a side salad for a different dining experience.

How to Enjoy Chicken Adobo

When it comes to serving Chicken Adobo, the options are plentiful, and the experience is always delightful. Here’s how to make the most of this dish:

• Serve with Steamed Rice: The classic choice! The savory sauce is perfect over fluffy steamed rice, soaking into every grain.
• Pair with Sautéed Vegetables: Bright, sautéed vegetables like bok choy or green beans add a delightful crunch and balance to the meal.
• Ideal for Family Gatherings: Chicken Adobo is perfect for potlucks, family dinners, or gatherings. It’s easy to make in large quantities!
• Great for Meal Prep: This dish stores well and tastes even better the next day, making it a fantastic meal prep option for busy weeks.
• Serve as a Wrap: Use the chicken and sauce in a wrap with fresh veggies for a tasty lunch option.
• Enjoy at Any Time: Whether it’s lunch, dinner, or a midnight snack, Chicken Adobo is always a satisfying choice.

FAQ

Conclusion

Chicken Adobo is more than just a dish; it’s a comforting hug on a plate, rich with flavor and tradition. With its simple preparation and profound taste, I wholeheartedly encourage you to try making it at home. You’ll not only enjoy a fabulous meal but also create lasting memories around your table, sharing stories and laughter with those you love.

Chicken Adobo

The ultimate comfort food, Chicken Adobo delivers a burst of savory and tangy flavors that are simply irresistible. This easy weeknight dinner is a delightful blend of marinated chicken, garlic, and spices, simmered to perfection. Make it tonight and indulge in a dish that brings warmth and joy to your table!

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 50 minutes mins

Total Time 1 hour hr

Course Dinner

Cuisine Filipino

Servings 6 servings

Calories 420 kcal

Equipment

• Frying Pan
• Skillet
• Saucepan
• Whisk
• Cutting Board
• Large Pot

Ingredients

  

• 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks
• 2 tablespoons olive oil
• ¾ cup white vinegar
• ¾ cup soy sauce
• 4 cloves garlic, minced or crushed
• 2 tablespoons brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper
• 2 bay leaves
• ½ onion, diced onion
• 2 tablespoons diced green onion, for serving

Instructions

 

• In a large bowl, whisk together ¾ cup soy sauce, ¾ cup white vinegar, 4 cloves garlic, 2 tablespoons brown sugar, and 1 teaspoon coarse black pepper.
• Add 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs and drumsticks to the marinade and marinate for 1 hour.
• Heat 2 tablespoons olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade using tongs and place the chicken skin side down into the pan. Save the marinade; do not throw it away! Brown the chicken on both sides, then remove and set aside on a clean plate.
• Using the same skillet, add the diced onion and sauté until tender. Add the reserved marinade to the skillet. Bring the sauce to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for about 5 minutes or until slightly thickened.
• Return the chicken to the sauce in the skillet. Reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Simmer until the sauce is reduced to about half the amount.
• Discard the bay leaves. Spoon the sauce over the top of the chicken and garnish with green onions. Serve over rice!

Notes

• Tip 1: This dish is best when marinated overnight.
• Tip 2: Always save the marinade to enhance the sauce.
• Tip 3: Serve it over rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
• Tip 4: This dish reheats beautifully, making it perfect for leftovers.
• Tip 5: Feel free to add vegetables to the dish for a more nutritious meal.

Keyword Chicken Adobo recipe, easy chicken recipes, Filipino comfort food, traditional adobo dish