Description
Filipino-Style Chicken Adobo is a classic and savory dish featuring tender chicken thighs simmered in a flavorful marinade of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns. This traditional Filipino recipe balances tangy and salty notes with a hint of sweetness, making it a beloved comfort food served over steamed white rice.
Ingredients
Scale
Main 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
- Cooked white rice for serving
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl or resealable bag, combine soy sauce, vinegar, water, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and brown sugar (if using). Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat thoroughly. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or refrigerate overnight for a deeper infusion of flavors.
- Sear the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the liquid. Heat cooking oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Place the chicken, skin-side down, and sear it until lightly browned, about 3 to 4 minutes on each side. This step helps lock in juices and develop a rich color.
- Simmer the Chicken: Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low, cover the pan, and let the chicken simmer gently for 30 to 35 minutes until it becomes tender and fully cooked through.
- Thicken the Sauce: Uncover the skillet, and continue to simmer for an additional 10 to 15 minutes, turning the chicken occasionally to evenly coat it with the sauce. The liquid will reduce and thicken slightly, intensifying the flavors. Remove the bay leaves before serving.
- Serve: Serve the savory chicken adobo hot over steamed white rice for a delicious and satisfying meal.
Notes
- Traditional Filipino adobo is highly adaptable; you can adjust the vinegar or soy sauce amounts to suit your personal taste.
- For added variation, consider adding sliced onions or a splash of coconut milk during cooking.
- You may use boneless chicken parts if preferred, though bone-in chicken adds more depth of flavor.
- Using gluten-free soy sauce makes this dish suitable for a gluten-free diet.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 45 minutes
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Filipino
