Chicken Adobo is a savory Filipino classic that’s both flavorful and easy to make. This dish features tender chicken marinated in a tangy garlic and soy sauce-based marinade, then simmered to perfection for a rich, mouthwatering meal. Serve it with steamed rice, and you’ll have a comforting and satisfying dinner everyone will love.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
Chicken Adobo is the epitome of comfort food—tender, flavorful chicken cooked in a perfectly balanced sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves. The marinating process allows the chicken to absorb all the rich flavors, and the slow simmering ensures the meat stays juicy and tender. It’s simple, savory, and absolutely delicious. Plus, it pairs perfectly with rice, making it an easy, one-dish meal.
Ingredients
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4 chicken thighs, bone-in
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1/4 cup soy sauce
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1/4 cup white vinegar
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5 cloves garlic, minced
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2 bay leaves
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1 teaspoon black peppercorns
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1/2 teaspoon salt
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2 tablespoons vegetable oil
(Tip: You’ll find the full list of ingredients and measurements in the recipe card below.)
Directions
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In a bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt. Add the chicken thighs and marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
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Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides, about 4 minutes per side.
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Add the marinade to the skillet and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
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Serve with steamed rice and enjoy!
Servings and Timing
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Prep Time: 10 minutes
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Cooking Time: 40 minutes
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Total Time: 50 minutes
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Servings: 4 servings
Variations
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Add Potatoes: Add sliced potatoes to the skillet for a heartier meal. They will absorb the flavors of the sauce and become wonderfully tender.
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Make it Spicy: Add some chopped chili peppers or a dash of hot sauce to the marinade for a spicy kick.
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Use Chicken Breasts: If you prefer boneless chicken, you can use chicken breasts, though they may cook faster (about 25 minutes).
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Add Coconut Milk: For a richer flavor, add coconut milk during the simmering process to make a creamy version of Chicken Adobo.
Storage/Reheating
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Storage: Store leftover Chicken Adobo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
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Reheating: Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop. You can add a splash of water or broth to keep the sauce from thickening too much.
FAQs
1. Can I make Chicken Adobo with other cuts of chicken?
Yes, you can use any cut of chicken, such as drumsticks or breasts. Bone-in chicken tends to be more flavorful, but boneless pieces work just as well.
2. Can I make this dish ahead of time?
Yes, Chicken Adobo tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. It’s great for meal prep and can be stored in the fridge for up to 3 days.
3. Can I use a slow cooker for Chicken Adobo?
Yes, you can cook this in a slow cooker. After marinating, place the chicken and marinade in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-7 hours or until the chicken is tender.
4. How can I make the sauce thicker?
If you prefer a thicker sauce, simply simmer it uncovered for a few extra minutes after the chicken is done cooking to allow the sauce to reduce.
5. Can I use other types of vinegar?
Yes, you can substitute white vinegar with apple cider vinegar, cane vinegar, or even balsamic vinegar for a slightly different taste.
6. How do I know when the chicken is done?
The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C). The meat should be tender and easy to shred with a fork.
7. What can I serve with Chicken Adobo?
Chicken Adobo is traditionally served with steamed rice, but it also pairs well with sautéed vegetables, fried rice, or a fresh salad for a lighter side.
8. Can I make this dish spicier?
Yes, you can increase the heat by adding more peppercorns, fresh chili peppers, or chili flakes. Adjust to your preferred spice level.
9. Can I use a pressure cooker or Instant Pot?
Yes, you can cook Chicken Adobo in an Instant Pot. Cook it on the “Poultry” setting for about 15 minutes, then release the pressure and serve.
10. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
While Chicken Adobo is traditionally made with chicken, you can try it with tofu or seitan as a vegetarian alternative.
Conclusion
Chicken Adobo is a flavorful, savory dish that’s simple to make and packed with bold, tangy flavors. With tender chicken, garlic, soy sauce, and a touch of vinegar, this Filipino classic is the perfect comfort food for any night of the week. Serve it with rice and enjoy a meal that’s rich in flavor and tradition.
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Chicken Adobo
Chicken Adobo is a savory Filipino classic that’s simple to make and full of rich, tangy flavors. This dish features tender chicken marinated in a soy sauce and vinegar-based sauce with garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns, then simmered until juicy and tender. It’s the ultimate comfort food that pairs perfectly with steamed rice, making it a satisfying one-pan meal everyone will love.
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: 4 servings
Ingredients
4 chicken thighs, bone-in
1/4 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup white vinegar
5 cloves garlic, minced
2 bay leaves
1 teaspoon black peppercorns
1/2 teaspoon salt
2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions
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In a bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and salt. Add the chicken thighs and marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour.
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Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Brown the chicken thighs on both sides, about 4 minutes per side.
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Add the marinade to the skillet and bring it to a boil. Reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
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Serve with steamed rice and enjoy!
Notes
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Add sliced potatoes for a heartier meal that will absorb the sauce’s flavor.
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Spice it up with chopped chili peppers or hot sauce in the marinade.
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For a creamier version, stir in coconut milk during simmering.
- Prep Time: 10 minutes
- Cook Time: 40 minutes
- Category: Main Course, Chicken
- Method: Stovetop
- Cuisine: Filipino
- Diet: Gluten Free
