Chicken Adobo

Experience the delightful taste of chicken adobo, a popular Filipino dish that brings together tender chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices into a savory symphony of flavors. This dish is not only easy to prepare but also promises a comforting meal that’s perfect for family gatherings or weeknight dinners. Let’s dive into the recipe and create this irresistible classic at home!

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1 head garlic, minced
• 1 onion, sliced
• 2-3 bay leaves
• 1 tsp black peppercorns
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt to taste

Servings and Cooking Time

This recipe makes approximately 4 servings. Preparation time is about 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 40 minutes.

Nutritional Value

Each serving (approximately 1 cup) of chicken adobo contains about 350 calories, 20g protein, 25g fat, and 12g carbohydrates. This nutritional breakdown is based on one serving for one person.

Step-by-Step Cooking Process

1. Start by marinating the chicken in soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat the vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
3. Add the marinated chicken (reserving the marinade) and brown on all sides.
4. Remove the chicken and set aside.
5. In the same pot, sauté the onions until translucent.
6. Add the chicken back to the pot.
7. Pour in the reserved marinade, water, vinegar, bay leaves, and peppercorns.
8. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
9. Simmer for about 30 minutes until the chicken is tender.
10. Taste and season with salt as needed.

Alternative Ingredients

You can substitute chicken thighs with drumsticks or even tofu for a vegetarian option. Additionally, coconut vinegar can replace white vinegar for a unique flavor twist.

Serving and Pairings

Chicken adobo pairs wonderfully with steamed white rice, pickled vegetables, or a fresh green salad. Consider serving it with a side of garlic rice for a more traditional experience.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover chicken adobo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. It can also be frozen for up to 2 months. To reheat, simply warm it on the stove over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.

Cooking Mistakes

• Not marinating long enough, which can lead to less flavor.
• Using too much vinegar can overpower the dish.
• Overcooking the chicken makes it dry.
• Neglecting to taste and adjust seasoning.
• Skipping the browning step can affect flavor depth.

Helpful Tips

• Use bone-in chicken for more flavor.
• Let the dish sit for a few hours or overnight for enhanced flavor.
• Add hard-boiled eggs for a traditional twist.
• Experiment with spices like chili for a kick.

FAQs

What is chicken adobo?

Chicken adobo is a Filipino dish made with chicken marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices, then simmered until tender. It’s a staple comfort food in the Philippines.

Can I make chicken adobo in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can prepare chicken adobo in a slow cooker. Simply brown the chicken first, then combine all ingredients in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

Is chicken adobo spicy?

Chicken adobo is not traditionally spicy, but you can add chili peppers to spice it up according to your preference.

What vinegar is best for chicken adobo?

White vinegar is commonly used, but coconut vinegar is also popular for a slightly sweeter flavor.

Can I use other meats for adobo?

Absolutely! Pork, beef, and even seafood can be used to make adobo, each providing a unique taste to the dish.

Conclusion

Chicken adobo is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors and traditions. Its simplicity and depth make it a favorite in many households. Whether you’re enjoying it for dinner or sharing it with loved ones, this dish is sure to satisfy and delight.

Chicken Adobo

A savory Filipino dish combining tender chicken with a tangy, umami-packed sauce, perfect for any occasion.

Print Pin Rate

Course: Main Course

Cuisine: Filipino

Keyword: chicken adobo, Filipino food, comfort food, easy recipes

Prep Time: 15 minutes minutes

Cook Time: 40 minutes minutes

Total Time: 55 minutes minutes

Servings: 4 servings

Calories: 350kcal

Ingredients

• 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/2 cup white vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1 head garlic minced
• 1 onion sliced
• 2-3 bay leaves
• 1 tsp black peppercorns
• 2 tbsp vegetable oil
• Salt to taste

Instructions

• Marinate the chicken in soy sauce, garlic, and black pepper for at least 30 minutes.
• Heat vegetable oil in a large pot over medium heat.
• Add the marinated chicken and brown on all sides.
• Remove the chicken and set aside.
• Sauté the onions in the same pot until translucent.
• Return the chicken to the pot.
• Pour in the reserved marinade, water, vinegar, bay leaves, and peppercorns.
• Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover.
• Simmer for about 30 minutes until the chicken is tender.
• Taste and season with salt as needed.

Nutrition

Calories: 350kcal | Carbohydrates: 12g | Protein: 20g | Fat: 25g