Filipino Adobo Chicken Recipe
Introduction
Filipino Adobo Chicken is a savory, tangy dish beloved for its rich flavors and tender meat. This classic recipe combines soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices to create a comforting meal perfect for any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 6 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 4 bay leaves
Instructions
- Step 1: Combine the chicken thighs, soy sauce, white vinegar, crushed garlic, black peppercorns, and bay leaves in a large bowl. Marinate for 4 hours to allow the flavors to meld.
- Step 2: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the chicken skin-side down in a large Dutch oven, pour in the marinade, and cover. Bake for 30 minutes.
- Step 3: Remove the cover, turn the chicken over, and baste with the sauce. Continue cooking uncovered for an additional 30 minutes, until the chicken is browned and the sauce has thickened.
Tips & Variations
- For extra depth, add a pinch of brown sugar to balance the vinegar’s tanginess.
- Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for juicier, more flavorful results.
- Serve with steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Storage
Store leftover adobo chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave until warmed through. The flavors often improve after sitting overnight.
How to Serve
Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.
FAQs
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts tend to dry out faster. Reduce cooking time and watch carefully to keep the meat tender.
Is vinegar necessary in adobo?
Yes, vinegar is essential for the classic tangy flavor that defines Filipino adobo. It also helps tenderize the meat.
PrintFilipino Adobo Chicken Recipe
This classic Filipino Adobo Chicken recipe features tender, flavorful chicken thighs marinated in a savory mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaves, then slow-baked to perfection in the oven. The cooking method allows the chicken to absorb the rich adobo sauce, resulting in a deliciously tangy and aromatic dish with a beautiful caramelized finish.
- Prep Time: 10 mins
- Cook Time: 1 hour
- Total Time: 4 hours 10 mins
- Yield: 6 servings 1x
- Category: Main Course
- Method: Baking
- Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients
Chicken
- 6 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
Marinade and Sauce
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 4 cloves garlic, crushed
- 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
- 4 bay leaves
Instructions
- Marinate the chicken: Combine the chicken thighs, soy sauce, white vinegar, crushed garlic, black peppercorns, and bay leaves in a large bowl. Cover and refrigerate to marinate for 4 hours, allowing the flavors to deeply penetrate the meat.
- Preheat and prepare for baking: Heat your oven to 375°F (190°C). Place the marinated chicken thighs skin-side down into a large Dutch oven along with all of the marinade sauce, ensuring they are evenly soaked.
- Bake covered: Cover the Dutch oven and bake the chicken for 30 minutes. This initial covered baking steams the chicken and helps it absorb the flavorful sauce while keeping it moist.
- Uncover, turn, and glaze: Remove the cover, flip the chicken thighs over so the skin side is up, then spoon or brush the sauce over the chicken to glaze it.
- Finish baking uncovered: Return the Dutch oven to the oven and bake uncovered for an additional 30 minutes. This final step allows the chicken skin to brown and crisp up, while the sauce reduces and thickens for a glossy finish.
Notes
- Marinating for at least 4 hours enhances the depth of flavor but overnight marination yields the best taste.
- Using bone-in, skin-on thighs helps retain moisture and improves flavor.
- If you don’t have a Dutch oven, use any oven-safe covered baking dish.
- Adjust vinegar and soy sauce ratios to your preference if you prefer it more tangy or salty.
- Serve with steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce.
Keywords: Filipino chicken adobo, adobo recipe, baked chicken, Filipino cuisine, easy chicken dinner
