Filipino Adobo Chicken

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Rich in Flavor: The perfect balance of salty, tangy, and umami flavors makes this dish a favorite.
• Simple and Accessible Ingredients: Made with staples like soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic.
• Effortless Cooking: With a short prep time, the oven does most of the work.
• Versatile Appeal: Suitable for weeknight meals, gatherings, or meal prepping.

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Preparation Phase & Tools to Use

Essential Tools and Equipment

• Large Mixing Bowl: For marinating the chicken and ensuring even flavor distribution.
• Dutch Oven (or Oven-Safe Pot): Provides consistent heat and creates a perfect glaze during cooking.
• Tongs: Makes handling and flipping the chicken easy without breaking the skin.
• Knife and Cutting Board: Essential for crushing garlic and preparing other ingredients.
• Measuring Cups: Ensures precise ingredient proportions for a balanced sauce.

Importance of Each Tool

Each tool plays a vital role in streamlining the cooking process, enhancing flavor, and ensuring an enjoyable cooking experience.

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Ingredients

Here’s everything you’ll need to create this delicious Filipino classic:

• 6 chicken thighs (bone-in, skin-on)
• ½ cup soy sauce (use a good-quality variety for the best taste)
• ½ cup white vinegar (for tanginess and to tenderize the meat)
• 4 cloves garlic (crushed to release maximum aroma)
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns (whole, for bursts of flavor)
• 4 bay leaves (adds an earthy aroma to the dish)

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Preparation Tips

• Marinate for Maximum Flavor: Allow the chicken to marinate overnight to infuse every bite with rich flavors.
• Choose Quality Ingredients: Opt for a high-quality soy sauce and fresh garlic for the best results.
• Patience with Marination: Ensure the chicken is fully coated and covered for even marinating.

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Step-by-Step Directions

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   • In a large mixing bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaves.
   • Add the chicken thighs, making sure they’re evenly coated in the marinade.
   • Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, ideally overnight.
2. Preheat the Oven:
   • Set the oven temperature to 375°F (190°C).
3. Cook the Chicken (Step 1):
   • Transfer the marinated chicken, skin-side down, to a Dutch oven along with the marinade.
   • Cover the Dutch oven with its lid and bake for 30 minutes.
4. Flip and Glaze (Step 2):
   • Remove the lid, turn the chicken skin-side up using tongs, and spoon the sauce over the top.
   • Return the dish to the oven, uncovered, and bake for an additional 30 minutes.
5. Check for Doneness:
   • The chicken should be tender, with a golden-brown glaze on top. If unsure, use a meat thermometer to confirm an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).
6. Serve:
   • Plate the chicken and drizzle the remaining sauce over it. Serve hot with steamed rice.

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Pro Tips for Perfect Adobo Chicken

• For a slightly sweeter flavor, add 1-2 tablespoons of brown sugar to the marinade.
• If you prefer a thicker sauce, reduce the sauce on the stovetop for a few minutes after baking.
• Replace white vinegar with apple cider vinegar for a milder tang.
• For a spicier kick, add chili flakes or a small sliced chili pepper to the marinade.

Serving Suggestions

Filipino Adobo Chicken shines when served with complementary sides. Here are some ideas to elevate your meal:

• Steamed Jasmine Rice: A classic pairing to soak up the savory sauce.
• Garlic Fried Rice: Adds extra aroma and richness to your meal.
• Vegetable Stir-Fry: A colorful and healthy side dish that balances the meal.

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Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Skipping the Marination

Marinating is essential to infuse the chicken with bold flavors. Aim for at least 4 hours or, ideally, overnight.

2. Overcooking the Chicken

While bone-in chicken is forgiving, overcooking can dry it out. Use a meat thermometer to check for an internal temperature of 165°F (74°C).

3. Neglecting the Sauce Reduction

Reducing the sauce enhances its flavor and creates a glossy finish. If the sauce is too thin, simmer it uncovered on the stovetop until thickened.

4. Using Low-Quality Ingredients

The soy sauce and vinegar form the base of the dish. Opt for high-quality ingredients to achieve authentic flavors.

5. Overcrowding the Pan

Ensure the chicken pieces are in a single layer. This allows for even cooking and proper browning.

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Side Dish Recommendations

1. Garlic Fried Rice

This fragrant side dish perfectly complements the rich sauce of adobo chicken.

Ingredients:

• Cooked jasmine rice
• Minced garlic
• Soy sauce
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Heat oil in a skillet and sauté garlic until golden.
2. Add cooked rice and stir-fry until heated through.
3. Season with soy sauce to taste and serve warm.

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2. Roasted Vegetables

A medley of roasted vegetables provides a sweet and savory contrast to the dish.

Ingredients:

• Carrots, zucchini, and bell peppers
• Olive oil
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Toss vegetables with olive oil, salt, and pepper.
2. Roast at 400°F (200°C) for 20–25 minutes, until tender and caramelized.

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3. Pickled Vegetables (Achar)

Tangy, crunchy pickled vegetables help cut through the richness of the chicken.

Ingredients:

• Cucumber, carrot, and daikon radish
• Vinegar, sugar, and salt

Instructions:

1. Slice vegetables thinly and soak them in a mixture of vinegar, sugar, and salt.
2. Let them marinate for at least an hour before serving.

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4. Fresh Cucumber and Tomato Salad

A refreshing salad with a light vinaigrette enhances the meal.

Ingredients:

• Sliced cucumbers and tomatoes
• Olive oil and vinegar
• Salt and pepper

Instructions:

1. Combine cucumbers and tomatoes in a bowl.
2. Drizzle with olive oil and vinegar. Season to taste.

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5. Eggplant Stir-Fry

The soft texture and smoky flavor of stir-fried eggplant pair beautifully with the adobo sauce.

Ingredients:

• Sliced eggplants
• Soy sauce and garlic
• Oil for frying

Instructions:

1. Sauté garlic in oil until fragrant.
2. Add eggplant slices and stir-fry until tender.
3. Season with soy sauce and serve warm.

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6. Sweet Cornbread

Add a touch of sweetness with cornbread as a side.

Ingredients:

• Cornmeal, flour, sugar, and butter

Instructions:

1. Mix ingredients and bake according to your favorite cornbread recipe.
2. Serve warm alongside the chicken.

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7. Soup (Miso or Egg Drop)

Light soups provide a comforting start to the meal.

Miso Soup Ingredients:

• Miso paste, tofu, and seaweed

Egg Drop Soup Ingredients:

• Chicken broth, beaten eggs, and cornstarch slurry

Instructions:

1. Prepare the soup of choice and serve as a warm appetizer.

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8. Pandesal Rolls

These soft Filipino bread rolls are perfect for soaking up the savory sauce.

Ingredients:

• All-purpose flour, yeast, sugar, and butter

Instructions:

1. Bake pandesal rolls according to your preferred recipe.
2. Serve warm with the chicken for an authentic Filipino touch.

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Elevate Your Meal with These Pairings

Serving Filipino Adobo Chicken with the right sides transforms it into a complete and memorable meal. Whether you prefer the simplicity of rice or the bold flavors of stir-fried vegetables, there’s a pairing to suit every palate.

Recipe Tips for the Best Filipino Adobo Chicken

1. Use Bone-In, Skin-On Chicken Thighs: These add more flavor and stay juicier during cooking.
2. Marinate Overnight: While 4 hours works, marinating overnight intensifies the flavors.
3. Adjust to Taste: Experiment with the vinegar-to-soy sauce ratio to suit your preference.
4. Add a Sweet Touch: Include 1–2 tablespoons of brown sugar if you prefer a slightly sweet adobo.
5. Simmer for a Thicker Sauce: If the sauce is too thin after baking, transfer it to the stovetop and reduce it over medium heat.

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Storage and Reheating Instructions

Storing Leftovers

• Refrigeration: Place the chicken and sauce in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Store in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Allow the chicken to cool completely before freezing.

Reheating

• Microwave: Reheat in 1-minute intervals until warm.
• Stovetop: Place the chicken and sauce in a skillet and heat over medium-low until warmed through.
• Oven: Reheat in a covered oven-safe dish at 350°F (175°C) for 15–20 minutes.

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FAQs About Filipino Adobo Chicken

1. What makes Filipino Adobo Chicken unique?

The balance of salty, tangy, and savory flavors from soy sauce, vinegar, and aromatics like garlic and bay leaves sets this dish apart.

2. Can I use a different type of meat?

Yes, pork is a popular alternative. You can also use drumsticks, wings, or even tofu for a vegetarian version.

3. How can I make it gluten-free?

Use tamari or coconut aminos instead of soy sauce for a gluten-free option.

4. Is adobo chicken spicy?

Traditional Filipino adobo is not spicy. However, you can add chili flakes or a chopped chili for some heat.

5. Can I cook this dish on the stovetop instead of the oven?

Absolutely! Simmer the chicken in the marinade over medium-low heat for about 45 minutes, then uncover and simmer until the sauce thickens.

6. Can I use boneless chicken thighs?

Yes, but they may cook faster and lack the depth of flavor that bone-in thighs provide. Adjust the cooking time accordingly.

7. Why does my sauce taste too sour?

This can happen if the vinegar ratio is too high or if the sauce wasn’t reduced enough. Add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.

8. Can I skip the marination step?

While you can skip it in a pinch, marinating enhances the dish’s flavor significantly.

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Conclusion

Filipino Adobo Chicken is a simple yet profoundly flavorful dish that brings the rich culinary traditions of the Philippines to your table. With its perfect balance of tangy and savory, this classic recipe is sure to become a family favorite.

Pair it with steamed rice, flavorful side dishes, or soft pandesal rolls for a complete meal. Whether you’re an experienced cook or a beginner, this recipe guarantees delicious results. Enjoy every bite of this comforting and satisfying dish!