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Filipino Chicken Adobo

Filipino Chicken Adobo

The ultimate comfort food, Filipino Chicken Adobo is a savory, tangy, and easy weeknight dinner that will satisfy your cravings. Tender chicken simmered in a rich sauce makes this dish a family favorite. Make it tonight for a warm, hearty meal!
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Prep Time 10 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Total Time 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Dinner
Cuisine: Filipino
Calories: 380
Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 1/3 cup soy sauce
  • 1/3 cup white vinegar
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced, divided
  • 3 bay leaves
  • 1.5 pounds chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
  • 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
  • 1 small onion, diced
  • 1.5 cups water
  • 2 tablespoons brown sugar
  • 1 tablespoon whole black peppercorns
  • Green onions, sliced, for garnish

Equipment

  • Cutting Board
  • Skillet
  • Saucepan
  • Mixing Bowl
  • Chef's Knife

Method
 

  1. Start by combining the soy sauce, white vinegar, half of the minced garlic, and the bay leaves in a bowl. This mixture is the heart of your marinade. Make sure to whisk it well to incorporate all the flavors.
  2. Next, take your chicken thighs and place them in the marinade. Ensure that every piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 20 minutes—longer if you can wait, as this will enhance the flavors. If you have the time, marinating overnight is even better.
  3. In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over high heat. Once hot, add the marinated chicken, searing it on both sides until golden brown. This step develops a lovely crust and adds depth of flavor. Once browned, set the chicken aside, but don’t discard the marinade.
  4. In the same skillet, add the onion and the remaining minced garlic. Sauté them until the onions are soft and translucent, which takes about 3 to 5 minutes. The aroma will start to fill your kitchen!
  5. Now, pour in the reserved marinade along with the water, brown sugar, and whole black peppercorns. Stir to combine everything, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
  6. Return the seared chicken to the skillet, nestling it into the sauce. Allow it to simmer uncovered for about 30 minutes, turning occasionally. This slow cooking process lets the chicken absorb all the flavors, yielding a melt-in-your-mouth texture.
  7. As it simmers, keep an eye on the sauce. You want it to reduce into a thick, syrupy consistency. If needed, remove the chicken halfway through and let the sauce thicken separately before glazing the chicken with it.
  8. Once the sauce has reached the desired thickness, turn off the heat. Serve the Filipino Chicken Adobo hot, garnished with freshly sliced green onions. Pair it with a steaming bowl of rice to soak up that delicious sauce.
  9. Enjoy the fruits of your labor! Take a moment to appreciate the way the flavors have melded together. Each bite is a wonderful blend of savory, tangy, and sweet, a true representation of Filipino cuisine.

Notes

Leftover Filipino Chicken Adobo can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can freeze the dish for up to 3 months. Make sure to cool it completely before placing it in a freezer-safe container. This dish pairs wonderfully with steamed rice, which absorbs the flavorful sauce perfectly. Serve with a side of fresh vegetables for a balanced meal. You can use different proteins, such as tofu or beef, for a unique twist on the classic recipe.