WHY THIS RECIPE IS A MUST-TRY?
Unique Flavor Profile: The combination of soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic creates a delightful balance of savory and tangy flavors that will captivate your taste buds.
Tender and Juicy Chicken: Using bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs and drumsticks ensures a moist and succulent texture, while the skin crisps up beautifully during cooking, adding an irresistible element of crunch.
Simplicity at its Best: With just a handful of ingredients, this recipe offers maximum flavor with minimal effort. It’s perfect for both experienced cooks and those new to Filipino cuisine.
Versatile and Customizable: Feel free to adjust the seasoning to suit your preferences. Whether you prefer it slightly sweeter, tangier, or spicier, Filipino Chicken Adobo can be adapted to your taste.
Ingredients:
- 120 ml (½ cup) reduced-sodium soy sauce
- 15 grams (1 tablespoon) palm sugar (or light brown sugar)
- 10 cloves of garlic, smashed
- ¼ teaspoon black peppercorns
- 30 ml (2 tablespoons) canola oil
- 6 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (about 1.1-1.4 kg or 2½-3 pounds)
- 4 skin-on chicken drumsticks (about 680 grams or 1½ pounds)
- 5 bay leaves
- 180 ml (¾ cup) distilled white vinegar or cane vinegar
- 1 green onion, thinly sliced
Directions:
In a large bowl, whisk together the soy sauce, palm sugar, smashed garlic, and black peppercorns until the sugar is dissolved. Add the chicken pieces to the bowl, turning them to coat evenly in the marinade. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for even more flavor, refrigerate overnight.
Heat a 7-quart Dutch oven over medium heat and add the canola oil. Once the oil is heated, carefully place the chicken thighs (skin side down) and drumsticks into the pot. Sear the chicken until golden brown, approximately 5 minutes.
Flip the chicken pieces, then pour the marinade into the pot along with the bay leaves. Allow the mixture to simmer for 15 minutes. Next, add the vinegar to the pot, reduce the heat to medium-low, and cover the Dutch oven. Let the chicken cook until it is completely cooked through, which should take approximately 20 to 25 minutes.
Once the chicken is cooked, remove it from the pot and set it aside. Continue cooking the sauce until it becomes syrupy and reduces in volume, which should take about 10 minutes.
Return the chicken to the pot, ensuring it is well-coated with the reduced sauce. Sprinkle the dish with thinly sliced green onions to add a fresh and vibrant touch.
Serve the Filipino Chicken Adobo over a steaming bed of rice and enjoy the explosion of flavors that will transport you to the enchanting world of Filipino cuisine.
Notes:
- For a healthier option, you can use skinless chicken thighs and drumsticks, although they may result in a slightly less crispy texture.
- If palm sugar is not available, light brown sugar can be used as a substitute.
- Adjust the cooking time based on the size and thickness of the chicken pieces to ensure they are thoroughly cooked.
- Leftovers can be refrigerated and enjoyed the next day, as the flavors deepen and intensify with time.
In conclusion, Filipino Chicken Adobo is a culinary gem that captures the essence of Filipino cuisine with its delightful blend of flavors. From the first bite, you’ll experience the succulent and tender chicken infused with the savory soy sauce, tangy vinegar, and aromatic garlic. This dish has the power to transport you to the vibrant streets of the Philippines, where families gather around the table, sharing stories and savoring every mouthful.
Whether you’re a fan of international cuisine or simply seeking a new culinary adventure, Filipino Chicken Adobo is a recipe that deserves a place in your kitchen. Its simplicity, versatility, and incredible taste make it a crowd-pleaser for all occasions. Prepare it for a cozy family dinner or impress your guests with a taste of Filipino culture at your next gathering.
So, gather your ingredients, let the marinade work its magic, and prepare to be captivated by the aromas and flavors that will fill your home. Filipino Chicken Adobo is more than just a dish – it’s a sensory experience that will create lasting memories and leave you craving more. Take a journey to the Philippines through your taste buds and discover the joy of Filipino cuisine with this delectable recipe. Enjoy every tender morsel and savor the rich, harmonious flavors that make Filipino Chicken Adobo a truly unforgettable culinary delight.