Quick and Delicious Filipino Adobo Chicken Recipe

Craving a taste of the Philippines? Dive into the world of Filipino Adobo Chicken, a beloved dish that embodies the rich and diverse flavors of Filipino cuisine. This savory and tangy dish features tender chicken marinated and simmered in a flavorful mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices. Perfect for any occasion, Filipino Adobo Chicken is a surefire way to delight your taste buds and impress your guests.

Ingredients List

Chicken and Marinade

• 750g / 1.5 lb chicken thigh fillets, boneless and skinless (5 – 6 pieces)
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1/3 cup (85ml) soy sauce (ordinary all-purpose or light, not dark soy sauce)
• 1/3 cup + 2 tbsp white vinegar
• 4 bay leaves (fresh) or 3 dried

For Cooking

• 2 tbsp oil (vegetable, canola, or peanut), separated
• 3 garlic cloves, minced
• 1 small brown onion, diced
• 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) water
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp whole black pepper (or 2 tsp coarse cracked pepper)

Serving

• 2 green onions/scallions, sliced (for garnish)

Required Kitchen Tools

When preparing Filipino Adobo Chicken, having the right kitchen tools can make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here are the essential tools you will need:

1. Mixing Bowls: To marinate the chicken and prepare the ingredients.
2. Large Pot or Dutch Oven: For cooking the chicken and sauce.
3. Wooden Spoon or Spatula: For stirring and mixing during cooking.
4. Measuring Cups and Spoons: To ensure accurate measurement of ingredients.
5. Knife and Cutting Board: For chopping and mincing garlic, onions, and other ingredients.

Having these tools on hand will set you up for a successful and enjoyable cooking experience.

Marinating the Chicken

The first step in preparing Filipino Adobo Chicken is marinating the chicken thighs. This process infuses the meat with deep, rich flavors, setting the stage for a delicious dish.

Preparing the Marinade

1. Mix the Marinade:
   In a mixing bowl, combine the minced garlic, soy sauce, and white vinegar. Stir the ingredients together until well blended.
2. Add Bay Leaves:
   Add the bay leaves to the marinade mixture. The bay leaves add a subtle, aromatic flavor that enhances the overall taste of the dish.

Marinating the Chicken

1. Combine Chicken and Marinade:
   Place the chicken thigh fillets in a large mixing bowl or a resealable plastic bag. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated.
2. Marinate:
   Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or seal the bag, and place it in the refrigerator. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes, or up to 4 hours for maximum flavor. Turning the chicken pieces occasionally helps ensure even marination.

Cooking the Chicken

With the chicken thoroughly marinated, it’s time to move on to the cooking process. This step involves sautéing, simmering, and combining all the flavors to create a rich and savory Filipino Adobo Chicken.

Sautéing the Ingredients

1. Heat the Oil:
   In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Once the oil is hot, add the minced garlic and sauté until it becomes fragrant and lightly golden, about 1 minute.
2. Add the Onion:
   Add the diced brown onion to the pot and sauté until it becomes soft and translucent, about 2-3 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent burning.

Cooking the Chicken

1. Add the Chicken:
   Remove the chicken thighs from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Add the chicken to the pot with the sautéed garlic and onions. Sear the chicken on all sides until it turns a light golden brown, about 3-4 minutes per side.
2. Add the Marinade and Water:
   Pour the reserved marinade into the pot, ensuring that it covers the chicken. Add 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) of water to the pot, stirring to combine.
3. Add Brown Sugar and Pepper:
   Add 2 tablespoons of brown sugar and 1 tablespoon of whole black pepper (or 2 teaspoons of coarse cracked pepper) to the pot. Stir well to incorporate all the ingredients.

Simmering the Chicken

1. Bring to a Boil:
   Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot with a lid.
2. Simmer:
   Let the chicken simmer gently for about 30-35 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and tender. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking and ensure even cooking.
3. Adjust Seasoning:
   Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if needed. You can add more soy sauce for saltiness, vinegar for tanginess, or brown sugar for sweetness, depending on your preference.

Reducing the Sauce and Finishing Touches

After simmering the chicken to tender perfection, the next step is to reduce the sauce to a rich and flavorful consistency. This will enhance the overall taste of the Filipino Adobo Chicken and make it even more delicious.

Reducing the Sauce

1. Remove the Lid:
   After the chicken has simmered and is fully cooked, remove the lid from the pot. Increase the heat to medium-high to bring the mixture to a gentle boil.
2. Reduce the Sauce:
   Let the sauce boil for about 10-15 minutes, stirring occasionally. This process reduces the liquid, concentrating the flavors and thickening the sauce. Keep an eye on it to prevent burning and ensure even reduction.
3. Check Consistency:
   The sauce should become rich and slightly thickened, coating the back of a spoon. If it reduces too much, you can add a bit of water to achieve your desired consistency.

Adding the Final Touches

1. Sauté the Garlic (Optional):
   In a separate small pan, heat the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the minced garlic and sauté until golden brown and crispy, about 1-2 minutes. This step is optional but adds an extra layer of flavor and texture to the dish.
2. Combine Garlic with Chicken:
   If you sautéed the garlic, add it to the pot with the reduced sauce and chicken, stirring to combine. This gives the dish a delightful garlicky aroma and taste.

Garnishing and Serving

1. Garnish:
   Sprinkle the sliced green onions/scallions over the top of the chicken for a fresh and vibrant garnish.
2. Serve:
   Serve the Filipino Adobo Chicken hot, paired with steamed white rice or your favorite side dishes. The tender, flavorful chicken and rich sauce are perfect for soaking into the rice, creating a comforting and satisfying meal.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Filipino Adobo Chicken is not only delicious fresh, but it also makes fantastic leftovers. Proper storage and reheating can help you enjoy this dish even on the second or third day.

Storage Instructions

1. Cool the Chicken:
   Allow the chicken to cool to room temperature before storing. This helps prevent condensation, which can affect the texture of the dish.
2. Airtight Containers:
   Transfer the chicken and sauce to airtight containers. Ensure the containers are properly sealed to maintain freshness and prevent spills.
3. Refrigeration:
   Store the containers in the refrigerator. Properly stored, the chicken can last for up to 3-4 days.

Reheating Instructions

When you’re ready to enjoy your leftover Filipino Adobo Chicken, follow these steps to reheat it:

1. Stovetop Method:\
   • Place the chicken and sauce in a pot or saucepan.
   • Heat over medium-low heat, stirring occasionally, until warmed through. This method helps retain the texture and flavor of the chicken and sauce.
2. Microwave Method:\
   • Place the chicken and sauce in a microwave-safe dish.
   • Cover with a microwave-safe lid or another plate to prevent splatters.
   • Heat on medium power for 2-3 minutes, stirring halfway through, until hot. Be cautious not to overcook the chicken, as it can dry out.

Freezing Leftovers

If you want to keep your Filipino Adobo Chicken for a longer period, freezing is a great option:

1. Portion the Chicken:
   Divide the chicken and sauce into individual or meal-sized portions. This makes it easier to thaw and reheat only what you need.
2. Freezer Bags or Containers:
   Place the portions in freezer-safe bags or containers. Remove as much air as possible from the bags before sealing.
3. Label and Freeze:
   Label the bags or containers with the date and contents. Store them in the freezer for up to 2-3 months.
4. Thawing:
   When ready to eat, thaw the chicken in the refrigerator overnight. Reheat using the stovetop or microwave method mentioned above.

Conclusion

Mastering the recipe for Filipino Adobo Chicken opens up a world of rich and savory flavors. This dish, with its tender chicken and tangy, garlicky sauce, is a true delight that captures the essence of Filipino cuisine. Whether served fresh or enjoyed as leftovers, Filipino Adobo Chicken is a versatile and satisfying meal that is sure to become a staple in your kitchen. Experiment with different side dishes and garnishes to make it your own. Happy cooking!