Introduction
Chicken Adobo is a beloved Filipino dish known for its rich, tangy flavor and tender meat. This dish is made by marinating chicken in a mixture of soy sauce and vinegar, then simmering it with garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns. The result is a savory, slightly sweet, and tangy dish that embodies the essence of Filipino cuisine. Chicken Adobo is often served with steamed rice, making it a comforting and satisfying meal that can be enjoyed any day of the week.
Ingredients
- 1.5 lbs (700 g) chicken thighs or drumsticks (bone-in, skin-on preferred)
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1 head garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)
- Salt and pepper to taste
- Chopped green onions or cilantro (for garnish)
Instructions
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Marinate the Chicken:
- In a bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Mix well and let marinate for at least 15 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for enhanced flavor.
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Sauté the Chicken:
- In a large skillet or pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and add it to the skillet. Brown the chicken on all sides for about 5-7 minutes.
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Add the Marinade:
- Pour the reserved marinade into the skillet along with the brown sugar (if using). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low. Cover and simmer for about 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
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Reduce the Sauce:
- Remove the lid and let the sauce simmer for an additional 5-10 minutes to thicken slightly. Taste and adjust seasoning with salt and pepper if needed.
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Serve:
- Transfer the Chicken Adobo to a serving platter and garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Health Notes
- Chicken Adobo can be a nutritious meal option, providing protein and essential nutrients. However, it can be high in sodium due to the soy sauce, so consider using low-sodium soy sauce if you're monitoring salt intake.
Serving Suggestions
- Serve Chicken Adobo over steamed white rice or garlic rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. You can also add steamed vegetables on the side for a balanced meal.
Tips
- Flavor Variations: You can add potatoes, hard-boiled eggs, or vegetables like bell peppers to the dish for added texture and nutrition.
- Marinating Time: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight in the refrigerator. This will enhance the overall taste of the dish.
- Leftovers: Chicken Adobo tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Cooking Method: You can also try cooking Chicken Adobo in a slow cooker for a more hands-off approach, allowing the flavors to meld beautifully.
