Introducing a recipe for this classic Filipino dish, complete with a crispy chicken skin and a sauce that’s to die for!
Chicken Adobo Recipe
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in and skin-on
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1 head of garlic, cloves peeled and crushed
- 1 tsp whole black peppercorns
- 3 bay leaves
- 1/4 cup vegetable oil
- 1 cup water
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- Green onions, chopped (for garnish)
Let’s Cook!
- In a large bowl, marinate the chicken thighs in soy sauce, vinegar, crushed garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaves for at least 30 minutes (or overnight for deeper flavor).
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
- Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and place skin-side down in the hot oil. Cook until the skin is golden brown and crispy, about 5-7 minutes.
- Flip the chicken and cook for another 5 minutes on the other side.
- Pour in the reserved marinade and 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 25-30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
- Remove the lid and continue cooking for another 10-15 minutes, allowing the sauce to reduce and thicken slightly.
- Stir in the brown sugar and let it dissolve into the sauce.
- Taste and adjust seasoning if needed.
Cooking Tips
- For extra crispy skin, pat the chicken dry before marinating and frying.
- Don’t rush the simmering process – this is where the magic happens, and the flavors meld together beautifully.
- If you prefer a thicker sauce, remove the chicken once cooked and continue reducing the sauce until it reaches your desired consistency.
Serving Suggestions
Serve your chicken adobo over a bed of steaming white rice, allowing the rice to soak up that delicious sauce. Garnish generously with chopped green onions for a fresh, crisp contrast to the rich flavors of the dish.
For a complete Filipino feast, consider serving alongside some garlic fried rice (sinangag) and a simple side of sautéed vegetables like bok choy or green beans.
There you have it – a mouthwatering chicken adobo that’s sure to become a favorite in your household. The combination of tangy vinegar, savory soy sauce, and aromatic garlic creates a dish that’s both comforting and exciting.
Don’t be surprised if you find yourself craving this Filipino classic again and again. So gather your ingredients, fire up that stovetop, and get ready to embark on a culinary journey to the Philippines.
