Filipino Adobo Chicken (Classic & Flavorful)

Wow, I really love Filipino Adobo Chicken. Um, it is so yummy. Let me tell you more.

I like how it’s sweet and tangy. The chicken is soft and juicy. You know, the smell is so good.

I always make it at home. My friends beg me for more. So, I am super happy to share.

You can cook it too. Go get soy sauce and vinegar. Let’s enjoy it together.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Authentic Flavor: A true taste of the Philippines with traditional ingredients.
• One-Pot Wonder: Everything simmers in one pot for easy cleanup.
• Tender and Juicy: The slow simmering process makes the chicken incredibly soft and flavorful.
• Perfect for Meal Prep: Make a batch and enjoy leftovers that taste even better the next day.
• Customizable: Adjust the soy sauce and vinegar ratio to suit your taste.

What You Need to Know Before You Start

Prep Time & Cook Time:

• Prep Time: 10 minutes
• Cook Time: 45 minutes
• Total Time: ~55 minutes

Servings:

• This recipe serves 4-6 people. If cooking for a larger group, simply double the ingredients.

Difficulty:

• Beginner-friendly – Easy enough for anyone to make!

Required Kitchen Tools

• Large pot or Dutch oven
• Knife and cutting board
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon for stirring

Key Ingredients for Authentic Filipino Adobo Chicken

Here’s what you’ll need to make this flavorful dish (exact measurements are in the recipe card below):

• Chicken Thighs or Drumsticks – Bone-in, skin-on chicken gives the best flavor.
• Soy Sauce – Use a Filipino brand for authentic taste, but any dark soy sauce works.
• White Vinegar – Gives the dish its signature tangy taste.
• Garlic – Fresh cloves are best for deep, savory flavor.
• Black Peppercorns – Whole peppercorns add heat and aroma.
• Bay Leaves – Adds an earthy, slightly floral note to balance the acidity.

Variations for Filipino Adobo Chicken

• Use Coconut Vinegar: Swap white vinegar for coconut vinegar for a milder taste.
• Add Coconut Milk: For a creamier, richer version, stir in some coconut milk at the end.
• Spicy Version: Add sliced red chilies for extra heat.
• Sweeter Touch: A teaspoon of brown sugar balances the acidity if you prefer a slightly sweet flavor.

How to Make Filipino Adobo Chicken (Step-by-Step Instructions)

1. Marinate the Chicken

1. Place the chicken thighs or drumsticks in a large bowl.
2. Add soy sauce, crushed garlic, and black peppercorns.
3. Toss everything together, ensuring the chicken is well-coated.
4. Cover and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or for a deeper flavor, up to overnight in the fridge.

Tip: If you’re short on time, you can skip marinating, but letting it sit helps infuse the flavors.

2. Sear the Chicken

1. Heat a large pot or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade).
3. Add a little oil and sear the chicken skin-side down until browned, about 3-4 minutes per side.
4. Transfer the browned chicken to a plate.

Why Sear? Searing locks in flavor and gives the chicken a beautiful golden-brown color.

3. Simmer with Vinegar and Spices

1. In the same pot, add the marinade, vinegar, bay leaves, and a cup of water.
2. Bring to a gentle simmer over medium heat.
3. Return the seared chicken to the pot.
4. Cover and let it simmer for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Do Not Stir Immediately After Adding Vinegar! Let it boil for a few minutes first to mellow out the acidity.

4. Reduce the Sauce

1. Uncover the pot and let the sauce reduce for another 10-15 minutes.
2. Stir occasionally until the sauce thickens and coats the chicken beautifully.
3. Taste and adjust seasoning—add more soy sauce for saltiness or a splash of vinegar for more tang.

Pro Tip: Some people like their Adobo with a drier finish, while others prefer it saucier. Adjust the cooking time to your preference.

How to Serve Filipino Adobo Chicken

Filipino Adobo Chicken is best enjoyed with steamed white rice, which soaks up the rich, tangy sauce. Here are a few other ways to serve it:

• With Garlic Rice: Sauté minced garlic in oil before adding rice for a flavorful side.
• With Vegetables: Pair with sautéed bok choy, steamed green beans, or a fresh cucumber salad.
• Over Noodles: Serve over pancit (Filipino noodles) for a unique twist.
• With Hard-Boiled Eggs: A common addition to adobo, eggs soak up the delicious sauce.

Storing Filipino Adobo Chicken

This dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors continue to develop. Here’s how to store it properly:

• Refrigerator: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
• Freezer: Place cooled adobo in a freezer-safe container and store for up to 2 months.
• Reheating: Warm gently in a pan over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed. You can also microwave it in short bursts.

Tip: If freezing, store it with the sauce to keep the chicken moist and flavorful.

Nutrition Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount (Approx.)
Calories	350 kcal
Protein	28g
Carbohydrates	4g
Fats	22g
Sodium	1100mg
Fiber	1g

Note: Nutrition may vary depending on the type of soy sauce used.

Filipino Adobo Chicken FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs or drumsticks?

Yes, but bone-in, skin-on chicken adds more flavor. If using breast, reduce cooking time to prevent dryness.

2. What’s the best vinegar to use for adobo?

Filipino white vinegar (sukang puti) is traditional, but apple cider vinegar or coconut vinegar work too.

3. Can I make this in a slow cooker?

Yes! Sear the chicken first, then cook everything on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

4. Why does my adobo taste too tangy?

Try letting the vinegar cook down longer, or add a pinch of sugar to balance the flavors.

5. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

Absolutely! Adobo tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop. Store in the fridge for up to 4 days.

Conclusion

Filipino Adobo Chicken is a must-try dish that brings bold flavors with minimal effort. Whether served over rice, paired with vegetables, or packed for meal prep, this dish never disappoints. Try it today and enjoy a taste of the Philippines right at home!