Authentic Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe

Chicken Adobo

Chicken adobo is a beloved Filipino dish known for its rich, tangy flavor profile. Here's a traditional recipe to make authentic chicken adobo:

Ingredients:

• 4-6 pieces chicken thighs (you can use a mix of thighs and drumsticks)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce (preferably Filipino or a low-sodium version)
• 1/2 cup vinegar (white or cane vinegar is traditional)
• 6-8 cloves garlic, smashed
• 1-2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1-2 tablespoons cooking oil
• 1 cup water (optional, depending on desired sauce consistency)

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
• In a bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, and garlic. 
• Mix well and let marinate for at least 30 minutes, or overnight in the refrigerator for more depth of flavor.
2. Brown the Chicken:
• Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. 
• Remove the chicken from the marinade (keep the marinade) and sear the chicken pieces until browned on all sides.
3. Simmer the Adobo:
• Lower the heat to medium. 
• Add the reserved marinade, vinegar, bay leaves, and peppercorns to the skillet. 
• You can add a cup of water if you prefer more sauce. 
• Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat and simmer, covered, for about 30 minutes.
4. Reduce the Sauce:
• Remove the cover and continue to simmer for another 10-20 minutes, or until the sauce has thickened to your liking and the chicken is tender.
5. Adjust Flavors:
• Taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Some people add a tablespoon of sugar to balance out the acidity.
6. Serve:
• Serve hot with steamed rice, using the sauce to spoon over the rice.

Enjoy your meal! Chicken adobo is wonderfully flexible, so feel free to adjust the amounts of soy sauce,vinegar, and garlic to suit your taste.

Tip: Add a teaspoon of brown sugar to balance the flavor.