Classic Filipino Chicken Adobo

Craving a truly authentic filipino chicken adobo recipe? This easy version is bursting with flavor! My family's secret for the best chicken adobo marinade. Get the recipe now! ... Comfort Classics
- Recipe Introduction
- Classic Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe Card
- Ingredients for Filipino Chicken Adobo Goodness
- Ingredients & Equipment: Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe Time!
- Craving Filipino Comfort? Let's Cook Best Chicken Adobo !
- Recipe Notes: Your Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe Survival Guide
- Frequently Asked Questions
Recipe Introduction
Craving something dead easy but packed with flavour? Then let me ask you something: ever tried making a filipino chicken adobo recipe ? Honestly, if you haven’t, you are proper missing out.
Quick Hook
This Best Chicken Adobo isn't just a meal; it's a hug in a bowl. Imagine juicy chicken, swimming in a tangy, savory sauce that'll have you licking the plate clean.
A Taste of the Philippines
Chicken adobo is like, the national dish of the philippines. seriously! it's been around for ages and every family has their own secret twist.
This version is easy chicken adobo , perfect for a busy weeknight. this recipe filipino food normally serves 4-6 people, so ideal for the family or a few mates.
Why You'll Love This
The main reason i love this recipe is because you can bung it all in one pot and leave it to simmer.
Plus, it's relatively healthy, especially if you use skinless chicken. think lean protein in a flavour bomb! it's also perfect for a casual dinner party.
People are always well impressed. honestly, it's the talking point.
Right then! Let's get this sorted. What we need to start is a list of ingredients! No worries, i'm going to help you to master how to make chicken adobo
Classic Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe Card

Ingredients:
Instructions:
Nutrition Facts
Ingredients for Filipino Chicken Adobo Goodness
- Chicken: 2 lbs of chicken. Thighs and drumsticks are what food recipes filipino use
- Soy sauce: 1/2 cup. This is the base of the flavour, so don't skimp!
- Vinegar: 1/4 cup. This is what gives it that classic tang.
- Garlic: 6 cloves. Mince them up nice and fine.
- Peppercorns: 1 tbsp whole, crushed.
- Bay leaves: 2.
- Water: 1/4 cup.
- Brown sugar: 1 tbsp. This is optional, but gives a nice sweetness.
We'll get into all the variations later, but for now, these ingredients will give you an Authentic Chicken Adobo Recipe !

Ingredients & Equipment: Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe Time!
Okay, right then! let's get this sorted. you want the best chicken adobo ? it all starts with quality ingredients, doesn't it? we're making a classic filipino chicken adobo recipe .
This isn't just any recipe filipino food , it's the recipe filipino food . i've tweaked this authentic chicken adobo recipe for years.
It's easy peasy!
Main Ingredients for Your Filipino Food Recipes Chicken
- Chicken: 2 lbs (900g) bone-in, skin-on pieces. Thighs and drumsticks are perfect. Quality check? Fresh chicken should look pink and plump, not greyish.
- Soy sauce: 1/2 cup (120ml) . Use Filipino soy sauce if you can. Otherwise, use whatever you have.
- Vinegar: 1/4 cup (60ml) white vinegar (or apple cider vinegar). Don't be shy with the vinegar! It's adobo's trademark.
- Garlic: 6 cloves , minced. Oh my gosh, don't skimp on the garlic. It’s so important!
- Peppercorns: 1 tablespoon whole, lightly crushed.
- Bay leaves: 2 . Adds a subtle fragrance.
- Water: 1/4 cup (60ml) or chicken broth.
- Brown sugar (optional): 1 tablespoon . A touch of sweetness balances the tang.
Seasoning Notes for This Easy Chicken Adobo
The magic is in the blend, you know? soy sauce and vinegar are the base. garlic and pepper build on that.
Bay leaves add a subtle, sophisticated edge. no fancy ingredients needed. it’s perfect. want to mix it up your chicken and pork recipes with some chicken adobo variations ? a pinch of chili flakes for heat works a treat.
For the filipino adobo marinade, i also like a little honey for sweetness.
Equipment Needed. How to Make Chicken Adobo!
- Large bowl. For marinating!
- Large skillet or Dutch oven with a lid.
- Measuring cups and spoons. Okay , right then!
Honestly, that's all you need. no fancy gadgets. you can use a large pot with a lid if you don't have a dutch oven.
A whisk is a great idea. but a fork will work just fine.
Now you're ready to make the best Filipino Chicken Adobo recipe ever. Get ready to enjoy a great meal!
Craving Filipino Comfort? Let's Cook Best Chicken Adobo !
Okay, right then! let's get this sorted. seriously, who doesn't love a good adobo? it's basically the ultimate filipino comfort food.
I remember my lola (grandma) making it all the time. this filipino chicken adobo recipe is a nod to her, but with a few modern tweaks.
I have included an easy chicken adobo recipe for you. so, ditch the takeaway menu tonight. it’s way better! the rich aroma and flavour is one of the reasons you should try this recipe filipino food .
Prep Like a Pro: Essential Mise en Place
First things first, mise en place , which is just a fancy way of saying "get your stuff together!". honestly , it makes all the difference.
Chop 6 cloves of garlic, measure out 1/2 cup of soy sauce, and 1/4 cup of vinegar. crush 1 tablespoon of peppercorns.
Grab 2 lbs of chicken and 2 bay leaves . it’s the authentic chicken adobo recipe ingredients list. you know? organization is your friend, especially with this food recipes filipino dish.
The Magic Happens: Step-by-Step Chicken Adobo
- Marinate chicken in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaves for at least 30 minutes . Or longer!
- Sear chicken (optional, but adds flavour). Brown skin-side down. Set aside.
- Sauté onions if using for about 5 minutes .
- Combine chicken, marinade, and 1/4 cup water in pot. Add brown sugar if you’re feeling sweet.
- Simmer covered for 45 minutes until chicken is tender.
- Remove chicken, reduce the sauce for 5- 10 minutes . Watch it closely!
- Return chicken to sauce. Coat and serve over rice.
Pro Tips for Adobo Awesomeness
Want to take your adobo to the next level? sear the chicken. it adds depth. don't be shy with the garlic! more is more, right? also, taste the sauce before serving.
Adjust the vinegar to your liking. this chicken adobo variations recipe will give you ideas to modify this amazing dish.
Avoid burning the sauce when reducing. trust me. i’ve been there. if you want to make it ahead, cook the chicken, then reduce the sauce later.
If you want more chicken and pork recipes check out my other recipes.
Honestly, this Classic Filipino Chicken Adobo is simple, satisfying and is one of the Filipino Recipes Chicken that’s just good for the soul. Enjoy a Recipe Filipino Food
Recipe Notes: Your Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe Survival Guide
Right then! let's get this sorted. you've got your best chicken adobo in the making! but before you tuck in, here are some extra bits and bobs to make sure it's spot-on.
Honestly, these are the tips i wish i knew when i first started making it! trust me, it is one of the filipino recipes chicken to try.
Serving Up a Treat: Plating and Presentation
Forget fancy, okay ? adobo is all about comfort food. serve it in a bowl with loads of that delicious sauce spooned over the chicken.
My nan used to say, "it's all about the flavour, love!" and she was right. a sprinkle of green onions adds a bit of colour, though.
Food recipes filipino loves a good garnish.
Complementary sides and beverages : rice is a must. i mean, come on! but steamed green beans or some stir-fried bok choy are great, too.
For drinks? a nice cold san miguel or even just some iced tea hits the spot. chicken and pork recipes loves a good pairing
Storage: Making it Last (Because Leftovers Rock!)
Refrigeration : This Authentic Chicken Adobo Recipe keeps well. Pop any leftovers in an airtight container and it'll be grand in the fridge for up to 3 days.
Freezing Options : You can freeze it, too! Honestly, I do it all the time. Just let it cool completely first. It'll happily sit in the freezer for up to 2 months.
Reheating Instructions : Reheat gently in a saucepan on the hob, or ping it in the microwave. Just make sure it's piping hot.
Playing Around: Variations on a Theme
Dietary Adaptations : Gluten-free? No problem! Just use tamari instead of soy sauce. Sorted! You'll find a lot of the Chicken Adobo Variations have that adaptation.
Seasonal ingredient swaps : in the summer, you could chuck in some sliced bell peppers. adds a nice sweetness, you know ? in the winter, a bit of ginger gives it a warming kick.
Nutrition Lowdown: Goodness in Every Bite
Nutrition basics : each serving has roughly 350-400 calories, around 35-40g of protein, 15-20g of fat, and 5-10g of carbs.
Sodium is a bit high, though, so go easy on the soy sauce if you're watching your salt intake.
Key health benefits : it is packed with protein, innit ? great for building muscle. the garlic and vinegar have some health benefits, too.
And hey, it's good for the soul! the filipino adobo marinade has a great flavour!
So there you have it! a few extra bits to help you nail your easy chicken adobo . don't be afraid to experiment and make it your own.
After all, that's what cooking is all about. how to make chicken adobo is simple, fun, and rewarding! get stuck in and enjoy!

Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is Filipino Chicken Adobo, and why is it such a big deal?
Filipino Chicken Adobo is considered by many to be the unofficial national dish of the Philippines. It's a braised chicken dish cooked in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns, resulting in a flavour explosion that's savoury, tangy, and utterly comforting, much like a good roast dinner on a Sunday!
Can I make this Filipino chicken adobo recipe ahead of time? Does it get better with age, like a fine wine?
Absolutely! Adobo is actually a fantastic make-ahead dish. The flavours meld and deepen over time, so it often tastes even better the next day. Store it in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3-4 days. Just gently reheat it on the stovetop or in the microwave before serving.
I'm watching my sodium intake. Is there anything I can do to reduce the salt in this Filipino chicken adobo recipe?
Definitely. Use low-sodium soy sauce and reduce the amount slightly. You can also compensate for the flavour by adding more garlic, peppercorns, or a splash of rice wine vinegar for extra tang. Remember, it's about finding the right balance to suit your taste and dietary needs.
My adobo sauce is too thin! How can I thicken it up without adding cornstarch or flour?
No worries, happens to the best of us! Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside. Increase the heat to medium-high and let the sauce simmer, uncovered, until it reduces to your desired consistency. This concentrates the flavors and naturally thickens the sauce, making it richer and more delicious. Keep a close eye to avoid burning.
I want to spice things up! What are some variations I can try with this Filipino chicken adobo recipe?
Feeling adventurous, eh? You can add a chopped chili pepper (like a Thai chili or serrano) to the marinade for a spicy kick. Some people also add a touch of coconut milk at the end for a creamier, richer sauce. Alternatively, try adding some potatoes or boiled eggs in the last 15 minutes of cooking to soak up the flavour, similar to a British curry.
Can I freeze leftover Chicken Adobo?
Yes, Chicken Adobo freezes very well. Allow it to cool completely, then transfer to an airtight container or freezer bag. It can be stored in the freezer for up to 2-3 months. When ready to eat, thaw it overnight in the refrigerator and reheat thoroughly on the stovetop or in the microwave. The texture might change slightly, but the flavor will still be fantastic.