Chicken Adobo
Are you ready to indulge in the rich, savory world of chicken adobo? This Filipino classic is not just a dish; it’s a celebration of flavors that brings together tender chicken marinated in a perfect blend of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices. Whether served over rice or enjoyed solo, this recipe promises to delight your taste buds and impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into the details of preparing this comforting dish!
Ingredients
– 2 lbs chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 cup white vinegar
– 1 cup water
– 6 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 tsp black peppercorns
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 1 tbsp brown sugar
– Green onions for garnish
Servings and Cooking Time
This recipe serves 4 people. Preparation time is approximately 15 minutes, and cooking time is around 45 minutes.
Nutritional Value
Per serving (1/4 of recipe): Calories: 320, Protein: 28g, Fat: 20g, Carbohydrates: 5g, Fiber: 0g. This nutritional information is based on one serving.
Step-by-Step Cooking Process
1. In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
2. Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
3. Remove chicken from marinade and set aside; reserve marinade.
4. Add chicken to the skillet and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
5. Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and sauté until translucent.
6. Pour in the reserved marinade, add water, and bring to a boil.
7. Return chicken to the skillet; add peppercorns and brown sugar.
8. Cover and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
9. Uncover and cook for an additional 10 minutes to thicken the sauce.
10. Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
Alternative Ingredients
You can substitute chicken thighs with chicken breasts for a leaner option. Additionally, coconut vinegar can replace white vinegar for a unique flavor twist.
Serving and Pairings
Chicken adobo pairs beautifully with steamed rice, which soaks up the flavorful sauce. You can also serve it with pickled vegetables for a refreshing contrast.
Storage and Reheating
Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To reheat, warm on the stove over low heat, adding a splash of water if needed. Chicken adobo can be frozen for up to 3 months; thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.
Cooking Mistakes
- Overcooking the chicken can make it tough; aim for tender, juicy meat.
- Forgetting to marinate can lead to less flavor.
- Using low-quality soy sauce may affect the overall taste.
- Not simmering long enough can result in a thin sauce.
- Skipping the garnish can make the dish look less appealing.
Helpful Tips
- Adjust vinegar to taste for a more tangy or milder flavor.
- Consider adding potatoes for extra heartiness.
- For a spicier version, add sliced chili peppers during cooking.
- Allow the dish to sit for a while before serving to let flavors meld.
FAQs
What is chicken adobo?
Chicken adobo is a traditional Filipino dish made by marinating chicken in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices, then simmering until tender.
Can I use other meats for adobo?
Yes, you can use pork, beef, or even tofu as alternatives to chicken in adobo recipes, adjusting cooking times as necessary.
Is chicken adobo spicy?
Typically, chicken adobo is not spicy, but you can add chili peppers for heat if desired.
How long can I keep leftovers?
Leftovers can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days or frozen for up to 3 months.
What should I serve with chicken adobo?
Chicken adobo is best served with steamed rice, but you can also pair it with other Filipino dishes or pickled vegetables.
Conclusion
Chicken adobo is more than just a meal; it’s a comforting experience that brings people together. This dish’s rich flavors and simple preparation make it a favorite in many households. Try this recipe today and enjoy a taste of the Philippines right at home!
Chicken Adobo
Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs bone-in, skin-on
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup white vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 6 cloves garlic minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp black peppercorns
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 onion sliced
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- Green onions for garnish
Instructions
- In a bowl, combine chicken thighs with soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
- Remove chicken from marinade and set aside; reserve marinade.
- Add chicken to the skillet and brown on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
- Remove chicken and set aside. In the same skillet, add sliced onions and sauté until translucent.
- Pour in the reserved marinade, add water, and bring to a boil.
- Return chicken to the skillet; add peppercorns and brown sugar.
- Cover and simmer on low heat for 30 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Uncover and cook for an additional 10 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Garnish with chopped green onions before serving.
