Chicken Adobo Recipe – Easy Filipino-Style Guide

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What is Chicken Adobo?

Chicken Adobo is a beloved Filipino ulam made by simmering chicken pieces in a savory blend of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, peppercorn, and bay leaves. This comforting dish highlights how simple pantry ingredients can transform into bold flavors — a signature characteristic of many Filipino classics like Pork Adobo.

Why Masarap?

Its aroma is warm and homey, habang ang lasa ay perfect balance ng alat, asim, at umami. The sauce reduces into a glossy mixture that coats the tender chicken beautifully, creating a rich and satisfying bite. It’s the type of lutong-bahay staple that brings a familiar, comforting feeling to the table — whether freshly cooked or enjoyed as leftovers na mas lalong sumasarap kinabukasan.

Best Eaten For

Chicken Adobo is best enjoyed for lunch or dinner, especially with a generous serving of hot white rice.

Ingredients

• 1 kg chicken (cut into serving pieces)
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/3 cup vinegar
• 1 cup water
• 1 medium onion, sliced
• 6 cloves garlic, crushed
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 tsp whole peppercorn
• 1 tbsp brown sugar (optional)
• Cooking oil
• Salt to taste

How to Cook Chicken Adobo

1. Heat a little oil in a pot and sauté garlic and onion until fragrant.
2. Add the chicken and cook until lightly browned.
3. Pour in soy sauce, vinegar, and water, then add bay leaves and peppercorn.
4. Allow the mixture to boil without stirring, then lower the heat.
5. Simmer for 25–35 minutes or until the chicken becomes tender.
6. Add sugar if preferred, then adjust seasoning to taste.
7. Continue simmering until the sauce thickens to your liking.

Serving Suggestions

Chicken Adobo is best paired with steamed white rice, garlic fried rice, or sautéed vegetables.
For a hearty and budget-friendly spread, it also goes well with dishes like Pork Giniling.
Those who prefer saucy, comforting ulam can explore related classics such as Tinola.

Storage Tips

• Store in an airtight container.
• Refrigerate and enjoy within 2–3 days.
• Adobo naturally tastes better the next day as the flavors deepen.

People Also Ask

Can chicken thighs or drumsticks be used instead?

Yes. Thighs and drumsticks stay juicier and more flavorful.

Can this be made ahead of time?

Absolutely. Chicken Adobo is perfect for meal prep since the flavor improves overnight.

What if I prefer a sweeter or milder version?

Some households add more sugar or switch to regional variants like Sweet-Style Adobo for a gentler flavor.

Can I thicken the sauce?

Just continue simmering until the liquid reduces to your desired consistency.

Frequently Asked Questions

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