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What is Chicken Liver Adobo?
Chicken Liver Adobo is a flavorful Filipino ulam that uses chicken liver simmered in the classic adobo mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices. Compared to regular chicken adobo, this version is richer and more indulgent because of the liver’s naturally creamy texture. It’s commonly prepared as a quick home-cooked dish or served as pulutan, making it a versatile and satisfying option for everyday meals.
Why Masarap?
Masarap ang Chicken Liver Adobo dahil malinamnam at slightly creamy ang atay kapag tama ang pagkakaluto. The adobo sauce coats the liver perfectly, balancing alat, asim, at konting alat mula sa bawang at paminta. Kapag hindi overcooked, the liver stays soft and smooth, perfect ipares sa mainit na kanin. Simple pero very comforting ang lasa.
Best Enjoyed For
Chicken Liver Adobo is best enjoyed for lunch, dinner, or as a pulutan-style ulam, lalo na kapag bagong luto at mainit-init pa.

Ingredients
- ¾ kilo chicken liver (with heart, optional)
- ⅓ to ½ cup vinegar
- 2 tablespoons soy sauce
- Cooking oil
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 head garlic, chopped (for frying)
- 1 large head garlic, minced
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- Whole black peppercorns
- Sugar (optional, to balance flavor)
How to Cook Chicken Liver Adobo
Step 1: Fry the Garlic
- Heat oil in a pan and fry about ⅓ of the chopped garlic until golden and crisp.
- Remove and set aside—this will be used as topping later.
Step 2: Cook the Liver (Important Timing Tips)
- Add more oil to the pan and lightly fry the chicken liver in batches.
- Cook each batch for 1½ to 2 minutes per side only.
- Tip: Do not overcook at this stage. The liver should be lightly browned outside but still soft inside.
- Remove from pan and set aside.
Step 3: Build the Adobo Sauce
- Reduce excess oil, then sauté the minced garlic and onions until fragrant and soft.
- Return the fried chicken liver (and heart) to the pan.
- Add vinegar, soy sauce, bay leaves, and peppercorns.
- Let it boil uncovered for 2 minutes to mellow the vinegar before stirring.
Step 4: Simmer
- Lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 5–7 minutes only.
- This gentle simmer finishes cooking the liver without making it tough.
- Taste and adjust—add a little water if needed or a pinch of sugar to balance saltiness.
- Transfer to a serving plate and top with fried garlic.
Serving Suggestions
Chicken Liver Adobo is best served with steamed rice to balance its rich flavor.
For a classic adobo-style meal, it pairs well with No Measure Chicken Adobo if serving multiple ulam.
It also goes well with vegetable sides like Ginisang Ampalaya or budget-friendly dishes such as Tokwa at Baboy for a complete Filipino spread.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container.
- Refrigerate and consume within 1–2 days.
- Reheat gently over low heat to avoid overcooking the liver.
- Avoid repeated reheating, as liver toughens easily.
Frequently Asked Questions
Pwede bang haluan ng chicken heart?
Yes, chicken heart adds extra texture and pairs well with liver.
Paano maiwasan ang mapait na atay?
Do not overcook. Quick frying (1½–2 minutes per side) and short simmering are key.
Pwede bang gawing mas saucy?
Yes, add a little water and simmer briefly, but keep total simmer time under 7 minutes.
Pwede bang bawasan ang suka?
Yes, adjust vinegar based on preference without removing it completely.
Mas masarap ba kinabukasan?
The flavor deepens, but texture is best when freshly cooked.
Want more stories beyond food?
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Discover more easy and delicious recipes you’ll love. Kasama mo ang SarapDiaries.com for all things masarap.
Ava Manalo is a passionate home cook who loves exploring flavors, recreating comforting classics, and sharing easy-to-follow recipes that bring joy to every meal. As an author at Sarap Diaries, she focuses on Filipino dishes, merienda favorites, and simple cooking tips that make homemade food approachable and always delicious.
When she’s not developing recipes, Ava enjoys discovering new food spots, experimenting with global flavors, and turning everyday ingredients into heartwarming dishes for all kinds of occasions.







