famous chicken adobo

Are you ready to spice up your dinner routine with a dish that’s bursting with flavor? Let me introduce you to my favorite chicken adobo recipe! It’s easy to make, deliciously savory, and perfect for sharing with family or friends. Trust me, once you try it, you’ll be coming back for seconds!
Simple Ingredients for Delicious Chicken Adobo
When it comes to making a delicious chicken adobo, it all starts with gathering the right ingredients. This recipe uses simple, easy-to-find items that come together to create that classic savory flavor.
Here’s what you’ll need:
- 2 tablespoons vegetable oil: This will help brown the chicken to perfection.
- 1 whole (about 3 pounds) chicken, cut into pieces: I prefer using a whole chicken because it is juicy and tender, but you can use your favorite parts.
- 1 large onion, quartered and sliced: The onion adds a sweet depth to the dish.
- 2 tablespoons minced garlic: Because who doesn’t love garlic? It brings so much flavor!
- ⅔ cup low-sodium soy sauce: This is the soul of the dish,giving it that salty umami flavor without being overwhelming.
- ⅓ cup white vinegar: A key ingredient that adds tanginess and balances the saltiness of the soy sauce.
- 1 tablespoon garlic powder: This enhances the garlic flavor,making every bite delicious.
- 2 teaspoons black pepper: Just the right amount of spice to elevate the dish.
- 1 bay leaf: This adds a subtle earthy flavor that rounds out the sauce beautifully.
With these ingredients on hand, you’re well on your way to creating a flavorful chicken adobo that everyone will love!
Step-by-Step Instructions for Making Chicken Adobo
ready to make some chicken adobo? Follow these step-by-step instructions, and you’ll have a mouthwatering dish in no time.
- Heat the oil: In a large skillet, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat.
- brown the chicken: add the chicken pieces to the skillet. Cook for about 2 to 3 minutes on each side,or until they’re golden brown. Remove them from the skillet and set aside.
- Sauté the aromatics: In the same skillet, add the onion and minced garlic.Sauté them for about 3 to 5 minutes until they’re softened and fragrant.
- Mix the sauce: Pour in the soy sauce and white vinegar, then add the garlic powder, black pepper, and the bay leaf. Stir well to combine all those lovely flavors.
- Return the chicken: Place the browned chicken back into the skillet.
- Simmer: Increase the heat to high and bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to medium-low, cover, and let it simmer for 35 to 40 minutes.You want the chicken to be tender and cooked through.
- Check for doneness: Make sure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of at least 165°F for safety.
And there you have it! These steps will lead you to a lovely and tasty chicken adobo that’s perfect for serving over rice. enjoy your cooking!

Serving and Storage Tips for Flavorful Chicken Adobo
Once you’ve prepared your chicken adobo, it’s time to enjoy it, but you may also want to know how to serve and store it properly. This dish is so versatile and can easily become the star of your dinner table.
Serving Suggestions:
- Serve it over rice: The rich sauce soaked into fluffy white rice makes an unbeatable combination. You can use plain steamed rice or try jasmine rice for added fragrance.
- Pair with vegetables: A side of steamed broccoli or sautéed greens complements the savory flavors beautifully.
- Garnish: A sprinkle of chopped green onions or fresh cilantro can add a bright pop of color and flavor.
Storage Data:
- Refrigeration: If you have leftovers (which is rare because it’s so good), store them in an airtight container in the fridge. Chicken adobo usually tastes even better the next day as the flavors develop.
- Freezing: You can freeze the adobo for up to 3 months. Just make sure to cool it fully before transferring it to a freezer-safe container.
- Reheating: To reheat, simply thaw in the refrigerator overnight and warm it up on the stove over low heat until heated through.
Taking these serving and storage tips into account will help you enjoy your chicken adobo to the fullest!
Recipe Notes and Troubleshooting for Chicken Adobo
Cooking can sometimes be a bit tricky, but I’m here to help you navigate any bumps along the way. Here are some helpful notes and troubleshooting tips for making the best chicken adobo.
Recipe Notes:
- Chicken options: While my recipe uses a whole chicken, you can easily substitute with chicken thighs or drumsticks, which have great flavor and can be more tender.
- Adjusting the sauce: If you like a thicker sauce, remove the chicken once it’s cooked and let the sauce simmer uncovered for a bit to reduce. Conversely, if you prefer more sauce, simply add a splash of water or chicken broth.
- Vinegar type: While I recommend white vinegar, you can also try apple cider vinegar for a different flavor profile.
Troubleshooting:
- Too salty? If the adobo ends up too salty for your taste, add a bit more vinegar and a little sugar to balance it out.
- Burnt garlic: Keep an eye on the garlic while sautéing. If it burns, it can turn bitter, so stir frequently and remove it promptly.
- Dry chicken: If your chicken turns out dry, ensure you’re not overcooking it. Aim for an internal temperature of 165°F, but I find that cooking it just until tender is the best for juiciness.
These notes and tips should set you up for success with your chicken adobo. Enjoy the process and the delicious results!