Picture a simmering pot of Chicken Adobo, the comforting aroma of garlic and soy sauce wafting through the kitchen.
This Filipino classic is both simple to make and deeply satisfying, perfect for a cozy family dinner.
As the chicken tenderizes and the sauce thickens, the flavors meld into something irresistible.
Let’s bring this beloved dish to life and savor the magic of a home-cooked meal.
Kitchen Tools Required
- 1 large pot
- 1 wooden spoon
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 knife
- 1 cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 kilogram chicken pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt to taste
Cook & Prep Time
To efficiently manage your time when preparing Chicken Adobo, follow this timeline:
1. Reading the Recipe: Spend around 5 minutes Reading the Recipe thoroughly to understand the steps and gather all necessary equipment and ingredients.
2. Preparation Time (15 minutes):
- Minute 0-5: Gather and measure all ingredients. Slice the onion and mince the garlic.
- Minute 5-10: If you choose to marinate the chicken for extra flavor, start marinating the chicken in soy sauce, vinegar, and minced garlic. Otherwise, proceed to the next step.
- Minute 10-15: Heat the cooking oil in the large pot over medium heat.
3. Cooking Time (1 hour):
- Minute 15-20: Sauté the garlic until golden brown and fragrant, then add the onion slices and cook until translucent.
- Minute 20-30: Brown the chicken pieces on all sides.
- Minute 30-35: Pour in the soy sauce and vinegar, stir to mix, then add the water, bay leaves, and peppercorns.
- Minute 35-45: Bring the mixture to a boil.
- Minute 45-85: Lower the heat to simmer. Cover the pot and let it cook for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Minute 85-95: Remove the lid and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes to thicken the sauce.
4. Resting Time (10 minutes):
– Minute 95-105: Let the dish rest for 10 minutes to allow the flavors to meld together.
5. Serving:
– Minute 105: Season with salt to taste and serve the Chicken Adobo.
Adjust the timing as needed based on your pace and any additional garnishes you might want to add.
Recipe Instructions
Heat the cooking oil in the large pot over medium heat.
Sauté the garlic until golden brown and fragrant.
Add the onion slices and cook until translucent.
Place the chicken pieces in the pot and brown on all sides.
Pour in the soy sauce and vinegar and stir to mix.
Add the water, bay leaves, and peppercorns to the pot.
Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer.
Cover the pot and let it cook for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
Remove the lid and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes to thicken the sauce.
Season with salt to taste before serving.
Serving Tips
- Steamed Rice: A classic and traditional pairing that absorbs the flavorful sauce beautifully.
- Garlic Fried Rice: Adds an extra layer of flavor and texture, making the meal more aromatic.
- Sautéed Vegetables: Provides a fresh and healthy balance to the rich and savory adobo.
- Mashed Potatoes: Offers a creamy and comforting side that complements the dish’s savory sauce.
- Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up every drop of the delicious adobo sauce.
Storage
Store leftover Chicken Adobo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
For longer storage, freeze portions in freezer-safe bags for up to 2 months.
Freezing
To freeze Chicken Adobo, cool it completely.
Then store in airtight containers or freezer bags.
Label with the date.
Consume within 3 months for ideal flavor and texture preservation.
Reheating
To reheat Chicken Adobo, use low heat on the stove.
Add a splash of water if needed.
Stir occasionally to prevent sticking.
This guarantees even heating while maintaining the dish’s rich flavor.
Final Thoughts
Chicken Adobo is a classic Filipino dish that’s both flavorful and simple to prepare.
With its savory blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and aromatic spices, it’s sure to be a hit at any meal.
Cooking this dish allows you to explore the rich culinary traditions of the Philippines.
For best results, consider marinating the chicken prior to cooking. This will enhance the depth of flavor.
Additionally, feel free to experiment with adding other ingredients like potatoes or hard-boiled eggs for added texture and substance.
Once cooked, allow the dish to rest for a few minutes before serving. This helps the flavors meld together beautifully.
Enjoy this delightful dish with steamed rice, and savor the delicious taste of Chicken Adobo.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Can I Substitute for Soy Sauce in Chicken Adobo?
You can substitute soy sauce with a mix of coconut aminos and a pinch of salt for a similar taste. Use equal parts coconut aminos as soy sauce, then adjust the salt to your preference for seasoning.
How Do I Make Chicken Adobo Less Salty?
To make chicken adobo less salty, reduce the soy sauce to 1/4 cup and substitute the rest with low-sodium broth. You can also add a splash of citrus juice to balance the flavors.
Can I Use Boneless Chicken for This Recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken. Adjust the cooking time slightly as boneless pieces cook faster. Make certain they’re thoroughly browned before adding liquids. Monitor closely to avoid overcooking, and adjust the sauce consistency as needed.
Is It Possible to Make Chicken Adobo Vegetarian?
Yes, you can make chicken adobo vegetarian by substituting chicken with tofu or mushrooms. Use the same marinade and cooking steps. Confirm you adjust the cooking time to prevent overcooking your chosen protein substitute.
How Long Can Chicken Adobo Be Stored in the Refrigerator?
You can store chicken adobo in the refrigerator for up to 3 to 4 days. Make certain it’s sealed in an airtight container to maintain freshness. Reheat thoroughly before consuming to guarantee safety and preserve flavors.

Pinoy Recipe
Equipment
- 1 Large pot
- 1 Wooden spoon
- 1 measuring cup
- 1 Knife
- 1 Cutting board
Ingredients
- 1 kilogram chicken pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/2 cup vinegar
- 1 cup water
- 1 large onion sliced
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
- Salt to taste
Instructions
- Heat the cooking oil in the large pot over medium heat.
- Sauté the garlic until golden brown and fragrant.
- Add the onion slices and cook until translucent.
- Place the chicken pieces in the pot and brown on all sides.
- Pour in the soy sauce and vinegar and stir to mix.
- Add the water, bay leaves, and peppercorns to the pot.
- Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat to simmer.
- Cover the pot and let it cook for 40 minutes, stirring occasionally.
- Remove the lid and let it simmer for an additional 10 minutes to thicken the sauce.
- Season with salt to taste before serving.