Chicken adobo is a beloved dish in Filipino cuisine, known for its savory, tangy flavors and tender meat. This easy chicken adobo recipe is perfect for those who crave a comforting meal without spending hours in the kitchen. With the use of chicken wings and thighs, you can enjoy the succulent textures and rich flavors that make this dish so special.
Ingredients
- Chicken Wings and Thighs: 2 pounds, a mix of both for variety
- Soy Sauce: ½ cup
- Vinegar: ½ cup (preferably cane or white vinegar)
- Garlic: 6 cloves, minced
- Bay Leaves: 2-3
- Black Peppercorns: 1 teaspoon
- Onion: 1 medium, sliced
- Water: 1 cup
- Oil: For sautéing
- Green Onions: For garnish
Instructions
- Marinate the Chicken: Start by combining soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, bay leaves, and black peppercorns in a bowl. Add the chicken wings and thighs, making sure they are well coated. Allow the chicken to marinate for at least 30 minutes; for best results, let it sit in the refrigerator for a few hours or overnight.
- Sauté the Aromatics: In a large skillet or pot, heat a tablespoon of oil over medium heat. Add the sliced onion and sauté until translucent and fragrant. This step enhances the dish’s overall flavor profile.
- Brown the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade, reserving the marinade for later. Add the chicken pieces to the skillet, browning them on all sides. This step adds a delicious depth of flavor.
- Simmer: Once the chicken is browned, pour the reserved marinade and water into the skillet. Bring the mixture to a simmer. Cover and reduce the heat to low, allowing the chicken to cook for about 30-40 minutes, or until the meat is tender and the flavors meld together.
- Serve: After simmering, taste the sauce and adjust the seasoning if necessary. Serve the chicken adobo over steamed rice, allowing the sauce to soak into the grains. Garnish with chopped green onions for a pop of color and freshness.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Adobo
- Balancing Flavors: The beauty of adobo lies in its balance of tanginess and saltiness. Feel free to adjust the vinegar and soy sauce ratio to suit your taste.
- Slow Cooking Option: For an even richer flavor, you can prepare this dish in a slow cooker. Simply combine the marinated chicken and sauce ingredients, and cook on low for 4-6 hours.
- Leftovers: Chicken adobo tastes even better the next day, as the flavors continue to develop. It’s a great dish to make ahead for meal prep!
Conclusion
This easy chicken adobo recipe brings the authentic taste of Filipino cuisine to your table with minimal effort. The combination of chicken wings and thighs ensures that you enjoy both crispy skin and tender meat, all enveloped in a flavorful sauce. Whether you’re cooking for a family dinner or a casual gathering, this dish is sure to delight everyone. Enjoy the rich, savory flavors of chicken adobo and bring a taste of the Philippines to your home!
