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Filipino cuisine is a vibrant tapestry woven from centuries of cultural influences, showcasing a unique blend of flavors, ingredients, and cooking techniques. Renowned for its bold flavors and diverse dishes, Filipino food reflects the country's rich history and the warmth of its people. Among the myriad of traditional recipes, Chicken Adobo stands out as a quintessential dish that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also embodies the heart and soul of Filipino home cooking.

Filipino Adobo Chicken Recipe

Discover the beloved Filipino Chicken Adobo, a dish that beautifully blends rich flavors and cultural heritage. This savory staple features chicken marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices, creating a comforting and aromatic meal. Explore the unique regional variations and learn how to prepare this classic dish at home. Perfect for family gatherings or cozy dinners, Chicken Adobo captures the essence of Filipino cuisine and brings a taste of tradition to your table.
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Ingredients
  

2 lbs chicken, cut into pieces (thighs, drumsticks, or a mix)

1/2 cup soy sauce

1/2 cup vinegar (preferably cane vinegar or white vinegar)

1 cup water

1 head garlic, minced (about 10 cloves)

1 medium onion, sliced

2-3 bay leaves

1 tsp black peppercorns

2 tbsp brown sugar (optional, for sweetness)

2 tbsp vegetable oil (for frying)

Salt, to taste

Freshly ground black pepper, to taste

Optional: 2-4 hard-boiled eggs (for garnish)

Optional: steamed rice (for serving)

Instructions
 

Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, minced garlic, and black pepper. Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator for better flavor absorption.

    Sear the Chicken: Heat vegetable oil in a large pot or skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and sear the chicken pieces until they are golden brown on all sides. This step adds a nice depth of flavor. Remove the chicken and set it aside.

      Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, add sliced onions and sauté until they are soft and translucent, about 3-4 minutes. This also helps to deglaze the pot, picking up any flavorful bits left from the chicken.

        Combine Ingredients: Return the seared chicken back to the pot. Pour in the reserved marinade, add vinegar, water, bay leaves, and black peppercorns. Stir everything together, ensuring the chicken is well coated.

          Simmer the Adobo: Bring the mixture to a boil. Once boiling, reduce the heat to low and cover the pot. Let it simmer for about 30-40 minutes until the chicken is tender and the flavors meld together. You can occasionally stir it and taste the sauce, adjusting with salt, pepper, and brown sugar to your preference.

            Thickness Check: If you prefer a thicker sauce, you can remove the lid for the last 10 minutes of cooking to allow some of the liquid to evaporate.

              Garnish and Serve: If using hard-boiled eggs, you can add them during the last 10 minutes of cooking to absorb some of the marinade flavor. Serve your adobo hot over steamed rice, garnished with fresh pepper or herbs if desired.

                Enjoy: Sit back and enjoy the aromatic, savory goodness of your Filipino Chicken Adobo!

                  Prep Time: 10 mins | Total Time: 1 hr 10 mins | Servings: 4-6