Chicken Adobos

Prep: 10 min Cook: 45 min Cuisine: Filipino

Savory Filipino chicken adobo features tender chicken simmered in a tangy, soy and vinegar sauce with garlic and spices, perfect for comforting family meals or gatherings.

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Ingredients

  • 5 to 6 lb. chicken pieces
  • 2/3 c. soy sauce
  • 1/2 c. vinegar
  • 1 chopped onion
  • 12 to 14 cloves garlic, minced
  • 4 to 6 bay leaves
  • 1 tsp. sugar
  • 1 tsp. peppercorns
  • 1 tsp. black pepper

Instructions

  1. Mix all ingredients together, except for the chicken.
  2. Blend thoroughly.
  3. Marinate chicken in the sauce for 30 minutes.
  4. Pour the mixture into an electric frypan.
  5. Cover and simmer until the chicken is tender, approximately 45 minutes.

Tips & Substitutions

For a deeper flavor, marinate the chicken overnight. You can substitute apple cider vinegar for a slightly sweeter taste or use lime juice for a zesty twist. If you prefer, add chili flakes for a bit of heat. Feel free to use boneless chicken for quicker cooking, but bone-in pieces will yield more flavor. For a different touch, try incorporating some citrus zest.

Serving Suggestions

Serve Chicken Adobos with steamed rice to soak up the delicious sauce. A side of sautéed vegetables, like Carrots Lyonnaise(With Onions), complements the dish perfectly. For a refreshing contrast, consider a simple cucumber salad. This dish also pairs beautifully with a glass of white wine or iced tea for a complete meal experience.

Storage & Reheating

Store leftovers in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. To reheat, gently warm the chicken in a skillet over low heat, adding a splash of broth or water to keep it moist. Alternatively, you can microwave it in short intervals, covered, until heated through. Avoid reheating more than once.

Nutrition & Diet Analysis (per serving)

Each serving of Chicken Adobos contains roughly 547 calories, with 22g protein, 66g carbohydrates, and 22g fat. It is an excellent source of protein (45% of the Daily Value), dietary fiber (34% of the Daily Value), and iron (28% of the Daily Value), and a good source of vitamin C and calcium. Note that it is relatively high in sodium, at 2689mg per serving (117% of the Daily Value).

547 kcal 27% DV
Protein Fat Carbs

Macronutrients

Protein 22.3g 45% DV
Total Fat 21.9g 28% DV
Carbs 65.9g 24% DV
Fiber 9.5g 34% DV
Sugar 19.4g 39% DV

Electrolytes

Sodium 2689.1mg 100% DV
Potassium 965.6mg 21% DV
Cholesterol 55mg 18% DV

Vitamins & Minerals

Vitamin A 15.8mcg 2% DV
Vitamin C 15.7mg 17% DV
Vitamin D 0.2mcg 1% DV
Calcium 181.4mg 14% DV
Iron 5.1mg 28% DV
Diet fit High-protein High-fiber
Contains Soy

Estimated from ingredients & per-serving nutrition — verify against package labels for allergies or strict diets.

* % Daily Values based on a 2,000 calorie diet (FDA 2020).

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use other meats instead of chicken for this adobo?

Yes, you can use pork, beef, or even tofu as a substitute for chicken. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly; for example, pork may take longer to cook until tender. Remember that the flavor profile will change slightly based on the meat you choose.

What can I do if I don't have soy sauce?

If you're out of soy sauce, a mix of tamari or coconut aminos can be a great alternative. For a gluten-free option, ensure your substitute is certified gluten-free. You can also use liquid aminos, which will give a similar umami flavor.

How do I know when the chicken is done cooking?

The chicken is done when it is tender and easily pulls apart with a fork. If you have a meat thermometer, the internal temperature should reach 165°F (75°C). Cooking time may vary based on the size of the chicken pieces, so check for tenderness periodically.

Nutrition is estimated from USDA FoodData Central ingredient data and may vary with brand, portion and preparation — see our methodology. This information is for general educational purposes only and is not medical or dietary advice (disclaimer).

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