Filipino Chicken Adobo is hands down one of the most iconic dishes in the Philippines — and for good reason. It’s savory, slightly tangy, garlicky, and full of bold flavors that go perfectly with a mountain of warm white rice. Whether you grew up eating it or you’re just discovering Filipino cuisine, this comforting classic is sure to win your heart (and your taste buds). This is the most Easiest way to cook Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe.
Prep time: 5 mins | Cook time: 35 mins | Total: 40 mins
Serves: 4
Let’s learn how to make it the traditional Filipino way — simple, delicious, and no fuss!
🧄 What is Filipino Chicken Adobo?
Filipino Chicken Adobo is a beloved stew where chicken is simmered in a rich blend of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns. It’s not to be confused with Mexican adobo — this one’s purely Pinoy. In fact, long before the Spanish colonized the Philippines, locals were already preserving meat with vinegar, making adobo one of the country’s oldest dishes.
There are countless versions of adobo across the Philippines — some sweet, some spicy, others coconut-y — but this is the classic version that many Filipinos grew up with.📜 Where Did Adobo Come From?
Adobo isn’t just a recipe — it’s a method. “Adobo” comes from the Spanish word “adobar” (to marinate), but Filipinos had their own version long before colonization. The practice of cooking meat in vinegar and salt (or soy sauce) helped preserve food in the tropical climate before refrigeration. Over time, this method evolved into what we now know as the national dish of the Philippines.
⏱️ How Long Does It Take to cook Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe.
Surprisingly, Filipino Chicken Adobo is quick and easy. You only need around 40 minutes total, including 5 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cooking. It’s beginner-friendly and gets better each time you make it.
Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe
Ingredients
Method
- Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine chicken, soy sauce, and crushed garlic. Mix well. Cover and marinate for at least 1 hour (overnight is even better for deeper flavor).
- Pan-Fry for Extra Flavor: Heat oil in a pan. Lightly pan-fry the marinated chicken for about 2 minutes per side. This helps lock in flavor and improves texture.
- Simmer the Adobo: Pour in the marinade and add water. Bring to a boil. Toss in bay leaves and whole peppercorns. Cover and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is nice and tender.
- Add the Vinegar: Pour in the vinegar. Don’t stir right away — let it boil for a few minutes to cook off the sharpness. Then simmer uncovered for another 10 minutes.
- Taste and Finish: Add a bit of sugar to balance the flavors, and salt if needed. You can continue simmering uncovered to reduce the sauce if you like it thick and rich.
- Serve and Enjoy! Serve hot with steamed rice — and maybe an extra spoonful of sauce on top. Sarap!
🔪 Tips & Tricks for Filipino Chicken Adobo
- Use dark meat: Chicken thighs and drumsticks are juicier and more flavorful than breast.
- The longer you marinate, the better. It helps the flavors really soak into the chicken.
- Try different vinegars: Cane vinegar, apple cider vinegar, or even coconut vinegar can all add their own twist.
- Extra garlic? Yes please. You can toast some garlic separately for topping.
- Want it super tender? Slow cook it or use a pressure cooker for that melt-in-your-mouth texture.
📜 Where Did Adobo Come From?
Adobo isn’t just a recipe — it’s a method. “Adobo” comes from the Spanish word “adobar” (to marinate), but Filipinos had their own version long before colonization. The practice of cooking meat in vinegar and salt (or soy sauce) helped preserve food in the tropical climate before refrigeration. Over time, this method evolved into what we now know as the national dish of the Philippines.
⏱️ How Long Does It Take To Cook Filipino Chicken Adobo
Surprisingly, Chicken Adobo is quick and easy. You only need around 40 minutes total, including 5 minutes of prep and 35 minutes of cooking. It’s beginner-friendly and gets better each time you make it.
📌 Save This Recipe for Later!
Chicken Adobo is one of those dishes that never gets old. Whether you’re cooking for your family or introducing it to friends for the first time, it always hits the spot. Bookmark this page, and don’t forget to explore more Filipino recipes here at PinoyPanlasang.org!
🎥 Watch the Recipe in Action
This video tutorial is by Panlasang Pinoy, one of the most trusted sources for Filipino recipes. I’m sharing it here because it’s super helpful — especially if you’re cooking Chicken Adobo for the first time. Full credit goes to Panlasang Pinoy for the video.
🍽️ Craving More Delicious Recipes?
If you enjoyed this Chicken recipe, don’t stop here! I’ve got a whole collection of flavorful recipes waiting for you—perfect for every mood and mealtime. From classic Filipino favorites to tasty snacks and comfort food, there’s something for everyone.
📸 Made This Recipe?
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Tried this Filipino Chicken Adobo recipe? Let us know how it turned out!
✅ Did you stick to the classic version or add your own twist?
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