Dinner

Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe

Name: Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe
Prep time: 35 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 1 h 10 min
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: 3 lbs chicken with skin and bones (chicken legs recommended); 6 cloves garlic, minced or crushed; 3/4 cup soy sauce; 3/4 cup vinegar; 3/4 cup water; 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns; 1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper; 4 bay leaves; 3 tablespoons dark brown sugar; 2 tablespoons cooking oil; Green onions, chopped

ByRita Bennet January 10, 2026January 10, 2026

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Introduction

Filipino Chicken Adobo is a beloved classic known for its rich, tangy, and savory flavors. This easy one-pot dish features tender chicken simmered in a fragrant blend of garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, and spices. Perfect for a comforting meal anytime!

The image shows a white pan filled with six golden-brown cooked chicken thighs covered in a thick, shiny dark brown sauce. The sauce has small pieces of garlic or onion and bay leaves scattered throughout. Bright green chopped chives are sprinkled on top, adding a pop of color. A golden spoon is placed in the pan, slightly lifting one piece of chicken. The pan sits on a white marbled surface. Photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Ingredients

3 lbs chicken with skin and bones (chicken legs recommended)
6 cloves garlic

3/4 cup soy sauce
3/4 cup vinegar

3/4 cup water
1 teaspoon black peppercorns

1/2 teaspoon ground black pepper
4 pcs bay leaves
2 tablespoons cooking oil

3 tablespoons dark brown sugar
Green onions for garnish (optional)

Instructions

Step 1: In a large bowl, combine garlic, soy sauce, water, vinegar, black peppercorns, ground black pepper, dark brown sugar, and bay leaves. Add the chicken pieces and marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably overnight for deeper flavor.

Step 2: Heat cooking oil in a large pan over medium heat. Fry the chicken until golden brown on all sides, adding more oil if needed.
Step 3: Pour the marinade mixture back into the pan with the fried chicken. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and let it simmer.
Step 4: After a few minutes, stir and flip the chicken to cook evenly on the other side. Continue simmering for about 15 minutes or until the sauce thickens.

Step 5: Remove from heat and garnish with sliced green onions if desired. Serve the adobo hot over steamed rice. Enjoy!

Tips & Variations

For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken overnight and use Filipino cane vinegar if available.
Add boiled eggs or potatoes during the simmering stage for a heartier dish.

Adjust the sugar quantity to balance the tanginess of the vinegar to your taste.

Storage

Store leftover adobo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3-4 days. The flavors deepen over time, making it even tastier the next day. Reheat gently on the stove or microwave until hot before serving.

How to Serve

The image shows a white pan filled with six pieces of chicken thighs covered in a shiny, dark brown sauce that looks rich and thick. The chicken pieces are arranged close together, and there are some bay leaves and chopped green onions scattered on top, adding green color to the dish. A gold spoon is scooping a piece of chicken from the pan, with the sauce glistening on the chicken and spoon. The pan rests on a white marbled surface. photo taken with an iphone --ar 4:5 --v 7

Serve this delicious recipe with your favorite sides.

FAQs

Can I use chicken breast instead of chicken legs?

Yes, you can use chicken breast, but it cooks faster and may dry out more easily. Adjust the simmering time accordingly to avoid overcooking.

Is it necessary to marinate the chicken?

Marinating is recommended to enhance the flavor, but if you’re short on time, you can cook the chicken immediately with the sauce mixture, though the taste may be less intense.