When it comes to cooking, few dishes are as beloved and versatile as chicken adobo. This classic Filipino recipe has gained worldwide popularity for its tangy and spicy flavors that can be adjusted to suit any taste. With just a few basic ingredients like chicken, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves, you can create a wide range of mouthwatering dishes. From the spicy kick of chili peppers to the richness of coconut milk, there’s no shortage of ways to make this recipe your own.
In this article, we’re excited to share with you 20 flavorful chicken adobo recipes that are sure to impress your family and friends. Whether you’re a fan of classic Filipino flavors or looking for some creative twists on the traditional recipe, we’ve got you covered.
Classic Filipino Chicken Adobo with Soy Sauce and Vinegar
This beloved Filipino dish is a staple in many households, made with tender chicken cooked in a rich mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves. With its tangy and savory flavor profile, it’s no wonder why this adobo recipe remains a favorite among foodies.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or legs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or cane sugar)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bay leaf
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 1 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and bay leaf; sauté for 1 minute.
4. Pour in soy sauce, vinegar, and pepper; stir to combine.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot with steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Spicy Garlic Chicken Adobo with Chili Peppers
This flavorful Filipino-inspired dish combines the richness of chicken with the spiciness of chili peppers and the depth of garlic, all in one mouthwatering adobo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup chili peppers (such as bird’s eye or jalapeño), sliced
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, combine chicken, garlic, and chili peppers.
2. Cook over medium-high heat for 5-6 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Add soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Bring mixture to a simmer and cook for an additional 5-7 minutes or until sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Season with salt to taste.
6. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Coconut Milk Chicken Adobo Creamy and Rich
Savor the rich flavors of the Philippines with this creamy take on the classic chicken adobo dish, infused with the subtle sweetness of coconut milk.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium-high. Add chicken; cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes.
2. Remove chicken; set aside. Reduce heat to medium. Add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Stir in coconut milk, vinegar, cumin, smoked paprika (if using), salt, and pepper. Bring mixture to a simmer.
4. Return chicken to skillet; reduce heat to low. Simmer for 10-12 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-22 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Adobo with Pineapple Juice
This sweet and savory dish combines the flavors of chicken adobo with a hint of tropical pineapple juice, all cooked to perfection in your slow cooker. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal prep.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 tbsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/4 cup pineapple juice
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– Fresh cilantro, for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a slow cooker, combine chicken, soy sauce, water, brown sugar, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and pineapple juice.
2. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot, garnished with fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Oven-Baked Crispy Chicken Adobo with Bay Leaves
Savor the aromatic flavors of traditional Filipino-style chicken adobo, elevated by the crispy texture achieved through oven-baking. This recipe combines tender chicken with a rich and savory sauce, perfect for a comforting weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 1/2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and black pepper.
3. Add the chicken pieces and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper and arrange the marinated chicken in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and crispy.
6. Remove from oven and sprinkle with salt to taste.
7. Garnish with bay leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 30-35 minutes
Sweet and Sour Chicken Adobo with Brown Sugar
Sweet and Sour Chicken Adobo with Brown Sugar Recipe
This sweet and tangy take on the classic Filipino dish is a twist on the traditional adobo recipe, adding a rich brown sugar flavor to balance out the sourness. A perfect combination of sweet and savory flavors that will leave you wanting more!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon vinegar (apple cider or rice wine)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add onion and garlic; cook until softened, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Pour in pineapple juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
5. Add cooked chicken back into the pan and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until sauce has thickened.
6. Garnish with green onions and serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Pork and Chicken Adobo Combo with Soy Sauce Glaze
A flavorful and savory dish that combines the richness of pork and chicken with a sweet and tangy soy sauce glaze, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless pork shoulder, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 lb boneless skinless chicken breast, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1 teaspoon sugar
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the pork and chicken; cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add garlic, soy sauce, water, vinegar, and sugar. Stir to combine.
4. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until meat is cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with green onions and sesame seeds if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Grilled Chicken Adobo Skewers with Charred Onions
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these flavorful skewers, bursting with the bold flavors of the Philippines.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup adobo sauce (store-bought or homemade)
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 large onion, sliced into 1/2-inch thick rings
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together adobo sauce, cilantro, olive oil, salt, and pepper. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Meanwhile, brush onion rings with olive oil and season with salt and pepper.
4. Thread chicken and onions onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until chicken is cooked through and onions are charred.
6. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo with Ginger and Lemongrass
A flavorful and aromatic twist on the classic Filipino dish, this Instant Pot recipe combines tender chicken, tangy vinegar, and a hint of spice from ginger and lemongrass.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 inches fresh ginger, sliced
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” on the Instant Pot and heat oil until shimmering.
2. Add garlic, ginger, and lemongrass; cook for 1 minute.
3. Add chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, and black pepper. Stir to coat.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook on “High Pressure” for 12 minutes.
5. Let pressure release naturally for 10 minutes before quick-releasing any remaining steam.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 22 minutes
Healthy Skinless Chicken Adobo with Apple Cider Vinegar
This recipe combines the richness of chicken adobo with the tanginess of apple cider vinegar, resulting in a dish that is both flavorful and healthy. This easy-to-make meal is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb skinless boneless chicken breast or thighs
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 onion, sliced
– 3 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat the olive oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onion and cook until translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken, apple cider vinegar, water, oregano, salt, and pepper to the skillet.
5. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Turmeric Chicken Adobo with Coconut Aminos
Turmeric Chicken Adobo with Coconut Aminos: A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional chicken adobo, this recipe combines the warmth of turmeric with the savory goodness of coconut aminos.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp coconut oil
– 1 tsp ground turmeric
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1/2 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– 1/4 cup coconut aminos
– 1/4 cup water
– 2 cloves fresh ginger, peeled and minced (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the coconut oil in a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken to the skillet and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove from the skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add the turmeric, garlic powder, salt, and pepper. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Add the coconut aminos and water to the skillet, scraping up any browned bits from the bottom. Bring the mixture to a simmer.
5. Return the chicken to the skillet and cook until cooked through, about 10-12 minutes.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves, if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Adobo Chicken Wings with Honey Garlic Glaze
Elevate your snack game with this mouth-watering recipe that combines the bold flavors of adobo sauce and honey garlic glaze on crispy chicken wings.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup adobo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1/4 cup honey
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together adobo sauce, honey, garlic, soy sauce, and olive oil.
3. Add chicken wings to the bowl and toss until fully coated with glaze.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with cooking spray. Arrange wings in a single layer.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and toss with additional honey garlic glaze (if desired).
7. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Braised Chicken Adobo with Potatoes and Carrots
Braised Chicken Adobo with Potatoes and Carrots Recipe
Get ready to savor the rich flavors of the Philippines with this hearty and comforting dish! Braised chicken adobo, slow-cooked with potatoes and carrots, is a classic Filipino recipe that’s sure to become a new favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 3 medium-sized carrots, peeled and cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 4 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup water
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large Dutch oven over medium heat.
2. Add the chicken, potatoes, and carrots. Cook until the vegetables are lightly browned, about 10 minutes.
3. Add the garlic, water, vinegar, cumin, salt, and pepper. Stir well to combine.
4. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer, covered, for 30-40 minutes or until the chicken is tender and the potatoes are cooked through.
5. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired.
Cooking Time: 45-50 minutes
Serve hot over steamed rice for an unforgettable meal!
Spicy Mango Chicken Adobo with Fresh Herbs
A flavorful twist on the classic Filipino dish, this Spicy Mango Chicken Adobo combines the sweetness of mangoes with a kick of heat and fresh herbs for added depth.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 ripe mangos, diced
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp chili flakes
– 1 tsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 tsp black pepper
– Fresh cilantro leaves and scallions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large pan, combine chicken, mango, vinegar, soy sauce, chili flakes, garlic, salt, and black pepper.
2. Cook over medium-high heat, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through (about 10-12 minutes).
3. Stir in fresh cilantro leaves and scallions just before serving.
Cooking Time: 12-15 minutes
Servings: 4-6
Adobo Chicken Tacos with Pickled Red Onions
A flavorful fusion of Mexican and Spanish cuisines, these tacos combine tender chicken marinated in adobo sauce with tangy pickled red onions. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup adobo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 lime, cut into wedges
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Pickled Red Onions (see below for recipe)
Pickled Red Onions:
– 1 large red onion, thinly sliced
– 1/2 cup apple cider vinegar
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together adobo sauce and chicken breasts. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
2. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
3. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20 seconds.
4. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken, pickled red onions, cilantro, and a squeeze of lime juice. Serve immediately.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Smoky Chipotle Chicken Adobo with Black Pepper
This recipe combines the smoky heat of chipotles with the bold flavors of adobo, all wrapped up in a rich and savory sauce. Perfect for those who like a little spice in their lives!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, chopped
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp smoked paprika
– 1/2 tsp black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a blender or food processor, combine chipotle peppers, chicken broth, olive oil, garlic, cumin, smoked paprika, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
3. Place chicken breasts in a baking dish and pour the adobo sauce over them.
4. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
5. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Adobo Chicken Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers
A flavorful and aromatic stir-fry dish that combines the savory taste of adobo sauce with the crunch of bell peppers, all wrapped up in a quick and easy recipe.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup adobo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 large bell pepper, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the adobo sauce, bell peppers, and garlic; stir-fry for an additional 4-5 minutes or until the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over cooked rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Lemongrass Chicken Adobo with Fish Sauce
A flavorful and aromatic twist on traditional chicken adobo, this recipe combines the brightness of lemongrass with the savory umami of fish sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 stalks lemongrass, bruised and chopped
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1/4 cup fish sauce
– 2 tablespoons soy sauce
– 2 tablespoons brown sugar
– 1 tablespoon vinegar
– 1 teaspoon black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, heat 2 tablespoons of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. Add lemongrass, garlic, fish sauce, soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and pepper to the pan. Cook for 1 minute, stirring constantly.
4. Return chicken to the pan and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot over steamed rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Adobo Chicken Pizza with Mozzarella and Basil
This recipe combines the bold flavors of adobo chicken with the classic combination of mozzarella cheese and fresh basil, all atop a crispy pizza crust.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup adobo sauce
– 1 tbsp olive oil
– 1 pre-baked pizza crust
– 8 oz mozzarella cheese, shredded
– 1/4 cup fresh basil leaves, chopped
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a bowl, whisk together adobo sauce and olive oil. Add the chicken breast and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
3. Roll out the pizza crust and top with the marinated chicken, mozzarella cheese, and chopped basil.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Bake in the preheated oven for 15-20 minutes or until the crust is golden brown and the cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Adobo Chicken Salad with Avocado and Lime Dressing
A flavorful twist on classic chicken salad, this recipe combines the bold flavors of adobo seasoning with creamy avocado and a zesty lime dressing.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound cooked chicken breast, diced
– 2 tablespoons olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon adobo seasoning
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– 1 ripe avocado, diced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Lime juice (about 2 tablespoons) for dressing
Instructions:
1. In a medium bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, and adobo seasoning.
2. Add the chicken to the bowl and toss until coated with the marinade.
3. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Just before serving, cut the avocado into small pieces and stir in cilantro, salt, and pepper.
5. Squeeze lime juice over the salad and toss gently.
Cooking Time: None! This recipe is ready when you’re ready to serve.
Summary
Get ready to spice up your mealtime with these 20 flavorful chicken adobo recipes! From classic Filipino-inspired dishes to modern twists, this collection has something for every palate. Try making a creamy coconut milk adobo, or add some heat with spicy garlic and chili peppers. For a change of pace, try using pineapple juice or apple cider vinegar for added depth of flavor. Whether you’re in the mood for something savory, sweet, sour, or smoky, this article has got you covered with a range of innovative recipes to satisfy your cravings.