Chicken Adobo

tender chicken simmered in a bold mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and peppercorns.

30 mins
1 serving
medium
budget friendly

Ingredients

1/2 kg chicken (legs or thighs)

1 small onion (chopped)

4-5 cloves garlic (crushed)

1/4 cup soy sauce

1/4 cup vinegar

1 cup water

1-2 bay leaves

Pepper to taste

1 tbsp oil

optional: 1 tsp sugar (for balance)

Tips

  1. don’t stir right after adding vinegar. It helps prevent the sour taste from becoming harsh.
  2. Brown the chicken well before adding liquids; it adds a deeper flavor. 
  3. Simmer low and slow. This makes the chikcen tender and helps the sauce thicken nicely.
  4. Taste as you go! adobo is flexible, so adjust the saltiness or sourness to your liking.

Cooking instructions

  1. Sautee garlic and onions in all until fragrant.

  2. Add chicken and cook until  lightly browned.
  3. Pour in soy sauce, vinegar. (DO NOT stir after adding vinegar. Let it boil first.)
  4. Add bay leaves and pepper.
  5. Simmer on low heat for 25-30 minutes or until chicken is tender and the sauce reduces.
  6. Adjust salt/soy sauce to taste; add sugar if you want it slightly sweeter.