When it comes to flavorful and aromatic dishes, chicken adobo is a staple recipe that never goes out of style. This classic Filipino dish has gained popularity worldwide due to its ease of preparation, versatility, and mouth-watering taste. Whether you’re looking for a comforting weeknight dinner or a show-stopping main course for a special occasion, chicken adobo has got you covered.
In this article, we’ll explore 20 delectable variations of chicken adobo that will take your cooking to the next level. From classic recipes to modern twists and international fusions, each dish is carefully crafted to deliver a unique flavor profile that’s sure to impress. So, get ready to discover new ways to cook with this beloved recipe and elevate your culinary skills!
Classic Filipino Chicken Adobo with Soy Sauce and Vinegar
A staple dish in Filipino cuisine, this classic chicken adobo recipe is a savory and tangy combination of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves. This easy-to-make dish is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon grated ginger
– 1 bay leaf
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, ginger, and bay leaf.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to medium-low and simmer for 30 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through.
3. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Spicy Garlic Chicken Adobo with Chili Peppers
A flavorful and spicy twist on classic chicken adobo, this recipe combines the richness of garlic and chili peppers with the comfort of chicken. Perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cups mixed chili peppers (such as jalapeño and Anaheim), sliced
– 1 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp tomato paste
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. Reduce heat to medium and add garlic, onion, and chili peppers. Cook until vegetables are softened, about 8 minutes.
4. Add chicken broth, soy sauce, tomato paste, and cumin to the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Garnish with fresh cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Milk Chicken Adobo for a Creamy Twist
This Filipino-inspired dish gets a luxurious makeover with the addition of rich coconut milk, elevating the classic adobo flavors to new heights. Perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 medium onion, sliced
– 1/4 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vinegar
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add garlic and onion; cook until softened, about 2-3 minutes.
4. Stir in soy sauce, vinegar, coconut milk, salt, and pepper.
5. Return chicken to skillet and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
7. Serve hot, garnished with cilantro leaves if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-17 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Adobo for Easy Weeknight Dinners
Busy weeknights just got a whole lot easier with this simple and delicious slow cooker recipe. Marinated chicken, savory adobo sauce, and tender vegetables come together in a comforting dish that’s sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon paprika
– 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper (optional)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 medium bell peppers, sliced
Instructions:
1. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, brown sugar, cumin, paprika, and cayenne pepper (if using).
2. Place chicken breasts in the slow cooker and pour marinade over them.
3. Add onion and bell peppers to the slow cooker.
4. Cook on Low for 6-8 hours or High for 3-4 hours.
5. Serve hot with steamed rice or noodles, garnished with chopped green onions (optional).
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (Low) or 3-4 hours (High)
Oven-Baked Chicken Adobo with Crispy Skin
Elevate your chicken game with this simple yet flavorful oven-baked dish, featuring crispy skin and a tangy adobo sauce. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup olive oil
– 1/2 cup chicken broth
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 teaspoon ground cumin
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Fresh parsley, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, chicken broth, apple cider vinegar, garlic, soy sauce, and cumin.
3. Add the chicken thighs to the marinade and toss to coat. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil or parchment paper. Arrange the chicken thighs in a single layer, skin side up.
5. Bake for 25-30 minutes or until the skin is crispy and golden brown. Flip the chicken over and continue cooking for an additional 10-15 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Garnish with chopped parsley, if desired. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Pineapple Chicken Adobo for a Sweet and Tangy Flavor
This Filipino-inspired dish combines the sweetness of pineapple with the savory flavors of chicken, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and tangy notes. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a flavorful meal prep option.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, combine chicken, pineapple juice, soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic.
2. Bring mixture to a simmer over medium heat, then reduce heat to low and cook for 15-20 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Season with black pepper to taste.
4. Garnish with green onions before serving.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo for Quick and Tender Results
This Filipino-inspired dish is a staple of comfort food, with tender chicken cooked in a rich and savory adobo sauce. With the Instant Pot, you can achieve this deliciousness in just 20 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or white)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp fish sauce (optional)
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” and heat the Instant Pot. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes.
2. Add vinegar, soy sauce, fish sauce (if using), garlic, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
3. Close the lid and set valve to “Sealing”. Cook at high pressure for 10 minutes.
4. Let pressure release naturally for 5 minutes, then quick-release any remaining pressure.
5. Season with salt to taste. Serve hot over rice or noodles.
Cooking Time: 20 minutes
Healthy Low-Sodium Chicken Adobo with Coconut Aminos
A flavorful twist on a classic Filipino dish, this recipe reduces sodium levels by using coconut aminos instead of soy sauce. The result is a rich and savory adobo that’s perfect for those looking to cut down on salt.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs
– 1/4 cup coconut aminos
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon freshly grated ginger
– 1/4 cup water
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1/4 teaspoon black pepper
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet, heat the olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, combine coconut aminos, garlic, ginger, water, and black pepper. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 5 minutes.
4. Add the cooked chicken back into the skillet and simmer for an additional 2-3 minutes or until the sauce has thickened slightly.
5. Serve hot over rice or with steamed vegetables.
Cooking Time: 15-18 minutes
Grilled Chicken Adobo with Smoky Charred Notes
This recipe elevates traditional chicken adobo by adding a smoky depth through the grill, perfect for a summer dinner or potluck. With its tangy and savory flavors, this dish is sure to impress.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup adobo seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup pineapple juice
– 1 cup soy sauce
– 1 tsp brown sugar
– 1 tsp smoked paprika (optional)
– Fresh cilantro leaves for garnish
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together adobo seasoning, olive oil, garlic, pineapple juice, soy sauce, and brown sugar. Add chicken breasts and marinate for at least 30 minutes or overnight.
3. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Grill chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. If desired, sprinkle smoked paprika on the chicken during the last minute of grilling.
5. Let chicken rest for a few minutes before slicing and serving with garnished cilantro leaves.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Adobo Chicken Wings with Sticky Glaze
Elevate your game day snacks or weeknight meals with these addictive adobo chicken wings smothered in a sweet and sticky glaze. This recipe is a perfect blend of savory, spicy, and sweet flavors that will leave you craving for more.
Ingredients:
– 2 pounds chicken wings
– 1/4 cup adobo seasoning
– 1/4 cup brown sugar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tablespoons honey
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– Salt and pepper, to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together adobo seasoning, brown sugar, soy sauce, apple cider vinegar, and honey.
3. Add chicken wings to the bowl and toss to coat evenly with the marinade.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil and spray with olive oil. Arrange the chicken wings on the sheet in a single layer.
5. Bake for 30-35 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Meanwhile, mix the sticky glaze ingredients (honey, soy sauce, and brown sugar) in a small bowl.
7. Remove the wings from the oven and brush with the sticky glaze.
8. Return to the oven for an additional 5-10 minutes or until caramelized.
Cooking Time: 35-40 minutes
Adobo Chicken Thighs with Bay Leaves and Peppercorns
Adobo Chicken Thighs with Bay Leaves and Peppercorns: A flavorful and aromatic dish that combines the richness of chicken thighs with the warmth of bay leaves and peppercorns. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a special occasion.
Ingredients:
– 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 teaspoon dried oregano
– 1/2 teaspoon ground cumin
– 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika
– Salt and pepper, to taste
– 2 bay leaves
– 10 whole black peppercorns
– 1/4 cup white wine (optional)
– 1/4 cup chicken broth
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a small bowl, mix together garlic, oregano, cumin, smoked paprika, salt, and pepper.
3. Place the chicken thighs in a large bowl and rub the spice mixture all over them, making sure they are evenly coated.
4. Place the bay leaves and peppercorns on top of each thigh.
5. If using wine and broth, pour them over the chicken thighs.
6. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the skin is crispy.
Adobo Chicken Drumsticks with Soy-Garlic Marinade
Elevate your chicken game with this flavorful and aromatic recipe that combines the richness of adobo sauce with the savory punch of soy-garlic marinade. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or game-day gathering!
Ingredients:
– 4-6 chicken drumsticks
– 1/2 cup soy-garlic marinade (see below)
– 1/4 cup adobo sauce
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon garlic powder
– Salt and pepper to taste
Soy-Garlic Marinade:
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup plain Greek yogurt
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon honey
– 1 teaspoon grated ginger
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 400°F (200°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together soy-garlic marinade and adobo sauce.
3. Add chicken drumsticks and toss to coat; let marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
4. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil; spray with cooking spray.
5. Remove drumsticks from marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
6. Place drumsticks on prepared baking sheet; bake for 25-30 minutes or until cooked through.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Adobo Chicken and Potato Stew for a Hearty Meal
This flavorful stew combines the richness of chicken and potatoes with the bold flavors of adobo sauce, perfect for a comforting and satisfying meal. With its robust aroma and velvety texture, this dish is sure to become a family favorite.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cubed
– 1 onion, chopped
– 3 cloves of garlic, minced
– 1 cup adobo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Water or chicken broth, as needed
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, heat 2 tbsp of oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chopped onion and cook until translucent, about 5 minutes.
3. Add the minced garlic and cook for an additional minute.
4. Add the chicken thighs and cook until browned on all sides, about 6-8 minutes.
5. Add the cubed potatoes, adobo sauce, oregano, salt, and pepper. Pour in enough water or broth to cover the ingredients.
6. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 30-40 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the potatoes are tender.
7. Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-50 minutes
Adobo Chicken Tacos with Fresh Cilantro and Lime
This flavorful recipe combines the bold flavors of adobo sauce with tender chicken, crunchy tacos, and a burst of freshness from cilantro and lime. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a gathering with friends.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup adobo sauce
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Juice of 2 limes
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional toppings: diced onions, shredded cheese, sour cream
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill or grill pan to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together adobo sauce and 1 tablespoon water.
3. Place chicken breasts in the marinade and let sit for at least 10 minutes.
4. Grill chicken until cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side.
5. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
6. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken, cilantro, lime juice, and desired toppings.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Adobo Chicken Salad with Mixed Greens and Citrus Dressing
This refreshing salad combines the bold flavors of adobo chicken with crisp mixed greens, tangy citrus dressing, and a hint of spice. Perfect for a light lunch or dinner, this recipe is quick, easy, and packed with flavor.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/4 cup adobo seasoning
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cups mixed greens (arugula, spinach, lettuce)
– 1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved
– 1/2 cup crumbled feta cheese
– Citrus Dressing (see below)
Citrus Dressing:
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed orange juice
– 1 tbsp honey
– 1 tsp Dijon mustard
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F.
2. In a small bowl, mix adobo seasoning with olive oil. Brush both sides of the chicken breast with the mixture.
3. Bake chicken for 20-25 minutes or until cooked through.
4. Chop cooked chicken into bite-sized pieces and set aside.
5. In a large bowl, combine mixed greens, cherry tomatoes, feta cheese, and chopped chicken.
6. Drizzle Citrus Dressing over the salad and toss to coat.
Cooking Time: 30-40 minutes
Adobo Chicken Pizza with Mozzarella and Red Onions
Elevate your pizza game with this flavorful Adobo Chicken Pizza! The combination of juicy chicken, melted mozzarella, and sweet red onions creates a mouthwatering taste experience.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast
– 1/2 cup adobo sauce
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup thinly sliced red onion
– 1 tsp olive oil
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a medium bowl, whisk together adobo sauce and chicken breast. Let marinate for at least 15 minutes.
3. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness. Place on baking sheet or pizza stone.
4. Remove chicken from marinade, letting excess liquid drip off. Top pizza dough with chicken, leaving a small border around edges.
5. Sprinkle mozzarella cheese and red onion slices evenly over the top of the chicken.
6. Drizzle olive oil around crust and season with salt and pepper to taste.
7. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and chicken is cooked through.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Adobo Chicken Stir-Fry with Bell Peppers and Snap Peas
This classic stir-fry recipe combines the bold flavors of adobo sauce with succulent chicken, crunchy bell peppers, and sweet snap peas. A quick and easy dinner option that’s perfect for a weeknight meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup mixed bell peppers (green, red, yellow)
– 1 cup snap peas, sliced
– 2 tbsp adobo sauce
– 1 tsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp honey
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat olive oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add garlic, bell peppers, and snap peas to the skillet. Cook until vegetables are tender-crisp, about 4-5 minutes.
4. Stir in adobo sauce, soy sauce, and honey. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Return chicken to the skillet and stir to coat with sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Adobo Chicken Skewers with Grilled Vegetables
A flavorful and colorful twist on traditional chicken skewers, these Adobo-inspired bites are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a summer barbecue. Marinate chicken and vegetables in a zesty mixture of adobo sauce, lime juice, and herbs, then grill to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup adobo sauce
– 2 tbsp freshly squeezed lime juice
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp dried oregano
– 1/4 cup mixed vegetables (bell peppers, zucchini, onions, mushrooms)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 10-12 bamboo skewers
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together adobo sauce, lime juice, garlic, and oregano.
2. Add chicken and marinate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours in the refrigerator.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Thread chicken and vegetables onto skewers.
4. Grill for 10-12 minutes, turning occasionally, until chicken is cooked through and vegetables are tender.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste. Serve hot and enjoy!
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Adobo Chicken Fried Rice with Scrambled Eggs
This classic Filipino dish gets a breakfast twist with the addition of scrambled eggs and savory adobo chicken. This recipe is perfect for a quick and satisfying morning meal or brunch.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup cooked adobo chicken (see note), diced
– 2 eggs, beaten
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1 small onion, diced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Scallions, chopped (optional)
Instructions:
1. Heat the oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced onion and cook until translucent, about 2 minutes.
3. Push the onion aside; crack in the eggs and scramble until cooked through.
4. Mix the eggs with the onion and add the cooked adobo chicken, cooked rice, salt, and pepper. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until everything is well combined.
5. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed. Garnish with chopped scallions if desired.
Cooking Time: About 10-12 minutes
Adobo Chicken Sliders with Soft Hawaiian Buns
A fusion of flavors from the Pacific Islands, these Adobo Chicken Sliders are a delicious twist on traditional sliders. Moist chicken breasts are marinated in a mixture of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices before being grilled to perfection.
Ingredients:
– 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/2 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 8 Soft Hawaiian Buns
– Lettuce, tomato, and pickles for serving (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, brown sugar, and black pepper.
2. Add the chicken breasts to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
4. Meanwhile, toast the Hawaiian Buns on the grill or in a toaster.
5. Assemble the sliders by placing the grilled chicken on the buns, then add lettuce, tomato, and pickles if desired.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Summary
Get ready to elevate your chicken game with these 20 flavorful adobo recipes! From classic Filipino dishes to modern twists, this collection has something for every occasion. Try the slow cooker version for an easy weeknight dinner or the oven-baked recipe for a crispy skin. For a sweet and tangy flavor, go for the pineapple adobo or opt for the healthy low-sodium option with coconut aminos. Whether you’re in the mood for wings, tacos, salad, pizza, stir-fry, skewers, fried rice, or sliders, this article has got you covered.
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