When it comes to quick and flavorful weeknight meals, few dishes can compete with chicken adobo. This classic Filipino recipe has gained popularity worldwide for its rich and savory flavors, which come from a combination of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves. And once you’ve mastered the basic recipe, the possibilities are endless! In this article, we’ll explore 18 different takes on traditional chicken adobo, each with its own twist and flavor profile.
From spicy garlic variations to creamy coconut milk additions, there’s something for everyone in our list of mouth-watering chicken adobo recipes. Whether you’re a fan of classic flavors or like to experiment with new ingredients, these recipes will inspire your weeknight cooking routine and leave you craving more. So let’s get started and explore the many faces of chicken adobo!
Classic Filipino Chicken Adobo
Classic Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe
A staple dish in every Filipino household, Chicken Adobo is a flavorful and savory stew that’s easy to make and delicious to eat. This classic recipe combines the rich flavors of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves with tender chicken and potatoes.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 large onion, chopped
– 2 medium-sized potatoes, peeled and cubed
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. In a large pot or Dutch oven, combine chicken, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then reduce the heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes.
3. Add the chopped onion and cubed potatoes to the pot. Simmer for an additional 20-25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the vegetables are tender.
4. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
5. Serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: 50-55 minutes
Spicy Garlic Chicken Adobo
Experience the bold flavors of the Philippines with this spicy garlic chicken adobo recipe. A classic Filipino dish, adobo is a staple in many households and is often served at special occasions.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon chili flakes
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1 bay leaf
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or Dutch oven, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the skillet and set aside.
4. Reduce the heat to medium and add the garlic, chili flakes, and bay leaf. Cook for 1 minute.
5. Add the vinegar, soy sauce, and black pepper. Stir to combine.
6. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer until cooked through, about 15-20 minutes.
Cooking Time: 25-30 minutes
Coconut Milk Chicken Adobo
This recipe combines the rich flavors of coconut milk and chicken with the savory taste of adobo, resulting in a deliciously creamy and aromatic dish.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup coconut milk
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vinegar (apple cider or white)
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Chopped green onions for garnish
Instructions:
1. Heat 2 tbsp of oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, combine coconut milk, soy sauce, vinegar, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Return the chicken to the skillet and simmer for 10-12 minutes or until cooked through.
5. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Slow Cooker Chicken Adobo
Savor the flavors of the Philippines with this classic slow cooker dish that combines tender chicken, aromatic spices, and tangy vinegar.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup apple cider vinegar
– 2 tbsp garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 1 tsp salt
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh bay leaves (optional)
– 1 large onion, sliced
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
Instructions:
1. In the slow cooker, combine chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, black pepper, and salt. Mix well.
2. Add the sliced onion and minced garlic on top of the chicken mixture.
3. Cover the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
4. About 30 minutes before serving, stir in chopped bay leaves (if using).
5. Serve hot with steamed rice or as a main dish.
Cooking Time: 6-8 hours (low) or 3-4 hours (high)
Pineapple Chicken Adobo
This Filipino-inspired dish combines the flavors of grilled chicken, tangy pineapple, and savory soy sauce for a deliciously balanced meal. With minimal ingredients and easy preparation, this recipe is perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1 cup pineapple chunks
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp brown sugar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a small bowl, whisk together soy sauce, brown sugar, and black pepper.
3. Brush chicken with half of the soy mixture; reserve remaining for serving.
4. Grill chicken for 5-6 minutes per side or until cooked through.
5. Meanwhile, sauté pineapple in vegetable oil until caramelized.
6. Serve grilled chicken with pineapple chunks, reserved soy sauce, and a sprinkle of garlic.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Oven-Baked Chicken Adobo
Discover the simplicity of this classic Filipino dish with a twist – oven-baking instead of traditional stovetop cooking. This recipe yields tender and flavorful chicken with a rich adobo sauce.
Ingredients:
– 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/4 cup olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1 cup water
– 1 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– Bay leaves and/or thyme for garnish (optional)
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 375°F (190°C).
2. In a large bowl, whisk together olive oil, garlic, vinegar, water, soy sauce, and black pepper.
3. Add chicken thighs and toss to coat evenly.
4. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper or aluminum foil. Arrange the chicken in a single layer.
5. Bake for 35-40 minutes or until cooked through.
6. Remove from oven and season with salt to taste. Garnish with bay leaves and/or thyme if desired.
7. Serve hot with steamed rice, roasted vegetables, or your choice of sides.
Cooking Time: Approximately 35-40 minutes
Sweet and Tangy Chicken Adobo
Experience the rich flavors of the Philippines with this sweet and tangy chicken adobo recipe, a classic dish that’s perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breast
– 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or cane sugar)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon brown sugar
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 2 bay leaves
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
Instructions:
1. In a large pan or wok, heat the oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken and cook until browned, about 5-7 minutes.
3. Remove the chicken from the pan and set aside.
4. Add the garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, pepper, and salt to the pan. Stir until well combined.
5. Return the chicken to the pan and add the bay leaves.
6. Simmer for 10-15 minutes or until the chicken is cooked through and the sauce has thickened.
7. Serve hot with steamed rice and a sprinkle of chopped green onions (optional).
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Instant Pot Chicken Adobo
This classic Filipino recipe combines tender chicken with a rich, savory sauce made from vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and bay leaves. With the Instant Pot, you can cook this dish in just 30 minutes!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
– 1/2 cup water
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 2 tbsp soy sauce
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 2 bay leaves
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Press “Saute” and heat the Instant Pot until it reads “HOT”.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned on all sides (about 5 minutes).
3. Add water, vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, bay leaves, and pepper. Stir to combine.
4. Close the lid and set valve to “SEALING”. Press “Manual” mode and set cooking time to 30 minutes at high pressure.
5. Let the pressure release naturally for 10 minutes, then quick-release any remaining steam.
6. Remove chicken from pot and season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 30 minutes
Chicken Adobo with Potatoes
This hearty dish combines tender chicken and crispy potatoes in a flavorful vinegar-based sauce, perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or special occasion. With its rich aroma and bold flavors, it’s sure to become a family favorite!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 large potatoes, peeled and cut into 1-inch cubes
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 2 tbsp vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add potatoes, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and pepper. Cook for 2-3 minutes or until potatoes are slightly tender.
4. Return chicken to the skillet, stir well, and continue cooking for an additional 5-7 minutes or until potatoes are cooked through and chicken is fully cooked.
5. Season with salt to taste, then serve hot over steamed rice.
Cooking Time: Approximately 20-25 minutes
Chicken Adobo Stir-Fry
A flavorful twist on a classic Filipino dish, this Chicken Adobo Stir-Fry combines the bold flavors of vinegar and soy sauce with the ease of a quick stir-fry. This recipe is perfect for a weeknight dinner or a weekend meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon vegetable oil
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions for garnish
– Cooked rice or noodles for serving
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 3-4 minutes. Remove from pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add garlic and stir-fry until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
4. Add soy sauce, vinegar, pepper, and salt. Stir to combine.
5. Return chicken to the pan and stir to coat with sauce.
6. Cook for an additional 2-3 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
7. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with scallions.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Grilled Chicken Adobo Skewers
Elevate your outdoor cooking game with these flavorful chicken skewers infused with the bold flavors of adobo sauce and grilled to perfection. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend gathering.
Ingredients:
– 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 1/2 cup adobo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 tablespoon olive oil
– 1 onion, cut into 1-inch pieces
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 bell pepper, cut into 1-inch pieces
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Wooden skewers, soaked in water for at least 30 minutes
Instructions:
1. Preheat grill to medium-high heat.
2. In a large bowl, whisk together adobo sauce, olive oil, onion, garlic, and bell pepper.
3. Add chicken to the marinade and toss to coat. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
4. Thread marinated chicken onto skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
5. Grill skewers for 8-10 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
6. Serve hot with your favorite sides.
Cooking Time: 16-20 minutes
Chicken Adobo Tacos
This recipe combines the bold flavors of chicken adobo with the comfort of a taco, perfect for a quick and delicious meal. With just a few ingredients, you’ll be enjoying these tasty tacos in no time!
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breasts
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp vinegar
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 1 tsp garlic powder
– 1 tsp ground cumin
– 1/2 tsp paprika
– Salt and pepper to taste
– 8-10 corn tortillas
– Sliced radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and shredded cheese (optional)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, olive oil, garlic powder, cumin, paprika, salt, and pepper.
2. Add the chicken to the marinade and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes or up to 2 hours.
3. 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.
4. Warm tortillas by wrapping them in a damp paper towel and microwaving for 20-30 seconds.
5. Assemble tacos with grilled chicken, radishes, lime wedges, cilantro, and shredded cheese (if using).
Cooking Time: 45 minutes
Chicken Adobo Fried Rice
A classic Filipino dish that combines the flavors of chicken adobo with the comfort of fried rice. This recipe is a twist on traditional fried rice, adding the savory and slightly sweet flavors of chicken adobo.
Ingredients:
– 2 cups cooked rice (preferably day-old)
– 1 cup diced cooked chicken
– 1/4 cup chopped scallions
– 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon soy sauce
– 1 tablespoon fish sauce
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat 1 tablespoon of oil in a wok or large skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Add the diced chicken and cook until heated through. Remove from the pan and set aside.
3. In the same pan, add the remaining 1 tablespoon of oil. Add the minced garlic and cook for 30 seconds.
4. Add the cooked rice to the pan, breaking up any clumps with a spatula. Stir-fry for 2-3 minutes or until the rice is lightly toasted.
5. Add the cooked chicken back into the pan, along with the chopped scallions, soy sauce, and fish sauce. Stir-fry everything together for an additional minute.
6. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Cooking Time: 10-12 minutes
Chicken Adobo Noodle Bowl
This flavorful recipe combines the classic Filipino dish Chicken Adobo with a hearty serving of noodles, perfect for a quick and satisfying meal.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups cooked noodles (such as rice noodles or egg noodles)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tablespoon ground black pepper
– 1 bay leaf
– 1/4 teaspoon salt
– 1/4 cup water
Instructions:
1. In a large skillet or wok, combine chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, black pepper, and bay leaf.
2. Bring mixture to a boil over medium-high heat, then reduce heat to low and simmer for 20-25 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
3. Cook noodles according to package instructions. Drain and set aside.
4. Remove chicken from skillet and add water. Scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the pan.
5. Combine cooked noodles with the chicken mixture. Serve hot, garnished with chopped green onions if desired.
Cooking Time: 40-45 minutes
Chicken Adobo with Mushrooms
This Filipino-inspired dish combines the rich flavors of chicken adobo with the earthy goodness of sautéed mushrooms. Perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a weekend lunch, this recipe is sure to please.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 cups mixed mushrooms (button, cremini, shiitake), sliced
– 1/4 cup vinegar
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
Instructions:
1. Heat oil in a large skillet or wok over medium-high heat.
2. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5 minutes. Remove from skillet.
3. Add mushrooms, garlic, and black pepper to skillet. Cook until mushrooms release their liquid and start to brown, about 3-4 minutes.
4. Add vinegar, soy sauce, and chicken back into the skillet. Stir to combine.
5. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 10-15 minutes or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
6. Season with salt to taste.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Adobo Lettuce Wraps
Elevate your wrap game with this flavorful and easy-to-make recipe that combines the classic Filipino dish, Chicken Adobo, with crisp lettuce leaves.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 1/2 cup vinegar (apple cider or white wine)
– 1/4 cup soy sauce
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 tsp ground black pepper
– Salt to taste
– 4-6 lettuce leaves
– Tortilla wraps (whole wheat or your preferred type)
Instructions:
1. In a large bowl, combine chicken, vinegar, soy sauce, olive oil, garlic, and black pepper. Mix well.
2. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes to marinate.
3. Preheat a grill or grill pan over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade, letting any excess liquid drip off.
4. Grill the chicken for 5-7 minutes per side, or until cooked through.
5. Warm tortilla wraps according to package instructions.
6. Assemble the wraps by placing a few pieces of grilled chicken on each lettuce leaf, and wrapping with a tortilla.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Chicken Adobo Pizza
Elevate your pizza game with this unique fusion of Filipino flavors and Italian tradition. This Chicken Adobo Pizza combines the savory goodness of chicken adobo with the simplicity of a classic margherita.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb pizza dough
– 1/2 cup chicken adobo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast, cut into small pieces
– 1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
– 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
– Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
1. Preheat oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. Roll out pizza dough to desired thickness.
3. Spread chicken adobo sauce evenly over the dough, leaving a small border around the edges.
4. Top with chicken pieces, mozzarella cheese, and cilantro.
5. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Bake for 15-20 minutes or until crust is golden brown and cheese is melted.
Cooking Time: 15-20 minutes
Chicken Adobo Pasta
This recipe combines the rich flavors of Chicken Adobo with al dente pasta, creating a hearty and satisfying dish perfect for any occasion.
Ingredients:
– 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken breast or thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces
– 2 tbsp olive oil
– 2 cloves garlic, minced
– 1 cup adobo sauce (homemade or store-bought)
– 8 oz pasta of your choice (e.g., spaghetti, linguine, or fettuccine)
– Salt and pepper to taste
– Optional: chopped fresh cilantro for garnish
Instructions:
1. Cook pasta according to package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
2. In a large skillet, heat olive oil over medium-high heat. Add chicken and cook until browned, about 5-6 minutes. Remove from heat and set aside.
3. In the same skillet, add minced garlic and sauté for 1 minute.
4. Pour in adobo sauce and stir to combine with garlic. Bring mixture to a simmer.
5. Add cooked pasta to the skillet, tossing to coat with adobo sauce. Season with salt and pepper to taste.
6. Serve hot, garnished with chopped cilantro if desired.
Cooking Time: 20-25 minutes
Summary
Discover a flavorful and easy-to-make recipe for weeknights with these 18 delicious chicken adobo recipes! From classic Filipino-style to innovative twists like pineapple chicken adobo, oven-baked chicken adobo, and more. This collection of mouthwatering dishes uses simple ingredients and cooking methods to deliver bold flavors and satisfying meals. Whether you’re in the mood for a hearty stir-fry, a zesty tacos recipe, or a comforting noodle bowl, there’s something on this list for everyone.
