Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe

Chicken Adobo is one of the most popular Filipino dishes. It’s so beloved by Filipinos that many even call it their national dish. With its bold flavors of vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic, this classic comfort food is both tangy and savory—and surprisingly easy to make at home.

Filipino Chicken Adobo Recipe

Servings: 2 to 4 people
Prep time: 35 minutes
Cook time: 55 minutes

For the chicken and marinade:
5 chicken thighs, bone-in, skin-on (about 3 pounds)
1 cup apple cider vinegar (traditionally uses coconut vinegar)
1/2 cup soy sauce
1 tablespoon sugar

Other ingredients:
1 tablespoon vegetable oil
10 garlic cloves, peeled and smashed
3 bay leaves
1 teaspoon whole black pepper

Filipino Chicken Adobo Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken:

• In a bowl, mix together the apple cider vinegar, soy sauce, and sugar. Add the chicken thighs and marinate for 30 minutes at room temperature.

2. Prepare the Chicken:

• Remove the chicken from the marinade and pat dry with paper towels. Reserve the marinade for later use.

3. Sear the Chicken:

• In a large pan over medium-high heat, add 1 tablespoon of vegetable oil. Place the chicken skin-side down and sear until browned, about 4 minutes per side. Remove and set aside.

4. Sauté Aromatics:

• Using the same pan with the remaining oil, add the smashed garlic, bay leaves, and whole black pepper. Sauté over medium-low heat for about 1 minute, or until fragrant.

5. Simmer:

• Pour the reserved marinade into the pan and bring it to a simmer. Return the browned chicken to the pan, cover, and simmer on medium-low heat for 45 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.

6. Serve:

• Remove the lid and serve the chicken hot with steamed rice. Spoon some of the savory sauce over the top for extra flavor.

Tips & notes

• For a more traditional flavor, substitute coconut vinegar for apple cider vinegar.
• Marinating the chicken longer (up to overnight in the fridge) enhances the depth of flavor.
• Searing the chicken adds a rich caramelized note that balances the tangy sauce.
• This dish keeps well—flavors deepen overnight, making it perfect for meal prep or leftovers.