Easy Chicken Adobo
A lazy-proof Filipino-inspired chicken dish that combines soy sauce and vinegar for a flavorful, easy weeknight dinner.
Servings: 4 servings
Calories: 400kcal
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 to 3 pounds chicken thighs or legs (skin-on or off) Use whatever is available.
- 1/2 cup soy sauce Use regular, not low-sodium.
- 1/2 cup white vinegar Apple cider vinegar works too.
- 4 cloves garlic, smashed Pre-chopped garlic is acceptable.
- 1 teaspoon black pepper Ground is fine.
- 2 pieces dried bay leaves Optional; can skip if not available.
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar White sugar works in a pinch.
- 1/2 cup water
- Optional: a little oil if you feel like browning the chicken
Instructions
Cooking
- Put the chicken in a big pot. Toss in the garlic.
- Pour in the soy sauce, vinegar, and water.
- Sprinkle the black pepper and brown sugar over the top, then toss in the bay leaves. Do not stir yet.
- Cover the pot semi-tight and turn the heat on medium. Set a timer for 20 minutes.
- After 20 minutes, gently stir the ingredients.
- If desired, fish out the chicken and brown it in a separate pan for a few minutes.
- Simmer uncovered for another 10 to 15 minutes until the sauce thickens and the chicken is cooked through.
Notes
Leftovers improve in flavor. If the sauce is too salty, add a splash more water. Can substitute vinegar with lemon juice. Feel free to add vegetables like potatoes or carrots near the end.