Unleash the flavors: your ultimate guide to baking succulent chicken adobo

Indulge in the tantalizing flavors of Filipino cuisine with our baked chicken adobo recipe. This classic dish gets an innovative and flavorful twist as we take it from the stovetop to the oven, resulting in a succulent and savory masterpiece.

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken (about 3 pounds), cut into 8 pieces
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon black peppercorns
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon sugar
• 1/2 teaspoon salt
• 1/4 cup cooking oil

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces, soy sauce, vinegar, water, garlic, peppercorns, bay leaf, sugar, and salt. Mix well to coat the chicken thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.
2. Preheat the Oven: Preheat your oven to 375°F (190°C).
3. Sear the Chicken: Heat the cooking oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Sear the chicken pieces on all sides until golden brown.
4. Transfer to a Baking Dish: Arrange the seared chicken pieces in a single layer in a 9×13 inch baking dish.
5. Bake: Bake the chicken for 45-50 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through and the juices run clear.
6. Serve: Remove the chicken from the oven and serve immediately with rice, vegetables, or your favorite sides.

The Secret to Tender and Flavorful Baked Adobo

• Marinating the Chicken: Marinating the chicken allows the flavors to penetrate deeply, resulting in a tender and juicy dish.
• Searing the Chicken: Searing the chicken before baking creates a flavorful crust that locks in the juices.
• Using a Baking Dish: Baking the chicken in a dish ensures even cooking and prevents the chicken from drying out.

Variations:

• Spicy Adobo: Add 1-2 teaspoons of chili powder or chopped chili peppers to the marinade for a spicy kick.
• Sweet Adobo: Add 1 tablespoon of brown sugar or honey to the marinade for a sweet and savory twist.
• Ginger Adobo: Add 1-2 tablespoons of grated ginger to the marinade for a refreshing and aromatic flavor.

Health Benefits of Chicken Adobo

• Rich in Protein: Chicken adobo is a great source of lean protein, essential for building and repairing tissues.
• Contains Vitamins: Chicken adobo is a good source of vitamins B3 (niacin) and B6 (pyridoxine), which are important for energy production and brain function.
• Provides Iron: The vinegar used in the marinade helps the body absorb iron from the chicken, which is crucial for red blood cell production.

FAQs

1. Can I use chicken breasts or thighs for this recipe?

Yes, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs. However, thighs tend to be more flavorful and juicy due to their higher fat content.

2. What is the best way to store leftover chicken adobo?

Store leftover chicken adobo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.

3. Can I freeze chicken adobo?

Yes, you can freeze chicken adobo for up to 3 months. Thaw completely before reheating and serving.