The ultimate comfort meal: discover the perfect chicken adobo recipe with bright lemon juice

Indulge in the vibrant flavors of a classic Filipino dish with a refreshing twist. Our chicken adobo recipe with lemon juice offers a harmonious blend of tangy citrus notes and the comforting richness of adobo. Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with this delectable culinary creation.

Ingredients

For the Marinade:

• 1 pound boneless, skinless chicken thighs or breasts, cut into 1-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon sugar

For the Sauce:

• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 large onion, chopped
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 cup chicken broth
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1/4 cup lemon juice
• 1 tablespoon cornstarch
• 1 tablespoon water

Instructions

Step 1: Marinate the Chicken

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with all the marinade ingredients. Stir well to coat and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight.

Step 2: Sear the Chicken

Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and discard the marinade. Season the chicken with salt and pepper, then sear for 2-3 minutes per side, or until golden brown.

Step 3: Sauté the Aromatics

Add the onion and garlic to the skillet and sauté for 5 minutes, or until softened.

Step 4: Deglaze the Pan

Pour in the chicken broth, soy sauce, vinegar, and lemon juice. Stir to scrape up any browned bits from the bottom of the skillet.

Step 5: Simmer the Chicken

Bring the sauce to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.

Step 6: Create the Sauce

In a small bowl, combine the cornstarch and water to form a slurry. Gradually whisk the slurry into the sauce until thickened.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy

Serve the chicken adobo with lemon juice over rice or your favorite side dish. Garnish with chopped green onions or cilantro for an extra burst of freshness.

Tips for Success

• For a more intense flavor, marinate the chicken for longer.
• If you don’t have lemon juice on hand, you can substitute with lime juice.
• To make the dish spicier, add some chopped chili peppers to the marinade.
• Leftover chicken adobo can be stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Variations

• Chicken Adobo with Lemon Grass: Add a few stalks of lemon grass to the marinade for an earthy aroma.
• Chicken Adobo with Coconut Milk: Replace the chicken broth with coconut milk for a creamy and tropical twist.
• Chicken Adobo with Pineapple: Add some canned pineapple chunks to the sauce for a touch of sweetness.

Benefits of Lemon Juice in Adobo

• Lemon juice adds a bright and tangy flavor to the adobo sauce.
• It helps to balance the richness of the soy sauce and vinegar.
• Lemon juice contains antioxidants that can help boost the immune system.

A Culinary Journey

This chicken adobo recipe with lemon juice is a testament to the versatility and deliciousness of Filipino cuisine. With its vibrant flavors and refreshing twist, it’s sure to become a staple in your kitchen. So gather your ingredients, fire up your stove, and embark on a culinary journey that will tantalize your taste buds.

FAQ

Q: Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?

A: Yes, you can use either chicken breasts or thighs in this recipe. Just adjust the cooking time accordingly, as breasts cook faster than thighs.

Q: How do I know when the chicken is cooked through?

A: The internal temperature of the chicken should reach 165°F (74°C) when measured with a meat thermometer.

Q: Can I freeze the chicken adobo?

A: Yes, you can freeze the chicken adobo for up to 3 months. Let it cool completely before freezing, and thaw it in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.