5-ingredient chicken adobo recipe: quick and easy stovetop delight

Prepare to tantalize your taste buds with the delectable flavors of chicken adobo, a beloved Filipino dish that has captured hearts worldwide. In this comprehensive guide, we unveil the secrets to creating an authentic chicken adobo recipe stove top, ensuring a culinary masterpiece that will leave you craving more.

Ingredients for a Flavorful Chicken Adobo

• 1 whole chicken, cut into serving pieces
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 1/4 cup water
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 bay leaf
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 1 teaspoon sugar (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions for Stovetop Chicken Adobo

1. Marinate the Chicken:

In a large bowl, combine the chicken pieces with the soy sauce, vinegar, water, garlic, bay leaf, peppercorns, and sugar (if using). Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes, or up to overnight for deeper flavor.

2. Brown the Chicken:

Heat a large skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess liquid. Add the chicken to the hot skillet and brown on all sides.

3. Add the Marinade:

Pour the marinade into the skillet, scraping any browned bits from the bottom. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low.

4. Simmer until Tender:

Cover the skillet and simmer for 20-30 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through. Check for doneness by piercing the thickest part of the chicken with a fork; the juices should run clear.

5. Remove the Bay Leaf:

Once the chicken is cooked, discard the bay leaf.

6. Adjust Seasoning:

Taste the sauce and adjust the seasonings as desired. Add more soy sauce for saltiness, vinegar for acidity, or sugar for sweetness.

Variations for a Personalized Adobo

• Spicy Adobo: Add 1-2 chopped chili peppers to the marinade.
• Sweet Adobo: Increase the amount of sugar in the marinade to 2-3 tablespoons.
• Coconut Adobo: Add 1 cup of coconut milk to the marinade.
• Pineapple Adobo: Add 1 cup of chopped pineapple to the marinade.

Serving Suggestions for Chicken Adobo

Chicken adobo is a versatile dish that pairs well with various accompaniments. Consider serving with:

• Steamed rice
• Fried plantains
• Sautéed vegetables
• Pickled onions

Preservation and Storage

• Refrigeration: Store leftover chicken adobo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
• Freezing: Freeze chicken adobo in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutritional Value of Chicken Adobo

A serving of chicken adobo (1 cup) contains approximately:

• Calories: 250
• Protein: 25 grams
• Fat: 10 grams
• Carbohydrates: 15 grams

Health Benefits of Chicken Adobo

In addition to its delicious taste, chicken adobo offers several health benefits:

• Rich in Protein: Chicken is an excellent source of protein, essential for building and maintaining muscle mass.
• Good Source of Iron: Chicken adobo is a good source of iron, which helps carry oxygen throughout the body.
• Contains Antioxidants: Garlic and vinegar contain antioxidants that help protect the body from free radical damage.

Tips for Making the Best Chicken Adobo

• Use a whole chicken for a more flavorful broth.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to enhance the flavor.
• Brown the chicken well to create a rich, caramelized flavor.
• Simmer the chicken until it is fall-off-the-bone tender.
• Adjust the seasoning to your preference for a perfect balance of flavors.

What You Need to Learn

1. Can I use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for adobo?

Yes, you can use boneless, skinless chicken breasts for adobo. However, they may cook faster, so adjust the simmering time accordingly.

2. What can I substitute for vinegar in adobo?

If you do not have vinegar, you can substitute it with lemon juice or white wine.

3. How do I store chicken adobo for longer periods?

You can freeze chicken adobo in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

4. Can I make adobo in a slow cooker?

Yes, you can make adobo in a slow cooker. Place the marinated chicken in the slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours.

5. What side dishes go well with chicken adobo?

Chicken adobo pairs well with steamed rice, fried plantains, sautéed vegetables, or pickled onions.