Filipino Chicken Adobo, is the national dish of the Philippines. I love my Chicken Adobo, Philippines adobo recipe because it comes together so quickly and with very little prep or cleanup. Once you try this flavorful and easy one pot dish, it will quickly become your favorite as well!

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Chicken Philippines Adobo can be made with any cut of chicken you like. I usually use Chicken thighs, and the end result will be the most tender, flavorful chicken braised in vinegar, soy sauce and a ton of garlic.
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Authentic Filipino Flavor: Chicken Adobo Recipe
Experience the rich and savory flavors of Filipino cuisine with our delicious Chicken Philippines Adobo recipe. Known as the Philippines' national dish, Chicken Adobo is a beloved comfort food that it is the perfect balance of tangy and savory flavors. Whether you're a fan of Filipino cuisine or just want an easy weeknight meal, this classic dish is sure to become a favorite in your kitchen. Join us as we take you through the step-by-step process of creating an authentic Chicken Adobo that will transport you to the streets of Manila with every bite.
Exploring the Heritage of Chicken Adobo
Chicken Adobo holds a special place in Filipino culinary heritage, with its roots tracing back to the Spanish colonial era. The term "adobo" originates from the Spanish word meaning "marinade" or "sauce," reflecting the cooking method of marinating meat in a flavorful mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. This beloved dish has evolved over generations, with each family adding its unique twist to the recipe. Despite its simplicity, Chicken Adobo's bold and comforting flavors have earned it a cherished spot on dining tables across the Philippines and beyond.
Are you looking for more One pot meals ?
Some of my favorite one pot dishes are One pot chicken rice, Thai curry chicken and Creamy garlic chicken.

Ingredients for Chicken Adobo
To create Chicken Adobo, you'll need the following ingredients:
- 1 tbsp Oil
- 8 pc Chicken Thigh (Recipe can be split in ½ to serve 2)
- 20 Cloves Garlic (1-2 Heads Smashed & roughly chopped)
- 1 Shallot (Sliced)
- 1 Onion (Sliced)
- 1 tsp Black pepper or Black Peppercorns
- 1 tbsp Fish Sauce
- 1 tbsp Dark Soy Sauce
- ⅔ cup Soy Sauce - Low Sodium
- ⅓ cup Datu Vinegar or white vinegar
- 3 Bay Leaves
- Salt ( to taste)

Instructions for Chicken Philippines Adobo
- 1. Slice 1 onion and 1 shallot, and smash 20 cloves garlic and rough chop.
- 2. Add Chicken to mixing bowl and marinate 30 min or overnight (optional): 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce, 1 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce, ⅔ cup Soy Sauce - Low Sodium, 20 Cloves Garlic (1-2 Heads Smashed & roughly chopped)
- 3. Heat pan to medium heat , Add oil and Chicken skin down for 5 minutes until browned
- 4. Remove chicken and add in sliced onions and shallots. Cook until Fragrant.
- 5. Add the chicken back in, the remainder of the marinade from the bowl, and add ⅓ cup vinegar, 3 bay leaves and peppercorns. Bring to a boil, and turn down to medium/medium low and cook covered for 15 minutes
- 6. Remove lid and simmer uncovered for 5-10 mins, to slightly thicken the sauce. Taste and add salt if needed.
- 7. Enjoy with white rice, and generously serve with the adobo sauce!



Substitutions & Variations
- For a twist on the classic recipe, try using pork belly, shrimp, or tofu instead of chicken.
- You can adjust the ratio of soy sauce to vinegar according to your preference, balancing the flavors to suit your taste buds.
- Feel free to add other aromatics such as onions, ginger, or chili peppers for extra depth of flavor.
- Some variations of Chicken Adobo incorporate coconut milk for a richer and creamier sauce known as "Adobo sa Gata" or "Adobong Puti."
- Experiment with different types of vinegar, such as apple cider vinegar or rice vinegar, to add subtle nuances to the dish.
- For a healthier option, you can use low-sodium soy sauce or tamari and skinless chicken pieces.
Top Tip
For enhanced flavor, allow the Chicken Adobo to marinate overnight in the refrigerator. This extra time allows the chicken to absorb more of the marinade, resulting in a more flavorful and tender dish. Simply prepare the marinade the night before and let the chicken soak up the flavors while you sleep.
Storage
Leftover Chicken Adobo can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. Reheat gently on the stove or in the microwave before serving. The flavors tend to deepen and intensify as the dish sits, making it even more delicious the next day.
FAQ
Can I marinate the chicken for too long?
While marinating the chicken overnight can enhance the flavor, it's best not to exceed 24 hours.
Can I freeze Chicken Adobo?
Yes, you can freeze Chicken Adobo for longer storage. Allow the dish to cool completely before transferring it to freezer-safe containers or resealable bags. It can be stored in the freezer for up to three months. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating.
📖 Recipe Card
The Best Filipino-Style Chicken Adobo Philippines Adobo
Ingredients
- 1 tbsp Oil
- 8 pc Chicken Thigh
- 20 Cloves Garlic (1-2 Heads Smashed & roughly chopped)
- 1 Shallot (Sliced)
- 1 Onion (Sliced)
- 1 teaspoon Black pepper or Whole Black Peppercorns
- 1 tablespoon Fish Sauce
- 1 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce
- ⅔ cup Soy Sauce - Low Sodium
- ⅓ cup Datu Vinegar
- 3 Bay Leaves
- Salt ( to taste)
Instructions
- Slice 1 onion and 1 shallot, and smash 20 cloves garlic and rough chop.
- Add Chicken to mixing bowl and marinate 30 min or overnight (optional):1 tablespoon Fish Sauce, 1 tablespoon Dark Soy Sauce, ⅔ cup Soy Sauce - Low Sodium, 20 Cloves Garlic (1-2 Heads Smashed & roughly chopped)
- Heat pan to medium heat , Add oil and Chicken skin down for 5 minutes until browned
- Remove chicken and add in sliced onions and shallots. Cook until Fragrant.
- Add the chicken back in, the remainder of the marinade from the bowl, and add ⅓ cup vinegar, 3 bay leaves and peppercorns. Bring to a boil, and turn down to medium/medium low and cook covered for 15 minutes
- Remove lid and simmer uncovered for 5-10 mins, to slightly thicken the sauce. Taste and add salt if needed.
- Enjoy with white rice, and generously serve with the adobo sauce










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