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Easy Tangy Chicken Adobo Recipe for Tender Juicy Chicken at Home

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A quick and easy chicken adobo recipe featuring tender, juicy chicken thighs simmered in a tangy, savory sauce made with vinegar, soy sauce, and garlic. Perfect for busy weeknights or special gatherings.

Ingredients

Scale
  • 2 pounds bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar
  • 1/3 cup (80 ml) soy sauce
  • 1/2 cup (120 ml) water
  • 6 cloves garlic, crushed
  • 2 large bay leaves
  • 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 2 tablespoons cooking oil (vegetable or canola)
  • Optional: chopped green onions or fresh parsley for garnish

Instructions

  1. Rinse 2 pounds (900 g) of bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs under cold water and pat dry with paper towels.
  2. Heat 2 tablespoons of cooking oil in a large heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven over medium heat. Add 6 crushed garlic cloves and sauté until fragrant and lightly golden, about 1-2 minutes.
  3. Add the chicken thighs skin-side down. Cook for 4-5 minutes until the skin is golden and crisp. Flip and brown the other side for another 3-4 minutes.
  4. Pour in 1/2 cup (120 ml) white vinegar, 1/3 cup (80 ml) soy sauce, and 1/2 cup (120 ml) water. Stir in 1 tablespoon brown sugar, 2 bay leaves, and 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns. Stir gently to combine.
  5. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce heat to low and cover the pan. Let it simmer gently for 30-35 minutes, turning the chicken once halfway through.
  6. Remove the lid and simmer uncovered for an additional 5-7 minutes if you want a thicker sauce. Taste and adjust seasoning as needed.
  7. Discard bay leaves. Transfer chicken to a serving plate and spoon the tangy sauce over the top. Garnish with chopped green onions or parsley if desired.

Notes

Use bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs for juiciness and flavor. Do not rush the simmering process; low and slow cooking ensures tender chicken. Adjust brown sugar to balance vinegar tanginess. For gluten-free, substitute soy sauce with tamari. Optional garnishes add freshness and color.

Nutrition

Keywords: chicken adobo, easy chicken recipe, tangy chicken, Filipino chicken adobo, quick dinner, comfort food, savory chicken