Delish Chicken Adobo

I am officially obsessed with Delish Chicken Adobo, which is to say: tangy, sweet, and so comforting it makes me forgive myself for burning the rice once. It’s the Filipino-ish, weeknight-friendly chicken that melts in your mouth and requires only a few things you probably already have—soy, vinegar, garlic, and the moral support of a wine glass. Try it because it tastes impressive but doesn’t require you to Instagram a dozen staged utensils. Yes, this pan is too small. No, I won’t wash fewer dishes.
Once, I made this for dinner and my husband declared it “restaurant-level” while simultaneously dropping an entire bag of flour on the floor like he was reenacting a cooking show blooper. The kids helped by rearranging the plater—on the dog—so presentation was rustic and furry. I told them it was called “home staging.” They believed me, for about 3 minutes, until the dog refused to eat anything that wasn’t free-floating sauce.
Why You’ll Love This Delish Chicken Adobo
– It’s tangy, slightly sweet, and hits that savory spot you didn’t know you were hungry for.
– Uses pantry staples, so you can pretend you meal-planned.
– One-pan potential if you’re brave and don’t mind a little splatter (bravery optional, wine required).
– Reheats beautifully—leftovers taste like you actually planned ahead.
Time-Saving Hacks
– Brown everything in one pan to save time and judgment. Sure, the chicken will crowd—so what? It builds character.
– Use pre-minced garlic from a jar. Chefs will gasp; your future self will nod appreciatively.
– Buy canned pineapple if you’re tired and tired is valid. Drain it or embrace syrup drama.
– Skip the stovetop reduction and oven-finish if you’re in a rush—add a splash of vinegar at the end and call it “bright.”
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Serving Ideas
– Serve on plain steamed rice if you’re having a midweek existential crisis. Keeps things grounded.
– Over fried rice if you want to flex. Extra points for green onions and a fried egg on top—because breakfast-for-dinner is adulting.
– Serve with a crisp salad if the kids have been sugar monsters and you’re trying to convince yourself you’re balanced.
– Pair with a chilled rosé if the kids drove you nuts; pair with iced tea if you’re sober and smug about it.
What to Serve It With
– Steamed jasmine or long-grain rice (the classic, because carbs make everything better).
– Roasted or sautéed greens to pretend this is a health move.
– Quick pickled cucumbers if you like crunch and tang to cut through the sauce.
Serves: 4-ish (or 2, if you like leftovers and a clean conscience)
Time: About 40–45 minutes, or 25 if you constantly lie about time estimates.
Tips & Mistakes
– Don’t overcook the thighs. They forgive you less than you think.
– If the sauce is too sweet, add a splash more vinegar—acidity is the hero here.
– If your pan is too small, use a bigger one. If you don’t have one, open a window and lean into chaos.
– Resist the urge to add water early; let the sauce reduce and concentrate flavor. If it looks like a soup, you forgot who’s in charge.
– Taste as you go. If you don’t taste, you’re playing kitchen roulette.
Storage Tips
Store it in the fridge… if there’s any left. Cold midnight leftovers? Sometimes better than fresh.
– Keeps 3–4 days in an airtight container.
– Freeze for up to 2 months in a freezer-safe container—defrost in the fridge overnight.
– Reheat gently on the stove or microwave; a splash of water or broth helps revive the sauce without drying the chicken.
Variations and Substitutions
Swap whatever you want—sugar ↔ honey, soy sauce ↔ tamari, or skip steps and call it “deconstructed.” It still counts.
– Want it spicy? Add chili flakes or a diced jalapeño.
– Make it citrus-forward with a squeeze of orange or lime at the end.
– Vegetarian? Swap chicken for firm tofu and brown it like you mean it.
Frequently Asked Questions

Delish Chicken Adobo
Ingredients
Main Ingredients
- 2 lbs chicken thighs
- 0.5 cup soy sauce
- 0.5 cup white vinegar
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 5 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 leaves bay leaves
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 cup water
Instructions
Preparation Steps
- In a large bowl, combine chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, onion, garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns. Marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- In a large pot, add the marinated chicken and the marinade. Add water and bring to a boil.
- Reduce heat, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes or until chicken is cooked through.
- Remove lid and let the sauce reduce for about 10 minutes before serving.
Notes
Featured Comments
“Impressed! Clear steps and will make again results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and will make again results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“Super easy and family favorite! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“Impressed! Clear steps and family favorite results. Perfect for busy nights.”
“New favorite here — so flavorful. hearty was spot on.”
“Super easy and turned out amazing! My family asked for seconds. Saving this one.”
“New favorite here — so flavorful. messy-good was spot on.”
“Made this last night and it was so flavorful. Loved how the handheld came together.”
“This zesty recipe was turned out amazing — the perfectly seasoned really stands out. Thanks!”
“Impressed! Clear steps and so flavorful results. Perfect for busy nights.”