Chicken Adobo at Home: A Bold Taste of the Philippines

Chicken Adobo with Rice, Lemon, and Cucumber

One of the most beloved Filipino dishes is Adobo - and for good reason. Rich, savory, and deeply comforting, it’s the kind of meal that instantly feels like home, even if you’re tasting it for the first time. Walk into almost any Filipino household and you’ll find a pot of adobo simmering on the stove, filling the kitchen with the irresistible aroma of garlic, soy sauce, and vinegar.

If you’re curious to experience authentic Filipino flavors without leaving your kitchen, this recipe is a perfect place to start. Simple ingredients, bold taste, and timeless tradition come together in a dish that’s easy to cook and unforgettable to eat. Ready to bring a taste of the Philippines to your table? Here’s the recipe.

Ingredients (Serves 2–3)

For the Chicken Adobo

• 1 lb (450 g) chicken drumsticks or thighs

• 1/2 cup soy sauce

• 1/3 cup white vinegar (cane vinegar if available)

• 1 whole bulb garlic, peeled and lightly crushed

• 1 cup water

• 2 bay leaves

• 1 teaspoon whole black peppercorns (or 1/2 tsp ground black pepper)

• 1 tablespoon oil (optional, for browning)

For Serving

• 2 cups cooked white rice

• 1 lemon or calamansi, cut into wedges

• 1 cucumber, sliced

Instructions

1. Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken in a bowl. Add soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, peppercorns, and water. Mix well.
Marinate for 30 minutes to 1 hour for deeper flavor.

2. Cook the Adobo

Transfer the chicken and marinade to a pot.
Bring to a boil over medium heat. Do not stir once boiling.

Lower the heat and simmer uncovered for 25–30 minutes, turning the chicken once halfway through, until the meat is tender and infused with the sauce.

3. Reduce and Glaze

Increase the heat slightly and simmer until the sauce reduces and becomes glossy.
(Optional) Remove the chicken, pan-sear it briefly in oil until lightly browned, then return it to the sauce for extra depth and color.

4. Prepare the Sides

• Cook white rice according to package instructions.

• Slice cucumber and lemon just before serving.

To Serve

Place rice on a plate. Arrange the chicken adobo beside it and spoon some sauce over the chicken and rice.
Serve with fresh cucumber slices and lemon wedges on the side.
Squeeze lemon lightly over the chicken just before eating for brightness.

Notes

• Traditional adobo balances salty, sour, and savory flavors.

• The dish tastes even better the next day as the flavors deepen.

• No sugar is needed; the reduction creates natural richness.

Looks tasty? It is :)