1-First Step: Gather and Marinate Start by combining the ingredients for your marinade to let the flavors soak in. Mix 750g / 1.5 lb boneless skinless chicken thigh fillets with 3 minced garlic cloves, 1/3 cup (85ml) soy sauce, 1/3 cup + 2 tbsp white vinegar, and 4 bay leaves in a bowl. This step infuses the chicken, making for tender meat in your Chicken Adobo. Let it marinate for at least 20 minutes or up to overnight in the fridge for deeper taste.

2-Second Step: Sear the Chicken Heat 1 tbsp of the oil in a skillet over high heat to get a good sear. Remove the chicken from the marinade, keeping the liquid aside, and cook it for about 1 minute on each side until it browns but isn’t fully done. This adds a nice crust to your Easy Chicken Adobo Recipe and locks in juices. Set the chicken aside for now, as it will finish cooking later.

3-Third Step: Cook the Aromatics In the same skillet, add the remaining 1 tbsp oil and sauté 3 minced garlic cloves with 1 diced small brown onion for about 1 1/2 minutes. This builds a flavorful base for your Traditional Filipino Chicken Adobo, releasing aromas that make the kitchen smell amazing. Stir occasionally to prevent burning and ensure even cooking.

4-Fourth Step: Simmer the Sauce Pour in the reserved marinade along with 1 1/2 cups (375 ml) water, 2 tbsp brown sugar, and 1 tbsp whole black peppercorns. Bring everything to a simmer over medium-high heat and let it cook for 5 minutes. This step helps the flavors meld, creating that signature tangy glaze for Chicken Adobo with vinegar. Keep an eye on the heat to avoid boiling over.

5-Fifth Step: Return and Finish Cooking Put the chicken back in the skillet, smooth side down, and simmer uncovered for 20 to 25 minutes. Turn the pieces at around 15 minutes to ensure even cooking and a thick, syrupy sauce. For adaptations, if you’re making a lower-calorie version, skim off excess fat during this stage. The result is tender Chicken Adobo that’s perfect over rice.

6-Sixth Step: Check and Adjust If the sauce hasn’t thickened enough, take out the chicken and let the sauce simmer alone until it reaches a jam-like consistency. Then, return the chicken to coat it fully in the glaze. This ensures your How to make Chicken Adobo turns out just right, with options for dietary tweaks like using less sugar. It’s a flexible step that keeps the dish versatile.

7-Final Step: Serve and Enjoy Once done, serve the chicken coated in glaze over steamed rice, and garnish with 2 sliced green onions if you like. The total time is about 45 minutes, making it great for weeknights. For more ideas on similar dishes, check out our guide to a refreshing Brazilian lemonade recipe that pairs well with savory meals.