A classic Filipino dish featuring chicken drumsticks simmered in a savory and tangy sauce.

Prep Time
10min
Cook Time
20min
Total Time
30min
Chicken Adobo recipe

Ingredients

4 Servings
(1 serving = 1 drumstick )

Main Ingredients

  • 7
    pcs chicken drumstick
  • 2
    laurel leaves
  • 1/2cup
    sugar
  • 2
    chopped onions
  • 10clove
    garlic
  • 1 1/2cup
    vinegar
  • 1/3cup
    cooking oil
  • 2cups
    soy sauce
  • 1/4cup
    fish sauce
  • 3
    pcs star anise
  • 1tsp
    black pepper
  • 3
    red chillies, chopped
  • 1cup
    water

How to make Chicken Adobo

Cooking Instructions

  1. In a pot, combine 1 cup of water, soy sauce, black pepper, half of the chopped garlic, and chopped red chillies. Add the chicken drumsticks and bring to a boil.

    Step 1.1: In a pot, combine 1 cup of water, soy sauce, black pepper, half of the chopped garlic, and chopped red chillies
  2. Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside the broth.

    Step 1.1: Remove the chicken from the pot and set aside the broth
  3. In a pan, heat the cooking oil and sauté the drumsticks with fish sauce. Add the remaining chopped garlic, onions, and star anise.

    Step 1.1: In a pan, heat the cooking oil and sauté the drumsticks with fish sauce
  4. Transfer the sautéed chicken, onion, and garlic back into the pot with the broth. Add sugar, bring to a boil, then add vinegar and laurel leaves.

    Step 1.1: Transfer the sautéed chicken, onion, and garlic back into the pot with the broth
  5. Serve the Chicken Adobo hot.

    Step 1.1: Serve the Chicken Adobo hot

Nutrition (per serving)

Calories

415.9kcal (20.79%)

Protein

11.6g (23.1%)

Carbs

57.7g (20.99%)

Sugars

25.4g (50.76%)

Healthy Fat

15.7g

Unhealthy Fat

2.5g

% Daily Value based on a 2000 calorie diet

Tips & Tricks

  1. For a richer flavor, marinate the chicken in soy sauce, vinegar, and garlic for at least an hour before cooking.

  2. Adjust the amount of red chillies to your preferred level of spiciness.

FAQS

  1. Can I use other parts of the chicken?

    Yes, you can use other parts like thighs or wings, but adjust the cooking time accordingly.

  2. Is it necessary to use star anise?

    Star anise adds a unique flavor, but you can omit it if you prefer a simpler taste.

  3. Can I make this dish ahead of time?

    Yes, Chicken Adobo often tastes better the next day as the flavors meld together.

  4. What can I serve with Chicken Adobo?

    It is traditionally served with steamed rice.

  5. Can I make this dish less salty?

    You can reduce the amount of soy sauce or use a low-sodium version.

Loading reviews...

m
instagram

Donabel Carag

(@madizach777)

Hi! I'm Donabel, an at-home mom who loves serving my family good food. Looking at your family after preparing a meal for them and seeing...

chefadora
© 2025 Chefadora Pty Ltd, All Rights Reserved

Marnirni-apinthi Building, Lot Fourteen,
North Terrace, Adelaide, South Australia, 5000
Australia