Chicken Adobo Rice Bowls
Experience the rich flavors of the Philippines with these Chicken Adobo Rice Bowls. Tender chicken marinated in a savory blend of vinegar and soy sauce is served over fragrant rice, topped with herbs and citrus for a refreshing finish.
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Written method
Instructions
Read through once, then cook at your own pace with the illustrated guide above.
- 1
In a bowl, combine the soy sauce, white vinegar, minced garlic, and black pepper. Add the chicken thighs and marinate for at least 30 minutes.
- 2
In a large pot, heat the vegetable oil over medium heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade (reserve the marinade) and sear the chicken thighs for about 4 minutes per side until browned.
- 3
Add 2 cups of water, the reserved marinade, and bay leaf to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and let simmer for 25 minutes, or until the chicken is cooked through.
- 4
While the chicken cooks, rinse the jasmine rice under cold water until the water runs clear. In another pot, combine the rice with 1 1/2 cups water and a pinch of salt. Bring to a boil, then cover and reduce heat to low, cooking for 15 minutes.
- 5
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Shred or chop the chicken into bite-sized pieces.
- 6
Stir in the lime juice to the pot with the liquid, adjusting seasoning with salt and pepper to taste.
- 7
To serve, place a scoop of jasmine rice in each bowl, top with the adobo chicken, and garnish with chopped green onions and parsley.
Cook notes
Tips
For extra flavor, let the chicken marinate overnight.
Serve with extra lime wedges on the side for added freshness.
Cook smarter
Helpful notes
Practical storage, serving, swap, and troubleshooting notes for a better first try.
Storage Tips
- Store leftovers in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days.
- Reheat chicken in a skillet over medium heat to maintain texture.
Substitutions
- You can use apple cider vinegar instead of white vinegar.
- For a gluten-free option, use tamari instead of soy sauce.
What to Serve With
- Steamed broccoli
- Cucumber salad
- Grilled corn
Common Mistakes
- Not marinating the chicken long enough to develop flavor.
- Overcooking the chicken can make it dry.
Recipe FAQ
Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?
Yes, but thighs tend to be juicier and more flavorful. Adjust cooking time as needed.
What can I serve with Chicken Adobo Rice Bowls?
Great pairings include sautéed vegetables or a simple green salad.
Is Chicken Adobo spicy?
This recipe is not spicy, but you can add chili peppers during cooking for heat.
Kitchen tools
Helpful Tools for This Recipe
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Rice cooker
Good for steady rice, grains, and meal-prep bowls.
Blender
Helpful for smooth sauces, soups, marinades, and purees.
Saucepan
Useful for simmering sauces, soups, grains, and small-batch stews.
Skillet
Useful for browning, quick sautes, and weeknight one-pan cooking.
Chef knife
A basic prep tool for vegetables, herbs, aromatics, and proteins.
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