Crockpot Chicken Adobo is a flavorful Filipino dish, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. With tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich, tangy soy-vinegar sauce infused with garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns, this recipe is a delicious blend of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors.
What is Chicken Adobo?
Adobo, derived from the Spanish word for “marinade,” is a traditional Filipino cooking method that involves stewing meat in a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. It’s celebrated for its bold flavors and comforting nature, making it a staple in Filipino households. While the stovetop method is common, adapting the recipe to a crockpot enhances the dish by creating fall-apart tender chicken with minimal effort.
Tips and Tricks for Perfect Chicken Adobo
- Use Dark Meat: Chicken thighs or drumsticks are ideal as they stay moist during slow cooking.
- Marinate Overnight: For deeper flavor, marinate the chicken in the soy sauce and vinegar mixture before cooking.
- Balance the Tang: If the vinegar flavor is too strong, add a touch of sugar or coconut milk to mellow it out.
- Sear for Depth: While optional, searing the chicken before slow cooking enhances the dish’s flavor.
Variations of Crockpot Chicken Adobo
- Coconut Chicken Adobo: Add coconut milk during the last hour of cooking for a creamy, tropical twist.
- Spicy Adobo: Add a few dried chilies or chili flakes for heat.
- Vegetable Adobo: Include vegetables like potatoes, carrots, or bell peppers to make it a one-pot meal.
- Low-Sodium Adobo: Use low-sodium soy sauce and dilute with water to reduce saltiness.
How to Serve Crockpot Chicken Adobo
- Classic Pairing: Serve with steamed white or jasmine rice to soak up the flavorful sauce.
- For a Twist: Pair with garlic fried rice for an extra garlicky treat.
- Side Options: Add a simple side of steamed green beans or sautéed bok choy for a balanced meal.
Storing and Reheating Chicken Adobo
- Refrigeration: Store in an airtight container for up to 4 days.
- Freezing: Freeze portions in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.
- Reheating: Reheat on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of water to loosen the sauce if needed.
Recipe FAQs
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, but chicken breasts can dry out in the crockpot. Opt for bone-in thighs or drumsticks for the best results.
What vinegar is best for Adobo?
White vinegar, cane vinegar, or even apple cider vinegar work well. Cane vinegar is traditional in Filipino cooking.
Can I skip the searing step?
Yes, searing adds depth but isn’t essential for a delicious outcome.
Is Chicken Adobo supposed to be sweet?
Traditionally, it’s more tangy and savory, but a bit of sugar can be added for balance.
Can I make this recipe gluten-free?
Yes, use gluten-free soy sauce or tamari to make the dish gluten-free.
Crockpot Chicken Adobo
Crockpot Chicken Adobo is a flavorful Filipino dish, perfect for busy weeknights or cozy weekend dinners. With tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich, tangy soy-vinegar sauce infused with garlic, bay leaves, and peppercorns, this recipe is a delicious blend of savory, tangy, and slightly sweet flavors.
Ingredients
- 3 lbs chicken (thighs and drumsticks work best)
- 2 tbsp cooking oil
- ½ cup white vinegar (Filipino cane vinegar preferred)
- ⅓ cup soy sauce
- 1 whole garlic (cloves crushed, peeled or unpeeled)
- 2 tsp whole black peppercorns (or freshly ground to taste)
- 3 dried bay leaves
- 1 tbsp sugar (optional, for a slightly sweeter Adobo)
Instructions
- Heat oil in a frying pan over medium heat. Brown the chicken pieces in batches for extra flavor. Short on time? Skip this step and directly place the chicken in the slow cooker.
- Mix vinegar and soy sauce, then pour over the chicken in the crockpot. Distribute the crushed garlic, peppercorns, and bay leaves evenly.
- Set the slow cooker on low and cook for 5-6 hours until the chicken is tender and infused with flavor.
- For a touch of sweetness, add sugar to the vinegar mix before cooking or sprinkle it in towards the end and gently stir.
- Pair with freshly steamed rice for the ultimate comfort meal. This dish gets even better the next day, so feel free to make it ahead!
Nutrition Information:
Yield: 6 Serving Size: 1Amount Per Serving: Calories: 563Total Fat: 34gSaturated Fat: 9gTrans Fat: 0gUnsaturated Fat: 23gCholesterol: 213mgSodium: 932mgCarbohydrates: 4gFiber: 0gSugar: 2gProtein: 56g
Chickenrecipes.blog, occasionally offers nutritional information for recipes contained on this site. This information is provided as a courtesy and is an estimate only. This information comes from online calculators. Although allchickenrecipes.com attempts to provide accurate nutritional information, these figures are only estimates.
Final Thoughts
Crockpot Chicken Adobo combines rich Filipino tradition with modern convenience. It’s the perfect meal for busy weeknights, yet special enough to impress guests. With its endless variations and easy preparation, this recipe is sure to become a staple in your meal rotation.
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