Adobo Grilled Chicken is a dish that captures the vibrant flavors of Filipino cuisine, offering a smoky, tangy, and savory experience in every bite. The chicken is marinated in a blend of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, and spices, creating a balance of saltiness and acidity that tenderizes the meat while infusing it with robust flavors. Grilling adds a layer of smoky char, elevating the dish into a perfect centerpiece for a summer barbecue or a cozy dinner at home. Serve it with steamed rice or a fresh salad for a satisfying meal that’s sure to impress.
Ingredients:
- 4 bone-in, skin-on chicken thighs (or drumsticks)
- 1/3 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 4 garlic cloves, minced
- 2 bay leaves
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp chili flakes (optional, for heat)
- Lemon wedges, for serving
Instructions:
- Prepare the Marinade: In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, black pepper, smoked paprika, brown sugar, olive oil, and chili flakes if using.
- Marinate the Chicken: Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a zip-top bag. Refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, for the best flavor.
- Preheat the Grill: Heat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375–400°F). If using charcoal, ensure the coals are evenly spread for consistent heat.
- Grill the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the marinade and shake off excess liquid. Reserve the marinade for basting. Place the chicken on the grill, skin side down. Grill for about 6–8 minutes per side, basting occasionally with the reserved marinade, until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F and has a nice char.
- Rest and Serve: Remove the chicken from the grill and let it rest for 5 minutes. Serve hot with lemon wedges and your favorite side dishes.
Enjoy the deliciously smoky and tangy flavors of this Adobo Grilled Chicken, a dish that brings a taste of the Philippines to your table!
