Filipino Chicken Asado – Culinary Chase
I have a soft spot for hearty, comforting meals that come from cherished culinary traditions. Filipino Chicken Asado takes that top spot in my heart—and my kitchen! It’s an incredible main dish that’s always a hit at potlucks and family dinners.
Serve this delightful meal with fluffy white rice, and you’ve got the perfect pairing that transforms any ordinary meal into something extraordinary. The rich flavor of the chicken and the tangy notes of the marinade are just too good to resist.
Filipino Chicken Asado is a play on the traditional Spanish “asado,” which often features roasted meats. But here in the Philippines, it carries its own unique flavor profile. The dish typically highlights chicken marinated in soy sauce, citrus, and a mix of spices, which results in tender meat infused with deep, savory notes.
It’s a dish that encapsulates my experience in Filipino cooking, inviting everyone to the table with its vibrant flavors and aromas.
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What is Filipino Chicken Asado?
In essence, Filipino Chicken Asado is more than just a dish; it’s a culinary tradition that brings family and friends together. The chicken is marinated in a concoction of soy sauce, lemon juice, and spices, giving it a brilliant taste that lingers long after the meal is over. While it’s often accompanied by rice, you can also serve it with a side of vegetables for a well-rounded feast. Its simplicity and depth make it a favorite among many, both locally and internationally.
How Does It Taste Like?
Imagine the first bite: tender chicken that falls off the bone, combined with a sweet-savory sauce and tender vegetables. The marinade adds a wonderful depth to the chicken, while the slight sweetness from the sugar and the tang from the lemon juice make for an outstanding flavor.
Why You’ll Love This Recipe
You’ll appreciate this recipe for its ease and bold flavors. It’s a one-pot wonder that both kids and adults love. Plus, it’s make-ahead friendly, so you can marinate the chicken a day before and let the flavors really develop. If you’re busy like me, you’d love how this dish can save you time in the kitchen while delivering maximum taste!
The Ingredients
Here’s what you will need to whip up this delightful dish:
– For Marinade:
– 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs, skin removed
– ¼ cup soy sauce
– ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
– 2 bay leaves
– 3 garlic cloves, finely minced
– ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
– 1 star anise
– 1 tablespoon ginger, minced (adds warmth and extra flavor)
– For Asado:
– 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
– 1 medium onion, chopped
– 4 garlic cloves, finely chopped
– 1½ cups tomato sauce
– 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
– ½ tablespoon sugar
– 1 large potato, peeled and cubed
– ½ red bell pepper, diced
– ½ yellow bell pepper, diced
– ½ green bell pepper, diced (you can also throw in some sliced carrots for added sweetness)
Ingredients From : gypsyplate.com
How to Make Filipino Chicken Asado
Get ready to embrace the flavors of Filipino cuisine! Here’s a detailed breakdown of how to prepare this tasty chicken asado.
Step-by-step Directions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, bay leaves, cracked black pepper, star anise, and fresh ginger. Make sure every piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least two hours, or overnight for an even richer flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces, discarding the marinade (but keep it for later!). Allow the chicken to sear undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, scraping up any tasty bits from the chicken that may have stuck to the bottom.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
Pour in the tomato sauce along with the reserved marinade and oyster sauce. Stir it all together and let it cook for 2-3 minutes so that the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Bring the Chicken Back
Add the seared chicken back into the skillet, mixing it into the sauce. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors.
Step 6: Add Water and Sugar
Stir in 1.5 cups of water and the sugar, giving everything a good mix. Cover again and let it cook for approximately 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to tenderize.
Step 7: Incorporate the Potatoes
Now, toss in the cubed potatoes into the skillet. Continue cooking until the chicken is fall-apart tender, allowing around 20 minutes for this step. About 10 minutes before it’s done, add the diced bell peppers for that wonderful crunch and sweetness.
Tips On Making Filipino Chicken Asado
– Marinate Longer: If you have time, marinate the chicken overnight for deeper flavor.
– Add a Kick: Spice lovers can add a chopped chili or two for some heat.
– Veggie Variety: Feel free to add other vegetables like carrots or peas for extra nutrients.
– Low Sodium Option: Use low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness.
– Thick Sauces: If you prefer a thicker sauce, let it cook uncovered for a few minutes at the end.
Storage Tips
Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. You can also freeze the chicken asado in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Just reheat it on the stovetop when you’re ready to enjoy it again!
Serving Suggestions
Here are a few ways to enjoy your Chicken Asado:
– Over Rice: Serve it heaped over a mountain of fluffy steamed rice for a comforting meal.
– With Bread: Use crusty bread to mop up the rich sauce.
– Wrap in Lettuce: Make it a fun meal by wrapping chicken and veggies in lettuce leaves for a refreshing bite.
– Paired with Salad: A crisp green salad on the side adds a nice crunch and balances the flavors.
– As a Filling: Use the chicken as a filling for tortillas or sandwiches for a tasty twist.
What Other Substitutes Can I Use in Filipino Chicken Asado?
– Chicken Breasts: If you prefer white meat, go for boneless chicken breasts, but these will cook faster, so adjust your timing.
– Tamari: For a gluten-free option, substitute soy sauce with tamari.
– Fresh Herbs: Add fresh basil or cilantro to brighten the dish at the end.
– Vegetable Stock: Replace water with vegetable stock for added flavor.
– Sweet Potatoes: Swap regular potatoes for sweet potatoes for a healthier twist and a hint of sweetness.
Filipino Chicken Asado
Equipment
- Large skillet
- Mixing bowl
- chef’s knife
- cutting board
Ingredients
- Here’s what you will need to whip up this delightful dish:
– For Marinade:
- – 2 pounds bone-in chicken thighs skin removed
- – ¼ cup soy sauce
- – ¼ cup freshly squeezed lemon juice
- – 2 bay leaves
- – 3 garlic cloves finely minced
- – ½ teaspoon freshly cracked black pepper
- – 1 star anise
- – 1 tablespoon ginger minced (adds warmth and extra flavor)
– For Asado:
- – 3 tablespoons vegetable oil
- – 1 medium onion chopped
- – 4 garlic cloves finely chopped
- – 1½ cups tomato sauce
- – 2 tablespoons oyster sauce
- – ½ tablespoon sugar
- – 1 large potato peeled and cubed
- – ½ red bell pepper diced
- – ½ yellow bell pepper diced
- – ½ green bell pepper diced (you can also throw in some sliced carrots for added sweetness)
Instructions
Step 1: Marinate the Chicken
- In a mixing bowl, combine the chicken pieces with soy sauce, lemon juice, minced garlic, bay leaves, cracked black pepper, star anise, and fresh ginger. Make sure every piece is well-coated. Cover the bowl and place it in the fridge for at least two hours, or overnight for an even richer flavor.
Step 2: Sear the Chicken
- Heat the vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces, discarding the marinade (but keep it for later!). Allow the chicken to sear undisturbed for about 4-5 minutes on each side until golden brown. Remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside on a plate.
Step 3: Sauté Aromatics
- In the same skillet, add the chopped onion and minced garlic. Sauté for about 2-3 minutes until the onion becomes soft and translucent, scraping up any tasty bits from the chicken that may have stuck to the bottom.
Step 4: Create the Sauce
- Pour in the tomato sauce along with the reserved marinade and oyster sauce. Stir it all together and let it cook for 2-3 minutes so that the flavors meld beautifully.
Step 5: Bring the Chicken Back
- Add the seared chicken back into the skillet, mixing it into the sauce. Cover the pan and let it simmer for about 5 minutes, allowing the chicken to soak up the flavors.
Step 6: Add Water and Sugar
- Stir in 1.5 cups of water and the sugar, giving everything a good mix. Cover again and let it cook for approximately 10 minutes, allowing the chicken to tenderize.
Step 7: Incorporate the Potatoes
- Now, toss in the cubed potatoes into the skillet. Continue cooking until the chicken is fall-apart tender, allowing around 20 minutes for this step. About 10 minutes before it’s done, add the diced bell peppers for that wonderful crunch and sweetness.
Notes
Nutrition
FAQs
1. Can I use other meats for this dish?
Absolutely! You can use pork or even beef for a version of asado. Just adjust the cooking time based on the meat’s tenderness.
2. Can I prepare this dish in a slow cooker?
Yes! After marinating, sear the chicken, then add everything to the slow cooker. Cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.
3. How spicy is Filipino Chicken Asado?
This dish isn’t inherently spicy, but you can easily adjust the heat level by adding peppers to the marinade or sauce.
4. What should I do if the sauce is too sour?
If the sauce turns out too tangy, a pinch more sugar can help balance it out.
5. Is this dish kid-friendly?
Definitely! With its savory flavors and tender chicken, kids usually enjoy it. Adjust pepper and spice levels to suit younger palates.
Conclusion
Filipino Chicken Asado is more than just a meal; it’s a taste of culture and tradition that brings people together. It’s comforting, flavorful, and can fit into any busy schedule.
Whether you’re sharing a meal with family or inviting friends over, this dish will surely impress. So, roll up your sleeves and bring some Filipino flavors into your kitchen. Happy cooking!