Filipino Chicken Adobo with Bell Peppers and Green Beans

Filipino Adobo is not a spice mix, but a cooking technique: simmering meat (or vegetables) in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and peppercorns. This ancient preservation method existed before Spanish colonization, though they gave it its name. During the long braise, the vinegar's acidity mellows, the soy sauce caramelizes, and a thick, dark, umami-rich glaze coats the ingredients.
🕒 Prep Time 15 mins
🍳 Cook Time 30 mins
Total Time 45 mins
🍽️ Servings 4 servings
🔥 Calories 315 kcal
🌍 Cuisine Filipino

Ingredients

Equipment Needed

  • Large pot or skillet with lid
  • Cutting board

Allergen Information

⚠️ Soy

Instructions

1

Cut the chicken into bite-sized pieces. Heat oil in a pan and sear the chicken until it turns white/opaque.

Tip: No need to cook through, just sear the outside.
2

Add chopped onion and crushed garlic. Sauté for a few minutes until fragrant.

Tip: Garlic is the soul of Adobo, don't skimp!
3

Add diced peppers, sliced carrots, and green beans.

Tip: Harder vegetables like carrots should go in with the meat before adding liquid.
4

Pour in soy sauce, vinegar, and add pepper, cumin, and bay leaves. Add a splash of water (about 1/4 cup).

Tip: Do not stir! Let the vinegar boil for 2-3 minutes to remove the harsh taste.
5

Cover and simmer on low heat for 20-25 minutes until chicken is tender and sauce thickens.

Tip: Steam tenderizes the veggies while the meat absorbs the marinade.
6

Taste and add salt if needed (soy sauce is salty!), then garnish with fresh cilantro before serving.

Tip: Adobo tastes even better the next day.

Recipe FAQ

Why shouldn't I stir after adding vinegar?
Filipino tradition says to let the vinegar 'cook off' for a few minutes so the sharp acidity evaporates. If you stir, it tastes 'raw'.
It's too salty, what now?
Add a little sugar or some more water/potatoes.

Ingredients

  • 1 lb Chicken Thighs (boneless or bone-in)
  • 1 whole Red Bell Pepper
  • 1 whole Green Bell Pepper
  • 1 medium Red Onion
  • 4 cloves Garlic
  • 3 tbsp Vegetable Oil
  • 2 tbsp Soy Sauce
  • 2 tbsp White Vinegar (or Apple Cider Vinegar)
  • 1 bunch Cilantro
  • 1 tsp Ground Cumin
  • 2 leaves Bay Leaves
  • 1 medium Carrot
  • 3 1/2 oz Green Beans
  • 1 tsp Salt
  • 1/2 tsp Freshly Ground Black Pepper