A Filipino Dish with a Twist: Adobo Chicken Tacos

Introduction

Adobo Chicken Tacos A Fusion cuisine brings together elements from different culinary traditions to create something new and exciting. In this recipe, we blend the rich flavors of Filipino adobo with the vibrant, fresh elements of Mexican tacos. Adobo, a beloved Filipino dish, typically features marinated meat in a mixture of vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and spices. By incorporating adobo chicken into tacos, we create a delightful fusion that offers a fresh take on traditional flavors.

Why I Love Adobo

Adobo holds a special place in my heart and my kitchen. The balance of flavors in adobo is simply unparalleled—savory soy sauce, tangy vinegar, aromatic garlic, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar. Each bite takes me back to family gatherings and celebrations where adobo was always a star on the dining table. It’s a dish that represents comfort and home, evoking memories of shared meals and cherished moments. The simplicity and depth of adobo make it not just a meal, but an experience. This is why I love adobo; it’s more than just food, it’s a connection to my heritage and a source of endless culinary inspiration.

A Filipino Dish with a Twist: Adobo Chicken Tacos

Recipe by OrionAdvertisingLLCCourse: Main CourseCuisine: Fusion (Filipino-Mexican)Difficulty: Easy

Servings

4

servings

Prep time

30

minutes

Cooking time

40

minutes

Calories

300

kcal

Adobo Chicken Tacos blend the rich, savory flavors of traditional Filipino adobo with the fresh, vibrant elements of Mexican tacos. This fusion dish features marinated chicken thighs in a tangy, garlic-infused sauce, served on warm corn tortillas and topped with crunchy cabbage, pickled red onions, and fresh cilantro. Perfect for a unique and delicious meal that bridges two beloved culinary traditions.

Ingredients

• 1 lb chicken thighs, boneless and skinless

• 1/2 cup soy sauce

• 1/2 cup vinegar (cane vinegar preferred)

• 6 cloves garlic, minced

• 1 tsp black peppercorns

• 3 bay leaves

• 1 tbsp brown sugar

• 1 tbsp olive oil

• 1 cup water

• 8 small corn tortillas

• 1 cup shredded cabbage

• 1/2 cup pickled red onions

• 1/4 cup fresh cilantro, chopped

• Lime wedges, for serving

• Optional: sliced jalapeños, avocado, sour cream

Instructions

• Preparing the Adobo Chicken
• Marinate the Chicken: In a bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, black peppercorns, bay leaves, and brown sugar. Add the chicken thighs, ensuring they are well-coated. Marinate for at least 30 minutes, preferably overnight for better flavor.
• Cook the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Add the marinated chicken thighs and sear on both sides until browned.
• Simmer the Adobo: Pour the marinade into the skillet, along with 1 cup of water. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer for 30 minutes, or until the chicken is tender and the sauce has thickened.
• Shred the Chicken: Remove the chicken from the skillet and shred it using two forks. Return the shredded chicken to the skillet and mix with the remaining sauce.
• Assembling the Tacos
• Warm the Tortillas: Heat the corn tortillas in a dry skillet over medium heat until they are warm and pliable.
• Assemble the Tacos: Place a generous amount of adobo chicken on each tortilla. Top with shredded cabbage, pickled red onions, and fresh cilantro.
• Add Finishing Touches: Serve with lime wedges and optional toppings like sliced jalapeños, avocado, and sour cream for added flavor.

Tips for Perfect Adobo Chicken Tacos

• Marinate Well: The longer you marinate the chicken, the deeper the flavors will be. Overnight marination is ideal.
• Control the Heat: Adjust the amount of jalapeños to your spice preference. If you like it hot, add more sliced jalapeños or even some hot sauce.
• Tortilla Choice: Corn tortillas provide a traditional Mexican touch, but you can use flour tortillas if preferred.

Variations to Try

• Pork Adobo Tacos: Substitute chicken with pork shoulder or belly for a different texture and flavor.
• Adobo Fish Tacos: Use firm white fish like cod or tilapia, and marinate it similarly before grilling or baking.
• Vegetarian Adobo Tacos: Replace meat with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, tofu, or jackfruit for a vegetarian version.

Why This Fusion Works

Combining Filipino and Mexican cuisines brings together rich, savory flavors with fresh, vibrant elements. Adobo’s umami-packed profile is perfectly complemented by the crunchy cabbage, tangy pickled onions, and fresh cilantro, creating a balanced and delicious dish that pays homage to both culinary traditions.

Perfect Pairings for Adobo Chicken Tacos

Adobo chicken tacos are incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of sides and beverages to complete the meal. Consider serving these tacos with Mexican-style rice or a refreshing corn salad. For drinks, a cold cerveza (beer) or a tangy margarita would complement the flavors beautifully. If you prefer non-alcoholic options, try a chilled horchata or a sparkling water with lime.

Cooking Adobo Chicken in an Instant Pot

For those who prefer using modern kitchen gadgets, cooking adobo chicken in an Instant Pot can save time while preserving flavor. Marinate the chicken as usual, then set your Instant Pot to sauté mode to sear the chicken. Add the marinade and water, then cook on high pressure for 15 minutes. Allow natural release, then shred the chicken and reduce the sauce on sauté mode if necessary.

Storing and Reheating Leftovers

Adobo chicken tacos are great for meal prep. Store any leftover adobo chicken in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to three days. To reheat, simply warm the chicken in a skillet over medium heat until heated through. The flavors often deepen after a day or two, making leftovers just as delicious as the original meal.

Why I Love Adobo

Adobo holds a special place in my heart and my kitchen. The balance of flavors in adobo is simply unparalleled—savory soy sauce, tangy vinegar, aromatic garlic, and a hint of sweetness from brown sugar. Each bite takes me back to family gatherings and celebrations where adobo was always a star on the dining table. It’s a dish that represents comfort and home, evoking memories of shared meals and cherished moments. The simplicity and depth of adobo make it not just a meal, but an experience. This is why I love adobo; it’s more than just food, it’s a connection to my heritage and a source of endless culinary inspiration.

FAQ

Conclusion

Adobo chicken tacos are a perfect example of fusion cuisine done right, blending the rich, savory flavors of Filipino adobo with the fresh, vibrant elements of Mexican tacos. This dish offers a unique and delicious way to enjoy two beloved culinary traditions in one bite.