The aroma of Chicken Asado wafts through the air, enveloping your senses like a warm hug on a chilly day. Imagine tender chicken bathed in a rich, savory sauce, accompanied by the vibrant colors of fresh vegetablesβall simmered to perfection to create an unforgettable flavor experience.
This Chicken Asado recipe is not just food; itβs a memory-maker! Picture family gatherings filled with laughter and delicious bites, where every forkful transports you back to cherished moments. Itβs the kind of dish that transforms any ordinary weeknight into a celebration of flavors and warmth.
Why You'll Love This Recipe
- This easy-to-follow Chicken Asado recipe combines bold flavors with minimal prep time, making it perfect for busy weeknights
- The colorful presentation will impress your guests at any gathering
- With its versatile sauce, you can customize the dish to suit your taste preferences
- Enjoy this comforting meal that brings everyone together around the dinner table
Ingredients for Chicken Asado Recipe
Hereβs what youβll need to make this delicious dish:
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Boneless, Skinless Chicken Thighs: These are juicy and flavorful, making them ideal for absorbing the marinade and staying tender during cooking.
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Fresh Garlic: Use about five cloves; fresh garlic adds an aromatic punch that enhances the overall depth of flavor in this dish.
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Soy Sauce: Opt for low-sodium soy sauce to control saltiness while still providing that umami flavor essential to Chicken Asado.
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Brown Sugar: Sweetness balances the savory notes; I prefer brown sugar for its caramel undertones that elevate the dish beautifully.
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Onion: A medium-sized onion adds sweetness and depth; sautΓ© until translucent for maximum flavor extraction.
For the Sauce:
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Vinegar: White vinegar or apple cider vinegar works well; it adds tanginess that brightens up the rich flavors in the dish.
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Black Pepper: Freshly ground black pepper gives a spicy kick; adjust according to your heat preference.
The full ingredients list, including measurements, is provided in the recipe card directly below.
How to Make Chicken Asado Recipe
Start with Marinating the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, minced garlic, brown sugar, vinegar, and black pepper. Add chicken thighs and let them soak up those delicious flavors for at least one hour.
Next comes Searing: Heat some oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (but donβt toss it yet) and sear each piece until golden brown for about five minutes on each side.
Now Letβs Build Flavor: Add sliced onions to the skillet after removing chicken. SautΓ© until soft and fragrantβaround three minutesβthen return chicken along with reserved marinade back into the pan.
Time for Simmering: Pour in enough water to cover half of the chicken (about one cup). Bring everything to a gentle boil before reducing heat and letting it simmer uncovered for about twenty minutes.
Finishing Touches: Check if chicken is cooked through by ensuring it reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C). If desired, thicken sauce by simmering longer until it reaches your preferred consistency.
Serving Suggestions: Serve hot over steamed rice or mashed potatoes; donβt forget those luscious sauce drizzles on top! Garnish with fresh herbs or lime wedges for added zing!
Enjoy Your Meal: Gather around the table with loved ones as you dive into this comforting Chicken Asado recipe! Share stories and laughterβitβs what great meals are all about!
You Must Know
- This amazing chicken asado recipe offers more than just flavor; it makes meal prep a breeze
- You can easily customize the ingredients based on what you have on hand
- The vibrant colors and aromas make it visually stunning on any dinner table
- Perfect for grilling but versatile enough for baking or pan-searing
Perfecting the Cooking Process
Start by marinating the chicken, allowing those flavors to mingle beautifully. Sear the chicken first to lock in moisture, then move onto your sides while it cooks through. This sequence maximizes flavor and efficiency, ensuring everything is ready at the same time.
Add Your Touch
Feel free to switch up the seasonings! Try adding fresh herbs like cilantro or swapping out lime for lemon. You can also toss in some diced bell peppers or onions for an added crunch and flavor explosion that will make your taste buds sing.
Storing & Reheating
Store leftover chicken asado in an airtight container in the fridge for up to three days. When reheating, do so gently on the stovetop or microwave until warmed through, ensuring it remains juicy and flavorful.
Chef's Helpful Tips
- Ensure your chicken is thoroughly marinated for at least an hour to maximize flavor absorption
- Use a meat thermometer to check that your chicken reaches 165Β°F for perfect doneness
- Letting it rest after cooking helps retain its juices, making every bite succulent
I still remember the first time I served this chicken asado at a family gathering; everyone raved about it! One cousin even insisted I should start a food truck with my recipesβnow thatβs a compliment!
FAQs :
What is Chicken Asado Recipe?
The Chicken Asado recipe originates from the Philippines, featuring marinated chicken cooked in a savory sauce. It typically includes soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and bay leaves, creating a deliciously tangy flavor. This dish is often served with rice and vegetables, making it a complete meal. The beauty of the Chicken Asado recipe lies in its simplicity and the ability to adjust ingredients according to personal preferences.
How long does it take to prepare Chicken Asado?
Preparing Chicken Asado takes about 20 minutes of active cooking time, plus an additional hour for marinating. The marination process allows the flavors to penetrate the chicken deeply, enhancing the overall taste. Once marinated, cooking usually takes around 30-40 minutes on medium heat until the chicken is tender and fully cooked. In total, you can enjoy this dish in about an hour and a half.
Can I make Chicken Asado ahead of time?
Yes, you can make Chicken Asado ahead of time. In fact, preparing it a day in advance allows the flavors to meld even more deliciously. Just marinate the chicken and store it in the refrigerator overnight. When ready to serve, cook it as directed in your Chicken Asado recipe. Leftovers can also be stored properly and reheated for up to three days for an easy meal later.
What sides pair well with Chicken Asado?
Chicken Asado pairs wonderfully with various sides that complement its rich flavors. Steamed rice is a classic choice that absorbs the savory sauce beautifully. You might also consider serving it alongside sautΓ©ed vegetables or a fresh salad for added crunch and nutrition. For a heartier meal, you could include mashed potatoes or roasted sweet potatoes as additional sides.
Conclusion for Chicken Asado Recipe :
The Chicken Asado recipe is a delightful dish that combines simple ingredients into a flavorful meal perfect for any occasion. With its tangy marinade and tender chicken, this recipe promises satisfaction with every bite. Preparing it ahead of time enhances its flavors, making it convenient for busy weeknights or special gatherings. Serve your Chicken Asado with rice or vegetables to create a complete dining experience that everyone will enjoy!

Chicken Asado
- Total Time: 50 minutes
- Yield: Serves 4
Description
Chicken Asado is a flavorful Filipino dish featuring tender marinated chicken thighs simmered in a rich, savory sauce. With its harmonious blend of soy sauce, garlic, and vinegar, this recipe creates a comforting meal thatβs perfect for both weeknight dinners and special family gatherings. Easy to prepare and customizable, Chicken Asado is sure to impress with its vibrant flavors and inviting aroma.
Ingredients
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 5 cloves fresh garlic, minced
- 1/4 cup low-sodium soy sauce
- 2 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 medium onion, sliced
- 1/4 cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
- 1 tsp freshly ground black pepper
- 1 cup water
Instructions
- In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, garlic, brown sugar, vinegar, and black pepper. Add chicken thighs and marinate for at least one hour.
- Heat oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade) and sear until golden brown on both sides (about 5 minutes each).
- SautΓ© sliced onions in the same skillet until soft (about 3 minutes). Return chicken to the skillet and pour in reserved marinade.
- Add enough water to cover half of the chicken (around 1 cup). Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat and simmer uncovered for about 20 minutes.
- Ensure chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165Β°F (75Β°C). Thicken the sauce by simmering longer if desired.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 30 minutes
- Category: Main
- Method: Searing/Simmering
- Cuisine: Filipino
Nutrition
- Serving Size: 1 piece of chicken thigh with sauce (200g)
- Calories: 290
- Sugar: 6g
- Sodium: 680mg
- Fat: 12g
- Saturated Fat: 3g
- Unsaturated Fat: 8g
- Trans Fat: 0g
- Carbohydrates: 14g
- Fiber: 1g
- Protein: 30g
- Cholesterol: 90mg
Keywords: Customize flavors by adding fresh herbs like cilantro or swapping lime for lemon. For added crunch, include diced bell peppers or carrots.