Craving that iconic Jollibee Adobo Rice flavor? Forget the drive-thru! This recipe brings the deliciousness of that famous Filipino fast-food favorite right into your kitchen. It's surprisingly easy to make, requires readily available ingredients, and delivers a flavor explosion that will leave you wanting more. Get ready to experience the joy of homemade, healthy, and incredibly satisfying Adobo Rice – perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a fun weekend feast.
Ingredients:
This recipe yields approximately 4 servings.
-
For the Adobo Chicken:
- 1 lb boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1-inch pieces
- 1/2 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup cane vinegar
- 1/4 cup water
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional, for a touch of sweetness)
- 2 tablespoons cooking oil
-
For the Rice:
- 2 cups uncooked long-grain white rice
- 4 cups water or chicken broth (for added flavor)
Instructions:
Making the Adobo Chicken:
- Marinate the chicken: In a bowl, combine the chicken, soy sauce, vinegar, water, garlic, peppercorns, bay leaf, and brown sugar (if using). Mix well and let it marinate for at least 30 minutes, or preferably longer in the refrigerator for maximum flavor.
- Cook the adobo: Heat the cooking oil in a pot or large skillet over medium-high heat. Add the marinated chicken and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned on all sides.
- Simmer: Reduce the heat to low, cover the pot, and let the chicken simmer for about 20-25 minutes, or until it’s cooked through and tender. Check occasionally and stir gently to prevent sticking.
- Reduce the sauce: Once the chicken is cooked, remove the lid and increase the heat to medium. Let the sauce simmer for another 5-10 minutes, or until it has reduced and thickened to your desired consistency. Remove the bay leaf before serving.
Cooking the Rice:
- Rinse the rice: Rinse the rice under cold water until the water runs clear. This helps remove excess starch and prevents sticking.
- Cook the rice: In a separate pot, combine the rinsed rice and water (or chicken broth). Bring to a boil, then reduce the heat to low, cover, and simmer for 15-20 minutes, or until all the water is absorbed and the rice is cooked through.
- Fluff the rice: Once cooked, remove the pot from the heat and let it stand, covered, for 5 minutes. Fluff the rice with a fork before serving.
Assembling the Adobo Rice:
Gently mix the cooked adobo chicken and its flavorful sauce into the fluffy rice. Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips and Variations:
- For a spicier adobo: Add a few sliced chilies to the marinade or the cooking pot.
- Add vegetables: Include bell peppers, onions, or potatoes to the adobo for a heartier dish.
- Use chicken breast: While thighs are recommended for their juiciness, you can substitute with chicken breasts. Just reduce the cooking time as they cook faster.
- Make it ahead: The adobo chicken can be made ahead of time and stored in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat before serving.
Nutritional Information (per serving, approximate):
- Calories: Approximately 350-400
- Protein: 30-35g
- Carbohydrates: 40-45g
- Fat: 10-15g
This nutritional information is an estimate and may vary depending on the specific ingredients used.
This easy Adobo Rice recipe offers a delicious and authentic taste of the Philippines. It's a quick and simple dinner idea perfect for busy weeknights, yet impressive enough for a special occasion. Enjoy this delicious homemade meal!