Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

If you’re looking to spice up your weeknight dinner routine, look no further than Instant Pot Chicken Adobo. This Filipino classic is a perfect blend of savory and tangy flavors, making it a dish that will have everyone at the table asking for seconds. The best part? It’s a one-pot meal that comes together in no time thanks to the magic of the Instant Pot. Whether you’re preparing a cozy family dinner or impressing guests, this recipe is sure to be a hit!

Why You’ll Keep Making It

Instant Pot Chicken Adobo is a dish that checks all the boxes. It’s quick to prepare, full of flavor, and incredibly versatile. The combination of soy sauce, vinegar, and spices creates a rich, savory sauce that clings beautifully to the tender chicken. Plus, you can easily adjust the ingredients based on your pantry staples or what you have on hand. Whether you serve it over rice, with noodles, or on its own, this dish never disappoints.

What You’ll Gather

• 1-2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs or legs: These cuts are perfect for absorbing the delicious adobo flavors.
• 1 tablespoon unsalted butter: For sautéing and adding a touch of richness.
• 1 cup chopped onion: Adds sweetness and depth to the dish.
• 1 red bell pepper, sliced: For a pop of color and sweetness.
• 1 green bell pepper, sliced: Adds a fresh crunch and balances the flavors.
• 1 tablespoon minced garlic: Because garlic makes everything better!
• ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce: The backbone of the adobo flavor.
• ½ cup rice vinegar: Provides that signature tanginess.
• 2-3 bay leaves: For an aromatic touch.
• 1 teaspoon kosher salt: To enhance all the flavors.
• ½ teaspoon ground black pepper: To add a bit of heat.

What’s in the Gear List

• Instant Pot: The star of the show, allowing for quick cooking and easy cleanup.
• Cutting board and knife: For prepping your ingredients.
• Measuring cups and spoons: To ensure accuracy in your recipe.
• Wooden spoon or spatula: For stirring and sautéing.
• Serving platter or bowls: To present your delicious creation.

The Method for Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Step 1: Sauté the Aromatics

Start by turning your Instant Pot to the sauté function. Add the 1 tablespoon of unsalted butter and let it melt. Once melted, toss in the 1 cup of chopped onion and sauté until translucent, about 3-4 minutes. Add the 1 tablespoon of minced garlic and sauté for an additional minute until fragrant.

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Add the 1-2 pounds of chicken thighs or legs to the pot. Sear them on all sides until they turn golden brown, about 5-7 minutes. Don’t worry about cooking them through; they will finish cooking under pressure.

Step 3: Add the Vegetables and Seasonings

Once the chicken is browned, add the 1 red bell pepper and 1 green bell pepper slices to the pot. Follow with the ½ cup low-sodium soy sauce, ½ cup rice vinegar, 2-3 bay leaves, 1 teaspoon kosher salt, and ½ teaspoon ground black pepper. Stir everything together to combine.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Secure the lid on your Instant Pot and set it to manual high pressure for 10 minutes. Once the cooking time is complete, allow for a natural pressure release for about 10 minutes before performing a quick release for any remaining pressure.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy

Carefully remove the lid and discard the bay leaves. Give the chicken a gentle stir to coat it in the sauce. Serve hot over rice or noodles, garnished with fresh herbs if desired. Enjoy your delicious Instant Pot Chicken Adobo!

Seasonal Twists

• In the summer, add fresh mango slices for a sweet twist.
• In the fall, throw in some diced sweet potatoes for added heartiness.
• In the winter, consider using root vegetables like carrots and parsnips.
• Add a dash of chili flakes for a spicy kick year-round.

What Could Go Wrong

Even the best cooks can run into issues! Here are a few common pitfalls to avoid:

• Chicken Overcooked: Be mindful of the cooking time. The Instant Pot cooks quickly, and too long can lead to dry chicken.
• Burning the Aromatics: Keep an eye on the sautéing onions and garlic; they can burn quickly.
• Too Salty: If you’re using regular soy sauce, reduce the amount of added salt.
• Not Enough Sauce: If you prefer more sauce, feel free to add a bit more vinegar and soy sauce before cooking.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This dish is perfect for meal prep! You can make it ahead of time and store it in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors will continue to meld and improve as it sits. To store, let it cool completely, then transfer it to an airtight container.

• Reheat in the microwave or on the stovetop until warmed through.
• Instant Pot Chicken Adobo also freezes well! Store it in freezer-safe containers for up to 3 months.

Your Questions, Answered

Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs or legs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but keep in mind they may dry out faster. Adjust the cooking time to about 8 minutes for breasts.

What can I serve with Instant Pot Chicken Adobo?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed rice, quinoa, or even fresh salad. Feel free to get creative!

Can I double the recipe?

Yes, you can double the recipe, but make sure not to exceed the maximum fill line of your Instant Pot. You may need to increase the cooking time slightly.

Is Instant Pot Chicken Adobo spicy?

This recipe is not inherently spicy, but you can easily add chili pepper or flakes to dial up the heat if desired!

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Ready to Cook?

Now that you have all the details on making Instant Pot Chicken Adobo, it’s time to gather your ingredients and get cooking! This dish promises to be a game changer for your meal planning and will leave your taste buds dancing with joy. Enjoy the process, and don’t forget to share your delicious results with family and friends. Happy cooking!