Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

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Are you looking for a quick and flavorful dinner recipe? Look no further than Instant Pot Chicken Adobo! This classic Filipino dish is simple to make, packed with bold flavors, and beloved by many. Not sure where to start when making this dish?

Today we are sharing our detailed step-by-step instructions on how to whip up the perfect batch of delicious Instant Pot Adobo Chicken that your family or guests are sure to love. So break out the slow cooker and get ready for a meal fit for even the most discerning of tastes!

What Is Adobo Chicken?

Adobo is a popular dish from the Philippines that is typically made with pork or chicken cooked in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and pepper. It has become an iconic Filipino dish both locally and abroad. The combination of ingredients creates a unique flavor profile with just enough acidity to balance out the salty and savory notes in this delicious sauce.

Is Adobo Chicken Spicy?

Adobo chicken is not traditionally spicy, but it can be made more or less spicy depending on how much pepper is used. The heat level can also be adjusted by adding chili flakes or hot sauce of your choice.

Is Chicken Adobo Healthy?

Yes! Chicken Adobo is a great option if you are looking for a healthy and flavorful dish. The use of vinegar and soy sauce adds flavor without adding too many extra calories. It’s also packed with protein, vitamins, and minerals that make it a nutritious meal.

Chicken Adobo Instant Pot Cooking Times

The prep time for filipino chicken adobo is 5 minutes 

Cook time is 15 minutes.

Pressure Release time is 10 minutes.

This Chicken Adobo recipe yields 2 servings 

Ingredients For Instant Pot Chicken Adobo

Here are the ingredients for your Chicken Adobo Instant Pot dish:

• 5 Chicken Thighs
• 2 Tablespoons Olive Oil
• 1/4 Teaspoon Salt, Kosher
• 1/4 Teaspoon Black Pepper
• 1/3 Cup Light Soy Sauce
• 1/4 Cup Brown Sugar
• 1/4 Cup White Vinegar or Rice Vinegar
• 2 Tablespoons Minced Garlic 
• 2 Bay Leaves
• 2 Tablespoons Chives, Freshly Diced 

How To Cook Adobo Chicken In The Instant Pot

Here are the step-by-step instructions for cooking Instant Pot Adobo Chicken.

Step One: Turn On Saute Function

Set the Instant Pot to sauté and add the oil.

Step Two: Saute The Chicken

Once the pot is hot, add the chicken and start to brown it off. Sauté the chicken for 2 minutes on each side, twice. 

Step Three: Add Vinegar And Deglaze

After the chicken is browned, add the vinegar and scrape the bottom of the pot to loosen any remnants to prevent burning. 

Step Four: Add Flavors To Make Adobo Chicken

Add the soy sauce, sugar, salt, pepper, garlic, and bay leaves.

Step Five: Pressure Cook Adobo Chicken

Seal the Instant Pot lid and pressure valve. Set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 7 minutes.

Step Six: Naturally Release Adobo Chicken

Once cooked, allow the pressure to naturally release for ten minutes and then release the remaining pressure.

Step Seven: Remove Chicken

Remove the chicken and drizzle the adobo sauce over the chicken. 

Step Eight: Garnish And Serve Chicken Adobo

Garnish the chicken pieces with chives and serve with steamed rice or cauliflower rice.

Can I Use Chicken Breasts For This Recipe?

Yes, we use chicken thighs for this filipino chicken adobo recipe but you can use chicken breasts or any other cuts that you have available such as chicken drumsticks.

Do I Need Skinless Chicken Thighs For Adobo Chicken?

No. You can use skinless chicken thighs but it’s not necessary. The flavor of the sauce will be more intense if you keep the skin on while cooking. You can use bone in chicken thighs for this tasty recipe.

Can I Use Frozen Chicken In This Recipe?

You can use Frozen chicken, however as you need to saute and brown the chicken thighs, it is best to use fresh or defrosted chicken.

Can I Freeze Adobo Chicken?

Yes, this dish freezes well! Once cooled, transfer to an airtight container and store in the freezer for up to 3 months.

Why Do I Use Brown Sugar?

The brown sugar helps to balance out the strong flavors of the vinegar and soy sauce. This will give your chicken adobo a sweet, tangy flavor that is unique and delicious!

What To Serve With Chicken Adobo

Chicken Adobo pairs perfectly with steamed rice or a side of vegetables. Try serving it alongside roasted or steamed broccoli, oven-roasted potatoes, or a big salad for a wholesome meal.

Top the fresh chicken and veggies off with some freshly diced chives for an extra boost of flavor.

Adobo chicken can be served with different types of rice from brown rice to white rice. It also tastes great with noodles or even quinoa.

For a refreshing side dish, serve with fresh slices of tomatoes, cucumbers and red onions to balance out the savory flavor of the adobo chicken.

You can also try adding some freshly squeezed lime juice for added zest!

Can I Use Low Sodium Soy Sauce In Adobo Chicken?

Yes, you can use low sodium soy sauce. The flavor of your chicken adobo will be slightly different than if you used regular soy sauce but it is still delicious!

In addition to the fresh ingredients, adding a sprinkle of nutritional yeast will provide an extra boost of protein and microminerals that make it a nutritious meal.

White Vinegar or Apple Cider Vinegar

Both white vinegar and apple cider vinegar will work for this recipe. White vinegar has a sharper flavor, while apple cider vinegar is milder and less acidic.

If you prefer to use apple cider vinegar, make sure to half the amount of sugar so that the dish does not get too sweet.

Enjoy Your Instant Pot Chicken Adobo Recipe

We hope you enjoy this delicious Instant Pot Chicken Adobo recipe! Bon Appetite!

Enjoy your meal and don’t forget to share with friends and family! We’d love to hear how yours goes.

More Instant Pot Recipes

If you are looking for more Instant Pot recipes, check out our other delicious meals.

• Instant Pot Bourbon Chicken
• Chicken Taco Soup
• Instant Pot Chicken Marsala
• Chicken Jalapeno Wings
• Instant Pot Italian Chicken
• Keto Snacks You Will Love
• Instant Pot Baked Potatoes