If you’re on the lookout for a simple yet flavorful dish, look no further than this Easy Instant Pot Chicken Adobo Recipe. This traditional Filipino dish is packed with savory and tangy flavors, and using the Instant Pot makes it incredibly easy to prepare. The chicken thighs become tender and juicy, absorbing the rich sauce beautifully. Serve it over rice, and you’ll have a comforting meal your whole family will love.

Why It Works Every Time

The magic of this Easy Instant Pot Chicken Adobo Recipe lies in the combination of ingredients and the method of cooking. The pressure cooking process locks in moisture, ensuring the chicken thighs are perfectly tender. The soy sauce and vinegar create a delicious balance of umami and acidity, and the garlic adds depth to the flavor profile. Plus, the Instant Pot significantly reduces cooking time without compromising taste or texture.

What’s in the Bowl

To create this delicious dish, gather the following ingredients:

5 chicken thighs with skin
2 tablespoons olive oil
1/4 teaspoon kosher salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1/3 cup soy sauce
1/4 cup sugar
1/4 cup white vinegar
2 tablespoons minced garlic
2 bay leaves
2 tablespoons freshly diced chives

Each ingredient plays a crucial role, from the savory soy sauce to the sweetness of sugar, balancing the overall flavor of the dish.

Must-Have Equipment

Before you start cooking, make sure you have the following equipment on hand:

Instant Pot: The star of the show, allowing for quick and easy cooking.
Measuring cups and spoons: For accurate measurements of each ingredient.
Wooden spoon: Perfect for stirring and ensuring even distribution of flavors.
Cutting board and knife: Essential for prepping your ingredients.

Having the right tools will streamline your cooking process and ensure a delightful outcome.

Cook Easy Instant Pot Chicken Adobo Recipe Like This

Now that you have everything ready, let’s dive into the step-by-step process of making this Easy Instant Pot Chicken Adobo Recipe.

Step 1: Prepare the Chicken

Start by seasoning the chicken thighs with kosher salt and black pepper. This initial seasoning is important for building flavor right from the beginning.

Step 2: Sauté the Chicken

Turn your Instant Pot to the sauté function and add the olive oil. Once hot, add the seasoned chicken thighs, skin side down. Sauté for about 4-5 minutes or until the skin is golden brown. Flip and sauté for another 2-3 minutes. Remove the chicken and set aside.

Step 3: Cook the Aromatics

In the same pot, add minced garlic and sauté for about 30 seconds until fragrant. Make sure to scrape up any brown bits from the bottom of the pot; this adds incredible flavor to your dish.

Step 4: Pressure Cook

Add the soy sauce, sugar, vinegar, and bay leaves to the pot, mixing well. Return the chicken thighs to the pot, making sure they are submerged in the liquid. Close the lid and set the Instant Pot to high pressure for 10 minutes.

Step 5: Release the Pressure

Once the cooking time is up, let the pressure release naturally for about 5 minutes, then carefully switch to quick release to let out any remaining steam.

Step 6: Garnish and Serve

Remove the chicken from the pot and let it rest for a few minutes. Meanwhile, if you want to thicken the sauce, use the sauté function again to reduce it slightly. Serve the chicken hot, drizzled with sauce and garnished with freshly diced chives.

Dietary Customizations

If you need to make dietary adjustments, consider the following options:

Low-sodium soy sauce: If you’re watching your sodium intake, this is a great alternative.
Substituting chicken thighs: You can use chicken breasts, though they may cook faster, so adjust the cooking time.
Vegan option: Substitute chicken with tofu and use vegetable broth instead of chicken broth.
Gluten-free: Use tamari or coconut aminos in place of soy sauce.

These variations ensure that everyone can enjoy this dish regardless of dietary restrictions.

Pro Perspective

One of the best things about this Easy Instant Pot Chicken Adobo Recipe is its versatility. You can easily adjust the flavors to suit your taste. If you prefer a spicier version, consider adding red pepper flakes or fresh chili peppers. Additionally, serving this dish with jasmine rice or even Garlic Butter Chicken Thighs With Rice Pilaf can elevate your meal even further. When it comes to presentation, a sprinkle of fresh herbs like cilantro or parsley can add a lovely pop of color and freshness.

Make-Ahead & Storage

This dish is perfect for meal prep or make-ahead dinners. You can cook the chicken adobo ahead of time and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 4 days. The flavors actually deepen over time, making it even tastier when reheated. For longer storage, consider freezing it in portions. Thaw in the refrigerator overnight before reheating on the stovetop or in the microwave. This makes for a quick weeknight meal that’s bursting with flavor.

Quick Questions

Can I use boneless chicken thighs for this recipe?

Yes, boneless chicken thighs will work well, but you may need to reduce the cooking time slightly, about 8 minutes on high pressure.

What can I serve with Chicken Adobo?

This dish pairs beautifully with steamed white rice, but you can also serve it with Creamy Cajun Corn Chicken Chowder or roasted vegetables for a complete meal.

Can I make this recipe in a slow cooker?

Absolutely! Simply follow the same steps for sautéing, then transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 6-8 hours or high for 3-4 hours.

Is Chicken Adobo spicy?

This version is not spicy, but you can easily add heat by incorporating chili peppers or red pepper flakes to suit your taste.

If you’re looking for more delicious chicken recipes, here are some of my favorites:

Serve & Enjoy

Now that you’ve made this Easy Instant Pot Chicken Adobo Recipe, serve it hot, drizzled with the rich sauce, over a bed of fluffy rice. Enjoy the explosion of flavors with every bite, and share it with friends and family for a comforting meal that brings everyone together. Don’t forget to take a moment to relish the deliciousness of your creation!