When it comes to Mexican cuisine, few dishes deliver the depth and complexity of Mexican Chicken Adobo (Adobo de Pollo). This traditional dish combines tender, juicy chicken simmered in a rich, smoky, and tangy sauce made from dried chiles, aromatic spices, and fresh ingredients. Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or simply craving a comforting homemade meal, chicken adobo is a recipe that never fails to impress.

Why You’ll Fall in Love with Mexican Chicken Adobo

Cooking this dish is like taking a culinary journey through Mexico. The dried chiles bring a smoky heat, the spices layer in warmth, and the tender chicken soaks up every bit of the flavorful sauce. The best part? It’s a versatile recipe that pairs beautifully with rice, tortillas, or even avocado slices. Plus, it’s surprisingly easy to make, whether you’re a seasoned cook or a beginner in the kitchen.

Ingredients for Mexican Chicken Adobo

Here’s everything you need to bring this authentic dish to life:

For the Chicken

• 4 bone-in chicken legs
• 4 bone-in chicken thighs (skinless or skin-on, as preferred)
• Salt and ground black pepper (to taste)
• 3 tablespoons olive oil (divided)

For the Sauce

• 1 small brown or yellow onion, sliced
• 4 Roma tomatoes, quartered
• 4 garlic cloves, chopped
• 3 dried guajillo chiles, stems and seeds removed
• 1 dried ancho chile (or dried chipotle chile), stems and seeds removed
• 2 dried pasilla or New Mexico chiles, stems and seeds removed
• 2 ½ cups chicken broth
• 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
• 2 teaspoons sea salt or kosher salt
• 1 teaspoon ground cumin
• 1 teaspoon dried oregano
• ½ teaspoon dried coriander
• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves
• 2 bay leaves

For Garnish and Serving (Optional)

• Chopped cilantro
• White rice or Spanish rice
• Corn or flour tortillas
• Avocado slices

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Prepare the Chicken

1. Pat the chicken dry with paper towels to remove excess moisture.
2. Season both sides with salt and ground black pepper. Set aside.

2. Make the Adobo Sauce

Sauté the Aromatics

1. Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large Dutch oven or pot over medium-high heat.
2. Add the sliced onions and quartered Roma tomatoes. Sauté for about 4 minutes until the onions become translucent.

Add Garlic and Chiles

1. Stir in the chopped garlic and cook for about 1 minute until fragrant.
2. Add the dried guajillo, ancho, and pasilla chiles to the pot.

Simmer and Rehydrate the Chiles

1. Pour in the chicken broth, ensuring the chiles are fully submerged.
2. Bring the mixture to a boil, then lower the heat, cover, and simmer for 10 minutes until the chiles soften.

Blend the Sauce

1. Allow the mixture to cool for about 5 minutes.
2. Transfer the chiles, vegetables, and half of the cooking liquid to a blender. Add apple cider vinegar, salt, cumin, oregano, coriander, and ground cloves. Blend on high speed for 2–3 minutes until smooth.
3. Pour in the remaining cooking liquid and blend again until the sauce reaches a silky consistency.

3. Brown the Chicken

1. In the same Dutch oven, heat the remaining 2 tablespoons of olive oil over medium-high heat.
2. Add the chicken pieces and sear for 2–3 minutes per side until golden brown. Avoid overcrowding the pot—brown in batches if necessary.

4. Combine the Chicken and Sauce

1. Return all the browned chicken to the pot.
2. Pour the prepared adobo sauce over the chicken, ensuring it is fully coated. Add the bay leaves.

5. Cook the Chicken

Stovetop Method

1. Bring the sauce to a boil, then lower the heat.
2. Partially cover the pot with a lid and simmer for 45 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the chicken is cooked through and tender.

Oven Method

1. Preheat your oven to 350°F.
2. After browning the chicken and adding the sauce, cover the pot and transfer it to the oven. Bake for 40–45 minutes until the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

6. Finish and Serve

1. Remove the bay leaves from the pot.
2. Taste the sauce and adjust seasoning if needed.
3. Garnish with chopped cilantro and serve hot with your choice of rice, tortillas, or avocado slices.

Tips for Perfect Mexican Chicken Adobo

• Adjust the Heat: For a spicier sauce, include an additional dried chipotle or use more red pepper flakes.
• Use Fresh Ingredients: Freshly ground spices and ripe tomatoes elevate the flavors of the sauce.
• Make Ahead: The sauce can be made a day in advance and stored in the refrigerator for even deeper flavors.
• Check for Doneness: Use an instant-read thermometer to ensure the chicken reaches an internal temperature of 165°F.

Nutritional Information (Per Serving)

Nutrient	Amount
Calories	480
Protein	38g
Total Fat	28g
Saturated Fat	6g
Carbohydrates	12g
Sodium	820mg

FAQs About Mexican Chicken Adobo

1. Can I use boneless chicken for this recipe?
Yes, you can use boneless chicken thighs or breasts, but reduce the cooking time to prevent overcooking.

2. What can I substitute for dried chiles?
If you can’t find dried chiles, use canned chipotle peppers in adobo sauce. They will add a smoky flavor to the dish.

3. Can I make this dish vegetarian?
Absolutely! Replace the chicken with hearty vegetables like mushrooms, potatoes, or tofu. Use vegetable stock instead of chicken broth.

4. How do I store leftovers?
Store leftover chicken adobo in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stove.

5. Can I freeze chicken adobo?
Yes! Freeze the cooked chicken and sauce in a freezer-safe container for up to 3 months. Thaw in the refrigerator before reheating.

6. What sides go best with chicken adobo?
Serve with white or Spanish rice, warm tortillas, or a fresh green salad for a complete meal.

Why You Should Try Mexican Chicken Adobo

Mexican Chicken Adobo is more than just a meal—it’s a celebration of bold flavors and rich traditions. The smoky chiles, fragrant spices, and tender chicken create a dish that’s both comforting and exciting. Whether you’re new to Mexican cooking or a seasoned pro, this recipe is a must-try.

Ready to Savor the Flavors of Mexico? Gather your ingredients and create this vibrant dish tonight. Serve it with love, and watch it become a family favorite!

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