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–+ servings
Merry

Spicy Chicken Adobo Recipe is a must-try dish!

This Mexican Chicken Adobo is a rich, smoky, and deeply flavorful dish that combines tender chicken with a bold adobo sauce made from dried chilies, tomatoes, and aromatic spices. Slow-simmered to perfection, this dish is perfect for serving over rice, with warm tortillas, or alongside fresh avocado slices. A true taste of authentic Mexican cuisine!
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Prep Time 15 minutes
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 45 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Main Course
Cuisine: Mexican
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

  • 2 lbs bone-in skinless chicken thighs or drumsticks
  • 2 tablespoons olive oil
  • 3 dried guajillo chilies stemmed and seeded
  • 2 dried ancho chilies stemmed and seeded
  • 2 Roma tomatoes chopped
  • 3 cloves garlic minced
  • 1 small onion chopped
  • 2 tablespoons apple cider vinegar
  • 1 teaspoon cumin
  • 1 teaspoon dried oregano
  • ½ teaspoon smoked paprika
  • ½ teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1½ cups chicken broth
  • 1 teaspoon salt or to taste
  • ½ teaspoon black pepper
  • 1 bay leaf

Method
 

  1. Prepare the Chilies: In a dry skillet over medium heat, toast the guajillo and ancho chilies for about 1-2 minutes until fragrant. Soak them in hot water for 10 minutes until softened.
  2. Blend the Adobo Sauce: In a blender, combine the soaked chilies, tomatoes, garlic, onion, apple cider vinegar, cumin, oregano, paprika, cinnamon, chicken broth, salt, and black pepper. Blend until smooth.
  3. Sear the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium-high heat. Sear the chicken for about 3-4 minutes per side until golden brown.
  4. Simmer in Sauce: Pour the blended adobo sauce over the chicken. Add the bay leaf, reduce heat, cover, and let simmer for 25-30 minutes until the chicken is tender and fully cooked.
  5. Serve & Enjoy: Remove the bay leaf and serve the chicken adobo with warm tortillas, rice, or fresh avocado slices.

Notes

  • Adjust Heat Level: For extra spice, add a dried chipotle chili or a pinch of cayenne pepper.
  • Make it Smokier: Use smoked paprika or fire-roasted tomatoes for a deeper smoky flavor.
  • Storage Tips: Store leftovers in an airtight container for up to 3 days. The sauce deepens in flavor over time!
  • Serving Suggestions: Pair with Mexican rice, black beans, or a crisp green salad for a complete meal.

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