moes adobo chicken​

If you’re craving the bold and irresistible flavors of Moe’s Southwest Grill, this moes adobo chicken​ copycat recipe is your new kitchen hero. Packed with tender chicken marinated in a perfect blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and aromatic spices, this recipe recreates the smoky, tangy goodness that fans adore. Whether you’re a seasoned cook or a kitchen newbie, follow this step-by-step guide to enjoy Moe’s signature dish right at home.

What is moes adobo chicken​?

moes adobo chicken​ is Moe’s Southwest Grill’s take on the classic Filipino adobo, infused with Southwest-style spices and grilling techniques. This fusion brings together the savory tang of traditional adobo with a smoky, grilled twist that makes it unique. Moe’s version is beloved for its well-balanced marinade that delivers a slightly sweet, sour, and savory flavor profile.

Many people wonder, “Is Adobo Chicken Moes spicy?” While it carries a mild kick from chili and smoked paprika, it’s typically approachable for most taste buds, making it perfect for family dinners or casual gatherings.

Ingredients You’ll Need

To make authentic moes adobo chicken​, start with these ingredients:

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
• ½ cup soy sauce (low sodium preferred)
• ¼ cup white vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 6 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp olive oil (for cooking)
• Optional: 1 small chili pepper for a spicier kick

Substitution Tips: Use tamari instead of soy sauce for gluten-free variation. Adjust sugar quantity based on sweetness preference.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Adobo Chicken Moes is a bold, savory dish inspired by Moe’s Southwest Grill, featuring marinated chicken simmered to tenderness in a tangy, smoky sauce. This versatile recipe works well in bowls, tacos, burritos, or alongside your favorite sides.

Total time 1 hour

Step 1: Prep and Marinate the Chicken

Pat chicken pieces dry with paper towels. In a bowl, mix soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, bay leaves, black peppercorns, and optional coconut milk or chipotle powder. Coat the chicken thoroughly and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (up to overnight for deeper flavor).

Step 2: Brown the Chicken

Heat oil in your skillet over medium-high heat. Place marinated chicken skin-side down (if using skin-on) and cook 4–5 minutes per side, until browned and slightly crispy. This step locks in moisture and builds a robust base flavor.

Step 3: Simmer in the Adobo Sauce

Pour the remaining marinade and 1 cup water into the pan. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer 25–30 minutes. Flip chicken halfway and let the sauce thicken, infusing every piece with tangy signature adobo taste.

Step 4: Adjust and Finish

Uncover the skillet and continue simmering for an extra 10–15 minutes to reduce and thicken the sauce. Taste and adjust with extra salt, vinegar, or sugar to suit your preference. Remove from heat and let rest.

Step 5: Serve and Garnish

Slice or shred the chicken and arrange over steamed rice, in tacos, or burritos. Drizzle generously with adobo sauce. Garnish with chopped green onion, cilantro, or a squeeze of lime for brightness. Serve hot and enjoy!

Estimated Cost: 10 USD

Supply:

• Fresh chicken thighs or mixed pieces
• Soy sauce
• Vinegar (white or apple cider)
• Garlic
• Onion
• Bay leaves
• Black peppercorns
• Olive or vegetable oil
• Brown sugar
• Water
• Salt
• Optional: coconut milk, chipotle powder, lime juice, dried oregano

Tools:

• Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Tongs

Materials: Paper towels (for patting chicken dry)Airtight storage containers (for leftovers)Serving platter or bowlsAluminum foil (if resting chicken)

Another way to cook moes adobo chicken​

Stovetop Method

1. Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat.
2. Sear chicken thighs 5 minutes per side until browned.
3. Pour leftover marinade into the pan, lower heat, cover, and simmer for 10-15 minutes.
4. Uncover and cook until sauce thickens slightly.

Air Fryer & Oven (Alternate Options)

• Air Fryer: Cook chicken at 390°F for 15 minutes, flipping halfway.
• Oven: Bake at 375°F for 25-30 minutes, turning once.

Remember, the chicken should reach an internal temperature of 165°F to be safe and juicy.

Serving Suggestions and Side Dishes

moes adobo chicken​ pairs beautifully with:

• Fluffy steamed jasmine or basmati rice
• Grilled corn with a sprinkle of chili-lime seasoning
• Fresh cucumber salad or tangy pickled vegetables
• Southwestern-style black beans or refried beans

For authentic Moe’s flair, plate with lime wedges and a sprinkle of fresh cilantro.

Storing and Reheating Tips

Store leftover chicken in an airtight container in the fridge for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat, adding a splash of water or extra marinade to keep it moist. Avoid microwaving directly to prevent dryness.

Frozen leftovers can last up to 2 months; thaw overnight in the fridge before reheating.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Nutritional Information (Per Serving Estimate)

• Calories: 320
• Protein: 32g
• Fat: 18g
• Carbs: 4g
• Sugar: 2g

This recipe offers a balanced meal option, low in carbs and high in protein, perfect for health-conscious food lovers.

Unique Chef Tips and Variations

• For smoky depth, add a dash of chipotle powder.
• Try grilling pineapple slices alongside chicken for a sweet-savory combo.
• Vegan spin: Use marinated tofu or mushrooms with the same marinade.

Conclusion

This Adobo Chicken Moes recipe is your gateway to recreating the mouthwatering flavors of Moe’s Southwest Grill at home. Rich in authentic taste, easy to execute, and versatile enough to suit different dietary needs, this recipe will quickly become a favorite.

Try it today, share your results, and don’t forget to explore our other tasty Southwest-inspired dishes!

Printable Recipe Card & Interactive Tools

Sarah Yummyum Recipes

moes adobo chicken​ Recipe

Recreate the bold, savory flavors of Moe’s Southwest Grill with this authentic moes adobo chicken​ recipe. Tender chicken thighs marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, and aromatic spices, grilled or simmered to perfection, served with rice and fresh garnishes.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 15 minutes mins

Cook Time 30 minutes mins

Marinate Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 1 hour hr 45 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Course

Cuisine: Asian Fusion, Filipino, Southwestern

Calories: 320

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 2 lbs boneless skinless chicken thighs
• ½ cup soy sauce low sodium preferred
• ¼ cup white vinegar
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 6 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tsp smoked paprika
• ½ tsp black pepper
• 1 tsp dried oregano
• 1 tbsp olive oil
• Optional: 1 small chili pepper for spice
• Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
• Cooked jasmine or basmati rice for serving

Equipment

• Large skillet or sauté pan with lid
• Mixing bowl
• Cutting board
• Chef’s knife
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Wooden spoon or spatula
• Tongs

Method

 

1. Prep and Marinate the Chicken : Pat the chicken dry. In a large bowl, whisk together soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, garlic, smoked paprika, black pepper, oregano, and chili pepper if using. Add chicken and coat thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour or overnight for best flavor.
   
2. Brown the Chicken: Heat olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade) and sear chicken about 4-5 minutes per side until browned and crispy.
   
3. Simmer in the Adobo Sauce: Pour reserved marinade and 1 cup water into the skillet. Bring to a boil, reduce heat to low, cover and simmer for 25-30 minutes, flipping chicken halfway. Let sauce thicken.
   
4. Adjust and Finish: Uncover and simmer 10 additional minutes to reduce sauce further. Taste and add salt, vinegar, or sugar to preference. Remove from heat and let rest.
5. Serve and Garnish : Serve chicken over steamed rice, spoon sauce over, and garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Enjoy your homemade Adobo Chicken Moes!
   

Notes

For gluten-free version, substitute soy sauce with tamari.

Use chicken breast for leaner meat, but thighs provide more tenderness.

Marinating overnight intensifies flavor and tenderness.

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Author Bio

Recipe and photos by YummyUmRecipes.com. Dedicated to bringing you the best viral drink recipes, lunch ideas, and family-friendly food inspiration... Follow on Pinterest YumYum Foodie for daily recipes and creative kitchen tips.