Adobo Chicken Moes
If you’ve ever craved the irresistible taste of Moes Southwest Grill’s famous adobo chicken, you’re in for a treat! This authentic Adobo Chicken Moes copycat recipe is crafted to perfectly replicate that smoky, tangy, and savory flavor that fans adore. Whether you’re cooking for family dinner or meal prepping for the week, this recipe is simple, flavorful, and sure to impress. Keep reading for the ultimate guide to mastering this delicious dish right at home.
Table of Contents
History & Flavor Profile of Adobo Chicken Moes
Adobo chicken is a beloved Filipino classic known for its tangy vinegar and soy sauce marinade. Moes Southwest Grill infuses this traditional dish with their signature Southwest twist, incorporating smoky chipotle peppers and spices to create a bold flavor profile that’s uniquely theirs. The balance of salty, sour, and smoky makes this adobo chicken a standout dish that’s perfect for pairing with fluffy rice and fresh veggies.
Ingredients for the Perfect Adobo Chicken Moes
- 2 lbs boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup soy sauce (gluten-free option available)
- 1/4 cup white vinegar
- 3 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp brown sugar
- 1 tsp black pepper
- 1-2 chipotle peppers in adobo sauce, finely chopped (adjust for spice preference)
- 1 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1/4 cup water
- Fresh cilantro and lime wedges for garnish
Ingredient Notes:
Choose high-quality soy sauce for the richest flavor, and balance the acidity with brown sugar for a subtle sweetness. Chipotle peppers bring smokiness and moderate heat, but you can adjust the amount to suit your spice tolerance.
Tools & Preparation Tips
Use a heavy-bottomed skillet or Dutch oven for even cooking and to develop rich flavors. Marinate the chicken for at least 30 minutes to allow the robust flavors to penetrate. This recipe also adapts well to air fryer cooking for a crispier texture or grilling if you prefer a smoky char.
Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions
Recreate the bold, smoky, and tangy flavors of Adobo Chicken Moes the signature dish from Moe’s Southwest Grill right at home. This easy recipe delivers succulent chicken marinated in soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, chipotle, and Southwest spices. Perfect for dinner, meal prep, or a weeknight treat, with step-by-step instructions and expert tips to guarantee juicy, flavorful results every time.
Total Time: 40 minutes
Marinate the Chicken:
In a bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, and chopped chipotle peppers. Add chicken thighs, coat evenly, and marinate for 30 minutes.
Sear the Chicken:
Heat the vegetable oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade), and sear chicken thighs until browned on both sides, about 3 minutes per side.
Simmer the Dish:
Pour the reserved marinade and water into the skillet. Bring to a gentle boil, reduce heat to low, and simmer uncovered for 20-25 minutes until chicken is cooked through and sauce thickens.
Finish & Garnish:
Remove from heat, garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges. Serve hot over steamed white rice or cilantro-lime rice for a complete meal.
Estimated Cost: 12 USD
Supply:
- Chicken thighs (boneless, skinless)
- Soy sauce
- White vinegar
- Garlic
- Brown sugar
- Black pepper
- Chipotle or adobo peppers
- Vegetable oil
- Water
- Cilantro
- Lime
Tools:
- Large mixing bowl
- Measuring cups and spoons
- Cutting board
- Knife
- Large skillet or Dutch oven
- Tongs or spatula
- Air fryer (optional)
- Rice cooker or saucepan (optional, for rice)
Materials: Paper towels (for patting chicken dry) Plastic wrap (for covering marinade) Airtight container (for leftovers)
Serving Suggestions & Side Dishes
Adobo Chicken Moes pairs perfectly with fluffy jasmine or basmati rice to soak up the flavorful sauce. Complement your meal with sautéed vegetables, grilled corn, or a fresh avocado salad. Leftover chicken keeps well in the fridge for up to 3 days and reheats beautifully.
Nutritional Information & Health Benefits
A serving of this adobo chicken boasts a balanced macro profile rich in protein and moderate fats, great for muscle building and energy. Adjust sodium by using low-sodium soy sauce for a heart-healthy option. The vinegar supports digestion, while garlic and peppers offer antioxidants and immune benefits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is Adobo Chicken Moes spicy?
Moderate heat from chipotle peppers creates a mild spicy kick, adjustable to taste.
Can I make this recipe in an air fryer?
Yes! Marinate as directed, then air fry at 375°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway through.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 30 minutes, but marinating overnight enhances the flavors.
Is this recipe gluten-free?
Use gluten-free soy sauce to make it friendly for gluten-sensitive diets.
Tips & Tricks for Perfecting Your Adobo Chicken Moes
- For deeper smoky flavor, add a splash of smoked paprika or use a grill to finish the chicken.
- Avoid overcooking to keep chicken juicy and tender.
- Adjust sweetness and acidity to personal preference by balancing brown sugar and vinegar.
Printable Recipe Card & Interactive Tools
Adobo Chicken Moes – Copycat Moe’s Southwest Grill Recipe
Ingredients
Equipment
Method
- In a bowl, whisk together soy sauce, white vinegar, minced garlic, brown sugar, black pepper, and chopped chipotle peppers to create the marinade. Add the chicken thighs and stir to coat evenly. Cover and marinate for at least 30 minutes (or up to overnight in the refrigerator).
- Heat vegetable oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade) and sear chicken thighs in the hot oil for 3 minutes per side, until browned.
- Pour reserved marinade and water into the skillet with the chicken. Bring to a gentle boil, then reduce heat to low. Simmer, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, or until chicken is cooked through and sauce has thickened.
- Remove from heat. Garnish with fresh cilantro and lime wedges before serving. Serve over steamed white rice or cilantro-lime rice.
Notes
– To make this recipe gluten-free, ensure soy sauce used is gluten-free.
– Air fryer option: After marinating, air fry chicken at 375°F for 20 minutes, flipping halfway.
– Leftovers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Nutrition:
Calories: 320 kcal
Protein: 32g
Fat: 18g
Carbohydrates: 5g
Fiber: 1g
Sugar: 3g
Sodium: 850mg Tips:
– Use a heavy skillet for better searing and flavor development.
– Avoid overcooking to keep chicken juicy and tender.
– Adjust sweetness and acidity by balancing brown sugar and vinegar to your taste.
Coming soon: Try our marinade calculator to customize seasoning amounts for any serving size.
Conclusion
Unlock the full flavor of Moes Southwest Grill’s iconic dish with this easy Adobo Chicken Moes recipe at home. Perfectly balanced, authentically inspired, and incredibly satisfying, this recipe will quickly become a staple in your kitchen. Give it a try, leave a comment with your experience, and don’t forget to share with fellow food lovers!
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Author Bio
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