How to Make moe’s adobo chicken: The Perfect Copycat Recipe for Authentic Flavor

moe’s adobo chicken

Discover the secret to recreating Moe’s delicious Adobo Chicken at home with this easy, authentic copycat recipe. Bursting with bold flavors from a harmonious blend of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices, this dish captures the irresistible taste that fans love. Whether you’re craving a quick weeknight dinner or preparing a flavorful meal for friends, mastering this recipe will make you the culinary hero. Dive into the steps, tips, and serving ideas to bring Moe’s signature Adobo Chicken right into your kitchen.

What is Moe’s Adobo Chicken?

Moe’s Adobo Chicken is a beloved dish inspired by Filipino adobo, known for its tangy, savory profile. Moe’s version stands out with its rich marinade featuring soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and aromatic spices, offering a smoky, slightly spicy flavor. It’s a versatile dish that can be grilled, baked, or cooked on the stovetop and pairs beautifully with rice or tortillas. The iconic taste has made it a staple for fans of Moe’s Southwest Grill wanting to replicate their favorite menu item at home.

Ingredients for Moe’s Adobo Chicken

• 1 ½ lbs chicken thighs or breasts
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup vinegar (white or apple cider)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar (optional for sweetness)
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika (for smoky flavor)
• 1 tablespoon oil (vegetable or olive)
• Fresh herbs (optional: oregano or thyme)
• Red pepper flakes (optional for heat)
• Sides: jasmine rice, tortillas, or fresh vegetables

Tip: Use skinless chicken thighs for juiciness or chicken breasts for a leaner option. Adjust spice levels with red pepper flakes.

Step-by-Step Cooking Instructions

Discover how to make Moe’s Adobo Chicken Moe’s style, featuring tender chicken marinated in a tangy blend of soy sauce, vinegar, and aromatic spices. This easy copycat recipe delivers smoky, flavorful chicken perfect for serving with rice, tortillas, or fresh vegetables. Ideal for dinner or lunch, this dish combines Filipino and Southwest influences for a truly satisfying meal.

Total time: 45 minutes

1. Prepare the Marinade

Mix soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, brown sugar, black peppercorns, bay leaves, smoked paprika, and optional red pepper flakes in a bowl.

2. Marinate the Chicken

Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish, pour marinade over, and refrigerate for at least 1 hour. For best results, marinate overnight.

3. Cook the Chicken

Stovetop: Heat oil in a large skillet over medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade) and sear until browned. Add reserved marinade, cover, and simmer on low for 20-25 minutes until cooked through.
Grill: Preheat grill to medium-high. Grill chicken 6–8 minutes per side, basting with marinade.
Air fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.

4. Final Touches

Adjust seasoning, add a splash of vinegar or soy if needed. Serve hot over jasmine rice or in tacos.

Estimated Cost: 10 USD

Supply:

• Chicken thighs or breasts
• Soy sauce
• Vinegar (white or apple cider)
• Garlic cloves
• Brown sugar (optional)
• Black peppercorns
• Bay leaves
• Smoked paprika
• Oil (vegetable or olive)
• Red pepper flakes (optional)
• Fresh herbs (optional)

Tools:

• Large skillet or frying pan
• Grill or grilling pan (optional)
• Air fryer (optional)
• Mixing bowl
• Resealable plastic bag or container
• Measuring spoons and cups
• Tongs or spatula
• Plate or serving dish

Materials: Marinade ingredients (spices, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic) Chicken meat (thighs or breasts) Cooking oil

Tips for Perfect Adobo Chicken Moe’s

• Marinate for longer to deepen flavor.
• For extra smoky flavor, toss chicken with a teaspoon of smoked paprika.
• Use chicken thighs for tender, juicy results.
• Save leftover marinade to brush on cooked chicken for added flavor.
• For a thicker sauce, simmer the marinade separately until it reduces.

Serving Suggestions & Pairings

Moe’s Adobo Chicken is versatile:

• Serve over fluffy jasmine rice with a side of sautéed vegetables.
• Wrap in tortillas with fresh salsa and avocado for tacos.
• Pair with a simple green salad or pickled vegetables.
• Make leftovers into a quick stir-fry or grilled chicken salad.

Frequently Asked Questions About Moe’s Adobo Chicken

Nutritional Information & Healthy Tips

A standard serving provides approximately 250 calories, with protein and healthy fats. For a healthier version, reduce soy sauce saltiness, use low-sodium soy, or bake instead of fry.

Download & Print Your Recipe

Sarah Yummyum Recipes

Moe’s Adobo Chicken Copycat Recipe

5 from 3 votes

Recreate the bold, tangy flavors of Moe’s Adobo Chicken with this easy and authentic copycat recipe. Perfectly marinated chicken cooked stovetop, grilled, or air fried, served with jasmine rice or tortillas.

Print Recipe Pin Recipe

Prep Time 10 minutes mins

Cook Time 25 minutes mins

Marination Time 1 hour hr

Total Time 35 minutes mins

Servings: 4 servings

Course: Dinner, Lunch, Main Dish

Cuisine: Asian Fusion, Filipino, Southwest, Tex-Mex

Calories: 250

Ingredients Equipment Method Notes

Ingredients

  

• 1 ½ lbs chicken thighs or breasts
• ¼ cup soy sauce
• ¼ cup vinegar white or apple cider
• 4 cloves garlic minced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar optional
• 1 teaspoon black peppercorns
• 2 bay leaves
• 1 teaspoon smoked paprika
• 1 tablespoon oil vegetable or olive
• Red pepper flakes optional
• Fresh herbs optional

Equipment

• Large skillet or frying pan (for stovetop cooking)
• Grill or grilling pan (if grilling)
• Air fryer (optional for air frying method)
• Mixing bowl (to prepare marinade)
• Resealable plastic bag or container (for marinating chicken)
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Cooking tongs or spatula
• Plate or serving dish

Method

 

1. In a bowl, combine soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, brown sugar, peppercorns, bay leaves, smoked paprika, and red pepper flakes.
   
2. Place chicken in a resealable bag or dish and pour marinade over it. Refrigerate at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
   
3. For stovetop: Heat oil in a skillet over medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade (reserve marinade). Brown chicken, then add marinade back, cover, and simmer 20-25 minutes.
   
4. For grill: Preheat grill medium-high. Grill chicken 6-8 minutes per side, basting occasionally.
   
5. For air fryer: Cook at 375°F (190°C) for 15-20 minutes, flipping halfway.
6. Adjust seasoning as needed. Serve hot with jasmine rice, tortillas, or fresh vegetables.
   

Notes

Use chicken thighs for juicier result.

Marinating longer intensifies flavor.

Smoked paprika adds authentic smoky taste.

Leftover marinade can be simmered and used as sauce.

Save and share this recipe to enjoy Moe’s Adobo Chicken anytime.

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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.

Conclusion

Mastering Moe’s Adobo Chicken at home allows you to enjoy restaurant-quality flavor anytime. Follow this recipe, customize spice levels, and pair it with your favorite sides for an unforgettable meal. Don’t forget to share your results and leave a comment below!