Chicken Tocino is a delightful Filipino dish that brings a sweet and savory twist to your dinner table. This beloved recipe has its roots in the traditional tocino, which typically features pork, but our version uses tender chicken to create a lighter yet equally satisfying meal. The name “tocino” translates to “cured” in Spanish, reflecting the dish’s origins and its method of preparation, where the meat is marinated in a mixture of sugar, salt, and spices, resulting in a beautifully caramelized exterior when cooked.
People adore Chicken Tocino for its irresistible flavor profile and tender texture. The combination of sweetness from the sugar and the savory notes from the spices creates a mouthwatering experience that is hard to resist. Additionally, this dish is incredibly convenient, making it perfect for busy weeknights or special occasions alike. Whether served with steamed rice for breakfast or as part of a larger feast, Chicken Tocino is sure to become a favorite in your household, bringing a taste of the Philippines right to your kitchen.
Ingredients:
- 1 kg chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar (preferably cane vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon annatto powder (for color, optional)
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (for frying)
Preparing the Marinade
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, black pepper, salt, and annatto powder (if using). Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Take the chicken thighs and place them in the marinade. Ensure that each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade mixture.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
Cooking Process
- After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking. This helps the chicken cook evenly.
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the cooking oil and allow it to heat up.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated chicken thighs in the skillet. Be cautious of any splattering oil.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on one side without moving it. This will help achieve a nice caramelization.
- After 5-7 minutes, flip the chicken over and reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the steam and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes. This will ensure the chicken is cooked through and tender.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach at least 75°C (165°F). If the chicken is not fully cooked, continue cooking for a few more minutes, checking periodically.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing. This allows the juices to redistribute, keeping the chicken moist.
Assembling the Dish
- Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces or serve whole, depending on your preference.
- Serve the chicken tocino with steamed rice, fried eggs, and a side of sliced tomatoes or pickled vegetables for a traditional Filipino breakfast.
- Drizzle some of the remaining sauce from the skillet over the chicken for added flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions if desired.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Tocino
- For a sweeter tocino, you can increase the amount of brown sugar in the marinade.
- Using chicken thighs instead of breasts will yield a juicier and more flavorful dish, but you can use chicken breasts if you prefer.
- Make sure to marinate the chicken for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
- If you want a smokier flavor, consider grilling the chicken instead of frying it.
- Leftover chicken tocino can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat in a skillet over low heat before serving.
Variations of Chicken Tocino
- Spicy Chicken Tocino: Add chopped red chili peppers or a teaspoon of chili flakes to the marinade for a spicy kick.
- Garlic Chicken Tocino: Increase the amount of minced garlic in the marinade for a more pronounced garlic flavor.
- Fruit-Infused Chicken Tocino: Add a splash of pineapple juice or orange juice to the marinade for a fruity twist.
Serving Suggestions
- Pair with a side of garlic fried rice for a hearty breakfast. <
- Total Time: 265 minutes
- Yield: 4–6 servings 1x
- 1 kg chicken thighs, boneless and skinless
- 1/2 cup brown sugar
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 1/4 cup vinegar (preferably cane vinegar)
- 1 tablespoon garlic, minced
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- 1 teaspoon salt
- 1/2 teaspoon annatto powder (for color, optional)
- 1 tablespoon cooking oil (for frying)
- In a large mixing bowl, combine the brown sugar, soy sauce, vinegar, minced garlic, black pepper, salt, and annatto powder (if using). Stir well until the sugar is dissolved and all ingredients are well incorporated.
- Take the chicken thighs and place them in the marinade. Ensure that each piece is thoroughly coated with the marinade mixture.
- Cover the bowl with plastic wrap or transfer the chicken and marinade to a resealable plastic bag. Refrigerate for at least 4 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to penetrate the chicken.
- After marinating, remove the chicken from the refrigerator. Let it sit at room temperature for about 15-20 minutes before cooking.
- Heat a large skillet or frying pan over medium heat. Add the cooking oil and allow it to heat up.
- Once the oil is hot, carefully place the marinated chicken thighs in the skillet. Be cautious of any splattering oil.
- Cook the chicken for about 5-7 minutes on one side without moving it to achieve a nice caramelization.
- After 5-7 minutes, flip the chicken over and reduce the heat to low. Cover the skillet with a lid to trap the steam and cook for an additional 10-15 minutes.
- Check the internal temperature of the chicken; it should reach at least 75°C (165°F). If not fully cooked, continue cooking for a few more minutes, checking periodically.
- Once cooked, remove the chicken from the skillet and let it rest for a few minutes before slicing.
- Slice the chicken into bite-sized pieces or serve whole, depending on your preference.
- Serve the chicken tocino with steamed rice, fried eggs, and a side of sliced tomatoes or pickled vegetables.
- Drizzle some of the remaining sauce from the skillet over the chicken for added flavor.
- Garnish with fresh herbs like cilantro or green onions if desired.
- For a sweeter tocino, increase the amount of brown sugar in the marinade.
- Chicken thighs yield a juicier dish, but chicken breasts can be used if preferred.
- Marinate for at least 4 hours, but overnight is best for maximum flavor.
- Leftover chicken tocino can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.
- Prep Time: 240 minutes
- Cook Time: 25 minutes
Conclusion:
In summary, Chicken Tocino is a delightful dish that brings a unique blend of sweet and savory flavors to your table, making it a must-try for anyone looking to explore Filipino cuisine. Its tender, marinated chicken pieces are not only easy to prepare but also incredibly versatile, allowing you to serve them in various ways. Whether you enjoy it with a side of garlic fried rice and a sunny-side-up egg for breakfast, or as a flavorful addition to your lunch or dinner spread, Chicken Tocino is sure to impress your family and friends. For those looking to add a twist, consider experimenting with different marinades by incorporating spices like paprika or adding a hint of citrus for a refreshing zing. You can also try using other proteins, such as pork or tofu, to create your own variations of this beloved dish. We encourage you to give this Chicken Tocino recipe a try and share your culinary experience with us! Whether you stick to the traditional method or put your own spin on it, we would love to hear how it turned out. Dont forget to share your photos and tips on social media, and lets celebrate the joy of cooking together! Print
Chicken Tocino: A Deliciously Sweet Filipino Delight You Must Try
Description
Chicken Tocino is a flavorful Filipino dish featuring marinated chicken thighs that are sweet, savory, and slightly tangy. Ideal for breakfast, it pairs perfectly with steamed rice and fried eggs, making for a satisfying meal any time of day.
Ingredients
Scale