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
- 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)
Instructions
- 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.
Notes
- 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