This Easy Chicken Asado is a tasty dish full of wonderful flavors! With juicy chicken, tomatoes, and spices, it’s perfect for a cozy dinner.
I love to serve it with rice to soak up the yummy sauce. It’s quick to make, and honestly, I might even sneak some leftovers for lunch! 😋
Key Ingredients & Substitutions
Chicken: I suggest using chicken thighs or drumsticks for their rich flavor and moisture. If you want a leaner option, chicken breasts work too! Just adjust cooking time since they can dry out faster.
Soy Sauce: This gives the dish a nice umami flavor. If you need a gluten-free alternative, try tamari, or coconut aminos as a good substitute.
Vinegar: Apple cider vinegar adds a nice tang, but white vinegar is perfectly fine too. You could also try lime juice for a fresh twist!
Tomatoes: Fresh tomatoes are great, but canned diced tomatoes can save time and still add flavor. Just use what you have on hand!
How Do I Make Sure My Chicken Is Tender and Flavorful?
Getting tender, flavorful chicken is key to this recipe! Here’s how:
- First, make sure you brown the chicken well. This adds a deeper flavor that you’ll love.
- Don’t rush the simmering step. Let the chicken cook slowly in the sauce to absorb all the flavors. Covering the pan helps keep moisture in!
- If you have time, marinate the chicken in soy sauce and vinegar for 30 minutes before cooking. This step can really amp up the flavors.
Easy Chicken Asado
Ingredients You’ll Need:
- 2 lbs (about 1 kg) chicken thighs or drumsticks, skin-on and bone-in
- 2 tbsp vegetable oil
- 1 large onion, sliced
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 2 medium tomatoes, chopped
- 1/2 cup tomato sauce
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp vinegar (apple cider or white)
- 1 tsp ground black pepper
- 1 tsp paprika
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 bay leaf
- 1 cup water or chicken broth
- Salt to taste
- Fresh parsley or green onions for garnish (optional)
How Much Time Will You Need?
This recipe will take about 10 minutes for prep and 40-50 minutes for cooking. In total, expect around an hour to enjoy delicious Chicken Asado that’s flavor-packed and sure to please!
Step-by-Step Instructions:
1. Heat the Oil:
In a large skillet or pan, heat the vegetable oil over medium-high heat. This will get your pan ready for some crispy, golden chicken!
2. Season the Chicken:
While the oil is heating up, season your chicken pieces with salt, ground black pepper, and paprika. This adds a nice flavor right from the start!
3. Brown the Chicken:
Add the seasoned chicken to the pan and brown it on all sides for about 5-7 minutes. This will create a lovely golden color and lock in those juices. Once browned, remove the chicken from the pan and set it aside.
4. Sauté the Onions and Garlic:
In the same pan, add the sliced onion and sauté until it becomes translucent, which should take about 3-4 minutes. Then, add the minced garlic, cooking for an additional minute, or until it’s fragrant. Yummy aromas will fill your kitchen!
5. Add the Tomatoes:
Stir in the chopped tomatoes and let them cook until they soften, about 4 minutes. This will add freshness and depth to the sauce.
6. Combine the Sauces:
Pour in the tomato sauce, soy sauce, vinegar, sugar, and add the bay leaf. Mix everything well to combine all those delicious flavors!
7. Return the Chicken:
Put the browned chicken back in the pan and add the water or chicken broth. This will create a lovely sauce for your dish.
8. Bring to a Boil:
Bring the mixture to a boil over high heat, then lower the heat and cover the pan. Let it simmer for 25-30 minutes, allowing the chicken to become tender and fully cooked. The flavors will meld together beautifully!
9. Thicken the Sauce:
Once the chicken is cooked, remove the lid and let it simmer for another 5-10 minutes if you’d like the sauce to thicken up a bit.
10. Adjust the Seasoning:
Give the sauce a taste and adjust the seasoning with salt and pepper if needed. This is your chance to make it perfect!
11. Serve and Enjoy:
Garnish with chopped parsley or green onions if you like. Serve your Chicken Asado hot with steamed rice or your favorite side dish, and enjoy a flavorful dinner! 🍽️
FAQ for Easy Chicken Asado
Can I Use Bone-In Chicken Breasts Instead of Thighs or Drumsticks?
Absolutely! Bone-in chicken breasts can be used, but adjust the cooking time as they may take a bit longer to cook through. Ensure they reach an internal temperature of 165°F (75°C) for safety.
Is There a Way to Make This Recipe Spicier?
Yes! To add some heat, consider adding chopped chili peppers or a sprinkle of red pepper flakes when sautéing the onions and garlic. Adjust the amount based on your spice tolerance!
How Can I Store Leftovers?
Place any leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days. For longer storage, you can freeze it in an airtight container for up to 3 months. Just thaw in the fridge before reheating!
Can I Make This Recipe in a Slow Cooker?
Yes, you can! After browning the chicken, transfer everything to a slow cooker and cook on low for 4-6 hours or on high for 2-3 hours. This method makes the chicken incredibly tender!
