Chicken Tocino, a Filipino favorite, offers a delicious twist on traditional pork tocino. This recipe, inspired by the beloved Panlasang Pinoy style, delivers tender, sweet, and savory chicken marinated to perfection. It's perfect for breakfast, brunch, or even a quick and satisfying dinner. Get ready to experience the delightful flavors of this easy-to-make dish!
What is Chicken Tocino?
Chicken Tocino is a Filipino cured meat dish similar to its pork counterpart. However, instead of pork, chicken is used, resulting in a leaner and often slightly milder version. It's marinated in a sweet and savory mixture, typically including soy sauce, sugar, garlic, and often a touch of annatto powder for color. The resulting marinade imparts a rich flavor into the chicken, resulting in a delightful balance of sweet and salty tastes.
Ingredients You'll Need:
- 1 kg chicken thighs, cut into bite-sized pieces (you can also use drumsticks or a combination)
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ½ cup sugar
- ¼ cup calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tablespoon annatto powder (optional, for color)
- 1 teaspoon black pepper
- Cooking oil
Step-by-Step Instructions:
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Marinate the Chicken: In a large bowl, combine all the ingredients (soy sauce, sugar, calamansi juice, minced garlic, annatto powder, and black pepper). Add the chicken pieces and make sure they're well coated with the marinade. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 4 hours, or preferably overnight for the best flavor development.
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Pan-fry or Grill: Heat cooking oil in a non-stick pan over medium heat. Once hot, carefully add the marinated chicken pieces. Avoid overcrowding the pan; work in batches if necessary. Pan-fry until the chicken is golden brown and cooked through, about 5-7 minutes per side. Alternatively, you can grill the chicken for a smoky flavor.
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Serve and Enjoy: Once cooked, transfer the chicken tocino to a serving plate. Serve hot with steamed rice, fried rice, or your favorite side dishes. It's also delicious with eggs and a side of atchara (Filipino pickled papaya).
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does chicken tocino last in the refrigerator?
Properly stored chicken tocino will last for 3-4 days in the refrigerator. Make sure it's stored in an airtight container to maintain its freshness and prevent cross-contamination.
Can I use chicken breasts instead of thighs?
Yes, you can use chicken breasts, but keep in mind that they may become dry if overcooked. Reduce the cooking time slightly and be careful not to overcook them. Chicken thighs generally have more fat, resulting in juicier and more flavorful tocino.
Can I freeze chicken tocino?
Yes, you can freeze cooked chicken tocino. Allow it to cool completely before storing it in an airtight container or freezer bag. It should last for 2-3 months in the freezer.
What if I don't have annatto powder?
Annatto powder is optional; it adds color to the tocino, but it doesn't affect the flavor significantly. You can omit it if you don't have it on hand. The tocino will still taste delicious.
What are some serving suggestions for chicken tocino?
Chicken Tocino is incredibly versatile! Enjoy it with:
- Steamed rice
- Garlic fried rice
- Scrambled eggs
- Fried eggs
- Pan de sal (Filipino bread rolls)
- Atchara (pickled papaya)
This Chicken Tocino recipe, inspired by Panlasang Pinoy’s approach, is sure to become a family favorite. The simple ingredients and straightforward method make it a perfect dish for both seasoned cooks and beginners alike. Enjoy!
