Chicken adobo is a popular Filipino dish that typically consists of chicken braised in a mix of soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices. While the Chicken is the star of the dish, what you pair it with can really take the meal to the next level. Having the right side dishes that complement the rich, tangy flavors of the adobo sauce is key. In this article, we will explore some of the best options for sides that pair wonderfully with classic chicken adobo.
Rice
One of the most classic and ubiquitous pairings with chicken adobo is rice. Steamed white rice is a perfect complement to soak up the delicious braising liquid. The rice balances out the strong, salty flavors and adds a nice plain backdrop that doesn’t compete with the chicken.
Some specific types of rice that go well with chicken adobo:
White Rice
Plain steamed white rice is the traditional pairing. The mild flavor and fluffy texture is an ideal match that soaks up the sauce. Jasmine and long grain are particularly recommended varieties.
Coconut Rice
For an extra creamy and aromatic version, coconut rice brings a touch of sweetness that pairs nicely with the adobo. Use a combination of coconut milk and water when cooking the rice.
Garlic Rice
Sautéing minced garlic in oil and then cooking the rice in that infused oil gives a wonderful garlicky flavor that complements the garlic notes in the adobo sauce.
Cilantro-Lime Rice
For a fresh twist, rice cooked with a sprinkle of cilantro and lime juice adds a bright, zesty note that cuts through the rich sauce.
Vegetables
Beyond rice, serving chicken adobo with a variety of fresh, cooked veggies adds nutrition and contrasting flavors and textures. Here are some excellent veggie side options:
Eggplant
Roasted eggplant is a fantastic pairing. The creamy soft flesh soaks up the sauce beautifully. Roast cubes of eggplant tossed in oil until super tender and caramelized.
Okra
Okra pairs very well with Filipino flavors. Try sautéed okra pods cooked until slightly crisp but still retaining texture. The hint of sliminess contrasts with the chicken.
Bitter Melon
For an authentic combo, bitter melon (ampalaya) makes a great vegetable side. The unique bitter bite plays off the salty, sour adobo sauce very nicely. Slice and stir-fry with garlic.
Green Beans
Fresh green beans, either steamed or stir-fried, give a nice crunchy texture and pop of green color to balance out the chicken and sauce.
Squash
Zucchini, yellow squash, or chayote squash hold up well to the adobo flavors. Roast or sauté them simply with a bit of oil and salt.
Starchy Vegetables
In addition to rice, other hearty starches pair satisfyingly with chicken adobo to sop up the delicious sauce. Potatoes, sweet potatoes, and cassava are some excellent options.
Mashed Potatoes
Creamy, smooth mashed russet or yellow potatoes are hard to beat alongside chicken adobo. The pillowy texture soaks up the sauce beautifully.
French Fries
For a casual, fun twist, a side of crispy french fries can provide a great vehicle for the sauce. Get them perfectly golden and enjoy dunking into the adobo.
Roasted Sweet Potato
Wedges of roasted sweet potato lend a hit of sweetness and warmth that balances the salty, sour adobo.
Cassava Cake
A rich Filipino side made from grated cassava, coconut milk, egg, and butter is an indulgent accompaniment. The dense, starchy cake pairs perfectly.
Salads
For lighter pairing options, various salads with crunchy vegetables, herbs, and citrus flavors work excellently with chicken adobo. The cool, fresh qualities contrast the slow-cooked chicken.
Green Papaya Salad
Shredded green papaya and carrots, tossed with garlic, chilies, lime, and fish sauce make for a quintessential Filipino salad pairing. It provides acidic crunch.
Cucumber Salad
Thinly sliced cucumbers and onions soaked in a vinegar dressing cut through the richness nicely.
Cabbage Slaw
A vinegary coleslaw with shredded cabbage, carrots, cilantro, and chilies pairs perfectly as a crunchy counterpart.
Tomato Salad
Cherry or grape tomatoes, sliced red onion, and fresh basil leaves simply dressed with olive oil and balsamic vinegar makes a great Italian-inspired salad for the adobo.
Sautéed Vegetables
Quick-cooked vegetable medleys rounding out a balanced meal are a smart choice with chicken adobo. Here are some tasty sautéed veggie combinations:
| Vegetables | Flavor Additions |
|---|---|
| Broccoli, snap peas, bell pepper, onion | Minced garlic, sesame oil |
| Zucchini, spinach, cherry tomatoes | Basil, lemon zest |
| Green beans, carrots, shiitake mushrooms | Ginger, soy sauce |
| Bok choy, bamboo shoots, baby corn | Chilies, oyster sauce |
Quick-sautéing creates pleasantly crisp-tender veggies that provide nice colors and balance.
Starches for Dipping
Having some starchy items to dip into that delicious adobo sauce takes the meal to another level. Bread, roti flatbread, and dumplings sop up sauce wonderfully.
Focaccia Bread
Thick, spongy focaccia bread pieces are perfect for dunking in the adobo sauce. The bread absorbs it delightfully. Serve fresh baked wedges alongside the chicken.
Roti Flatbread
This Indian/Malaysian flaky, griddle-cooked flatbread is amazing for scooping up adobo sauce. It has a layered, stretchy texture that’s sturdy enough for dunking.
Dumplings
For an interactive meal, have an assortment of dumplings like gyoza and wontons to cook and dip into the braising sauce. The dumpling dough soaks up liquid excellently.
Rice Variations
Beyond plain steamed white rice, getting creative with different rice preparations can yield delicious pairings with chicken adobo:
| Rice Dish | Ingredients |
|---|---|
| Rice Pilaf | Onion, garlic, chicken broth |
| Cilantro Lime Rice | Cilantro, lime juice, olive oil |
| Coconut Rice | Coconut milk, shredded coconut |
| Kimchi Fried Rice | Kimchi, sesame oil, scallions |
| Turmeric Rice | Turmeric, cumin, curry powder |
These rice dishes provide a variety of flavors, textures, and colors to complement the chicken adobo.
Noodle and Pasta Dishes
For a nice change of pace from rice, noodle and pasta side dishes pair deliciously with chicken adobo. The saucy braised chicken served over noodles or tossed with pasta makes a well-rounded meal.
Lo Mein Noodles
Chinese-style wheat noodles, sautéed with vegetables like cabbage, bean sprouts, and scallions, then served with adobo chicken spooned over top.
Pancit Rice Noodles
This classic Filipino garlicky noodle stir fry made with rice vermicelli soak up the adobo sauce beautifully.
Spaghetti
Tossing shredded adobo chicken with tomatoes, olive oil, garlic, and parmesan over hot pasta makes for a divine fusion meal.
Pad Thai
Rice noodles pan-fried with tamarind, fish sauce, bean sprouts and eggs, topped with shredded adobo chicken for added flavor.
Soba Noodles
Japanese buckwheat noodles in broth with sautéed mushrooms and bok choy topped with adobo chicken slices suits the sauce’s umami flavor.
Conclusion
When it comes to the best side dishes and meal pairings for chicken adobo, you have lots of versatile options. Focus on accompaniments that complement the rich saltiness and tanginess of the adobo sauce. Plain white rice is the classic pairing, but don’t be afraid to branch out. Noodles, breads, starchy vegetables, quick-cooked veggie medleys, and bright, crunchy salads all work wonderfully. Look for sides that provide color, textures, and flavors that harmonize perfectly with this iconic Filipino braise.