This chicken adobo recipe is easy and toddler-friendly! Chicken Adobo is a traditional Filipino dish that has been enjoyed for centuries. The word “adobo” comes from the Spanish word “adobar,” which means to marinate in vinegar. However, there are indigenous Filipino dishes that use vinegar as a main ingredient, so it is possible that Chicken Adobo is a combination of Spanish and native Filipino influences.
The dish itself is relatively simple, consisting of chicken marinated in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and other spices, then simmered in the marinade until tender. The sauce is thickened and served over rice, creating a delicious and comforting meal.
I recently tried Liren at Kitchen Confidante’s family recipe, with a few modifications to make it toddler-friendly. The result was a delicious meal that the whole family enjoyed!
Involve Your Toddler to Build Independence
One of the great things about cooking with toddlers is that you can involve them in the process and help them develop new skills. I often use a Montessori learning stool to bring my son up to the counter so he can watch me prepare our meals. Chicken Adobo is one of our favorite dishes to make together because he loves helping me cut the chicken into smaller pieces using a child-safe knife.
As we cook, I talk to him about the different ingredients we are using and where they come from. This helps him learn about food and where it comes from, which is an important part of developing healthy eating habits.
When it’s time to serve, I use a suction cup plate with his toddler utensils. This makes it easy for him to enjoy the meal at his own pace. This is a great way to introduce baby-led weaning and help him learn how to feed himself.
Chicken Adobo Recipe
Ingredients:
- 8 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
- 1/3 cup low sodium soy sauce
- 1/3 cup apple cider vinegar
- 1 small head of garlic, crushed
- Fresh pepper
- 6 bay leaves
Instructions:
- Marinate chicken in vinegar, soy sauce, garlic, and pepper, for at least an hour (overnight is ideal).
- Put chicken, 1/2 cup water, bay leaves, and marinade into a deep nonstick skillet and cook on medium-low heat. Cover and cook until the meat is tender, about 45 minutes.
- Uncover and cook 5-10 more minutes or until sauce is reduced.
- Discard bay leaves and serve over rice.
The end result of this easy recipe is a comforting dish with complex flavors. Plus, the fact that it’s made with simple ingredients makes it a budget-friendly meal.
Also, involving your child in the cooking process and providing them with the right tools can make mealtime more enjoyable for everyone. Not only does it help them develop new skills, but it also encourages them to try new foods!
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