Chicken Inasal Recipe

Chicken Inasal is a Filipino dish known for its succulent grilled chicken marinated in a flavorful blend of spices and aromatics. 

Ingredients:

• 1 whole chicken, cut into serving pieces
• 1/2 cup calamansi juice (or lemon juice)
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup annatto oil (achiote oil)
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons ginger, minced
• 1 tablespoon brown sugar
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water (for grilling)
• Salt, to taste
• Siling labuyo (bird’s eye chili) or chili flakes (optional, for added heat)

For the Dipping Sauce (Sawsawan):

• 1/4 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup white vinegar
• 1 shallot, finely chopped
• 2 cloves garlic, minced
• Calamansi or lemon wedges, for serving

Instructions:

1. Marinate the Chicken:
   1. In a bowl, combine calamansi juice, white vinegar, soy sauce, annatto oil, minced garlic, minced ginger, brown sugar, and ground black pepper. Mix well to combine.
   2. Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable bag or shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is well-coated. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 2 hours, or overnight for best results.
2. Prepare the Dipping Sauce:
   1. In a small bowl, mix together soy sauce, white vinegar, chopped shallot, and minced garlic to make the dipping sauce. Set aside until ready to serve.
3. Grill the Chicken:
   1. Preheat the grill to medium-high heat. Remove the chicken from the marinade and thread onto soaked bamboo skewers.
   2. Place the skewers on the preheated grill and cook for 10-15 minutes on each side, or until the chicken is cooked through and slightly charred. Baste the chicken with the remaining marinade while grilling to keep it moist and flavorful.
4. Serve and Enjoy:
   1. Once the chicken is cooked, remove from the grill and transfer to a serving platter. Serve the Chicken Inasal hot with steamed rice, the prepared dipping sauce, and calamansi or lemon wedges on the side. Garnish with additional chili flakes or siling labuyo for those who prefer extra spice. Enjoy the bold flavors of this Visayan specialty and savor the taste of the Philippines in every bite!