National Dish Philippines: Chicken Inasal (Recipe)
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Say hello to Chicken Inasal, the smoky, citrus-bright grilled chicken that hails from the southern Philippines! Tender pieces of chicken are bathed in a tangy marinade of vinegar, garlic and zesty lime, then charred over a hot grill until golden and irresistible. It is the kind of dish that fills the garden with mouth-watering aromas and brings everyone to the table. Fire up the grill and bring a taste of Bacolod straight to your own back door.
About Chicken Inasal
Chicken Inasal is a traditional Filipino dish, celebrated above all for its distinctive flavour and its fragrant marinade. At its heart is grilled chicken steeped in a lively blend of citrus, spices and vinegar, which gives the meat its signature tang and depth. This dish is not only a feast for the senses but also a symbol of the rich culinary heritage of the Philippines. Inasal is most often served with rice and is a firm favourite both at home and in Filipino restaurants the world over.
Ingredients (serves 1–2)
- 500 g chicken breast or thighs
- 1/2 cup vinegar (such as rice vinegar)
- 1/4 cup soy sauce
- 2–3 cloves garlic, finely chopped
- 1–2 limes (juiced)
- 1 teaspoon sugar
- 1 teaspoon pepper
- 1/2 cup water
- Fresh coriander leaves, to garnish
Shopping for the ingredients
To make chicken inasal, it helps to track down the right ingredients first. Many of the things you need are easy to find in a well-stocked supermarket or at an Asian grocery. Be sure to choose fresh chicken so you can enjoy the full depth of flavour. If you cannot lay your hands on something specific such as rice vinegar straight away, you can use another vinegar instead, though the taste will vary a little.
Preparing the dish
Preparing chicken inasal begins with the marinade, which is what gives the chicken its characteristic flavour. The chicken should sit in the marinade for at least 30 minutes, though ideally overnight. The longer the chicken marinates, the more deeply the aroma develops and the more rewarding the result.
Step-by-step instructions
- Place the chicken in a bowl and mix all the marinade ingredients together thoroughly.
- Add the chicken to the marinade, cover, and leave to marinate in the fridge.
- Preheat the grill and lay the marinated chicken on the grate.
- Grill the chicken for about 5–7 minutes per side, until cooked through and golden brown.
- Remove from the grill and garnish with fresh coriander leaves.
Gluten-free / lactose-free version
The ingredients for chicken inasal are naturally gluten-free and lactose-free, so you can be confident the dish works well in both forms. Do take care to choose a gluten-free soy sauce, however, as this is especially important for anyone with coeliac disease or a gluten intolerance. With that one simple swap, everyone can tuck in without a second thought.
Tips for vegans and vegetarians
For vegans and vegetarians, chicken inasal can be adapted with ease. An excellent alternative to the chicken is grilled tofu or vegetables such as courgette and peppers. Make sure the tofu is well marinated so it can soak up the full flavour. This makes for a tasty and satisfying alternative to the traditional version, much like the vegan spin you might give to Vegetable Kare Kare.
More tips and tricks
The secret to a perfect chicken inasal lies in the marinating time. If you have the time to spare, leave the chicken to marinate overnight so the flavours can soak right through. The grill temperature can also make a big difference: a hot grill gives you those handsome char marks while keeping the chicken juicy and tender on the inside.
Adapting the recipe to your taste
Chicken inasal is easy to tailor to your personal taste. For more heat, add chilli powder or fresh chillies to the marinade. Alternatively, you can dial the sweetness up or down by adjusting the sugar, or add extra lime juice for more zing. Any one of these tweaks can turn the dish into a unique experience that is all your own.
Ingredient substitutions
If you do not have limes to hand, you can use lemon juice instead. Another option is to add aromatic herbs such as thyme or basil to the marinade for an extra layer of flavour. For the vinegar, apple cider vinegar works well when rice vinegar is unavailable. Experiment with the ingredients to create the perfect chicken inasal to suit your taste, just as you might fine-tune a classic Chicken Adobo at home.
Drink pairing ideas
A range of drinks pairs nicely with chicken inasal and rounds the meal off beautifully. Good choices include fruity soft drinks or a cold beer, both of which complement the dish’s flavours perfectly. Another option is a refreshing iced tea with lemon or mint, a lovely way to balance the tang of the dish. For those who prefer something alcohol-free, a lively ginger ale makes a refreshing choice.
Serving and presentation ideas
Presentation is an important part of any meal. Serve chicken inasal on a large platter, garnished with fresh herbs and lime wedges. Colourful vegetables such as grilled peppers and courgette can be added on the side to make the dish look as good as it tastes. Arrange the rice in a small bowl beside the chicken so everything is shown off to its best advantage.
A bit of history
Chicken inasal has its origins in the Bacolod region of the Philippines and is a cornerstone of Filipino food culture. Inasal translates roughly as “grilled” and the dish is traditionally cooked over wood-fired grills, which lends it its unmistakable character. More than just a culinary treat, it is also part of countless festivals and celebrations across the region. The making of inasal is often a centrepiece of family gatherings, bringing people together — a spirit shared across much of Philippine cuisine.
More recipe ideas
Summary: Chicken Inasal
Chicken inasal is an exquisite dish that not only delights the palate but also connects you to the rich culture of the Philippines. The combination of aromatic spices and its distinctive grilling method makes it a true highlight of any meal. Whether you serve it traditionally with rice or adapt it creatively for vegans and vegetarians, the possibilities are endless. Give this delicious recipe a go and savour a real taste of Filipino culture.
