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Deliciously marinated Chicken Tocino served on a plate

Chicken Tocino

A delightful Filipino dish featuring tender, marinated chicken thighs in a sweet and savory glaze, perfect for breakfast or lunch.
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Prep Time 1 hour
Cook Time 30 minutes
Total Time 1 hour 30 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Breakfast, Lunch
Cuisine: Filipino
Calories: 375
Ingredients Method Notes

Ingredients
  

Marinade
  • ¾ cup dark brown sugar adds sweetness and caramelizes during cooking
  • ½ tablespoon finely ground white pepper adds a hint of spice
  • 1 tablespoon rice flour helps give a slightly crispy texture
  • 1 tablespoon salt adjust according to taste
  • 3 cloves garlic, grated for aromatic depth
  • 1 tablespoon soy sauce adds a savory component
  • 2 tablespoons vinegar introduces a tangy note
  • ½ cup unsweetened pineapple juice (optional) for a tropical touch
  • a few drops red food color (optional) for aesthetic appeal
Chicken
  • 2 pounds skinless chicken thigh fillet, cut thinly tender chicken that absorbs the marinade
Cooking
  • 1 cup water for simmering the chicken
  • 3 tablespoons oil for searing the chicken

Method
 

Preparation
  1. In a big bowl, combine all the marinade ingredients: dark brown sugar, finely ground white pepper, rice flour, salt, grated garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, pineapple juice (if using), and red food color (if desired). Mix well until blended.
  2. Add the thinly sliced chicken fillet to the bowl and gently massage the marinade into the chicken for about a minute.
  3. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and marinate for at least an hour, preferably up to 24 hours for deeper flavor.
Cooking
  1. Heat a skillet or wok over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken along with 1 cup of water. Simmer uncovered for 15-20 minutes until the liquid reduces.
  2. Add the oil to the skillet and continue cooking until the liquid thickens and darkens, lightly charring the chicken for added flavor.
  3. Transfer the Chicken Tocino to a serving dish, and serve with hot steamed rice and a spiced vinegar dip.

Notes

Consider adding freshly cracked black pepper for more flavor or marinating overnight. Serve with spiced vinegar or fresh vegetables.