Filipino · beginner
Sweet Annatto Glazed Chicken Tocino
Juicy chicken thigh strips marinated in cane vinegar, brown sugar, and annatto, reduced to a sticky, caramelized glaze.
- PREP TIME
- 15 min
- COOK TIME
- 20 min
- SERVES
- 4
LET’S MAKE IT
Step by step
- 01
Combine dark brown sugar, annatto powder, pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, and salt in a sealable bowl.
- 02
Add sliced chicken thighs, turning to coat fully; seal and chill for at least 4 hours.
- 03
Transfer marinated chicken and marinade liquid into a wide skillet along with 1/2 cup of water.
- 04
Cook over medium heat for 12 minutes until water completely evaporates and meat becomes tender.
- 05
Drizzle vegetable oil around skillet edges and raise heat to medium-high.
- 06
Pan-fry chicken strips for 3-5 minutes, turning frequently, until sugars turn glossy and charred along edges.
- 07
Remove from skillet and serve hot alongside cooked garlic rice and sunny-side eggs.
A LITTLE KITCHEN KNOW-HOW
Pan-Reduction Caramelization
Cooking proteins in flavorful liquid until evaporated, then stir-frying in residual oil to build a glossy glaze.
Notes from the kitchen
- Simmering in water first tenderizes chicken before frying, allowing marinade sugars to caramelize without burning.
- Pineapple juice naturally tenderizes meat fibers while supplying authentic tart sweetness.
- Original home-cooking adaptation inspired by Filipino; regional versions vary.
- Use halal-certified meat, poultry, stock, sauces, cheese and other processed ingredients. Check labels and avoid cross-contamination. Recipe screening is not halal certification.
