Can I bake these chicken skewers instead of grilling?
Yes, you can bake them at 400°F (200°C) for 20-25 minutes, flipping halfway, until cooked through.
DINNER
Grilled Filipino Chicken Inasal Skewers with Pickled Papaya
Savor the taste of the Philippines with these vibrant chicken skewers, marinated in a zesty, savory, and subtly sweet blend, then grilled until perfectly tender. Accompanied by a bright, refreshing side of Achara, or pickled green papaya, this dish delivers an exquisite harmony of flavors and textures.
HOW TO MAKE IT
Let's cook.
01
In a large bowl, combine the white vinegar, soy sauce, calamansi juice, brown sugar, minced garlic, grated ginger, and black pepper. Whisk until the sugar is dissolved.
02
Add the chicken pieces to the marinade, ensuring they are fully coated. Cover the bowl and refrigerate for at least 1 hour, or preferably 4 hours, to allow the flavors to meld.
03
If using wooden skewers, soak them in water for at least 30 minutes to prevent burning. Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the skewers, leaving a small space between each piece.
04
Preheat a grill to medium-high heat. Lightly oil the grill grates to prevent sticking.
05
Place the chicken skewers on the preheated grill. Grill for 4-6 minutes per side, basting occasionally with annatto oil, until the chicken is cooked through and has nice char marks. The internal temperature should reach 165°F (74°C).
06
Remove the skewers from the grill and let them rest for 5 minutes.
07
Serve the Filipino Chicken Inasal Skewers hot, accompanied by a generous portion of achara on the side.
About This Recipe
Savor the taste of the Philippines with these vibrant chicken skewers, marinated in a zesty, savory, and subtly sweet blend, then grilled until perfectly tender. Accompanied by a bright, refreshing side of Achara, or pickled green papaya, this dish delivers an exquisite harmony of flavors and textures.
Simple ingredients.
Big flavor.✦
Big flavor.✦
Chef's Tips
For extra flavor, you can add a chopped lemongrass stalk to the marinade. If you don't have annatto oil, you can make a quick substitute by heating 2 tablespoons of neutral oil with 1 teaspoon of annatto seeds until the oil turns red, then straining the seeds.
Easy Substitutions
Lime juice can be used if calamansi juice is unavailable. Chicken breast can be used instead of thighs, but reduce grilling time slightly to prevent drying out. For a vegetarian option, marinate firm tofu cubes and grill them similarly.
Storage & Reheating
Leftover chicken skewers can be stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently in a microwave or oven until warmed through. Achara should be stored separately in the refrigerator.
Serving Suggestions
Serve these skewers with a side of steamed jasmine rice to soak up the delicious juices. A simple dipping sauce made from soy sauce, calamansi juice, and a few chili flakes would also be a great addition. For a complete Filipino meal, consider adding a fresh tomato and onion salad. You can also serve them as part of a larger BBQ spread.
Common Mistakes
Over-marinating the chicken can make it too tender and fall apart on the skewers; stick to the recommended times. Overcooking the chicken will result in dry, tough meat, so use a meat thermometer to ensure it reaches 165°F (74°C) without exceeding it. Not soaking wooden skewers can cause them to burn on the grill, leading to broken skewers and unevenly cooked chicken. Forgetting to oil the grill grates will cause the chicken to stick, tearing the meat when you try to flip it. Not basting with annatto oil will result in less flavor and a less vibrant color.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is calamansi juice?
Calamansi is a small, round citrus fruit common in Southeast Asia, offering a unique tart and floral flavor. Lime juice is a good substitute.
Can I prepare the chicken ahead of time?
You can marinate the chicken for up to 24 hours in the refrigerator. Threading onto skewers can be done a few hours before grilling.
Is annatto oil spicy?
No, annatto oil is not spicy. It's primarily used for color and a very mild, earthy flavor.
What if I don't have a grill?
You can cook these skewers on a grill pan on the stovetop over medium-high heat, or bake them as described above.
MORE TO KNOW
Achara, the pickled green papaya salad, is a crucial component of this dish. Its bright, tangy, and slightly sweet profile cuts through the richness of the grilled chicken, providing a refreshing contrast. While store-bought achara is convenient, making it at home allows you to adjust the sweetness and tanginess to your preference. The annatto oil not only adds a beautiful reddish-orange hue to the chicken but also imparts a subtle, earthy flavor characteristic of authentic Inasal.
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