Savor the Flavor: Authentic Filipino Chicken Inasal Recipe

🍃 A Taste of Home

Growing up in the Philippines, weekends meant smoky grills, laughter, and the unmistakable aroma of Chicken Inasal filling the air. This iconic dish from Bacolod is more than just grilled chicken — it’s a celebration of flavor, family, and tradition.

Marinated in a tangy blend of calamansi, garlic, and spices, then grilled to perfection and basted with rich annatto oil, Chicken Inasal brings that perfect balance of savory, citrusy, and slightly sweet flavors.

This recipe brings that same comforting, street-food magic right into your home kitchen — no plane ticket needed.

⏱️ Time Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Marinate Time: 4–8 hours (overnight best)
• Cooking Time: 30 minutes
• Total Time: ~4 hours 45 minutes

🍗 Ingredients

For the Chicken:

• 4 chicken thighs or drumsticks
• 1/3 cup calamansi juice (or lemon)
• 1/4 cup vinegar
• 5 cloves garlic, minced
• 1 tbsp ginger, grated
• 1 stalk lemongrass, chopped
• 2 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tsp salt
• 1/2 tsp black pepper

For Annatto Oil:

• 1/4 cup oil
• 1 tbsp annatto seeds

📝 Ingredient Notes

• Calamansi gives authentic Filipino flavor — lemon is a good substitute
• Lemongrass adds that signature aroma
• Annatto oil gives the rich golden color and depth

👩‍🍳 Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Prepare Marinade

In a bowl, combine calamansi juice, vinegar, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, sugar, salt, and pepper.

Step 2: Marinate Chicken

Add chicken and coat well. Cover and refrigerate for at least 4 hours or overnight.

Step 3: Make Annatto Oil

Heat oil in a small pan. Add annatto seeds and cook until oil turns orange. Strain and set aside.

Step 4: Preheat Grill

Heat grill to medium heat. Lightly oil grates.

Step 5: Grill Chicken

Grill chicken for 10–15 minutes per side.

Step 6: Baste for Flavor

Brush annatto oil while grilling for color and flavor.

Step 7: Serve

Serve hot with rice, achara, and dipping sauce.

🥡 Storage Instructions

• Store leftovers in airtight container for up to 3 days
• Reheat in oven or air fryer for best texture

🔄 Substitutions

• No calamansi → use lemon + a little orange juice
• No grill → use oven or stovetop grill pan

🥗 Nutrition Notes (Approximate)

• Calories: 320 per serving
• Protein: High
• Low carb option available

❓ FAQ

Can I bake instead of grill?

Yes! Bake at 375°F for 35–40 minutes.

What makes it different from BBQ?

The citrus marinade and annatto oil give it a unique Filipino flavor.

💡 Tips for Best Results

• Marinate overnight for deeper flavor
• Use charcoal grill for authentic smoky taste
• Baste often for juicy chicken

🌶 Variations

• Spicy Inasal (add chili)
• Chicken Inasal Skewers
• Air Fryer Version

🖨 Printable Recipe Card

Filipino Chicken Inasal

Prep: 15 mins

Cook: 30 mins

Total: ~4 hrs 45 mins

Ingredients:

• Chicken, calamansi, vinegar, garlic, ginger, lemongrass, sugar, salt, pepper

Instructions:

1. Mix marinade
2. Marinate chicken
3. Grill chicken
4. Baste with annatto oil
5. Serve