This chicken feet recipe transforms humble chicken feet into a flavorful Filipino dish that’s hearty, budget-friendly, and delicious.
From Dislike to Appreciation
Growing up, I was never a fan of chicken feet. The look alone was enough to turn me away. But over time, I got a bit more adventurous with food and started to appreciate what I had been missing. The texture is definitely unique, but what really won me over was how well they absorb the rich, savory flavors of the sauce.
I used to think they were just something older folks liked, but now I get it. They’ve got this way of surprising you, unexpected at first, but comforting once you settle in. Kind of like those friendships that sneak up on you. The ones you didn’t think much of at first, but end up sticking with you the longest.
What is Chicken Feet Adobo?
Adobong Adidas, or Chicken Feet Adobo, is a Filipino dish where chicken feet are braised in a savory, tangy, and slightly sweet sauce made with soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and spices. The slow-cooking process makes the chicken feet tender, allowing their gelatinous texture to absorb the rich, flavorful sauce. This unique twist on the classic adobo is often enjoyed as a main dish or as a pulutan (beer snack).
Health Benefits of Chicken Feet
Chicken feet aren’t just tasty, they offer numerous health benefits:
- Rich in Collagen: Supports skin elasticity, joint health, and gut function.
- Strengthens Bones: High in calcium and phosphorus, promoting strong bones and teeth.
- Improves Joint Health: Gelatin helps reduce joint pain and inflammation.
- Aids Digestion: Supports gut health by soothing the digestive tract and improving nutrient absorption.
- High in Protein, Low in Fat: Ideal for muscle repair and weight management.
- Boosts Skin Health: Collagen promotes smooth, youthful skin and reduces wrinkles.
- Strengthens Immunity: Protein helps support a strong immune system.
The Flavors Behind Chicken Feet Adobo
To make this dish, you only need a few pantry staples and some fresh ingredients. Each one adds something important, from depth of flavor to just the right kick of heat.
Chicken Feet
The main star here. They may look a little unusual, but once cooked, they soak up the adobo sauce so well.
Garlic & Onion
These two are the usual suspects in any Filipino dish. Garlic gives that strong kick of flavor, and onion balances it with a touch of sweetness. Simple, but they make a big difference.
Soy Sauce & Vinegar
The classic adobo combo. Soy sauce adds depth and savoriness, while vinegar gives that tang we all know and love. Without them, it just wouldn’t be adobo.
Oyster Sauce & Sugar
A little twist to make things extra tasty. Oyster sauce deepens the flavor, and sugar evens out the tanginess. Small touches, but they round out the sauce beautifully.
Whole Peppercorns
Tiny, but they bring warmth and a hint of spice that ties the dish together.
Chilies
If you like a little heat, chilies are your friend. Green ones keep it light, but if you want more kick, add red ones. Totally up to you how spicy you want it.
Here’s everything you’ll need and how to make it.
Chicken Feet Adobo
Equipment
- Medium to large pot for frying and simmering
- Tongs or Slotted Spoon for handling chicken feet
- Knife & chopping board
- Measuring cups & spoons
- Bowl for prepping chicken feet
Ingredients
- 500g chicken feet cleaned
- 2 medium potatoes (about 250g) peeled & cut into chunks
- 3 tbsp oil
- 5 cloves garlic minced
- 1 medium onion chopped
- ½ cup soy sauce
- 2 tbsp vinegar
- 1 tbsp oyster sauce
- 1 tsp sugar
- 1 ½ cups water
- 1 tsp whole peppercorns
- 2 to 3 long green chili peppers (siling haba)
- 1 red chili or more if you like it spicy
- salt & pepper to taste
Instructions
- Prep the Chicken Feet: Prepare the chicken feet. Trim the nails, rinse thoroughly, and boil for 3-5 minutes to remove impurities. Drain and set aside.
- Fry for Flavor: Heat oil in a pot. Fry the chicken feet until light brown. Set aside.
- Sauté Aromatics: In the same pot, heat 2 tbsp oil. Sauté garlic and onion until fragrant and soft.
- Simmer the Adobo: Add fried chicken feet, soy sauce, water, whole peppercorns, sugar, and potatoes. Bring to a boil, then lower heat and simmer for 20–30 minutes until chicken feet and potatoes are tender. Add water if needed.
- Add Vinegar: Pour in vinegar but do not stir. Let it cook for 5 minutes uncovered to mellow the sharpness.
- Final Touches: Stir everything together. Add oyster sauce, long green chilies, and red chili. Season with salt and pepper. Simmer 2–3 more minutes until the flavors combine.
- Serve & Enjoy: Transfer to a plate and serve hot with steamed rice or as pulutan.
Notes & Tips
- Frying the chicken feet until light brown adds a nice texture and flavor to the dish. Don’t skip this step as it enhances the overall taste.
- Simmer the chicken feet for 20-30 minutes to ensure they become tender and absorb the flavors. For even more tenderness, you can simmer them for a few extra minutes. If the sauce reduces too much, add water as needed to maintain a saucy consistency.
- When adding vinegar, allow it to cook for 5 minutes without stirring initially to ensure the sharp taste of the vinegar cooks off, leaving a balanced flavor.
- Taste and adjust the seasoning, especially salt and pepper, towards the end of cooking. The soy sauce and oyster sauce already provide saltiness, so be careful not to over-season.
- To Store: Place leftovers in an airtight container and refrigerate for up to 3 days.
- To Reheat: Reheat on the stovetop over low heat, adding a splash of water if the sauce has thickened too much.
- Freezing: Freeze in small portions for up to 2 months. Thaw in the fridge overnight before reheating.
If you try this Chicken Feet Adobo, I’d be so happy if you tag me on Instagram @barelysalted, because cooking feels even more special when shared! 🙂
Kitchen + Stereo
I’m someone who loves having music in the background while I do things especially when I cook. If you’re like me, I recommend Blue Jeans by Apo Hiking Society. This Filipino classic carries a nostalgic charm that feels like home, fun, light, and a little sentimental. Its easygoing rhythm makes cooking feel less like a chore and more like a moment to enjoy.
Love,
Jezelle
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