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Grilled Chicken Inasal: A Beginner’s Guide to Flavorful Dish

chicken inasal

Grilled Chicken Inasal: A Beginner’s Guide to Mastering this Flavorful Filipino Recipe

Filipino Delight: Chicken Inasal!

Grilled Chicken Inasal is a beloved Filipino dish known for its vibrant flavors and tender, juicy meat. Originating from the streets of Bacolod, this dish has become a staple in Filipino cuisine, loved for its unique marinade and charred aroma. In this beginner’s guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of preparing and grilling your own delicious Chicken Inasal, perfect for impressing friends and family with an authentic taste of the Philippines.

Step 1: Gather Your Ingredients

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary ingredients:

  • 2 lbs chicken thighs or drumsticks
  • 1/2 cup vinegar
  • 1/4 cup calamansi juice (or lime juice)
  • 1/4 cup soy sauce
  • 6 cloves garlic, minced
  • 2 tablespoons ginger, minced
  • 2 stalks lemongrass, crushed (optional)
  • 1 tablespoon brown sugar
  • 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
  • 1 teaspoon annatto powder (achuete)
  • Bamboo skewers (if using)

Step 2: Prepare the Marinade

In a bowl, mix together the vinegar, calamansi juice, soy sauce, minced garlic, minced ginger, crushed lemongrass (if using), brown sugar, black pepper, and annatto powder. Stir until the sugar is dissolved and the ingredients are well combined.

Step 3: Marinate the Chicken

Place the chicken pieces in a large resealable plastic bag or a shallow dish. Pour the marinade over the chicken, ensuring each piece is evenly coated. Seal the bag or cover the dish and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, preferably overnight, to allow the flavors to meld.

Step 4: Preheat the Grill

Preheat your grill to medium-high heat, around 375-400°F (190-200°C). If you’re using charcoal, wait until the coals are white-hot and evenly distributed.

Step 5: Skewer the Chicken (Optional)

If desired, thread the marinated chicken pieces onto bamboo skewers, leaving a little space between each piece for even cooking.

Step 6: Grill the Chicken

Place the chicken skewers or individual chicken pieces on the preheated grill. Cook for about 6-8 minutes per side, or until the chicken is cooked through and has a nice charred exterior. Remember to baste the chicken occasionally with the remaining marinade for added flavor.

Step 7: Serve and Enjoy!

Once the chicken is cooked to perfection, remove it from the grill and transfer it to a serving platter. Serve hot with steamed rice, sliced tomatoes, cucumber, and a dipping sauce made of vinegar, soy sauce, and minced onions on the side.


Congratulations! You’ve mastered the art of Grilled Chicken Inasal. With this beginner’s guide, you can now confidently prepare this iconic Filipino dish in your own kitchen. Enjoy the explosion of flavors and the satisfaction of sharing this delicious meal with your loved ones. Happy grilling!

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Best grilled chicken inasal in Davao City?

Hidden gems: Manong Chicken Inasal (5-star reviews!) and Mad Bites (budget-friendly, juicy chicken) offer local charm.
Traditional style: BC Chicken House (huge portions, classic inasal) and Balai Inató (express service, smoky goodness) satisfy cravings.
Native chicken: Toryano’s Chicken Haus (tender, flavorful native birds) and Conching’s Native Chicken (grilled to perfection) elevate the experience.

Is It Possible to Cook Grilled Chicken Inasal Without a Grill?

Yes, you can still enjoy Chicken Inasal’s flavors without a grill. To replicate the smoky taste, marinate chicken pieces in a mixture of calamansi juice, soy sauce, vinegar, garlic, and annatto oil for at least an hour. Then, pan-fry the marinated chicken over medium-high heat until cooked through, occasionally basting with the remaining marinade for added flavor. While it won’t have the same charred exterior as grilled, it will still be juicy and flavorful. Adjust seasoning according to taste preferences. Serve with steamed rice and a side of atchara for a satisfying meal.

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