Editorial sample recipeFilipinobeginnerdairy-freegluten-free

Sweet Annatto Glazed Chicken Tocino

Name: Sweet Annatto Glazed Chicken Tocino
Prep time: 15 min
Cook time: 20 min
Total time: 35 min
Yield: 4 servings
Cuisine: Filipino
Ingredients: 600 g boneless skinless chicken thighs, sliced; 0.33 cup dark brown sugar; 1 tsp annatto powder; 0.25 cup pineapple juice; 2 tbsp low-sodium soy sauce; 1 tsp garlic powder; 1 tsp salt; 2 tbsp vegetable oil; 0.5 cup water

Juicy chicken thigh strips marinated in cane vinegar, brown sugar, and annatto, reduced to a sticky, caramelized glaze.

Prep: 15 min
Cook: 20 min
Total: 35 min

AI-generated illustration of Sweet Annatto Glazed Chicken Tocino

AI illustration

Technique to learn

Pan-Reduction Caramelization

Cooking proteins in flavorful liquid until evaporated, then stir-frying in residual oil to build a glossy glaze.

Instructions

Step 1: Combine dark brown sugar, annatto powder, pineapple juice, soy sauce, garlic powder, and salt in a sealable bowl.
Step 2: Add sliced chicken thighs, turning to coat fully; seal and chill for at least 4 hours.

Step 3: Transfer marinated chicken and marinade liquid into a wide skillet along with 1/2 cup of water.

Step 4: Cook over medium heat for 12 minutes until water completely evaporates and meat becomes tender.

Step 5: Drizzle vegetable oil around skillet edges and raise heat to medium-high.

Step 6: Pan-fry chicken strips for 3-5 minutes, turning frequently, until sugars turn glossy and charred along edges.

Step 7: Remove from skillet and serve hot alongside cooked garlic rice and sunny-side eggs.

Cooking tips

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.

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