Go Back
+ servings
Chicken Tocino

Savory Chicken Tocino for a Healthier Filipino Breakfast

This Chicken Tocino is a healthier take on the classic dish, combining sweet and garlicky flavors for a delightful breakfast.
Prep Time 30 minutes
Cook Time 20 minutes
Marinating Time 1 hour
Total Time 1 hour 50 minutes
Servings: 4 servings
Course: Breakfast
Cuisine: Filipino
Calories: 380

Ingredients
  

For the Marinade
  • 1 kg Skinless Chicken Thigh Fillet Cut thin for quick cooking.
  • 1/2 cup Dark Brown Sugar Coconut sugar is a good alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Finely Ground White Pepper Black pepper can be used for a stronger flavor.
  • 1/4 cup Rice Flour Cornstarch is a suitable alternative.
  • 1 teaspoon Salt Adjust according to your preference.
  • 4 cloves Garlic Minced; fresh garlic is recommended.
  • 1/4 cup Soy Sauce Tamari or coconut aminos are good gluten-free options.
  • 1/4 cup Vinegar Cane or apple cider vinegar can be used.
  • 1/4 cup Unsweetened Pineapple Juice Water can be a substitute if needed.
  • 1 teaspoon Red Food Color Optional for visual appeal.
  • 1/2 cup Water Needed for cooking.
For Cooking
  • 1 tablespoon Oil For cooking; use vegetable or canola oil.

Equipment

  • large mixing bowl
  • Large Skillet
  • Measuring Cups
  • Measuring Spoons

Method
 

Marinating and Cooking
  1. In a large mixing bowl, combine dark brown sugar, finely ground white pepper, rice flour, salt, minced garlic, soy sauce, vinegar, and unsweetened pineapple juice. Mix until you achieve a uniform marinade. Add the skinless chicken thigh fillets, ensuring they are evenly coated. Cover the bowl with plastic wrap and refrigerate the mixture for at least 1 hour, or up to 3 days for optimal flavor infusion.
  2. Heat a large skillet over medium-high heat and add the marinated chicken along with 1 cup of water. This will help create a steam effect that ensures the chicken cooks through while absorbing the marinade flavors. Allow the mixture to simmer uncovered for about 15-20 minutes, stirring occasionally, until the liquid reduces significantly and coats the chicken.
  3. Once the water has mostly evaporated, drizzle a tablespoon of oil into the skillet. Increase the heat slightly and continue to cook, stirring occasionally. Watch closely as the chicken begins to caramelize—about 5 to 10 minutes will yield a beautiful golden color, contributing to that signature tocino glaze.
  4. After the chicken is caramelized and evenly browned, remove it from the heat. Serve your delicious Chicken Tocino hot, accompanied by garlic rice and a side of spiced vinegar for a traditional Filipino experience.

Nutrition

Serving: 1servingCalories: 380kcalCarbohydrates: 28gProtein: 26gFat: 18gSaturated Fat: 4gPolyunsaturated Fat: 1gMonounsaturated Fat: 10gCholesterol: 80mgSodium: 600mgPotassium: 450mgSugar: 15gVitamin C: 2mgCalcium: 2mgIron: 6mg

Notes

Marinating overnight deepens the flavor. Ensure the pan is hot before adding oil for better caramelization.

Tried this recipe?

Let us know how it was!