From Bacolod with Love: The Story of Chicken Inasal

Chicken Inasal, a delectable dish from Bacolod in the Philippines, beautifully exemplifies how culture and flavor transcend borders. This skewered, chargrilled chicken is a staple of Filipino cuisine, celebrated for its distinct flavor and its ability to bring people together. Food lovers and travelers worldwide have been captivated by its succulence and rich history. In this blog post, we’ll explore the origins of Chicken Inasal, how to enjoy it both at home and abroad, and why it has become one of the Philippines’ most beloved dishes.

The Cultural Staple of Bacolod

The origins of Chicken Inasal are deeply tied to Bacolod, a city known for its vibrant MassKara Festival and delicious cuisine. The dish is believed to have been inspired by the Western Visayas’ traditional lechon baboy (roast pork), which was adapted into a unique grilled chicken recipe. The word “inasal” comes from the Hiligaynon term meaning “to roast,” reflecting the traditional preparation method. The chicken is marinated in a blend of calamansi, pepper, coconut vinegar, and annatto oil before being grilled over hot coals, giving it its signature vibrant red color and smoky, aromatic flavor.

The flavor profile of Chicken Inasal is a captivating blend of sweet, sour, and smoky notes, reflecting the Philippines’ rich colonial history and diverse cultural influences from both Asia and the West. The tangy kick of calamansi and the earthy depth of annatto oil perfectly balance the smoky, charred taste from cooking over an open flame. This harmonious combination enhances the chicken’s natural freshness and succulence, making the dish both comforting and celebratory.

Crafting the Perfect Chicken Inasal Recipe

To bring the taste of Bacolod into your home, we’ll guide you through a step-by-step process to create a delicious Chicken Inasal that’s authentic and flavorful. This recipe is not just a meal but an experience—a way to transport yourself to the aromatic streets of the Philippines.

Ingredients You’ll Need Creating Chicken Inasal requires a select set of ingredients that come together to create its iconic taste:

• Chicken, cut into serving pieces
• Calamansi or lime juice
• White vinegar or coconut vinegar
• Soy sauce
• Garlic, finely minced
• Ginger, peeled and grated
• Brown sugar
• White pepper, ground
• Annatto oil or annatto seeds infused in vegetable oil
• Salt
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water

Cooking Instructions

Step 1: Prepare the Marinade Combine calamansi juice, vinegar, soy sauce, minced garlic, grated ginger, brown sugar, ground white pepper, and annatto oil in a bowl. Mix the ingredients thoroughly until the annatto oil fully spreads its color.

Step 2: Marinate the Chicken Pat the chicken pieces dry with paper towels. Generously coat the chicken with the marinade, ensuring every part is well covered. Marinate the chicken in the refrigerator for at least 4 hours or ideally overnight to infuse the flavors.

Step 3: Skewer and Grill Thread the marinated chicken pieces onto the bamboo skewers, reducing the pieces’ thickness, allowing for even cooking and browning. Preheat the grill over medium heat. Grill the chicken inasal for about 5-7 minutes on each side until fully cooked and a little charred.

Step 4: Basting While grilling, occasionally baste the chicken pieces with the remaining marinade to keep them moist and flavorful.

Step 5: Serve and Enjoy Once done, take the chicken off the grill. Serve the Chicken Inasal with steamed rice, a side of pickled green papaya (atchara), and an extra drizzle of calamansi juice for an authentic Filipino dining experience.

Where to Find the Best Chicken Inasal in the Philippines

When visiting the Philippines, exploring the culinary landscape is a must, and Chicken Inasal is a dish not to be missed. Here are some must-visit spots known for their exceptional Chicken Inasal:

Aida’s Chicken Located in Bacolod, Aidas Chicken is hailed for serving Chicken Inasal in a class of its own. The restaurant, which locals affectionately call “Manokan Country,” has been perfecting the dish since the 1970s and prides itself on using the best quality chicken and traditional recipes.

Nena’s Beth Another gem found in Bacolod is Nenas Beth. This unassuming eatery has been frequented by both locals and tourists on the hunt for authentic Chicken Inasal. The restaurant’s commitment to using premium ingredients and maintaining consistent flavors has earned it a stellar reputation.

JT’s Manukan Grill With branches across the Philippines, JT’s Manukan Grille has made a name for itself as a go-to place for those craving Chicken Inasal outside of Bacolod. The restaurant’s atmospheric open grilling stations and flavorful inasal recipe create an experience that mirrors its roots.