Chicken Barbecue (Inihaw na Manok)

My Favorite Chicken Barbecue Recipe: A Taste of Home

As a busy working mom, finding time to cook delicious and satisfying meals can be a challenge. But there are certain dishes that always bring comfort and fond memories, and for me, that's Chicken Barbecue, or Inihaw na Manok as we call it back home. This isn't just any grilled chicken; it's a flavorful explosion of sweet, tangy, and savory goodness that's perfect for a quick weeknight dinner or a special weekend gathering.

The key to a truly exceptional Chicken Barbecue lies in the marinade. I've experimented with countless variations over the years, but this recipe, with its unique blend of banana ketchup, 7UP, soy sauce, and sugarcane vinegar, has become my absolute favorite. The banana ketchup adds a touch of sweetness and a beautiful glossy finish, while the 7UP provides a subtle fizz that helps to tenderize the chicken. The soy sauce and vinegar balance the sweetness with a nice tang, creating a complex flavor profile that’s hard to resist.

What I love most about this recipe is its versatility. It's incredibly easy to prepare, requiring minimal effort and ingredients. The marinade does most of the work, infusing the chicken with its delicious flavors while it rests in the refrigerator. You can even marinate it overnight for an even more intense flavor. And the grilling process is quick and straightforward, whether you're using a grill pan indoors or a charcoal grill outdoors. The beautiful char marks from the grill add a lovely textural element to the succulent chicken.

The best part about this dish? It's incredibly adaptable to your own tastes. Feeling adventurous? Try adding a pinch of chili flakes to the marinade for a touch of heat. Want to make it even sweeter? Add a little more brown sugar. Love garlic? Don't hesitate to add more! The beauty of cooking is in its ability to be personalized and adapted to your preferences.

I often serve my Chicken Barbecue with a side of steaming hot rice, known as sinangag in Filipino cuisine. It's the perfect vehicle for soaking up all of the delicious marinade. And of course, no Chicken Barbecue is complete without a side of sawsawan—a vibrant and flavorful dipping sauce made with diced onions, crushed garlic, black pepper, fish sauce, soy sauce, and vinegar. The sawsawan adds another layer of complexity to the dish, making it even more satisfying.

Beyond being a delicious meal, Chicken Barbecue is a reminder of home, of family gatherings, and of the simple pleasures in life. It’s a dish that transcends cultural boundaries, appealing to anyone who appreciates flavorful, easy-to-prepare food. So, next time you’re looking for a quick, delicious, and memorable meal, give this Chicken Barbecue recipe a try. You won't be disappointed.

Remember, cooking should be an enjoyable experience, not a chore. Experiment with different flavors and techniques, and most importantly, have fun with it! And if you try this recipe, please let me know how it turns out. I'd love to hear about your experience.

Step-by-step

• In a large bowl, mix banana ketchup, 7UP, lemon juice, soy sauce, vinegar, brown sugar, and garlic until sugar dissolves.
• Add chicken pieces and toss. Marinate in the refrigerator for at least 1 hour, preferably overnight.
• Heat a grill pan over high heat or a charcoal/gas grill to medium.
• Thread 3-4 chicken pieces onto each skewer, letting pieces touch slightly.
• Pour marinade into a saucepan, simmer over medium-high heat, then reduce to medium and cook for 10 minutes. Set aside.
• Lightly spray pan or grill grate with cooking spray. Place skewers on grill and cook, turning and basting often with the heated marinade, until cooked through (165°F/75°C).
• Discard leftover marinade.
• Transfer to a platter and serve immediately with sawsawan.