chicken tawook recipe

The Best chicken tawook recipe

Chicken tawook is one of those simple dishes that feels like a hug for my whole family. There’s something about the tender, slightly crispy skin and the juicy meat that makes it feel special, even if it’s just on a weeknight. I first discovered it years ago when my sister-in-law showed me how to make it—it’s not fancy, but it’s always a hit. My kids love it because it’s flavorful without being too complicated, and it’s that kind of dish that makes them sit down to eat instead of running off to play. It’s not just a meal; it’s something we all look forward to, whether it’s a quick weeknight dinner or something we make for a little get-together.

What I love most about chicken tawook is how easy it is to customize. You can adjust the spices based on what you have, and it’s always so satisfying to see how well the chicken stays moist. My husband and I have even experimented with different marinades, like adding a little garlic or ginger, and it only makes it better. The health benefits are nice too—it’s packed with protein and lean meat, and the spices give it a natural boost of flavor without too much extra oil. It’s a dish that feels indulgent but isn’t too heavy, which is perfect for everyday cooking. Plus, it’s something that works well for leftovers, so you’re not wasting food. My kids always ask for seconds, and honestly, I don’t blame them. It’s that kind of dish that makes me feel good about what I’m serving.

Chicken Tawuk Bakar (Grilled Chicken with Peanut Sauce)

4.7 from 1452 votes

A flavorful Indonesian dish featuring tender grilled chicken marinated in a blend of spices and served with a rich peanut sauce. Perfect for a festive meal or a weeknight dinner.

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Prep Time30 mins

Cook Time45 mins

Resting Time0 mins

Total Time1 hour 15 mins

Servings: 4Cuisine: InternationalCalories: 450 kcal

🥘Ingredients

For the Chicken

• 4 boneless, skinless chicken thighs
• 2 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp grated ginger
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1 tsp ground turmeric
• 1 tsp ground coriander
• 1 tsp ground cumin
• 1/2 tsp black pepper
• 1/2 tsp salt

For the Peanut Sauce

• 2 tbsp peanut butter
• 1 tbsp soy sauce
• 1 tbsp brown sugar
• 1 tbsp lime juice
• 1 clove garlic, minced
• 1/2 tsp ground turmeric
• 1/2 tsp ground coriander
• 1/4 cup water
• 1 tbsp vegetable oil

For Garnish

• Fresh cilantro, chopped
• Lime wedges
• Crushed peanuts

👨‍🍳Directions

1. 1 Preheat grill to medium-high heat. Clean and oil the grilling surface.
2. 2 In a bowl, mix soy sauce, brown sugar, ginger, garlic, turmeric, coriander, cumin, black pepper, and salt. Add chicken thighs and coat evenly with the marinade. Cover and refrigerate for at least 30 minutes (or up to 4 hours).
3. 3 For the peanut sauce, blend peanut butter, soy sauce, brown sugar, lime juice, garlic, turmeric, coriander, water, and vegetable oil until smooth. Adjust consistency with water if needed.
4. 4 Remove chicken from the marinade and grill skin-side down for 5-6 minutes. Flip and cook for another 5-6 minutes until skin is crispy and chicken is cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F/74°C).
5. 5 While chicken grills, heat a pan over medium heat and warm the peanut sauce for about 2-3 minutes.
6. 6 Transfer grilled chicken to a serving plate. Pour the warm peanut sauce over the chicken and mix gently. Garnish with chopped cilantro, lime wedges, and crushed peanuts.

🔧Equipment

• Mixing bowls
• Grill or grill pan
• Measuring cups and spoons
• Knife and cutting board
• Blender or food processor (optional for smoother sauce)
• Serving plates

📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)

🔥Calories: 450 kcal🧈Total Fat: 28💛Saturated Fat: 12❤️Cholesterol: 120🧂Sodium: 850🌾Total Carbs: 35🥦Dietary Fiber: 4🍬Sugars: 12🥩Protein: 35

📝Notes

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This Chicken Tawuk recipe is always a solid choice for family gatherings because it’s simple enough to prepare ahead of time while still tasting fresh and flavorful when served. It works great for casual meals or bigger events since the dish feels hearty and satisfying without needing extra fuss. Plus, the tender chicken and rich gravy make it a crowd-pleaser that never fails to bring people together.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Chicken Tawuk Bakar (Grilled Chicken with Peanut Sauce)

1. What is the difference between Tawuk Tawok and other Filipino chicken dishes?

Tawuk Tawok is a unique Filipino dish known for its crispy, deep-fried chicken cutlets with a slightly sweet and savory sauce. Unlike other fried chicken dishes like Adobo or Sinigang, Tawuk Tawok features a distinct preparation method involving breading and frying, which gives it a distinct texture and flavor. The sauce often includes ingredients like garlic, vinegar, and sometimes coconut milk, which sets it apart from simpler fried chicken recipes.

2. What type of chicken is commonly used for Tawuk Tawok?

The most traditional type of chicken used for Tawuk Tawok is the whole chicken, specifically the breast and thigh cuts. These parts are cut into smaller, uniform pieces to ensure even cooking and crispiness. Some variations may also use chicken breasts or thighs alone, but the whole chicken approach is classic.

3. How do you achieve the perfect crispy texture for Tawuk Tawok?

The key to achieving the perfect crispy texture lies in using a good-quality all-purpose flour or cornstarch batter, frying at the right temperature, and ensuring proper seasoning. Here’s a step-by’tip: Use a deep fryer or a heavy-bottomed pan to maintain consistent heat. Fry the chicken in batches to avoid overcrowding, which can lower the oil temperature. A well-seasoned flour batter (with salt, pepper, and sometimes baking powder) helps create a crispy crust. Allowing the chicken to cool slightly before serving also helps retain some crispiness.

4. What ingredients are typically included in the Tawuk Tawok sauce?

The sauce for Tawuk Tawok usually includes a mix of sweet, tangy, and savory flavors. Common ingredients include: – Vinegar (usually rice vinegar) – Garlic – Sugar or brown sugar – Soy sauce – Coconut milk (optional, for creaminess) – Onion – Chili peppers (for heat, optional) – Salt and pepper – Sometimes a touch of calamansi or lemon juice for brightness

The sauce is typically simmered until slightly thickened before being drizzled over the fried chicken.

5. Can Tawuk Tawok be made without deep frying, and if so, what are the alternatives?

While traditional Tawuk Tawok is deep-fried for that signature crispiness, you can make a lighter version using alternative cooking methods. Here are some options: – Baked Tawuk Tawok: Brush chicken cutlets with oil, season well, and bake at 400°F (200°C) until golden and crispy. – Air-fried Tawuk Tawok: Use an air fryer with a high-temperature setting (375°F/190°C) for a crispy exterior while keeping it healthier. – Pan-fried Tawuk Tawok: Cook in a hot skillet with oil until golden and crispy, then finish with the sauce. – Glaze or Broil: For a sweeter, less crispy but still flavorful version, you can coat the chicken in a sweet glaze and broil until slightly caramelized.