carne adovada recipe
- The Best carne adovada recipe
- Classic Carne Adovada: Spicy Roasted Chicken with Tomato Sauce
- 🥘Ingredients
- 👨🍳Directions
- 🔧Equipment
- 📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
- 📝Notes
- Watch Video Of How Classic Carne Adovada: Spicy Roasted Chicken with Tomato Sauce Works
- ❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Carne Adovada: Spicy Roasted Chicken with Tomato Sauce
The Best carne adovada recipe
What I love most about carne adovada is how adaptable it is. You can serve it with rice and beans for a full meal, or just on toasted bread with a sprinkle of lime and cilantro for something lighter. It’s packed with protein and healthy fats from the chicken, and the garlic and onions give it a depth of flavor that’s hard to beat. It’s not just good—it’s the kind of dish that makes you feel like you’re doing something good for your family, even if you’re not a chef. Plus, it’s a great way to use up extra chicken or leftovers, so it’s always a win. My family and I swear by it, and honestly, I don’t think we’d ever go back to anything else for a quick, satisfying meal.

Classic Carne Adovada: Spicy Roasted Chicken with Tomato Sauce
A flavorful dish featuring tender roasted chicken thighs tossed in a tangy tomato sauce, perfect for a comforting meal. The crispy skin and juicy meat make this a beloved Latin American favorite.
🥘Ingredients
- 6 boneless, skin-on chicken thighs
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp smoked paprika
- 1 tsp cumin
- ½ tsp chili powder
- ½ tsp garlic powder
- 1 cup canned crushed tomatoes
- 1 tbsp tomato paste
- 2 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 tbsp olive oil
- 1 tsp dried oregano
- ½ tsp salt
- ¼ tsp black pepper
- 1 jalapeño, seeded and finely chopped (optional)
👨🍳Directions
-
1
Preheat oven to 400°F. Pat chicken thighs dry with paper towels to ensure crispy skin. -
2
In a bowl, toss chicken thighs with olive oil, smoked paprika, cumin, chili powder, and garlic powder. Spread them out on a baking sheet in a single layer. -
3
Bake for 20 minutes, then flip the chicken and return to the oven for another 15–20 minutes until the skin is golden and the internal temperature reaches 165°F. -
4
While the chicken bakes, heat olive oil in a saucepan over medium heat. Sauté garlic for 30 seconds until fragrant. Add crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, oregano, salt, pepper, and jalapeño. Simmer for 10 minutes until thickened. -
5
Once the chicken is done, remove it from the oven and let it rest for 5 minutes. Slice the chicken thighs and serve them over the warm tomato sauce.
🔧Equipment
- Mixing bowl
- Large oven-safe skillet or baking dish
- Knife and cutting board
- Measuring spoons
📊Nutrition Facts (per serving)
📝Notes
Watch Video Of How Classic Carne Adovada: Spicy Roasted Chicken with Tomato Sauce Works
❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Carne Adovada: Spicy Roasted Chicken with Tomato Sauce
1. What is the best way to prepare the carne adobada for slow cooking?
Use a heavy-bottomed pot or Dutch oven to ensure even heat distribution. Bring the adobo sauce to a boil first, then reduce the heat to low and let it simmer gently for about 30 minutes. Stir occasionally to prevent sticking, and keep the liquid level high enough to keep the meat submerged.
2. Can I substitute any of the ingredients in this recipe?
While the traditional recipe calls for specific ingredients, you can adjust quantities slightly for flavor. For example, if you don’t have galangal, substitute ginger or lemongrass, but reduce the amount by half. Avoid substituting the coconut milk—it’s essential for the sauce’s creamy texture. If you’re using a different type of meat, ensure it’s cut into similar-sized pieces for even cooking.
3. How long should I cook the chicken or pork for carne adobada?
For chicken, cook until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (74°C) and the meat is tender, typically around 2–2.5 hours. For pork, aim for 2.5–3 hours to ensure it’s fall-apart tender. Check doneness by inserting a meat thermometer—it should read 145°F (63°C) for pork, as it continues to cook slightly after removal.
4. What if I don’t have a slow cooker or Dutch oven?
If you don’t have a Dutch oven, use a deep pot with tight-fitting lid. Simmer the sauce on the stovetop on low heat for 2–2.5 hours, stirring occasionally. For a slow cooker, add the sauce and meat, then cook on low for 6–8 hours. If you’re short on time, bake at 300°F (150°C) for 2–2.5 hours, covering the pot with foil to retain moisture.
5. How do I know when the sauce is ready?
The sauce is done when it thickens slightly and coats the back of a spoon without running off. It should also have a rich, slightly caramelized color. If the sauce is too thin, simmer longer uncovered to evaporate excess liquid. If it’s too thick, add a splash of water or coconut milk to loosen it.
