Make Chicken Inasal recipe Mang Inasal style at home with authentic marinade, annatto basting, grilling tips, and classic Filipino sides.
Introduction: Chicken inasal recipe mang inasal
If you’ve ever eaten at Mang Inasal, you know this dish is unforgettable. The smoky aroma, vibrant orange glaze, juicy chicken, and garlic rice combination define Filipino comfort food.
This Chicken inasal recipe Mang Inasal guide shows you how to recreate that same restaurant-style flavor at home using authentic ingredients and proven techniques.
Chicken inasal originated in the Visayas region of the Philippines, where grilling over charcoal and bold marinades are central to the cuisine. What sets the Chicken inasal recipe Mang Inasal apart is its perfect balance of tangy calamansi, savory soy sauce, gentle sweetness, and rich annatto oil basting.
This recipe focuses on authenticity, not shortcuts, delivering real Mang Inasal-style results every time.
Ingredients for Authentic Chicken inasal recipe mang inasal
Using the correct ingredients is essential to achieve the true chicken inasal recipe Mang Inasal flavor.
Chicken & Marinade Ingredients
| Ingredient | Purpose |
|---|---|
| Bone-in chicken (thighs, drumsticks, leg quarters) | Juicier, more flavorful grilling |
| Calamansi juice | Signature citrus tang |
| Cane or coconut vinegar | Tenderizes and balances sweetness |
| Soy sauce or liquid seasoning | Umami base |
| Brown sugar | Light sweetness like Mang Inasal |
| Garlic (minced) | Core Filipino aroma |
| Ginger (grated) | Warm depth |
| Lemongrass (tanglad) | Authentic citrus-herbal note |
| Salt & black pepper | Seasoning foundation |
Annatto Basting Sauce (Chicken Oil)
| Ingredient | Role |
|---|---|
| Annatto seeds (achuete) | Color and mild earthiness |
| Neutral oil | Basting base |
| Garlic | Aroma enhancement |
| Optional butter | Extra richness |
Classic Sawsawan (Dipping Sauce)
Soy sauce, calamansi juice, and chili complete the traditional Mang Inasal experience.
Step-by-Step Chicken Inasal Recipe Mang Inasal Style
This section is the heart of the Chicken inasal recipe Mang Inasal.
Step 1: Prepare the Chicken
Wash, pat dry, and lightly score the chicken. Shallow cuts allow the marinade to penetrate deeply, ensuring full flavor in every bite.
Bone-in pieces are strongly recommended for juiciness and authenticity.
Step 2: Make the Marinade
In a large bowl, combine:
- ½ cup calamansi juice
- ½ cup soy sauce
- ¼ cup cane or coconut vinegar
- 2 tablespoons brown sugar
- 4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 thumb ginger, grated
- 2 stalks lemongrass, minced
- 1 teaspoon salt
- ½ teaspoon black pepper
Mix well until the sugar dissolves. Add chicken, massage thoroughly, cover, and refrigerate.
Marinate for at least 6 hours, preferably overnight.
This step is critical for an authentic Chicken inasal recipe Mang Inasal.
Step 3: Prepare the Annatto Basting Oil
Heat ½ cup oil over low heat. Add annatto seeds and simmer gently until the oil turns deep orange. Add garlic, stir briefly, then remove from heat.
Strain and reserve the oil.
This annatto oil gives the Chicken inasal recipe Mang Inasal its iconic color and glossy finish.
Step 4: Grill the Chicken
Preheat a charcoal grill to medium heat. Remove chicken from marinade and let excess drip off.
Grill skin-side down for 10–15 minutes, then flip.
Baste generously with annatto oil every 5 minutes.
Rotate frequently to prevent burning, and grill until the internal temperature reaches 165°F (75°C).
Slow grilling with repeated basting is essential to authentic Mang Inasal flavor.
Step 5: Rest and Serve
Rest the chicken for 5 minutes before serving. This keeps the meat juicy and tender.
Serve hot with garlic rice, calamansi, and dipping sauce.
Tips for Perfect Chicken Inasal Every Time
These expert tips elevate your chicken inasal recipe, Mang Inasal.
Marination Tips
- Overnight marination delivers the best flavor
- Always refrigerate while marinating
- Massage marinade deeply into the meat
Grilling Tips
- Use medium heat to avoid burning
- Charcoal adds authentic smokiness
- Baste frequently with annatto oil
No Grill? No Problem
- Oven: Bake at 375°F (190°C), then broil
- Air fryer: Cook at 360°F (180°C), basting halfway
These methods still produce excellent Chicken inasal recipe Mang Inasal results.
What to Serve Chicken inasal recipe mang inasal
A complete Chicken inasal recipe Mang Inasal meal includes classic sides.
| Side Dish | Why It Works |
|---|---|
| Garlic rice (sinangag) | Soaks up juices and oil |
| Calamansi wedges | Bright acidity |
| Sawsawan dipping sauce | Extra savory kick |
| Atchara (pickled papaya) | Cuts richness |
| Fresh tomato salad | Light contrast |
FAQ: Chicken Inasal Recipe Mang Inasal
What makes Mang Inasal chicken different?
Mang Inasal chicken is sweeter, more deeply marinated, and heavily basted with annatto oil, giving it richer flavor and color.
Can I substitute calamansi?
Yes. Lime or a mix of lemon and lime works, but calamansi gives the most authentic taste.
How long should I marinate the chicken?
At least 6 hours; overnight is best for maximum flavor.
Is annatto oil necessary?
Yes. It’s essential for the signature Mang Inasal color and aroma.
Can I reduce the sweetness?
Yes. Slightly reduce brown sugar while keeping the marinade balanced.
Conclusion: Bring Mang Inasal Home
This Chicken inasal recipe Mang Inasal lets you enjoy authentic Filipino grilled chicken at home.
With proper marination, traditional annatto basting, and careful grilling, you can recreate the smoky, juicy, and flavorful dish Mang Inasal is famous for—anytime you crave it.
Hi, I’m Sidra Asif, the heart behind Chicken Bites. Cooking has been my lifelong passion, sparked by the magical meals I watched my mother create in our family kitchen. Over the years, I’ve explored diverse cuisines, earned a diploma in Culinary Arts, and refined my skills in professional kitchens—learning the art of flavor pairing, presentation, and creativity.
Through Chicken Bites, I share my favorite recipes, cooking tips, and culinary adventures to inspire home cooks to turn everyday ingredients into extraordinary meals. Join me on this flavorful journey where tradition meets innovation, and every dish is made with love! 🍗✨
