Easy Filipino Chicken Barbecue Recipe You’ll Love

There’s something about Filipino chicken barbecue that instantly brings people together. This easy Filipino chicken barbecue recipe is a game-changer for any cook who loves bold, sweet, and savory grilled flavors. You’ll enjoy the perfect balance of soy sauce, garlic, and a hint of sweetness that makes every bite irresistible.

this Recipe

Whether you’re preparing for a backyard barbecue or a casual weeknight dinner, this recipe is simple enough to whip up quickly and guaranteed to impress your family and friends. Let’s dive into how you can recreate this classic Filipino favorite right at home.

Why You’ll Love This Recipe

• Quick and easy marinade with common ingredients
• Perfectly balanced sweet, savory, and smoky flavors
• Great for grilling or oven broiling
• Uses simple chicken thigh pieces for juicy, tender meat
• Perfect for gatherings, meal prepping, or weeknight dinners

Ingredients

Gather these simple ingredients to create the flavorful marinade and prepare the chicken for grilling.

• 2 pounds boneless, skinless chicken thighs, cut into 1.5-inch pieces
• 1/2 cup soy sauce
• 1/4 cup banana ketchup (or substitute with ketchup and a splash of pineapple juice)
• 1/4 cup brown sugar, packed
• 4 cloves garlic, minced
• 2 tablespoons calamansi juice or fresh lime juice
• 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
• 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
• 1/2 teaspoon smoked paprika (optional, for smoky flavor)
• Bamboo skewers, soaked in water for 30 minutes

Recipe Details

• Prep Time: 15 minutes
• Cook Time: 10-12 minutes
• Total Time: 25-30 minutes (plus 2-4 hours marinating)
• Servings: 4
• Calories: Approximately 320 per serving

How to Make Easy Filipino Chicken Barbecue Recipe

1. In a large bowl, combine soy sauce, banana ketchup, brown sugar, minced garlic, calamansi or lime juice, vegetable oil, black pepper, and smoked paprika; whisk until sugar dissolves and marinade is smooth.
2. Add chicken thigh pieces to the marinade, tossing well to coat each piece thoroughly. Cover and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, ideally 4 hours, to let flavors penetrate.
3. Preheat your grill to medium-high heat (about 375°F). Thread the marinated chicken pieces evenly onto soaked bamboo skewers, leaving a small space between pieces for even cooking.
4. Place skewers on the grill and cook for 5-6 minutes per side, turning once until chicken is nicely charred and cooked through (internal temperature should reach 165°F). Baste occasionally with leftover marinade for extra flavor and moisture.
5. Remove from grill and let rest for 3 minutes before serving. Garnish with sliced green onions or chopped parsley if desired, and serve with steamed rice or your favorite dipping sauce.

Tips for the Best Results

• Use chicken thighs instead of breasts for juicier, more tender barbecue.
• Soak bamboo skewers in water to prevent burning during grilling.
• Marinate the chicken for at least 2 hours; overnight marinating intensifies flavor.
• Keep the grill at medium-high heat to achieve caramelized edges without drying out the meat.
• If you don’t have a grill, broil the skewers in your oven, turning halfway through cooking.

Storage and Reheating

Store leftover Filipino chicken barbecue in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. To keep it longer, freeze the cooked skewers wrapped tightly in foil or plastic wrap for up to 1 month.

Reheat gently in a skillet over medium heat or in the oven at 350°F until warmed through to maintain the chicken’s juiciness and flavor. Avoid microwaving as it can dry out the meat.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use chicken breast instead of thighs?

Yes, you can substitute chicken breasts, but they tend to be leaner and can dry out quickly on the grill. To keep them moist, marinate longer and watch the cooking time carefully.

What if I don’t have banana ketchup?

Banana ketchup adds a unique sweetness and tang, but you can substitute regular ketchup mixed with a tablespoon of pineapple juice or a bit of brown sugar for a similar effect.

Can I make this recipe without a grill?

Absolutely! You can broil the skewers in your oven or cook them on a grill pan on the stovetop. Just watch closely to avoid burning.

How long can I marinate the chicken?

The chicken should marinate at least 2 hours for flavor but can be left up to 24 hours in the fridge. Avoid marinating longer to prevent the meat from becoming mushy.